A college degree may seem like a magical ticket promising holders a good job, but it isn’t the only way. You can earn a fair wage regardless of the economy, without needing to graduate from a four-year degree, if you pick one of these great career options.
Landscaping
Jobs keeping yards clean, mowed and shoveled during the winter will always be in demand, making landscaping an ideal position for people who don’t want to attend college. Usually a license is all that is needed. A predicted 135,000 additional jobs in this line of work will be available by 2026, and landscapers earn an average of about $27,670 a year.
Home Health Care Aides
As people live longer, many patients choose to remain in their homes rather than going to nursing homes. This increases the need for home health care aides. Workers in these positions may change bandages, help older patients with exercises to strengthen their muscles, do wellness check-ins and help make life more manageable.
Best of all? A high school diploma is often all that is necessary, and the job is expected to grow 431,200 positions by 2026, giving workers plenty of opportunities. Home health aides make about $23,210 annually.
Wind Turbine Technicians
With the expected job growth rate doubling by 2026, a position as a wind turbine technician can offer you lots of opportunity. People in this position install, repair and maintain wind turbines. This job only requires certification, which can be acquired outside the traditional college track. Wind turbine technicians make over $54,000 a year.
Plumbers
Plumbing has traditionally been viewed as a “blue-collar” profession, but it can be a lucrative career. It’s a great choice if you’re trying to avoid college costs, although you’ll need to attend a technical school or find someone who will apprentice you.
The median yearly salary for a plumber is about $52,000 a year, making this a steady career choice. People will always need plumbing work, regardless of their home or how much money they have, so this position also offers great job security.
Medical Assistants
Medical assistant careers are expected to grow by 29% between 2016-2026. Many individuals who want to go down this path get their certificate, along with on-the-job training, after high school. Typical tasks in this line of work involve working in a hospital or clinic setting and dealing with patients, such as taking their blood pressure and handling appointments. Medical assistants earn an average of $33,610 annually.
If you’re looking for a career that doesn’t require college, there are plenty of opportunities to take advantage of. You can succeed without a degree, so why not make the leap? These options can help you save money while pursuing something you find enjoyable and in-demand.
~Here’s to Your Success!
