How to start your career without a college degree
Not everyone heads to college after high school. Some jump straight into the workforce. You might think they’re at a disadvantage because they don’t have a college education, but there are many well-paying and satisfying careers they can pursue. Some opportunities are even higher paying than those that require a degree.
If college isn’t the next step for you, here are some tips for starting your successful career on the right foot:
Opt for on-the-job training
The best way to hone your skills is on-the-job training. It’s real-life experience that presents you with the normal day-to-day activity and the unique challenges that you won’t encounter in the classroom. Maybe you followed the technical or vocational training path in high school and can work as an apprentice in your field of interest. You could also opt to voluntarily shadow a skilled professional who can show you what an average workday entails.
Contact some professionals in your community and set up a time to meet. Even if it doesn’t result in a position, you’ve earned some networking experience and the chance that you’ll be top of mind in the future. The U.S. Department of Labor website can also help you find an apprenticeship in your area.
Take your idea to the bank
Innovative ideas for products and services happen every day. If you’ve got an idea for something unique, a product that fills a need or makes life easier, you could be the next Mark Zuckerberg, Bill Gates, or Steve Jobs. They’ve proven that you don’t need a college degree to change the world.
David Green is the founder of Hobby Lobby. He was also a high school graduate who started the company with $600. Steve Madden, shoe designer, dropped out of college, Wolfgang Puck, chef and restaurant owner, left high school at the age of 14, and Wally “Famous” Amos, founder of Famous Amos Cookies, joined the Air Force at 17. Clearly, a college degree isn’t the golden ticket to success.
Consider the military
In addition to serving your country, joining any one of the military branches can also be a jumpstart to a successful career. Whether it’s Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine, or Coast Guard, they all provide educational benefits and job-placement programs. Moreover, all tuition and fees for trade schools or public in-state colleges are covered by the U.S. government. If you’re interested, check out each branch’s website for more information or contact your local recruiter.
Earn a training certificate
A popular alternative to a degree program is a short-term certificate training program. From healthcare to web design, and court reporting to information technology, these programs can help you develop the skills you need and increase your chances of finding a well-paying job. With a few months of hard work and commitment, you’ll be better prepared and more qualified for the opportunities in your field. Here’s a list of high-paying certification programs that offer the potential for advancement.
The governance structure and policy and program priorities differ for each state. The Association for Career and Technical Education has a database that includes details about the system for each state’s technical schools.
Think about law enforcement and firefighting
Some law enforcement agencies require 60 hours of college credits, but many only require a high school diploma or GED. Detention officers, police officers, police dispatchers, and U.S. border patrol agents, are just a few. Many people pursue a career in the criminology or criminal justice field in order to serve their community. Not only can it be interesting and exciting, but especially rewarding, too.
Another career in courageous service is firefighting. Although it does not require any post-secondary education, recruits must participate in vigorous physical training exercises. Nearly all U. S. firefighters must also be certified as emergency medical technicians (EMTs) before they’re allowed in the field. This training can take up to one year to complete and also results in EMT-Basic certification.
In today’s job market, there are many opportunities for those who don’t choose the college route. While it may not be in the classroom setting, you can still continue to learn, sharpen your skills, and rise to the top of your field.