We’ve said it before: today’s career success has much less to do with the employer’s permanence than the employee, contractor, or freelancer’s skills. Those with in-demand skills usually have no difficulty finding a good-paying job on their own terms.
Once upon a time, going to university was the only way that most people thought they’d get a good job. The idea of upward mobility was somehow tied to the idea of white collar work…
But going to university just isn’t for everyone — and that fact doesn’t imply lesser intellect or business acumen. Consider these ideas if you’re looking for a good way to earn money over the long haul:
Mechanical Love
There are good to great jobs that provide more hands-on men with opportunity. If you’re someone who likes getting his hands dirty — and also likes sophisticated electronics–trained mechanics are in huge demand. If you’ve paid for car or motorbike repairs recently, you know that “old-fashioned” mechanics make boat loads of money, too.
These days, auto mechanic classes reflect an increasingly sophisticated industry and product. Employers in general expect some community college and/or vocational training: the successful candidate has either a certificate or associate degree. Those presenting national auto certifications have the greatest chance of finding good jobs in major metro areas.
Some mechanics do find a first job as an apprentice straight out of high school. Others take training to obtain certifications needed to land a good job. Either way, the mechanic knows he can find work he enjoys that pays enough to eventually obtain the dream of owning a business, a home, and a good life. According to CNN, today’s mechanics can earn $100,000 or more!
Heavy Vehicle Drivers
Truck drivers are in huge demand in most countries around the world. That’s because goods must move from the point of manufacture or processing to the wholesale or retail market. While driving a large goods vehicle (LGV) or heavy goods vehicle (HGV) isn’t for everyone, the skills necessary to operate these vehicles are highly valued by employers. In the European Union, HGV/LGV refers to a truck with gross combination mass of 3,500 kilos (about 7,700 pounds) or more.
HGV trained drivers are in enormous demand in the UK. Driving “big loads” is essential to the local and European economy, so individuals with either a HGV1/HGV2 license will find plentiful job opportunities. The largest UK employers include wholesalers or jobber firms who hire independent contractors. Although the legal age for HGV operators is only eighteen years, most UK employers look for drivers aged twenty-five and older. Insurance premiums for younger LGV/HGV drivers are just too high.
The would-be driver must be someone of good reputation. He or she must present good personal credentials, e.g. a good background check and/or credit report, in order to get a temporary license to begin the training course. The applicant can either perform the first steps independently or apply to a training school that will properly prepare him or her for HGV licensure.
This isn’t an easy course: drivers study theory along with actual behind-the-wheel driving. Because operating a HGV/LGV presumes the driver can remain on his or her own for long stretches of time, the student must demonstrate responsibility in maintaining proper records for a run, and then prepare and turn in various reports to supervisors.
Licensed HGV drivers earn good money. According to London’s Channel 4, some drivers earn upwards of £45,000 a year!
