9 rewarding hands-on careers you can get with a 2-year degree or less
Are you someone who enjoys hands-on work and isn’t afraid to get dirty? If so, consider these rewarding career options and how CFCC can help you fast-track your path with diplomas, certificates, or associate degrees.
CFCC offers comprehensive training in these in-demand fields, including apprenticeships that provide practical experience alongside structured coursework. By participating in CFCC’s apprenticeship program, you can accelerate your career development and establish a solid foundation in your chosen field.
CFCC has established partnerships with local employers, ensuring that job training programs benefit students, businesses, and the community at large. Take advantage of apprenticeships available in Plumbing, Collision Repair and Refinishing Technology, Computer Integrated Machining, and HVAC programs at CFCC to kickstart your career.
PLUMBER ↗️
Plumbers directly impact our daily lives by providing us with clean water, functioning bathrooms, and well-maintained piping systems. Being a plumber is an essential profession that involves installing, repairing, and maintaining plumbing systems for water supply, drainage, and sewage. Plumbers are skilled in reading blueprints, identifying issues, and using specialized tools for repairs and installations.
SALARY RANGE
$37,250 – $101,190JOB OUTLOOK
9,100 new jobs projected between 2021 and 2031COLLISION, REPAIR, AND REFINISHING TECHNOLOGY ↗️
Americans take great pride in their cars and strive to maintain their appearance. In addition to regular upkeep, they turn to collision repair professionals to address damages caused by road hazards or accidents, ensuring that their cars are restored to their pre-accident condition and maintain their desired visual appeal. Collision repair technicians assess and repair structural damage, perform bodywork, and refinish vehicles.
SALARY RANGE
$32,370 – $78,460JOB OUTLOOK
5,000 new jobs projected between 2021 and 2031COMPUTER INTEGRATED MACHINING (CIM) ↗️
Machinists have a wide-reaching impact on various industries, including transportation, medicine, and daily consumer products. A career in Computer Integrated Machining combines traditional machining skills with computer technology. Professionals in this field use CAD/CAM software to program and operate precision machinery.
SALARY RANGE
$33,720 – $71,820JOB OUTLOOK
3,900 new jobs projected between 2021 and 2031HVAC ↗️
HVAC technicians play a critical role in ensuring comfortable and healthy indoor environments by installing, maintaining, and repairing heating, cooling, and ventilation systems. Their expertise helps maintain optimal indoor air quality, temperature control, and energy efficiency in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. By ensuring the proper functioning and performance of HVAC systems, technicians contribute to the well-being and comfort of individuals, promoting a healthy living and working environment.
SALARY RANGE
$36,170 – $82,630JOB OUTLOOK
20,200 new jobs projected between 2021 and 2031CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT ↗️
Construction managers oversee and coordinate various aspects of construction projects, including budgeting, scheduling, and ensuring compliance with regulations. With a strong foundation in project management, construction techniques, cost estimation, and safety protocols, professionals in this field can effectively plan, organize, and execute construction projects.
SALARY RANGE
$62,210 – $168,390JOB OUTLOOK
36,400 new jobs projected between 2021 and 2031LANDSCAPE GARDENING ↗️
Landscape gardening offers a fulfilling and creative path for individuals who have a passion for nature and outdoor spaces. Landscape gardeners design, install, and maintain beautiful and functional gardens, parks, and outdoor areas. They work with a variety of plants, trees, and hardscape elements to create aesthetically pleasing and sustainable landscapes. Additionally, they may be involved in tasks such as soil preparation, irrigation system installation, and pest management.
SALARY RANGE
$36,520 – $80,600JOB OUTLOOK
61,300 new jobs projected between 2021 and 2031CYBER CRIME TECHNOLOGY ↗️
Working in the cybercrime technology field offers an exciting and rapidly growing career path. With the increasing reliance on technology and the rise in cyber threats, professionals in this field play a crucial role in protecting individuals, organizations, and governments from cybercrimes. Cybercrime technology experts employ their knowledge and skills to identify, prevent, and investigate cyberattacks, data breaches, and online fraud. They develop security measures, implement advanced technologies, and analyze digital evidence to mitigate risks and strengthen cybersecurity infrastructure.
SALARY RANGE
$66,010 – $174,540JOB OUTLOOK
56,500 new jobs projected between 2021 and 2031INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY ↗️
A career in information technology (IT) offers diverse opportunities, with roles such as web designers, support technicians, and software developers being integral to the field. These IT professionals contribute to the development of cutting-edge technologies, improve user experiences, and ensure the delivery of high-quality software products. With the constant advancements in technology, a career in IT offers continuous learning, growth opportunities, and a chance to contribute to shaping the digital landscape.
SALARY RANGE:
$55,510 – $159,740JOB OUTLOOK:
411,400 new jobs projected between 2021 and 2031PUBLIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION ↗️
A career in public safety administration offers a diverse range of opportunities within various concentrations, including correction services, emergency management, law enforcement services, and loss prevention services. Public safety administrators play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and security of communities. Through effective leadership, coordination, and strategic planning, public safety administrators contribute to the well-being and security of society as a whole.
SALARY RANGE:
Varies by focus
JOB OUTLOOK:
While correction services and emergency management openings are stable, projections for Law Enforcement and Loss Prevention Services expect an increase of 20,000 to 38,000 jobs between 2021 and 2031
CFCC offers extensive training for a variety of hands-on careers, including plumbing, collision repair, computer-integrated machining, landscape gardening, IT, cybercrime technology, and public safety administration. These fulfilling professions contribute to different industries and have a positive impact on our daily lives. CFCC provides the necessary education and skills for individuals to excel in these fields, ensuring they are well-prepared for rewarding and impactful careers.
