What are some good paying jobs for only a high school diploma?

I'm not planning on going to college right away, and I'm curious about jobs that pay well with just a high school diploma. Are there certain industries or roles that are known to offer decent salaries for high school grads?

Absolutely, there are several industries and roles that provide decent salaries and are accessible to individuals with a high school diploma, though it's always beneficial to upskill through certifications and vocational training. Let me share a few examples:

1. Transportation: Jobs such as commercial truck driver offer a good income for a high school degree holder with a commercial driving license. This profession is in high demand and often comes with benefits.

2. Construction and Extraction: Construction managers and supervisors can secure strong pay. With further training and certifications, you can also specialize, like becoming a building inspector.

3. Installation, Maintenance, and Repair: Roles such as electrician, plumber, HVAC technician, or wind turbine technician usually provide on-the-job training and earn a good wage.

4. Sales: Many sales roles (like real estate agents) don't require a college degree. Success (and income) in this field relies heavily on an individual's abilities and dedication, rather than formal education.

5. Protective Services: Positions in law enforcement such as police officers offer decent salaries and benefits. Firefighters also fall under this category. Usually, these careers involve specialized training programs after graduation.

6. Management: Retail and hospitality management jobs often only require a high school diploma and plenty of experience in the field. The pay can be pretty competitive, especially if you're able to work your way up at a larger company.

7. Health Technologies and Support: Some health sector jobs like a medical coder, pharmacy technician, or home health aide do not necessarily require any degree and can still offer steady wages.

Remember, acquiring skills, gaining experience, and being willing to learn are critical in every industry. In many of these fields, vocational programs, apprenticeships, or on-the-job training can significantly boost your income and job prospects.