If you’re looking for a job that’s in high demand, growing industries that will allow you to work your way  to the top, or a chance to advance your career, we have exciting information for you. Here are the average salaries of three jobs that can surprisingly pay big bucks.

CDL Truck Driver
$49,000-$78,000

A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is a key that can open many doors to professional opportunities. If you enjoy driving, traveling, and working alone, truck driving may be a great job opportunity for you to consider. Each state has its own set of application procedures and training regulations. The testing tends to be strenuous and includes both written and a three-part skills exam. If you’re interested in getting a CDL, visit dmv.org to learn more.

Welder
$36,000-$63,000

Do you like the idea of working outdoors? Traveling? Gaining new skills? There’s more than likely a welding job for you! Welding is a part of just about everything you see every day: the car you drive, the bridge you drove over this morning, the school you pass by every day, and much more. Career options for welders include: work in the oil and gas industry, manufacturing, commercial construction, mining, agriculture, wholesale trade, and repair and maintenance. From the tallest skyscrapers to appliances that help make our lives easier, welders play a critical role in keeping our economy moving. If you have math and science skills, or if you’re going to college to become a welding engineer, you can have a long lasting career, making a competitive salary. If you don’t have previous experience, that’s ok!  Some vo-tech schools provide training courses that are affordable and last anywhere from 12-45 weeks. You can also find schools that solely focus on welding.

CNC Machinist
$40,000-$78,000

If you’re not familiar with machinery you may not know anything about Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machinists or what they do. Computer Numerical Control machinists use programs to automatically execute a series of operations. CNC machines offer increased productivity and flexibility for companies. Everything that an operator would be required to do with conventional machine tools is programmable with a CNC machine.  They are normally found in machine shops, but with recent development of inexpensive controllers, are now showing up more commonly in home shops. CNC machines are often part of the machining process when products of high quantity are needed. For example, CNC machines produce precision parts for a wide range of industrial and consumer applications.

To become a CNC machinist the first requirement is to complete a post-secondary education program. These programs are available from a wide range of community and career colleges. Candidates are required to complete a training program before applying for a job. Classes for full-time students are 16 months and for part-time students are 29 months.

Have you or someone you know experienced success with one of these careers? Share your story with us in the comments section below.