OT - Career suggestions for son! :)

[Performance Based]

Had to chime in here - if he is gravitating towards IT work there are several highly intelligent moves for him to make.

I would go all in with the Airforce, for an individual with the IT framework I would highly suggest looking at the career field designated "All Source Intelligence" - he will have a substantial leg up when it comes to the incorporation of GEOINT and SIGINT.

After completing his basic training and advanced school house, after 18-24 months they will send him to get his Bachelors, he will then complete another 18 months or so and can either leave and make a lateral transition to a national level intelligence agency (which I would highly recommend) or go the private sector route. Private sector will still be there if he does a transition.

The value is the clearance in this community - leaving with TS/SCI and going to Booz Alan, Palantir, Etc is a guaranteed 200K+ job with awesome grants, options, healthcare, etc. On top of this the resources such as disability (100% disability right now pays 3,850 a month + no property tax). Please Note: 100% disability for the most part means you spent 8 years in and didn't do anything too crazy. He doesn't need to lose a leg for god sakes.

As a young man I never realized how powerful eliminating property tax would be especially as my budget for primary housing expanded. Paying 1/3rd what I would be otherwise for my residence.

Another nice thing about the military side is the rapid responsibility accumulation if he has his head on. I remeber being 23 with 2.8B annual budget; outside of the military you just don't get those opportunities.

 

[Fleezy]

If I could go back, I would have gone into welding

Some guys I know are making $80 an hour before overtime.. and lots of them are on big projects that will last for years

Definitely consider something that won’t be replaced by AI (once it gets out of its infancy stages)

 

[btails]

If you choose the right trade and have a business mindset you can profit up to 3-5k a day.

 

[gauge22-v2]

Electrician if he wants to go into the trades. My union package is almost 100 dollars and hour.
If he decides to become an electrician general journeyman is the way to go.

You can work in any state. Travel is easy.
Lots of states reciprocate.

I have him looking into this. I like the fact that electricians cross industries and opens the door to open his own business.

 

[gauge22-v2]

Get a Masters degree in Business. That will open the door to many jobs in many different trades. Not to mention he will be educated on how to start his own business.

I agree if the underlying degree is "functional". An engineer who layers on a MBA is extremely valuable.

 

[3BILLS]

I don't have much to offer but I grinded it out and finally found my spot. Don't recommend that though

 

[airman]

We again see the caliber of the board.

You don't have to go to school / university to work as a developer nor is a degree a requirement at all major companies. You could teach yourself in 6 months off YouTube videos and hands-on coding tutorials and start your career with no student loans and a six figure salary.

No this shows your caliber and lack of knowledge of the industry. Sure there are some outliers that are naturally gifted, got lucky and made it, but you don't become a software engineer for a major high tech firm with 6 months of youtube videos. You won't even make it past the resume screening process. Going to school, obtaining something like an engineering degree will teach you how to problem solve, learn quickly and understand advanced technology. Software engineering isn't about 'making a program', it's about optimizing CPU execution times, optimizing memory usage and so on. This is not something you learn in a bootcamp, unless you already have years of experience.

The 150K starting salaries are going to graduates (many with masters degrees) from not just any schools but what are considered the best tech schools in the world.

You think it's that simple getting a job at Amazon, Meta, Google? Because those are the companies that will pay $150K for an entry level programmer that has potential. And when evaluating that potential who do you think they will choose? A guy that watched some youtube videos and was self taught in 6 months or the guy with a Masters degree from M.I.T.?


Besides, as stated he is from Canada. In Canada it's rare to find these Silicon Valley type salaires, especially at entry level. Even in Silicon Valley for every guy pulling in $200K a year, there are thousands of programmers either underpaid or simply unemployed. That's the reality.

And before you question my caliber. Yes I have a Computer Engineering degree. I've been in the industry for 20+ years. I've climbed the corporate ladder and still climbing. And while I'm doing ok, it certainly wasn't a ladder that started at $150K.

 

[Hatchet]

I work in IT Infosec (Security). Have for 24 years (another 6 years before that in normal IT roles (server / email, etc).
If he likes this stuff, its a constant battle/challenge. Interesting...
Ransomware attacks, hacks, daily battles (with bad actors as they are called), perpetual change, etc...

The pay is very rewarding (150K +) and do it from home full-time... (Becoming more and more common)...

 

[3BILLS]

I would love to be a it guy

 

[gauge22-v2]

I work in IT Infosec (Security). Have for 24 years (another 6 years before that in normal IT roles (server / email, etc).
If he likes this stuff, its a constant battle/challenge. Interesting...
Ransomware attacks, hacks, daily battles (with bad actors as they are called), perpetual change, etc...

The pay is very rewarding (150K +) and do it from home full-time... (Becoming more and more common)...

