Yesterday, we brought you “A Day in the Life of a Manufacturer,” where we gave some examples of what day-to-day life is like as someone in the manufacturing industry.

Still, we know that it’s important for anyone who may know who we are and what we do to have a very strong grasp of the entire manufacturing world. And that means getting to know some of the different career options for anyone (young or old), who may want to take a look at a career in manufacturing.

To help out with that, here are 5 examples of careers in manufacturing–the kinds of careers you might get after some time at a technical school, and also the kind that we like to remind people involve little-to-no student debt:

1. Welder. Whether you like traveling, working outdoors, working indoors, or even if you like sales and research, there’s likely a . Your first welding job may not make you rich, but after you gain some experience, you could easily make a good salary. Check out more salary information .
   
2. Machinist. Machinists and tool and die makers a variety of computer-controlled or mechanically-controlled machine tools to produce precision metal parts, instruments, and tools. Becoming fully trained takes a combination of technical instruction or on-the-job training.
3. Industrial Mechanic. Industrial machinery mechanics try to prevent problems before they occur. They inspect machines to make sure they are working properly. They perform routine maintenance of machinery, talk to machinery operators to evaluate how machinery is working, or examine parts for defects or wear.
4. Metal Former. Metalformers are the  of stamping presses, press brakes, metal spinning machines, roll formers, slide formers, metal fabrication machines and a variety of other equipment used to form metal parts. Most metal forming employers continue to move to team environments where “Production Associates” take greater responsibility for their work and are involved with problem solving. These positions generally require good basic math skills, problem solving skills, and the ability to work and communicate with others in teams.
5. Sheet metal worker. Sheet metal workers products that are made from thin metal sheets, such as ducts used for heating and air-conditioning. Although most sheet metal workers learn their trade through formal apprenticeships, some learn informally on the job or in technical colleges. Formal apprenticeships are more likely in construction.

As the notes, we think you’ll be very surprised not only by the wide variety of careers available in manufacturing, but also by the salaries they pay. Many of these jobs can be started straight out of high school, and the jobs which require a few years of entry-level experience or trade school pay even better.

The bottom line is, if you’re not considering a career in manufacturing–especially as a young person–you’re missing out. You’ll get a valuable job, good security, and a strong salary without all the downfalls of student debt. If you could start your very first job without any kind of student debt, and still have great opportunities for growth down the road, why wouldn’t you give it a shot?

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photo credit: via