Hi again, friends, family, fiends, foes, and all my funky folks!

Ah, the siren’s call of the six-figure salary. It’s a sign of financial stability that many of us dream of reaching, but here’s the problem — society often tries to convince us that a college degree is the only golden ticket to get there. Spoiler alert: It sure as hell not.

Let’s set this right. There’s absolutely no shame in working hard to make your money. Heck, some of the most successful people I know built their wealth brick by brick, armed with nothing more than grit, determination, and a willingness to learn. If you’re ready to roll up your sleeves and put in the effort, here are some tried-and-true ways to hit that six-figure milestone without ever setting foot in a college lecture hall. (Please see Mike Rowe’s Podcasts from the Dirty Jobs world)

1. Trade Skills: The Backbone of Society

Electricians, plumbers, welders, and HVAC technicians — they’re not just fixing stuff; they’re making serious coin and honest bank. The best part? You don’t need a fancy four-year degree to join their ranks. Most trades only require certification or apprenticeships, which cost a fraction of college tuition. Why be in debt if it isn’t your thing, a lot of us weren’t ready or even wanted college, not to mention the huge financial burden.

Once you’re certified, the earning potential skyrockets. Experienced electricians can easily earn six figures, especially if they own their own business or specialize in high-demand areas like commercial or industrial projects.

Pro Tip: Start with a local apprenticeship program. You’ll earn while you learn, which is like hitting the jackpot early in the game.

2. Sales: Selling Your Way to Success

If you’ve got the gift of gab and the ability to connect with people, sales might be your very own golden ticket. From real estate to cars to software, sales jobs often operate on commission, meaning your earning potential is only capped by your own ability and drive.

Take real estate agents, for example. With a few months of training and licensing, you can start selling homes and raking in hefty commissions. Even entry-level positions in industries like tech sales can lead to six-figure salaries within a few years if you’re good at closing deals.

Pro Tip: Focus on high-ticket items like real estate, luxury goods, or software. The bigger the sale, the bigger the commission.

3. Entrepreneurship: Be Your Own Boss

Why work for someone else when you can work for yourself? Entrepreneurship isn’t for the faint of heart, but it’s one of the most rewarding paths to financial freedom. Whether you’re flipping houses, running an online store, or offering a specialized service, the potential for a six-figure income is there if you’re willing to grind. (See my website, www.deanbensonrocks.io for ideas.)

Take my radio show, blog, and eBooks, for example. These ventures started as my hobbies and passion projects but grew into income streams through consistency and a willingness to adapt and change with the markets.

Pro Tip: Start small. Identify a problem you can solve, create a plan, and take action. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is a successful business.

4. Skilled Labor Jobs: Not Your Average 9-to-5

Skilled labor jobs like truck driving, heavy equipment operation, and oil rig work often pay well above average, especially with a few years of experience. Many of these roles offer on-the-job training or certification programs that don’t require a college degree.

For example, long-haul truckers can earn over $100,000 a year with bonuses and overtime. It’s not a glamorous job, but it’s steady work with excellent pay. You don’t have to dress up, and you can really be yourself!

Pro Tip: Look for industries with high demand. Logistics, construction, and energy are all booming sectors that value skilled labor.

5. Technology: Breaking Into IT Without a Degree

The tech industry isn’t just for computer science grads anymore. Fields like web development, cybersecurity, and IT support often hire based on skills and certifications rather than degrees.

Platforms like Codecademy, Udemy, and Coursera offer affordable courses to get you started. With a few certifications under your belt, you can land entry-level roles that pay well and offer opportunities for fast growth and development in the field to help you earn more.

Pro Tip: Focus on certifications that align with your career goals. Popular options include CompTIA, Cisco, and AWS certifications.

6. Creative Careers: Turn Your Passion into Profit

Are you a talented artist, writer, or musician? The internet has made it easier than ever to monetize your creative skills. From freelance graphic design to self-publishing books, the possibilities are endless.

For example, selling eBooks (like yours truly) or offering freelance writing services can become a lucrative side hustle or full-time gig. Platforms like Fiverr and Upwork are great places to start building a portfolio and attracting clients. (Not to mention Voice123, etc. for vocal work.)

Pro Tip: Don’t underestimate the power of networking. Collaborations and word-of-mouth referrals can take your creative career to the next level.

7. Skilled Trades in Niche Markets

Niche markets often come with niche paychecks. Think about luxury car mechanics, custom furniture makers, or precision machinists. These specialized skills are in high demand and often pay top dollar.

Take the auto industry, for example. If you specialize in high-performance or vintage car restoration, you can charge a big premium for your services.

Pro Tip: Choose a niche that aligns with your interests and invest in the necessary training or tools. Passion makes the work feel less like a grind.

(ever seen Counting Cars, or the hundreds of other shows about cars?)

8. Healthcare Support Roles

While doctors and nurses require extensive education, many healthcare support roles do not. Jobs like medical coding, ultrasound technology, and dental hygiene often require only an associate degree or certification.

These roles are in high demand, offer excellent pay, and provide major job security. Plus, you’ll be making a tangible difference in people’s lives. (Really rewarding for sure.)

Pro Tip: Look into programs at local community colleges or vocational schools. They often offer flexible schedules and financial aid. Or, just find a company in your field of choice, apply as a gopher, and work your way up!

9. Skilled Manufacturing Jobs

Manufacturing might seem like a throwback, but modern manufacturing jobs are anything but old-fashioned. Roles like CNC machinists, robotics technicians, and assembly line supervisors are highly skilled and very well-paid.

These jobs typically require certifications or vocational training, which you can often complete in less than two years.

Pro Tip: Seek out companies that offer training programs or apprenticeships. It’s a great way to get your foot in the door without upfront costs.

The Common Thread: Hustle and Commitment

No matter which path you choose, one thing is clear: success doesn’t come without some real effort. The old saying, “You reap what you sow,” rings in my ears with my Dad’s voice, and it’s true. If you’re willing to put in the time, energy, and dedication, you can build a fulfilling and lucrative career without the burden of student loans.

So, my friends, let’s get to work. Whether you’re learning a new skill, starting a business, or diving into a trade, the opportunities are out there. The only question is: Are you ready to seize them?

Dean Benson, “The Dean Of Rock & Roll” SKY7music.com middays on the “Only Classic Rock Channel”. Also see more of my writing at: https://stan.store/DeanBensonRocks .