Like many children of immigrants, we grew up in households in which our parents were skilled workers but did not have college degrees. Our parents stressed the necessity of going to college and getting degrees to reach for better financial status, more job security, and more access to benefits such as healthcare. Stephen and I were lucky – college was the right move for us, and we thrived in our post-college jobs.

However, college is not the only route to success. A recent report by American Student Assistance and the Burning Glass Institute (Launchpad Jobs) highlights viable pathways to economic mobility without a college degree. The keys seem to be starting out after high school in a job that offers good opportunities for mobility and getting skills through avenues other than college. Jobs that offer those opportunities for advancement without a college degree are called “launchpad” jobs.

So, how can students tap into these opportunities?

At Youth.Work.Connect, we believe in the power of professional networking and early career exploration. Here’s how high school students can get started:

Explore Launchpad Jobs: If you are planning to work right after high school, learn which entry-level jobs and industries will give you the best opportunity for growth. Often jobs which are customer-facing or where you can gain strong technical skills are good options.

Learn About Next Steps: Ask your co-workers and connections what certificates or additional schooling can help you get ahead in a job or industry. Make a plan to get started as soon as possible. It will demonstrate initiative and that you are serious about your career.

Take a Part-Time or Summer Job: Use these jobs not just to earn money but to learn about careers that you are interested in and make professional connections. Remember, sometimes you will learn that you are really not as interested in a job as you thought you would be. That is still valuable information and can save you a lot of time in the future.

For employers and other adult allies:

If you supervise or employ high school students, you can play an important role in their career development:

Talk about Launchpad Jobs: Inform high school employees about opportunities within your organization that don’t require a college degree but offer room for growth. This can also be an important message that you deliver at career fairs, job shadowing opportunities, and to interns.

Make Connections: Introduce your high school employees to colleagues or industry contacts who can guide them on acquiring the necessary skills, education, and experience. The best connections may be those who started from the same place as your high schooler and rose through the ranks.

Find your path to success…

Success doesn’t have to follow a traditional route. By finding the right opportunities and gaining support from others, it is possible to build a fulfilling career no matter what path you choose.