What are some vocational jobs with high pay?

I'm considering vocational jobs after high school and I'm curious about those that offer good salaries. Could someone provide examples of high-paying vocational careers or fields? Any advice on training or schooling required would also be helpful.

Vocational jobs can be a great alternative to traditional four-year college paths and many offer competitive salaries in addition to less time in schooling. Here are a few high-paying vocational careers to consider:

1. Electrician: Median pay is around $54k per year, with potential to earn more with experience and licensing. Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical systems in homes, businesses, and factories. They undertake a 4-5 year apprenticeship program, which includes both classroom instruction and paid on-the-job training.

2. Air Traffic Controller: The median salary is around $120k per year, but this requires a specialized Associate's degree from the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI) program and the completion of a training course at the FAA Academy.

3. Radiation Therapist: Median pay is around $85k per year. Radiation therapists administer radiation treatments to cancer patients. They usually need an Associate’s degree from an accredited radiation therapy program, and many states require radiation therapists to be licensed or certified.

4. Elevator Mechanic: These professionals install, repair, and maintain elevators, escalators, and moving walkways, and earn a median salary of around $84k per year. Most of them learn their trade through a 4-year apprenticeship program.

5. Dental Hygienist: With a median pay of around $76k per year, dental hygienists clean teeth, take dental X-rays, and educate patients on oral hygiene. An Associate's degree in dental hygiene is typically required, as well as licensing from your state.

6. Plumber: A plumber earns a median pay around $55K per year, with potential to earn much more with experience and owning a business. Plumbers install and repair water supply lines, waste disposal systems, and relate appliances. They typically go through a 4-5 year apprenticeship, similar to electricians.

Remember to look into your chosen field thoroughly, as licensing and educational requirements can vary from state to state. Moreover, high paying jobs often require more years of schooling or more rigorous training. Lastly, consider your personal interest and aptitude in the job tasks, as job satisfaction is also a crucial part of any career decision.