Advanced Manufacturing and Two Good Jobs That Earn $40-$100k

The Careers Without Four Years Podcast

RAY THOMAS

What is Advanced Manufacturing? Today, it includes million-dollar machines, logistics, IOT, and cybersecurity. Ray Thomas, Dean of Advanced Manufacturing explains this industry and tells us about two good jobs that don't require four-year degrees.

Mechatronics and welding are two manufacturing jobs that pay well. They don't require four-year degrees, either. You can earn a welding certificate in six months and become a mechatronics professional with a two-year Associates degree. If you live in a state with a lot of manufacturers - such as South Carolina, California, Indiana, or Georgia, you will find it easy to get a job.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook, the mean average wage for welders is $44,200 https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes514122.htm The mean average wage for mechatronics is $59,800. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/electro-mechanical-technicians.htm

The mean average wage of bachelor's degree holders is $51,212 (average across all degrees)

Remember, wages vary by part of country. Check your state here: https://www.careeronestop.org/Toolkit/Wages/find- salary.aspx?frd=true

Make sure to choose your provider carefully. A community college is usually much more affordable and has more grant money than a four-profit trade school. In addition, many community colleges have relationships with employers. There are more opportunities for grants and apprenticeships. There are also for-profit providers that do not confer marketable degrees, will charge you several times the tuition of a community college, and offer you less grant money.

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