A college degree is often touted as the key to success, but it’s refreshing to know that lucrative careers are still attainable without one.
The notion that a degree is the only path to a lucrative career is increasingly being challenged as various industries offer well-paying roles based on skills, certifications, and experience.
Experts at Stock share the 10 top-paying careers that do not require a four-year college education, along with their average annual salaries.
| RANK | JOBS | ANNUAL MEAN WAGE (IN USD) |
| 1 | Commercial Pilot | 138,010 |
| 2 | Executive Assistant | 136,100 |
| 3 | Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers | 111,870 |
| 4 | First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives | 106,000 |
| 5 | Elevator and Escalator Installers and Repairers | 100,060 |
| 6 | Power Plant Operators, Distributors, and Dispatchers | 98,190 |
| 7 | Transportation Inspectors | 83,920 |
| 8 | Flight Attendants | 70,980 |
| 9 | Theatrical Performance Makeup Artists | 68,590 |
| 10 | Wind Turbine Technicians | 65,380 |
1. Commercial Pilot
Annual Mean Wage: $138,010
Commercial pilots operate and navigate aircraft to transport passengers as well as cargo.
While a college degree is not mandatory, aspiring pilots need extensive flight training and must obtain a commercial pilot’s license from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Career growth can include becoming a captain or transitioning into airline pilot roles.
2. Executive Assistant
Annual Mean Wage: $136,100
Executive assistants provide high-level administrative support to executives in various industries. They manage schedules, coordinate meetings, and handle communications. A high school diploma and relevant experience can suffice, but certifications like Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) can enhance prospects and salary potential.
3. Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers
Annual Mean Wage: $111,870
These managers oversee the allocation and shipment of goods in an organization. While a degree can be helpful, significant work experience in logistics and supply chain management, along with certifications such as Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP), can lead to these roles.
4. First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives
Annual Mean Wage: $106,000
Supervisors in law enforcement oversee detectives and police officers, ensuring law enforcement operations are effective. Typically, candidates rise through the ranks within the police force.
Police academy training and years of service are crucial, with additional leadership training enhancing career growth.
5. Elevator and Escalator Installers and Repairers
Annual Mean Wage: $100,060
These technicians install and repair elevators and escalators. Apprenticeships are the main pathway into this career, providing on-the-job training and classroom instruction.
Licenses and certifications such as those from the National Association of Elevator Contractors can boost employability.
6. Power Plant Operators, Distributors, and Dispatchers
Annual Mean Wage: $98,190
Operators manage the systems that generate and distribute electric power. A high school diploma and extensive on-the-job training are typical, with further certifications from institutions like the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) enhancing career prospects.
7. Transportation Inspectors
Annual Mean Wage: $83,920
Transportation inspectors ensure compliance with regulations in the transportation industry. While a degree is not required, relevant experience and certifications from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) can improve job prospects and salaries.
8. Flight Attendants
Annual Mean Wage: $70,980
Flight attendants ensure the safety and comfort of airline passengers. A high school diploma and training from the airline are necessary, with certifications from the FAA required.
Career growth can include senior attendant or supervisory roles.
9. Theatrical Performance Makeup Artists
Annual Mean Wage: $68,590
These artists apply makeup to performers for theater, television, or film. Formal education is not required, but vocational training and certification from organizations like the Make-Up Artists and Hair Stylists Guild can enhance opportunities.
10. Wind Turbine Technicians
Annual Mean Wage: $65,380
Technicians maintain and repair wind turbines. A high school diploma and technical training or apprenticeship are required. Certification from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) can lead to higher salaries and better job opportunities.
Specialized Skills
While a college degree is not required, specialized training, certifications, and on-the-job experience are crucial for success in these fields.
Vocational programs, apprenticeships, and industry-recognized credentials can boost employability and earning potential.
According to the experts,
“We’re seeing a dramatic shift towards skills-based hiring, allowing for more accessible opportunities, including a number of lesser-known yet lucrative roles.”
“While a traditional college degree can open doors, there are numerous pathways to success in high-paying jobs that rely on skills, certifications, and practical experience,”
they add.
Methodology
The jobs were chosen based on our research through google.com. The Annual mean wage data was taken from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.