Back-to-school season is a wonderful time of year; especially for first-time college students preparing to live on campus. Whether staying in-state or traveling across the country, attending an Ivy League institution, another type of PWI, or joining the student body at one of our illustrious HBCUs, the excitement around everything that comes with this new experience is palpable. Across social media, there are elaborate dorm room reveals, get ready with me convocation videos, first day of class fit check reels and more. We love to see it!

We also understand that a traditional four-year college or university trajectory with on-campus living is not an option for everyone. And this is okay. Those young people who go the trade or vocational school route should also be celebrated for their post high school endeavors. Many of them are pursuing career paths that don’t historically require a four-year degree. While their efforts are not typically glorified, they can and should be recognized.

As we have previously reported, job cuts among Black employees are the highest they have been since the Great Depression. Too many of us are searching for a lifeline; especially if college is not an option. Thus, we have identified 7 careers that pay relatively well (most average above the 6-digit annual salary mark), offer excellent stability and a wide range of benefits yet don’t require a four-year college degree.

CORRECTION OFFICER – The base salary for a New York City Correction Officer is $109,352 after 5½ years of service. However substantial overtime opportunities can push total annual earnings close (or exceeding) the $200,000 range depending on position, shift availability and facility needs. According to nyc.gov, benefits can include a home mortgage program, annuity fund and optional retirement with benefits and half of one’s salary after about 20 years of employment.

POLICE OFFICER – Police officers in California had higher salaries than officers in any other state in 2023, earning a median of $113,460, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The other highest-paying states were Illinois ($98,430) and New Jersey ($91,850). In addition, police officers typically have medical, dental and vision insurance, as well as, paid time off (PTO) and impressive retirement plans.

COMMERCIAL TRUCK DRIVER – Long-haul or specialized corporate fleet operators (such as private fleet logistics) can earn upwards of $121,000 with proper commercial licensing. Reaching $125k usually means working overnight shifts, performing strenuous physical labor, or driving in high-traffic corridors. Most positions offering this earning potential require a Class A CDL (commercial driver’s license.)

ELECTRICIAN – Senior and/or specialized electricians (high-voltage or lead industrial positions) can earn upwards of $99,000 per year according to common employment sites. Earlier this year, The New York Post reported electricians in Plano, TX earning an astounding $260,000 (sans college degrees)!

PLUMBER – Top-paying states for this profession include Illinois, Massachusetts and New Jersey. At the top of the list is Illinois, where plumbers earn an adjusted median wage of $97,314. Bonus: According to constructioncoverage.com, plumbing jobs are projected to grow about 50% faster than the U.S. job market overall.

CONSTRUCTION WORKER – Union construction workers earn the most money in major metropolitan areas and states with high union density. New York City, San Francisco and Chicago rank as some of the highest-paying locations, where base hourly wages often exceed $60 to $86 before factoring in valuable medical and pension benefits.

SANITATION WORKER – At this point, AI is not picking up our garbage. (At least not yet!) Collecting other people’s trash might not immediately seem appealing but earning an annual salary of $100K after roughly 5 years of employment just might. In New York City, this position provides for periodic increases to $95,316 following the completion of 5 ½ years of service. In addition to the basic annual wages, sanitation workers can also earn differential payments based on their specific assignment and overtime; not to mention ample health benefits and an attractive pension.

ELEVATOR TECHNICIAN – As of August 18, 2026, the average annual pay for an elevator mechanic in Washington, D.C. is $147,440 a year according to ziprecruiter.com. Because repair calls can happen at any hour, emergency and overtime work sometimes pushes annual take-home pay much higher than base rates. Union mechanics and technicians often scale closer to top-tier hourly rates and benefit packages.

Notions that completing the steps necessary for a trade or vocational school, or finishing on-the job training for a blue-collar job are an “easy way out” are simply false. These paths still require discipline and fortitude. The prerequisites can even be intense and rigorous. To become a licensed plumber,, electrician, or construction worker, a certification is necessary and there is specific training required for said certification. Different doesn’t necessarily mean easier. Be sure to check the certification requirements for the featured careers in your desired area as they can differ considerably from city to city. Indeed.com is one great resource to assist with this important research.

Salute to all those embarking on (or considering) these or similar career paths. While they might not be as sexy as those that regularly appear in your algorithm, they should not be dismissed. To all the future correction officers, sanitation workers, police officers, elevator techs, construction workers, commercial truck drivers and plumbers: Focus, work hard, work smart and continue to follow your passions. Congratulations; now go be great!

Author: Bridgette Bartlett Royall

Read the original article on Essence.