Good $40k/yr jobs that just need 2-year degrees?
Asked by JD
Right now i have a 2-year degree as a CNC Machinist, and i can make anywhere from $40k-$65k per year depending on what shop i work at and how much overtime i do. Unfortunately i am quickly realizing that this is not what i want to be doing with my life, and am beginning to reconsider going back and doing a different 2 year degree for a less physical job, that utilizes my intellect more than my muscles. What would be some good careers that i could get a 2-year degree to do, that pay $40k and higher? I know how to build computers piece by piece, so maybe a degree in computer sciences, and a job with Geek Squad would be a good one? It's something i would enjoy much more than working a 12 hour shift in a dirty factory averaging 2 work-related serious injuries per year. What about over-the-road trucking? I'm an excellent wheelman for other vehicles, and wouldn't miss anybody being on the road (no girlfriend or kids etc). Medical or dental work, i couldn't do, for being squeemish. I also am interested in the commercials for the DeVry university "game and simulation programming" because i also have done alot of 3d design and some game modification, and am good with programming and math, so is there any job market for that degree that would pay $40k+? I also enjoy coaching junior high school students in a technology club after-school program, so perhaps something involving teaching kids about technology and computers? Likely that would be a 4-year teaching degree, vastly unrelated to my current knowledge. And the pay is likely not high enough.

Best Answer:
well, i dont know if it is a physical job as you say, but the average Airframe and Powerplant tech will, with starting salary, make anywhere between 40 to 55,000 in their first year. after 2 years of being an AP tech, you can get an inspection license, and all you have to do is do inspect aircraft and make somewhere in the neighborhood of 60 to 70000 a year. give it some thought

With your current skills, and your interest in using your intellect, I would urge you to do one of two things: 1) go to a four year school. You can go to a state school, you can get loans and grants based on your income, and you can work part or full time while in school. Get a business degree or computer science degree, and you will be looking at incredible opportunities that use your mind extensively and, if you choose well, allow you to get out in the shop and away from a desk if that's what you want. And you'll be looking at a lot more than 40K, at least after a few years, if you do well. I think you sound very capable, I would strongly recommend that you try this. If you don't like it you will have hours you can apply to your two year program. By the way, DeVry is too expensive, you can get a better education for less at a state school in much of the country. DeVry is in business to make money! They offer programs like video game design because people think that's cool and will pay to take the class, not because good jobs are plentiful. The other suggestion is that you start a business you enjoy. You can look up micro lenders if you need money, but most small businesses can be started for very little. Be creative, but focus on your potential customers and what they want. If you are successful, you can make your job whatever you want it to be - whatever combination of physical/mental work suits you, and outsource or hire to fill in the rest.
Answered by Robert W