@Hatchet Do you have suggestions for training/education/certs?

 

[Papabigbiceps]

Had to chime in here - if he is gravitating towards IT work there are several highly intelligent moves for him to make.

I would go all in with the Airforce, for an individual with the IT framework I would highly suggest looking at the career field designated "All Source Intelligence" - he will have a substantial leg up when it comes to the incorporation of GEOINT and SIGINT.

After completing his basic training and advanced school house, after 18-24 months they will send him to get his Bachelors, he will then complete another 18 months or so and can either leave and make a lateral transition to a national level intelligence agency (which I would highly recommend) or go the private sector route. Private sector will still be there if he does a transition.

The value is the clearance in this community - leaving with TS/SCI and going to Booz Alan, Palantir, Etc is a guaranteed 200K+ job with awesome grants, options, healthcare, etc. On top of this the resources such as disability (100% disability right now pays 3,850 a month + no property tax). Please Note: 100% disability for the most part means you spent 8 years in and didn't do anything too crazy. He doesn't need to lose a leg for god sakes.

As a young man I never realized how powerful eliminating property tax would be especially as my budget for primary housing expanded. Paying 1/3rd what I would be otherwise for my residence.

Another nice thing about the military side is the rapid responsibility accumulation if he has his head on. I remeber being 23 with 2.8B annual budget; outside of the military you just don't get those opportunities.

So yeah OP, gonna go with this. If he lacks direction, the military will give him that. I have a fellow co-worker who had TS/SCI, was in as an interrogator during the Iraq war, and went into Polygraphing for the feds. Makes like 160k as a side gig. If money is the focus, and future proofing his career, this seems like a damn good path.

 

[qbkilla]

No this shows your caliber and lack of knowledge of the industry. Sure there are some outliers that are naturally gifted, got lucky and made it, but you don't become a software engineer for a major high tech firm with 6 months of youtube videos. You won't even make it past the resume screening process. Going to school, obtaining something like an engineering degree will teach you how to problem solve, learn quickly and understand advanced technology. Software engineering isn't about 'making a program', it's about optimizing CPU execution times, optimizing memory usage and so on. This is not something you learn in a bootcamp, unless you already have years of experience.

The 150K starting salaries are going to graduates (many with masters degrees) from not just any schools but what are considered the best tech schools in the world.

You think it's that simple getting a job at Amazon, Meta, Google? Because those are the companies that will pay $150K for an entry level programmer that has potential. And when evaluating that potential who do you think they will choose? A guy that watched some youtube videos and was self taught in 6 months or the guy with a Masters degree from M.I.T.?


Besides, as stated he is from Canada. In Canada it's rare to find these Silicon Valley type salaires, especially at entry level. Even in Silicon Valley for every guy pulling in $200K a year, there are thousands of programmers either underpaid or simply unemployed. That's the reality.

And before you question my caliber. Yes I have a Computer Engineering degree. I've been in the industry for 20+ years. I've climbed the corporate ladder and still climbing. And while I'm doing ok, it certainly wasn't a ladder that started at $150K.

Solid post. I can imagine the laugh interviewers would have at anyone with their 6 months of YouTube videos competing against someone with a masters

 

[cage99]

I saw a post in the beginning mentioning welding and following pipelines. This is a money making job no doubt! However, you WILL be gone ALOT!!! It’s perfect for a young gun for sure. Easy $150K! Pro tip, buy an RV to save money plus pocket more per dorms.

I’m in the natural gas pipeline industry. The energy sector is always looking for new blood.

Another job is I&E/instrumentation… It’s a high paying job and in demand in many petrochemical plants, chemical plants, asphalt/concrete plants, pipelines, oilfield, etc.. He can learn on the job or get an associates degree for this even in a community college.

Depends on if your son wants to spend his days inside or outside. I’d literally hang myself if I had to work indoors/office for a living. I cannot stand being in the office. I have to for my job at times, but I put if off every month till my manager drags me back inside. Its just not for me is all…

Cage

 

[EnhancedFatGrappler]

No this shows your caliber and lack of knowledge of the industry. Sure there are some outliers that are naturally gifted, got lucky and made it, but you don't become a software engineer for a major high tech firm with 6 months of youtube videos. You won't even make it past the resume screening process. Going to school, obtaining something like an engineering degree will teach you how to problem solve, learn quickly and understand advanced technology. Software engineering isn't about 'making a program', it's about optimizing CPU execution times, optimizing memory usage and so on. This is not something you learn in a bootcamp, unless you already have years of experience.

The 150K starting salaries are going to graduates (many with masters degrees) from not just any schools but what are considered the best tech schools in the world.

