What are some of the best jobs for someone with just a high school diploma?

I'm graduating soon and not planning to attend college. What jobs could offer good pay or opportunities for growth if I only have a high school diploma?

There are quite a few career paths that you can consider if you're planning to start working right after high school graduation. Here are some roles that generally provide decent income and opportunities for growth to reward hard work and commitment, even without a degree:

1. Trade Jobs: After high school, one popular route is to enter a skilled trade. Examples include electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, and carpenters. If you enjoy hands-on work, these jobs can be both rewarding and lucrative. Many skilled trades provide on-the-job training through apprenticeships, and you can eventually advance to become a journeyman or master in your field.

2. Sales Positions: If you're good at marketing and persuasive communication, a sales representative job might be a good fit. Many different industries, from tech to consumer goods, need salespeople. With experience and stellar performance, you may rise to a management level.

3. Military Service: Joining a branch of the military is another way to have a stable career right after high school. The military provides training in numerous fields, along with education benefits that can be used if you decide to go to college later on.

4. Emergency Services: Jobs in emergency services, like becoming a firefighter, EMT, or police officer, typically require a high school diploma and specific training programs rather than a college degree.

5. Administrative Roles: Many companies offer positions such as administrative assistant or office manager to high school graduates, which can expose you to business operations and offer opportunities for advancement.

6. Food Service Management: Starting out in an entry-level position and working your way up to management is common in the food service industry.

Remember, the most important thing is to find what genuinely interests you and aligns with your personal and career goals. If you're uncertain, consider gaining work experience in a few different fields to better understand what you enjoy and excel at. The right career path is often found through exploration and experience.