High-wage Jobs in High-growth Occupations that Don’t Require a 4-year Degree

As part of our broader goals for educational attainment and workforce outcomes, we have a strategic goal pertaining specifically to the workforce:

To make sure our efforts are working toward that goal, we stay informed about labor market trends and the needs of our local employers. One story that caught our attention was Fast growth, good pay–without a bachelor’s degree by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. When we saw the charts below, we noticed that they feature several occupations that are connected to NC Workforce Credentials. These priority non-degree credentials are valued by employers and put those who earn them on a path to a sustainable wage career.

Keep reading below the charts for details on some of the key occupations, including projected growth, median annual wages, and typical education requirements. We will also be providing links to NC Workforce Credentials connected to these occupations (you can check our localized listing of NC Workforce Credentials to find out where to earn those credentials in the Land of Sky region).

• Employment growth, projected 2022-2032: 18.3%
• Median annual wage, 2022: $49,860
• Employment, 2022: 134,300
• Education typically needed for entry: Postsecondary nondegree award
• On-the-job training typically needed to attain competency in the occupation: none
• Associated NC Workforce Credential(s): Licensed Massage & Bodywork Therapist (Health Sciences category)

• Employment growth, projected 2022-2032: 16.0%
• Median annual wage, 2022: $60,800
• Employment, 2022: 28,500
• Education typically needed for entry: Postsecondary nondegree award
• On-the-job training typically needed to attain competency in the occupation: moderate-term
• Associated NC Workforce Credential(s): Manufacturing category
  
  • Certified Production Technician 4.0 (CPT 4.0)
  • NIMS Job Planning, Benchmark, and Layout
    
  • NIMS Machining Level I- Measurement, Materials, and Safety Certifications
  • NIMS Milling I

• Employment growth, projected 2022-2032: 14.9%
• Median annual wage, 2022: $59,830
• Employment, 2022: 402,200
• Education typically needed for entry: High school diploma or equivalent
• On-the-job training typically needed to attain competency in the occupation: long-term
• Associated NC Workforce Credential(s): Manufacturing category
  
  • Apprenticeship – Maintenance Mechanic
  • NIMS Maintenance Operations

• Employment growth, projected 2022-2032: 14.8%
• Median annual wage, 2022: $48,100
• Employment, 2022: 2,400
• Education typically needed for entry: High school diploma or equivalent
• On-the-job training typically needed to attain competency in the occupation: moderate-term
• Associated NC Workforce Credential(s): Fire Fighter I & II (Law, Public Safety, Corrections, and Security category)