Instead of addressing this week’s biggest stories, I thought that I would switch up the column’s context and give you: The Top Seven Careers that Make Top Dollar Without a Degree.
Aircraft mechanic and service technician—average salary $54,500
Like using your hands to fix things and your mind to diagnose issues with high-tech machinery? Then this just is the perfect fit! You must be 18, fluent in English, and have either 18 months of practical experience or certification from an FAA-approved Aviation Maintenance Technician School. Pass the oral, practical, and written tests, and you’re well on your way. The top 10 per cent of people in the field make $74,210 a year – now that’s flying high.
Rotary drill operator, oil and gas—average salary $58,540
If moving to Alaska is on your bucket list and you don’t mind getting a little messy on the job, then you may be the perfect fit for this position. Stay in the industry for long enough and you may reach income levels of almost $95,000 a year.
Commercial diver—average salary $58,640
With sunny California boosting the best industry for those pursuing diving as a career, one can see the appeal to a field with a top salary of $94,630. While not surfing on your days off, you will be using a variety of power and hand tools to do everything from rigging explosives in the ocean to photographing marine life.
Subway and streetcar operator—average salary $59,400
Though the job may seem mundane or boring, think again. The job is what you make of it, and in large cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and New York, everyday could be a new adventure. All you need to get started is a high school diploma or equivalent.
Electric power-line installer and repairer —average salary $59,450
With more than 36,200 jobs set to open in this field by 2020 get yourselves prepped to install and repair cables and wires used in electrical power and distribution systems. With moderate-term job training onsite, the ability to get a starting position has never looked so bright (get it?—bright).
Transportation inspector—average salary $65,770
These are the people who help uphold the safety of people and goods while travelling from one destination to another. Whether they’re checking brakes and equipment or making sure that packages and their contents are to code, these people are an important part of everyday life. Additionally, the major hub for these people is Washington, so if you are looking to relocate, here’s your chance.
Elevator installer and repairer —average salary $73,560
Elevator installers and repairers assemble and maintain electric and hydraulic freight and passenger elevators, escalators, and dumbwaiters—and they get paid extremely well. The top 10 per cent of installers and repairers make upwards of $105,000 a year. As an added bonus, all you need is a high school diploma since much of your training comes from on-the-job training through an apprenticeship. With it being a lesser-known job, the opportunities can be very…uplifting.