As college tuition fees continue to rise across the country, many Americans are looking for lucrative job options that don’t require a four-year degree.

A recent survey involving 1,000 voters, conducted by All4Ed—a nonprofit focused on improving equitable educational opportunities—revealed a preference for community and technical colleges, career training, and workforce education over traditional universities.

For those exploring career paths that don’t necessitate a college degree, YSL News investigated promising jobs in expanding fields and what one would need to embark on those journeys. Many careers require either training programs or apprenticeships to develop technical skills, or enrollment in community college classes.

Welders

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, individuals who can join, repair, or cut metal components using handheld or remote-controlled tools can become welders without needing a bachelor’s degree.

Typically, to enter this profession, candidates need a high school diploma and must complete a training or certification program. These programs cover essential skills such as reading blueprints, shop mathematics, mechanical drawing, and basics of electricity.

Interested learners can find welding programs at community colleges or through high school technical courses, as per the bureau’s career information.

Trish Fliss, a representative for the American Welding Society, noted a growing demand for welders. The organization also offers scholarships for those looking to start a welding career.

“Welding is more than just arcs and sparks; it plays a significant role in the world,” Fliss emphasized. “It contributes to manufacturing the cars we use and constructing bridges for safe travel.”

Bryn Otto, a 20-year-old welder from Nebraska, learned his trade in high school and later pursued an associate’s degree at a community college. Otto now earns a reasonable income as a professional welder and shares his knowledge about welding on TikTok. He recommends aspiring welders seek apprenticeships at local shops to get hands-on experience similar to what he did in high school.

According to data from the labor statistics bureau, the median salary for welders in 2023 was $48,940.

Photographers

The photography field is expected to create around 13,700 new job opportunities by 2033, based on insights from the labor statistics bureau.

Typically, photographers need a high school diploma and some on-the-job training to develop their skills and achieve a living wage, according to the bureau’s information.

Aspiring photographers can enroll in community college classes or apprentice with professional photographers to learn the needed skills, says Don Orkoskey, a photography expert and educator based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

While professional traits include understanding camera mechanics, lighting, and business management, these skills don’t necessarily require a four-year degree. Orkoskey himself faced financial challenges after obtaining a degree before diving into his career; most successful photographers he knows have gained wisdom through practical experience or mentorship.

Orkoskey advises those considering a photography career to possess genuine enthusiasm and be proactive in seeking various freelance or job opportunities, although this can present financial hurdles.

In 2023, the average median wage for photographers was $40,760, according to labor statistics.

Wind turbine technicians

For those interested in becoming wind turbine technicians, job prospects appear promising. The demand for wind turbine service technicians, who maintain and repair turbines, is expected to grow significantly from 2023 to 2033, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ career database.

Candidates do not require a bachelor’s degree to enter this field.

Typically, aspiring wind turbine technicians pursue technical schooling or community college programs to learn about maintaining electrical and hydraulic systems, mechanical controls, safety protocols, and other essential skills, leading to a relevant certificate or associate’s degree.

The average median salary for wind turbine technicians was $61,770 in 2023, according to labor statistics.

For further inquiries, contact Kayla Jimenez on X at @kaylajjimenez.