Skip the Degree: 10 Lucrative Trade and Technical Careers Set to Boom Through 2034

The narrative around college has shifted dramatically. While a four-year university degree was once considered the golden ticket to financial security, the reality today is far different. Public college tuition averages $11,610 annually, making it unaffordable for many families. Yet surprisingly, only 25% of Americans now believe a bachelor’s degree is essential for landing a well-paying position, according to Pew Research Center data.

The real opportunity lies in skilled trades and technical roles—careers that pay competitive salaries without requiring a traditional college pathway. Recent analysis from Resume Genius examined the most promising opportunities, measuring median annual salaries, top earner compensation, job availability, and projected growth through 2034. The findings reveal something remarkable: nine of the top ten positions see their highest earners breaking the six-figure threshold annually.

Why Blue-Collar Careers Are Worth Your Attention

For those calculating salary potential, consider this: a technician earning $30 hourly translates to approximately $62,400 annually (based on 2,080 work hours yearly). Many positions on this list far exceed that baseline, with experienced workers commanding substantially higher rates. Employers increasingly prioritize continuous skill development, offering certifications, specialized training, and advancement pathways that directly boost earning potential.

The 10 Best-Paying Trades Without a College Degree

1. Elevator and Escalator Technician – $106,580/Year

This specialized field tops the earnings chart. With a median annual salary of $106,580 ($51.24/hour), top performers reach $149,250. The field needs 24,200 technicians, with 5% growth projected. High school graduation is the only education requirement.

2. Electrical Power-Line Installer and Repairer – $92,560/Year

Maintaining the nation’s electrical infrastructure pays handsomely. These professionals earn $92,560 annually ($44.50/hour), with top earners at $126,610. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 7% growth through 2034, creating opportunities for 127,400 workers. Only a high school diploma is needed to start.

3. Aircraft Avionics Equipment Mechanic and Technician – $79,140/Year

The aviation sector offers solid pay for technical expertise. Median earnings reach $79,140 annually ($38.05/hour), climbing to $120,080 for top earners. With 160,800 positions available and 5% growth expected, this role requires an FAA-approved postsecondary certificate—a faster pathway than traditional college.

4. Railroad Worker – $75,680/Year

Railway operations employ 77,900 workers earning $75,680 median salary ($36.38/hour), with ceiling pay at $100,130. Though growth remains modest at 1%, the positions themselves offer stability and competitive hourly rates that translate to respectable annual income. A high school diploma suffices.

5. Stationary Engineer and Boiler Operator – $75,190/Year

Industrial facilities require skilled operators managing complex systems. These professionals earn $75,190 yearly ($36.15/hour), reaching $121,200 at the top tier. With 33,300 jobs and 2% projected growth, high school graduates can access this career path.

6. Industrial Machinery Mechanic – $63,510/Year

The largest job category in this list with 538,300 openings, industrial mechanics earn $63,510 annually ($30.53/hour), with experienced workers making $85,790. Here’s the standout: 13% growth through 2034—nearly triple the national average. High school education is the baseline requirement.

7. Plumber, Pipefitter, and Steamfitter – $62,970/Year

Over half a million positions (504,500) exist in plumbing trades, offering $62,970 median salary ($30.27/hour). Top earners exceed $105,150, and 4% growth is projected. These hands-on skills remain perpetually in demand, requiring only high school credentials.

8. Wind Turbine Technician – $62,580/Year

Renewable energy represents the fastest-growing segment. Wind turbine technicians earn $62,580 annually ($30.09/hour), with top performers at $88,090. Most remarkably, this field projects 50% job growth—the highest on this list. A postsecondary nondegree certificate is required, making entry faster than college.

9. Electrician – $62,350/Year

The broadest employment category with 818,700 positions, electricians earn $62,350 yearly ($29.98/hour), reaching $106,030 for experienced professionals. With 9% growth projected and only a high school diploma needed, this represents one of the most accessible pathways to solid income.

10. Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Installer – $51,860/Year

Solar energy employs 28,600 installers earning $51,860 annually ($24.93/hour), with top earners at $80,150. The explosive demand shows 42% projected growth—second only to wind technicians. High school graduation is the entry point.

Why These Careers Make Financial Sense

Nathan Soto, a career expert at Resume Genius, emphasizes a crucial point: “A bachelor’s degree represents just one pathway to prosperity. The data demonstrates substantial demand for skilled tradespeople, with employers offering premium compensation for expertise. Among our top ten list, nine occupations see their highest earners surpass six figures annually. Most require only high school completion, and all face positive growth through 2034—making six-figure income significantly more achievable than conventional wisdom suggests.”

The math is compelling. Whether you calculate an hourly rate converting to salary or examine raw annual figures, these positions consistently outpace many college graduate salaries while requiring substantially less educational debt.

Your Next Steps

Before committing four years to university, honestly assess whether that investment aligns with your goals. Many individuals discover greater satisfaction, faster income growth, and superior advancement opportunities within blue-collar professions. Apprenticeship programs and trade schools provide structured training, real-world experience, and clear pathways to higher earning potential—often completed in two years or less.

The skilled trades aren’t a backup plan; they’re a strategic career choice increasingly recognized by workers and employers alike as the smarter financial move for thousands of Americans.