High-paying careers that require certs or some niche program?

I currently work a remote 9-5 in healthcare staffing and it has really opened my eyes to the benefits of doing a 2-4 year technical program instead of the normal college route. My cousin works as an ultrasound tech after doing a private 2 yr program and has made $100k+ since she was like 22 but barely graduated high school, and definitely did not go to college

I just don’t trust that my cushy remote job will last forever and truly have no clue what i would do if i lost it. I also live in a very high COL area and need to make like at least $80k to be somewhat comfortable.

I want to take advantage of my free time while i have it and learn a hard skill that is for a very specific field/role. I LOVE school and have no issue with putting in the work to get some kind of certification or something but have no idea what to look into

PS , i did do a coding bootcamp in 2022 and thought that was my golden ticket until the tech market went to crap lol. Honestly glad that didn’t work out in the end because i don’t know if i enjoyed software development too much anyway

Also PS i have a degree in sociology 😭 which is why i am so scared of ever losing my job

Any suggestions are appreciated !

Jobadvisor:

It sounds like you're on a great path by considering specialized training for a high-demand career! It's definitely smart to leverage your current stability to prepare for the future, especially in a high-cost-of-living area. Let's explore some well-compensated careers that typically require certifications, specific programs, or niche training, keeping in mind your interest in a focused skill and your previous experience. Okay, given your interest in high-paying careers requiring specific training and your positive experience with your cousin's career as an ultrasound technician, let's delve into some promising options that typically involve 2-4 year programs or certifications:

Healthcare Fields:

Building on your cousin's success, healthcare offers numerous well-compensated roles that don't always require a four-year bachelor's degree:

• Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (Ultrasound Technician): As you mentioned, this is a strong option. Sonographers use ultrasound technology to create images of internal organs and tissues, assisting physicians in diagnosis. These programs typically take 18-24 months and often lead to salaries in the $80,000-$100,000+ range, depending on location and experience. Look for programs accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).
  • Example: Performing abdominal ultrasounds to diagnose conditions.   
     
• Radiation Therapist: Radiation therapists administer radiation treatments to patients with cancer and other diseases, working under the direction of oncologists. Associate's degree programs in radiation therapy usually take about two years and can lead to median salaries around $98,000 per year. Certification is generally required.
  • Example: Operating a linear accelerator to deliver precise radiation doses.
   
• Nuclear Medicine Technologist: These professionals prepare and administer radioactive drugs for diagnostic imaging and therapeutic purposes. An associate's degree in nuclear medicine technology can lead to a median salary of around $92,000 per year. Certification through the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB) or the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) is common.
  • Example: Performing PET scans to detect diseases.
     
• Dental Hygienist: Dental hygienists clean teeth, examine patients for oral diseases, and provide preventative dental care. Associate's degree programs in dental hygiene typically take around three years, and the median salary is approximately $87,000 per year. Licensure is required in all states.
  • Example: Performing teeth cleanings and educating patients on oral hygiene practices.
     
• Cardiovascular Technologist: These technologists assist physicians in diagnosing and treating heart and blood vessel conditions through procedures like electrocardiograms, echocardiograms, and cardiac catheterizations. Associate's degree programs are common, and salaries can reach $80,000+ depending on specialization and experience.
  • Example: Assisting with the insertion of pacemakers.
     
• Respiratory Therapist: Respiratory therapists care for patients with breathing difficulties, managing ventilators and administering respiratory medications. An associate's degree in respiratory therapy is generally the minimum requirement, and the median salary is around $78,000 per year. Licensure or certification is often required.
  • Example: Managing a patient's breathing on a ventilator in the ICU.
     

Technology Fields:

While your coding bootcamp experience didn't pan out as expected, other specialized tech roles might be a better fit:

• Network Administrator: These professionals manage and maintain computer networks, ensuring they function efficiently and securely. While some employers prefer a bachelor's degree, relevant certifications (like CompTIA Network+, Cisco Certified Network Associate - CCNA) and demonstrable skills can often suffice. Salaries can range from $60,000 to $95,000+ per year.
  • Example: Troubleshooting network connectivity issues for a company.
• Cybersecurity Specialist: With the increasing threat of cyberattacks, cybersecurity professionals are in high demand. Certifications like Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), CompTIA Security+, or Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) are highly valued and can lead to salaries in the $75,000 to $130,000+ range, even without a traditional four-year degree, especially with relevant experience.
  • Example: Conducting penetration testing to identify security vulnerabilities.   
     
• Cloud Computing Specialist: As more companies move their infrastructure to the cloud (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud), professionals with cloud skills are highly sought after. Certifications from these providers (e.g., AWS Certified Solutions Architect, Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate) can significantly boost earning potential, with salaries ranging from $90,000 to $150,000+ per year.
  • Example: Designing and deploying a scalable application on AWS.
• Data Analyst: If you have an aptitude for numbers and problem-solving, data analysis could be a good fit. While some roles prefer a bachelor's, demonstrating proficiency in data analysis tools (like Excel, SQL, Python, Tableau) and potentially earning certifications (like Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate) can open doors to salaries in the $55,000 to $100,000+ range.
  • Example: Analyzing sales data to identify trends and insights.

Other Specialized Fields:

• Air Traffic Controller: This is a highly specialized and demanding role that requires extensive training through the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). While a college degree isn't strictly required, preference is often given to candidates with one. The median salary is around $100,000+, reflecting the critical nature of the job.   
• Aircraft Mechanic: These technicians maintain and repair aircraft. Training can be obtained through FAA-approved aviation schools, often in programs lasting 18-24 months. The median salary is around $78,000 per year. FAA certification is required.   
• Elevator and Escalator Installer and Repairer: This skilled trade involves installing, maintaining, and repairing elevators, escalators, and other lifts. It typically involves a four-year apprenticeship after a high school diploma. The median salary is around $102,000 per year.   

Next Steps:

1. Research: Thoroughly research the careers that pique your interest. Look into the specific educational requirements, certification processes, job duties, and typical salary ranges in your high-cost-of-living area.
2. Informational Interviews: Reach out to professionals working in these fields. Ask about their career paths, the pros and cons of their jobs, and advice for someone looking to enter the field. Your cousin in ultrasound tech would be a great resource!
3. Explore Programs: Investigate local technical schools, community colleges, and private institutions offering programs or certifications in your chosen areas. Consider program length, cost, accreditation, and job placement rates.
4. Consider Online Options: Many certifications and some associate's degree programs can be completed online, offering flexibility while you continue working. However, some hands-on fields will require in-person clinical or lab work.

Given your enjoyment of school and willingness to put in the work, pursuing a specialized certification or technical program could be a fantastic way to secure a high-paying career in a field with strong demand. Don't be discouraged by your previous experience with the coding bootcamp; every learning journey provides valuable insights! Good luck with your exploration!