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Top Careers for High-School Graduates: A Quick-Start Guide

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  Published in Business and Finance on Tuesday, December 9th 2025 at 17:13 GMT by Investopedia

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Top Careers for High‑School Graduates: A Quick‑Start Guide

High school diplomas—and their GED counterparts—are more than just a piece of paper. In today’s labor market, a solid secondary‑education credential, coupled with on‑the‑job training or short‑term apprenticeships, can unlock a range of well‑paid, stable careers. A recent Investopedia piece (“The Top Jobs You Can Get With Just a High‑School Degree or GED”) highlights several such pathways, all of which combine minimal schooling requirements with substantial earning potential, strong job outlooks, and opportunities for advancement. Below is a detailed, 500‑plus‑word summary of those options, including key training steps, salary benchmarks, and industry outlooks.

1. Commercial Truck Driver (CDL)

Why It’s a Hot Ticket:
The trucking industry is a backbone of U.S. commerce. Demand for long‑haul and local delivery drivers remains strong, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 3% growth from 2022‑2029—about as fast as the average for all occupations.

Education & Training:
- High‑school diploma or GED suffices.
- Acquire a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) through a state‑approved training program (often 4–8 weeks).
- Optional endorsements (hazardous materials, double/triple trailer, passenger) can open higher‑pay routes.

Earnings:
- Median annual wage: ~$48,000 (2023).
- Top earners (long‑haul, owner‑operators) can exceed $70,000, especially with experience and overtime.

Career Path:
- Start in entry‑level driving or freight‑broker support.
- Gain hours, climb to regional or national routes, and eventually own a fleet or become a dispatch manager.

2. Elevator Mechanic / Installations Technician

Why It’s a Hot Ticket:
A rapidly aging infrastructure in many cities creates a consistent demand for elevator repair and maintenance. The BLS projects a 7% growth in 2022‑2029—among the fastest in the mechanical trades.

Education & Training:
- High‑school diploma required.
- Apprenticeships: 4–5 years (often with the International Brotherhood of Elevator Constructors).
- Must learn electrical, mechanical, and safety systems—often through a combination of classroom and hands‑on work.

Earnings:
- Median annual wage: ~$79,000.
- Skilled mechanics in high‑cost markets (e.g., NYC, San Francisco) can earn $95,000+.

Career Path:
- Begin as a helper or junior technician.
- Progress to lead technician, project manager, or eventually own a small service company.

3. Real Estate Broker (Broker License)

Why It’s a Hot Ticket:
Real‑estate brokerage offers a flexible, commission‑based path with potential for significant income, especially in hot markets. The BLS predicts a 4% rise in 2022‑2029.

Education & Training:
- High‑school diploma or GED.
- Complete 60–90 hours of real‑estate coursework, pass a state licensing exam.
- Many brokerages provide on‑the‑job mentorship.

Earnings:
- Median annual wage: ~$60,000, but top performers can exceed $200,000 per year.
- Income is heavily commission‑driven; thus, success depends on market knowledge and sales skills.

Career Path:
- Start as a sales associate under a brokerage.
- After a few years, obtain a broker’s license and open a proprietary firm, or become a high‑earning agent within a large agency.

4. Electrical Apprentice

Why It’s a Hot Ticket:
The electrical trade is perennial, with steady demand from construction, manufacturing, and utilities. The BLS expects a 8% increase in 2022‑2029.

Education & Training:
- High‑school diploma (often with courses in math, physics, and drafting).
- Enroll in a 4–5 year apprenticeship through a union (e.g., International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers).
- Apprentices learn both theory (safety, codes) and practical wiring skills.

Earnings:
- Median annual wage: ~$56,000 at the end of apprenticeship.
- Experienced journeymen can earn $75,000+; master electricians and specialists often surpass $100,000.

Career Path:
- Move from journeyman to contractor owner, electrical engineering consultancy, or safety inspector roles.

5. Police Officer

Why It’s a Hot Ticket:
Law enforcement remains a critical public service, with a robust hiring pipeline in many states. The BLS forecasts a 4% growth through 2029.

Education & Training:
- High‑school diploma or GED plus criminal‑justice coursework is typically required.
- Attend a police academy (6–12 weeks).
- Some departments now accept GED holders, but the path may include additional background checks and interviews.

Earnings:
- Median annual wage: ~$68,000 (2023).
- With overtime, specialty units, and promotions, earnings can reach $90,000+.

Career Path:
- Progress from patrol officer to detective, SWAT, or supervisory roles.
- Potential for transfer to federal agencies (FBI, ATF) or specialized units (cyber‑crime, community policing).

6. Real‑Estate Appraiser

Why It’s a Hot Ticket:
Appraisers are essential for banks, investors, and government agencies. The BLS projects a 3% growth in 2022‑2029.

Education & Training:
- High‑school diploma required.
- Complete 40–80 hours of pre‑licensing coursework; pass a state exam (for most states).
- Many states also require a federal license through the Appraiser Qualification Board.

Earnings:
- Median annual wage: ~$59,000.
- Experienced appraisers in high‑value markets can exceed $80,000.

Career Path:
- Start as a trainee or junior appraiser.
- With experience, become a senior appraiser, consultant, or start a private appraisal firm.

7. Firefighter

Why It’s a Hot Ticket:
Firefighters blend public service with hands‑on work. The BLS anticipates a 1% decline in 2022‑2029 due to automation and fewer new positions, but many cities still have active hiring.

Education & Training:
- High‑school diploma or GED plus physical fitness.
- Complete a state‑approved fire‑fighting academy (8–12 weeks).
- Ongoing training, EMT certification, and specialized courses (hazardous materials, rescue operations).

Earnings:
- Median annual wage: ~$60,000.
- Some departments offer overtime, hazard pay, and benefits that push total compensation above $70,000.

Career Path:
- Advance to lieutenant, captain, or chief.
- Some firefighters pivot to firefighting consulting, insurance claims analysis, or fire‑safety education.

What Makes These Careers Attractive

1. Minimal Academic Burden – No need for a college diploma; a high school or GED suffices.
2. Structured Training Paths – Apprenticeships, state‑approved academies, and licensing exams provide a clear roadmap.
3. Solid Pay – Many positions start at or near the median wage for all occupations.
4. Growth Potential – Each job offers avenues for specialization, ownership, or higher‑level roles.
5. Stability – Trades and public‑service positions often weather economic downturns better than many corporate roles.

Next Steps for Aspiring Workers

1. Research Local Demand – Check BLS’s Occupational Outlook Handbook for state‑specific growth and median wages.
2. Enroll in Training Programs – Many trade schools and community colleges offer apprenticeship information.
3. Obtain Required Licenses – For CDL, real‑estate, and electrical work, visit your state’s licensing board website.
4. Build a Portfolio – Keep a log of hours, certifications, and any relevant projects—valuable for future promotions.
5. Network – Join local unions, trade associations, or professional groups; networking can unlock hidden opportunities.

Final Takeaway

A high‑school diploma is a solid launchpad into lucrative, fulfilling careers. Whether you’re drawn to the open road, the precision of elevator systems, the negotiation room of real estate, the spark of electrical work, or the service of police and fire departments, the right training and dedication can translate secondary education into a rewarding professional journey. Start today by identifying the trade that aligns with your interests and the demands of your local labor market, then dive into the apprenticeship or certification path that will propel you forward.