There is no doubt that college is expensive, but there are great careers with significant earning potential that let you skip that six-figure college bill. Many folks assume you need that college diploma for high earnings, but that’s not always the case. In most cases, companies are happy to train you on the fly—think starting wages above $30 an hour—with opportunities evolving alongside inflation and market trends. I’ve noticed that sometimes the best paths are the ones that let you learn as you earn, and honestly, in today’s economy that is a great way to go.
1) Air Traffic Controller $85K/yr
If you thrive under pressure, then the air traffic controller job may be right for you. While it is a high-pressure job, it also comes with great job security and earns a solid paycheck. Starting wages are around $85K/yr. Because the FAA offers extensive training to ensure your success, you get to skip the college debt normally associated with a career with this compensation level.
2) Elevator Technician $78k/yr
Well, it is no joke that the demand for elevator technicians is going up! Wages start around $78K a year, and the industry is seeing job growth of about 6% on a year-over-year basis. So, if you have a sharp mind for problem-solving and the skilled hands of a technician, this may be the perfect career for you.
3) Nuclear Power Plant Operator $120K/yr
It is not just for Homer Simpson! Nuclear Reactor Operators are the folks who keep nuclear plants running safely, and they earn close to $120K a year. The work is highly specialized (and yeah, it requires some really in-depth on-the-job training). Still, it’s a stable career, especially as the spotlight on nuclear energy grows ever so slightly. While you wouldn’t think that nuclear power plant operators could get by without a degree, they can and usually do. A few plants may require some basic college courses for consideration, but most will offer on-the-job training and even provide refresher courses at no cost to you.
4) Telecommunications Equipment Installers $62K/yr
In our wired world, tech is king. Installers in this role typically bag about $62K a year, and demand is exceptionally high in buzzing tech hubs (like Jersey City), where 5G and fiber optics are rolling out fast. It’s a hands-on job that’s right in the thick of today’s digital boom. Who thought that working for the phone company could be so lucrative? If you’re into electronics or if you’re good with your hands, this is a great field that pays very well. Most phone companies will offer training, but you may need to take a basic electronics course if you have no familiarity with job requirements.
5) Police Officer
Serving the community can also serve up a reliable income—police officers earn a median annual salary of around $72,280, with some areas paying over $100K. The demand here stays pretty steady, with expectations of about a 3.9% growth rate. Salary varies by location, adding some unpredictability (but also opportunity) to the mix.
6) Sales Representative $69K/yr
If you’re good with people and like the thrill of the hustle, sales might be your jam. Sales reps, earning an average of $69K per year, can see their income go even higher thanks to commissions. Many companies invest in solid training programs, so you learn the ropes as you close the deals.
7) Wind Turbine Technician $61K/yr
Massive machines are creating tremendous opportunities in the green energy space. Techs earn around $61K annually, and the job is out in the real world and perfect for those who prefer a hands-on type of career. Green energy is booming, and the social aspects of this adventurous job really resonate with many people who are passionate about the environment and eager for a practical career.
8) Real Estate Agent $30K/yr to $50K/yr
While real estate can ebb and flow with interest rates, it can be a lucrative career in the long run—top agents are known to make six figures, although earnings can vary a lot. You need to get licensed. However, real estate school is far shorter and way less expensive than college, and brokers typically have in-house training programs as well.
9) Medical Assistant $30K/yr to $45K/yr
With the aging population, healthcare will surely be a booming industry in the short and long term. In healthcare support roles, medical assistants earn anywhere from $30K to $45K annually. With relatively short certification programs, this role provides a direct path to a stable job in the busy world of healthcare.
10) Truck Driver $45k/yr to $80K/yr
If you’re down for life on the highway, truck driving is a classic option. With earnings ranging from $45K to over $80K a year and plenty of consistent demand, a CDL can unlock a road full of opportunities. It’s a field where the hustle on the road really pays off.
11) Construction Manager $77K/yr
Construction managers, pulling in an average salary of about $77K, are in hot demand, particularly as infrastructure projects ramp up. Experience and certifications can land you a role that’s as much about on-the-job savvy as it is about leadership—it’s a sweet spot for those who like to see tangible results.
12) Digital Marketer $57K/yr
If you like to Google it or if you prefer to Bing it, digital marketing covers all aspects of search and media on the internet. One great thing is there is a wealth of information available online. You can even get certified in Google Analytics via computer-based training for free by following the tutorial in your own home. Many opportunities exist in both agencies and in the corporate world. Starting wages are around $57K annually, and many roles are eligible for bonuses.
13) Cybersecurity Specialist
Everyone has received one or more of those letters stating your personal information has been exposed. Securing data online is big business, and the demand for cybersecurity specialists is only growing. Companies don’t want the bad PR or expense associated with being hacked, so cybersecurity professionals earn fabulous salaries to start. Those salaries go up as their careers progress and more certifications are earned. These experts earn an impressive average of $102K per year.
Instead of needing a long academic route, many people take the quick path via certifications and actual experience on the job—a solid example of skills over formal education. The long-term outlook for these roles is incredibly strong.
Excellent Options for Your Next Career
With a bit of hustle, many career paths are very well compensated and do not require loading up on the college debt. You can pursue certification programs, on-the-job training, or a formal apprenticeship program. Now is the time to start cashing a substantial paycheck by launching your new career; the sky is the limit.