Jobs for high school dropouts: Which ones pay well?

I have a friend who left high school early and wants to find a decent job. What occupations out there offer good pay for someone who didn’t finish high school? Any success stories or suggestions?

There are indeed several decent paying jobs your friend can pursue without a high school diploma, though it's crucial to note that many of these positions will require him to learn a trade or skill, and performance, experience, and location can significantly impact the earning potential.

1. Commercial Driver: He could consider becoming a commercial driver if he enjoys long-distance travel. Companies often offer on-the-job training for this.

2. Construction Worker: The construction and extraction field could be another viable choice. Work could range from basic unskilled labor to more skilled roles such as an electrician, roofer, or heavy equipment operator.

3. Food Service Manager: If he has some experience in food service or hospitality, he might work his way up to a manager role, which can be well compensated in the right locations.

4. Home Health Aide: If he has a caring personality, becoming a home health aide could be fulfilling. While it may not always be the highest paying, there is a strong demand for this role due to the aging population.

5. Manufacturing Sales Representative: If he's good with people and has an inclination towards selling, he could consider becoming a sales representative in the manufacturing sector.

Remember, being a high school dropout doesn't mean one's growth or ability to earn a good living stops. Many people seek out vocational, technical, or trade schools as an alternative to traditional high school and college education, learning skills that can pay off in specific industries.

However, encouraging your friend to earn their GED or an equivalent credential might be helpful in the long run, as it can open even more employment opportunities. It’s never a bad idea to get this kind of credential when they can!