I'm about to graduate from high school and I'm not planning to go to college. What are some entry-level jobs I could consider? Are there career paths that offer training or advancement opportunities for high school grads?
There are a variety of entry-level jobs and career paths that offer advancement opportunities for high school graduates.
1. Service Industry: You might consider jobs in the hospitality, restaurant, or retail sectors, which often provide on-the-job training. For instance, becoming a restaurant manager or grocery store manager can be a result of working up the ladder.
2. Skilled Trades: Trades like electricians, welders, plumbers, or HVAC technicians are in high demand and can offer good pay. These typically require post-high school education, but it often takes the form of a paid apprenticeship where you work while you're learning the trade.
3. Emergency Services: Careers in the fire department, police force, or as an emergency medical technician (EMT) require specialized training and certifications, but these are generally provided through short-term courses rather than a traditional four-year college.
4. Military: Careers in the military can open up tons of possibilities. The Armed Forces provide job training in a wide variety of fields and can also provide opportunities for further education.
5. Sales: Careers in sales, like a real estate agent or an insurance sales agent, sometimes require certification but again, not a full four-year degree. Sales can be a rewarding career if you're good with people and motivated by goals and targets.
6. Civil Service: Jobs in local, state, or federal government often provide good benefits and opportunities for advancement. Some might require an entry test, but not necessarily higher education.
7. Technical Jobs: Some industries like IT might have entry-level jobs available to high school graduates. For instance, a customer support role might require you to learn a product and troubleshoot basic problems, both of which you can learn on the job.
Remember, on-the-job experience and a willingness to continue learning and improving can help you advance even without a traditional college degree.
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