South Africa faces a critical shortage of qualified artisans, making trades like electrical work, plumbing, welding, and refrigeration among the most in-demand and well-paying career paths available today. This roadmap is designed to help school leavers, career changers, and unemployed youth understand exactly how to enter these trades through NQF-aligned learnerships, MERSETA and EWSETA-funded programmes, and registered apprenticeships. The guide explains the difference between a learnership, an apprenticeship, and a trade test — and how each pathway can assist you in achieving a recognised NQF Level 3 or 4 qualification that opens doors to formal employment, self-employment, or even starting your own contracting business. It includes a directory of key SETAs, how to apply for funding, and what to expect during your training period. For those already working in a trade informally, this resource covers how to formalise your skills through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and how to prepare for the official trade test administered by the Department of Employment and Labour. Whether you are starting from scratch or looking to upgrade your credentials, this roadmap may help you navigate the South African artisan skills system with clarity and purpose.