Pathway to the Trades: 5 In-Demand Jobs that Don’t Require a Degree

There has always been a demand for tradespersons in U.S. But in recent years, those careers have become more important thanks to employment growth and the need to replace workers who plan to retire or leave their jobs for other reasons. Here are five of those careers that don’t require a degree and earn a good living.

Job Growth is Real

Whether it’s a job in the service trades, skilled trades, or construction trades, job growth in the trades has accelerated in recent years. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, two-thirds of jobs don’t require a college degree. And among those, many of them earn a living wage or better. These include careers in construction and installation, maintenance and repair, as well as transportation.

Airfield Operations Specialist

Median Salary: $47,880

Someone has to ensure aircraft land and take off safely. This position is part of that process. Work in this job and you’ll lead communications between air-traffic control and on-the-ground maintenance crews. With on-the-job training, all that is needed is a high school diploma to get started. Experts predict a 13% growth in demand for this job in the next 10 years.

Carpenter

Median Salary: $48,260

This continues to be a solid, lifelong career for many people in the U.S. As long as you have a high school diploma, you could find your way into an apprenticeship. If this career interests you, keep your eye out for opportunities as there is only a predicted 2% increase in demand in the coming years.

Electrician

Median Salary: $59,880

There’s a lot of need for new electricians across the country. Sure, there are technical schools where you can learn the trade, but with your high school diploma and grit, you can find an apprenticeship program and start earning a paycheck right away.

Wind Turbine Technician


Median Salary: $56,260

According to the experts, job growth for wind turbine technicians will grow by 44% in the coming years. that’s a lot of potential. Especially if you love traveling the country, installing and repairing impossibly large wind turbines and helping build the country’s energy infrastructure.

Plumber

Median Salary: $56,330

If you have a high school diploma, and find installing and repairing piping to be interesting, plumbing might be for you. Apprenticeship programs are everywhere as there is a lot of demand for plumbers.

Get What You Need at Coastal

We have everything you need for your career in the trades and on the farm or ranch. That includes fencing, tools, clothing, boots, jackets, and so much more. Stop by you West Coast-owned and operated Coastal where you’ll find just the country needs.