12 high-paying jobs that don't need a college degree and are projected to grow over the next decade

"Business Insider looked at wages and growth projections for jobs that usually need a high school diploma, its equivalent, or a postsecondary nondegree award. We then took the geometric mean of the ones that pay at least $75,000, based on 2024 median annual wage data, and are expected to need more workers, based on projected employment growth from 2024 to 2034. We then ranked the jobs, with the larger the geometric mean, the better the rank."

"Many of the top 12 fell into one of three job groups: construction and extraction; protective service; or installation, maintenance, and repair. First-line supervisors of construction trades and extraction workers took the top spot. Employment of these supervisors is expected to grow by 49,000 from its 2024 level, and they typically make about $79,000 annually. It's also one of the roles that typically don't require a degree, but often require job seekers to have relevant experience."

"Depending on the position, a high school diploma could be the ticket to a growing, high-paying job. Some of the jobs usually require related work experience. Employers may be interested in candidates with higher educational attainment. The Bureau of Labor Statistics said commercial pilots usually need a postsecondary nondegree award, but some employers may prefer a degree or even require it."

Jobs that typically require a high school diploma, its equivalent, or a postsecondary nondegree award can still offer strong pay and growth prospects. Roles paying at least $75,000 were evaluated by combining 2024 median wages with projected employment increases through 2034 using a geometric mean. Many top-ranked openings fall into three groups: construction and extraction; protective service; and installation, maintenance, and repair. First-line supervisors of construction trades and extraction workers rank highest, with about $79,000 median pay and an expected 49,000-job increase. Some positions commonly require related work experience or nondegree postsecondary credentials.

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