I'm planning to enter the workforce straight after graduation and am trying to find out which jobs pay well without needing a college degree. Are there any specific industries or positions that stand out for recent grads?
Jobs with high pay right after high school tend to fall into a few key industries, mainly skilled trades and technical roles. Here are some examples:
1. Wind Turbine Technicians: This field is experiencing growth due to the push for renewable energy, and while some prior training is often required, it can be achieved through a two-year program or apprenticeship.
2. Commercial Divers: These professionals work underwater in rugged conditions to repair, remove, or install equipment. This field may require certifications but they can be obtained quickly.
3. Electrical Power-Line Installers and Repairers: This role involves setting up or repairing current-carrying lines for utilities. This field often requires a vocational program or an apprenticeship, but these can be done right out of high school.
4. Radiation Therapists: These professionals administer radiation treatment to cancer patients. For this job, you'd typically need to complete a two-year associate’s degree in radiation therapy.
5. Elevator Installers and Repairers: This is another secure, good-paying job that usually involves an apprenticeship.
6. Air Traffic Controllers: They coordinate the movement of aircraft to maintain safe distances between them. While it requires an associate's degree and admission to an FAA-approved Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative program, it's a high-paying role without a 4-year degree.
7. Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers: These workers set up and maintain devices or equipment that carry communications signals.
8. Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers: They plan, direct, or coordinate transportation, storage, or distribution activities by organizational policies and applicable government laws or regulations.
It should be noted that while these roles do not need a traditional 4-year university education, they virtually all require some form of professional training or certification. It might be pertinent to consider your interests and related training programs in your area. Lastly, some jobs in these fields may involve physical exertion and long or irregular hours.
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