What are good jobs that pay well with a high school diploma?

I'm exploring career options that I can pursue right after graduating high school. What are some good jobs out there that pay well but only require a high school diploma? I'm trying to start planning for my future career.

Planning is a good idea. While many of the highest-paying jobs require a college degree, there are still plenty of options for individuals with a high school diploma. Here are some career paths you might consider:

1. Tradesman (e.g., plumber, electrician, carpenter): On-the-job training and apprenticeships are common in these fields, and demand for skilled tradespeople is high. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for an electrician, for instance, is $56,180 per year.

2. Commercial Pilot: Commercial pilots for small, nonscheduled carriers like charter flights and air ambulances are often required to have a high school diploma and a pilot's license. The median pay for commercial pilots was $86,080 in 2019, according to the BLS.

3. Entrepreneur/Business Owner: A degree isn't required to start and run your own business, but it does require hard work, perseverance, and business acumen. This could range anywhere from opening a restaurant to starting an online retail business.

4. Real Estate Agent: Real Estate agents often need just a high-school diploma and a real estate license to get started. They earn a commission on each home sale, so earning potential can be quite substantial in markets with high property values.

5. Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) or Paramedic: While they would need to complete a post-secondary educational program, this can often be accomplished in less than a year. The median annual wage for EMTs and paramedics was $35,400 in 2019 per the BLS, but salaries can increase with experience and additional certification.

Please note that while these jobs may not require advanced degrees, most of them involve some level of specialized training or certification. As always, your interests, skills, and goals matter most when choosing a career path. Choose something that you are passionate about and a career where you feel you can make a difference.