Lucrative Directions Without a Degree

Even when the job market's a bit shaky, there are plenty of cool gigs for those who'd rather work than hit the college scene. Here's the lowdown on some sweet opportunities:

Trades Painter - If you're starting from scratch, the painting game is all about apprenticeships in a union setting. According to Roland Sheppard from Painters Local Union No. 4 in San Fran, you'll get top-notch training and steady work. Starting at 12 bucks an hour, health coverage kicks in after six months. After three years, you're looking at $32 an hour. It's hard graft at the start, but the skills are gold worldwide.

Roofer - Alvaro Garcia, from Roofing Union Local No. 8 in Oakland, spills the beans on roofing. Slower construction and a sluggish economy hit trades like roofing, but it's a straightforward gig to learn, and the housing market always bounces back. No upfront union dues, free training with a 50-50 mix of on-the-job and classroom learning. Start at $10.35 an hour, jump to $11.30 if you've got some skills. Journeyman status after 42 months brings in $23.75 an hour.

Electrician - Got a spark for math? Ennetta Drake at Alameda County Electrical Joint Apprenticeship Program in San Leandro says the electrician path starts with acing an algebra test. Free five-year program through the union, but you're on the hook for books and tools. Earn $14.80 an hour on the job, and with experience, you can break 50K a year.

 

Trucks & Cars Driver - James Biggs, flatbed dispatcher with Lee Trucking, says there's a truckload of job opportunities for drivers. Attend trucking school, get licensed, and learn the road rules. Big companies might hire fresh grads, but be ready for lots of time away from home. Pay varies - it's either a percentage of load payment or 20 cents a mile and up.

Car Parts Supplier - Mike Weiss at Monument Car Parts in San Ramon spills the beans on car parts. It's about personality and attitude. Starting pay is around $11 an hour. Learn on the job, and if you've got the knack, you'll make a decent living.

Flowers & Flours Florist - Jane Takaha from Charter Way Florist in Stockton spills the petals on floristry. Looks matter, so a neat appearance is half the battle. Start as a clerk and get on-the-job training to become a florist and decorator. Pay depends on the shop and the job description.

Caterer - If your cooking skills get rave reviews, try the catering scene. Lincoln Capitao, chef and owner of My Chef Restaurant and Catering in Modesto, suggests taking a class or getting a job as a server at a catering event. Pay attention, and the opportunities will be tasty.

 

Looking to Make Your Mark? 

 Tattoo Artist - Poul Jorgensen, manager of Body Fantasy in Sacramento, lays it out for aspiring tattoo artists. It's an art form, so you need basic artistic ability. Apprenticeships usually last a couple of years, and some shops charge for the training. Patience is key—apprentices might not touch a tattoo machine for a year.