Tools and Gear for Trade School

Updated September 26, 2025

Table of Contents
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Buying the right tools at the right time saves money and avoids returns. Start with safety gear, then follow your school’s official list. This guide includes starter kits by trade, care and maintenance, and money‑saving strategies.

Start with Safety (PPE)

  • Safety glasses (ANSI Z87.1)
  • Hearing protection (earplugs or earmuffs)
  • Gloves appropriate to your trade
  • Steel‑toe or composite‑toe boots
  • Welding jacket/helmet (for welding); insulated gloves (for electrical)

Standards to know: ANSI Z87.1 (eye), NRR (hearing), ASTM F2413 (toe protection), NIOSH (respirators). Ask if the program provides PPE or negotiates student discounts.

Tools: Buy Only What You Need

  • Wait for the official tool list after orientation (see Orientation & First Week).
  • Many programs provide tools during labs; some loan kits.
  • Consider manufacturer student kits (often discounted).
  • Buy quality on tools you’ll use daily; save on items used rarely.

Starter Kits by Trade (Follow Your Program’s List)

Electrician (entry set)

  • Non‑contact voltage tester, multimeter (CAT III rated), locking tape measure
  • Side cutters, needle‑nose pliers, linesman pliers, wire strippers
  • Insulated screwdrivers, torpedo level, fish tape, utility knife

HVAC/R

  • Digital manifold or gauges, thermometer, clamp meter, micron gauge (program may provide)
  • Tubing cutter, flaring/swaging tool, nitrogen regulator, service wrenches
  • Brazing kit (only if required), leak detector, recovery machine access via school

Plumbing

  • Pipe wrenches (10–14”), adjustable wrench, channel‑locks, strap wrench
  • Tubing cutter and reamer, soldering torch (if required), PEX crimp tool (as taught)
  • Plumber’s putty, teflon tape, torpedo level

Welding

  • Auto‑darkening helmet (safety‑rated), welding jacket, gloves appropriate to process
  • Chipping hammer, wire brush, MIG/TIG consumables per syllabus
  • Keep heat‑resistant sleeves and cotton clothing (no synthetics)

Automotive

  • 3/8” and 1/2” socket sets, torque wrench, breaker bar
  • Screwdrivers, pliers set, test light or multimeter, pry bars
  • Scan tool access often provided by the school—verify before buying

Carpentry

  • Tape measure, speed square, chalk line, framing hammer, utility knife
  • Basic chisels, hand saw, PPE for saw use (hearing/eye)
  • Power tools: wait—most programs provide or specify brands and sizes

Healthcare (MA, Dental Assisting)

  • Scrubs, closed‑toe shoes, watch with second hand
  • Program‑specific clinical kits and textbooks (buy only after orientation)

Save on Costs

  • Check for used tools/textbooks from graduating cohorts.
  • Ask about tool allowances through employers, unions, or grants (see Workforce Grants & WIOA).
  • Keep receipts—some costs may be eligible for reimbursement programs.

Keep Your Gear Organized

  • Label everything; bring a small lockable box or bag.
  • Track inspection dates (ladders, harnesses, welding helmets where applicable).
  • Clean and inspect PPE weekly.

Quality, Calibration, and Maintenance

  • Invest in quality for daily‑use tools (pliers, meters, wrenches); buy budget for rarely used items.
  • Calibrate meters and torque wrenches on the schedule recommended by the manufacturer or program.
  • Replace worn PPE immediately; scratched lenses and compressed ear cushions reduce protection.

Buying Used (Smartly)

  • Inspect moving parts for play or wobble; check rust on mating surfaces.
  • Test electrical tools under load and check cords for damage.
  • For meters and gauges, verify accuracy or plan for calibration.

Security and Insurance

  • Engrave or mark tools; keep a photographed inventory with serial numbers.
  • Use lockable storage; never leave kits in vehicles overnight if avoidable.
  • Check renter’s/homeowner’s insurance for tool coverage; ask employers about job‑site protection.

Next Steps

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