Careers in the Military Without a Degree: Plumber and Beyond

The military offers a wide range of career opportunities that do not require a college degree, providing individuals with the chance to serve their country and develop marketable skills. One such career that comes to mind is a plumber. My youngest child, when only three years old, managed to stuff a toy down the toilet in our military base housing. Upon calling housing services, an 18-19 year old Airman was dispatched to fix the issue. When I inquired about his background, he simply said, 'I didn’t have anything after high school, so I enlisted.' He had found his way into a plumbing career. This story is from 1980, but similar scenarios occur regularly in the military today.

Why Join the Military Without a Degree?

Choosing to join the military without a college degree offers several advantages. First and foremost, the military provides unique training and certifications that can be highly valuable in the civilian job market. For a plumber, the military's blueprint-and-tool-town training, combined with regular hands-on experience, provides a solid foundation. Furthermore, the military environment fosters discipline, leadership, and teamwork, all of which are highly valued by employers.

High-Paying Jobs Without a Degree

One of the most enticing benefits of pursuing a career in the military without a college degree is the potential for high pay. The Airman I mentioned who became a plumber not only gained a valuable trade but also earned a competitive salary. In addition to the basic pay for a plumber, the military offers several incentives, including:

Advanced Pay Structure: Pay increases based on years of service and rank. Bonus Programs: Additional payments for specific career fields or roles. Housing Allowance: A benefit that ranges from 40% to 100% of base pay, depending on the service member's duties. Health and Dental Care: Comprehensive coverage for the service member and their family. Retailer Discounts: The ability to purchase items at discounted rates through the military's commissary and exchange system.

Exploring Other Career Opportunities

While plumbing is a great example, there are numerous other career paths within the military that do not require a college degree. For instance:

Agents: Agricultural Extension Agents, who help farmers improve their practices and yields. Crime Scene Technicians: Collected and analyzed evidence at crime scenes. Photographers: Documenting the service and missions of military units. Electricians: Ensuring the electrical systems of military bases and vehicles are functioning correctly. Structural Engineers: Designing and maintaining military structures and facilities.

Post-Servicemember Success Stories

Many individuals who have served in the military, and gained valuable experience and skills without a college degree, have gone on to successful careers in various sectors. For example:

A former plumber who served in the U.S. Navy successfully transitioned to the civilian sector and established a lucrative plumbing business. An Airman who worked as a crime scene technician in the Army later became a detective in the police force, applying the skills and insights he gained in the military. A Marine who worked in the fields of agronomy has continued to contribute to agricultural research and development in the civilian sector.

Conclusion

The military is an excellent place to start a career without a college degree. The experience gained—combined with certifications, bonuses, and other benefits—can lead to a well-paying and meaningful career. The stories and success of individuals like the Airman who became a plumber and others attest to the potential for growth and success in the military without a degree. Exploring career opportunities in the military can be a rewarding path, both for those who want to serve and those who want to build a thriving career outside of military service.