What are the best jobs after graduating high school?

I've recently started thinking about not going to college right away and jumping straight into the workforce. What are some of the best jobs available for someone who's just graduated high school? Any suggestions would be super helpful!

There are many paths you can take after high school that don't involve immediately going to college, and some can provide a solid starting point for a fulfilling career. Here are a few options:

1. Trade professions: Jobs like electricians, plumbers, and HVAC technicians require skills that are in high demand and can provide a solid income. You would need to go through a vocational program or apprenticeship to learn these skills, but these are typically much less time-consuming and expensive than a traditional college degree.

2. Retail and customer service: While these roles might not have the highest starting wages, they can offer a platform for career progression, especially in larger companies where managerial roles can become available.

3. Military: The U.S. military offers a wide range of roles, from more combat-oriented positions to logistics, technical, and administrative roles. The military also provides education benefits if you decide you want to go to college later.

4. Public service: Positions such as emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and firefighters require specific but achievable certifications. Additionally, these careers can be fulfilling for those who desire to serve their communities.

5. Sales: Certain industries, such as insurance or real estate, can offer entry-level sales positions to high school graduates. These roles can be lucrative for those who excel in them, though they often require passing a certification exam.

6. Technology and IT support: For those with an inclination towards technology, various IT roles such as help desk or IT support do not necessarily require a degree. Moreover, there are numerous IT certifications (like CompTIA A+) that you can study for and obtain on your own to increase your chances of landing these jobs.

These are just a few examples and the “best” job will highly depend on your personal interests and long-term goals. There are many more avenues that you can explore, so it's worthwhile to do some research, introspection, and even some job shadowing, before deciding on the path that's right for you. It's also worth noting that while these jobs don't require a traditional college degree, some may require vocational training, certifications, or other forms of continued education.