You think it's that simple getting a job at Amazon, Meta, Google? Because those are the companies that will pay $150K for an entry level programmer that has potential. And when evaluating that potential who do you think they will choose? A guy that watched some youtube videos and was self taught in 6 months or the guy with a Masters degree from M.I.T.?


Besides, as stated he is from Canada. In Canada it's rare to find these Silicon Valley type salaires, especially at entry level. Even in Silicon Valley for every guy pulling in $200K a year, there are thousands of programmers either underpaid or simply unemployed. That's the reality.

And before you question my caliber. Yes I have a Computer Engineering degree. I've been in the industry for 20+ years. I've climbed the corporate ladder and still climbing. And while I'm doing ok, it certainly wasn't a ladder that started at $150K.

It would be a great insight if you could tell him a bit insider knowledge. Which Degrees would be a good idea to look into, there are hundreds of different IT / CS Bachelor Programes to choose from. Having no real insight on the actual job market, getting some behind-the-scenes info would be of great help for his son.

Is the "specialization" a good idea? On paper it sounds great, they get what they need, e.g. for Cyber Security, the whole program is made with that in mind. But is the more general Computer Science Bachelor not able to train on the job, and basically be just as good within a few months of training? While remaining more flexible for other career options, I also imagine that changing fields is not that uncommon in IT, working at the same job from 21 until retirement is just not happening anymore, basically in every industry, not just IT.

I also imagine that it is really competitive to get into Google/Meta/Amazon/Microsoft/etc, especially in the current market, with so many lay offs (=> more people applying again)

 

[Josefein421]

Didn't read the whole thread but saw many references to the military. I 100% condone this. While I am partial to the Marine Corps and combat arms any branch and any job will do. You can 1) pick a job that is badass and has no civilian equivalent and have fun (tanks). Or 2) pick a job like Navy nuke school (if you qualify) or other tech that gives a great head start to civilian job sector.

Then get out pay your way through 2 years Community college. Use GI Bill to over last to of undergrad. Apply for grad school and get 2 year masters in your field paid for. You get a graduate degree, a resume builder (military), life experience all for the price of 2 years of community college.

That said unless MD/DO I would highly advise to avoid all jobs healthcare related (especially nursing) and likely even MD/DO. Tech/engineering seem to have the highest ceilings currently.

 

[astrosfan123]

Didn't read the whole thread but saw many references to the military. I 100% condone this. While I am partial to the Marine Corps and combat arms any branch and any job will do. You can 1) pick a job that is badass and has no civilian equivalent and have fun (tanks). Or 2) pick a job like Navy nuke school (if you qualify) or other tech that gives a great head start to civilian job sector.

Then get out pay your way through 2 years Community college. Use GI Bill to over last to of undergrad. Apply for grad school and get 2 year masters in your field paid for. You get a graduate degree, a resume builder (military), life experience all for the price of 2 years of community college.

That said unless MD/DO I would highly advise to avoid all jobs healthcare related (especially nursing) and likely even MD/DO. Tech/engineering seem to have the highest ceilings currently.

hell at 20 if he wanted to get in the medical field he could do an associates degree for 2 years. Get 2 years experience and be a travel nurse/tech in whatever field and make 3-5k per week traveling the country on someone elses dime. That being said, you have to have a passion for patient care to be a nurse. Thats next level but there are plenty of other jobs in the medical field.

 

[BLKGUY2006]

I’m a career firefighter of 25 years. I will have to do 30 years of service in my state but 25 years will probably happen in 10 years or so. Big city departments will pay more than a town of 50,000 but there are certainly advantages to both. A house fire in a big city is no different than a house fire in a smaller town. Your son will be trained by professionals in a 12 to 16 week Academy in most cases.
I like the fact that Every day is different, you actually get to help people, and many of my coworkers are like family. We are not disliked like the police and 99% of the people we encounter are respectful to us. It’s a very respectable career. Yes we see some pretty fucked up shit But the laughs and good times by far outweigh the really gross stuff. We don’t get rich, but we certainly will not go broke and make good money, I work 24 hours and 48 off. Many of us work part-time jobs for extra cash, I did for 15 years. We have great retirement and my city pays for my insurance until I’m 65 which is really a good perk. I would have no problem with my son being a firefighter either. Still love going to work 25 years in and that is rare these days..

 

[BLKGUY2006]

If I could go back, I’d gone to college for a different major or military. I was young and naive. Luckily, I graduated with no debt…BUT my current (well-paying, 6 figure) career didn't require my degree. Just added a pay bump.

My wife didn’t even graduate high school and she gets paid three time what I do cuz she had the most ruthless ambition of anyone I’ve ever met.

Ambition and purpose is not something college or even trade schools can teach.

I’ve hinted to my son he should go into military after high school. The hope is he can find ambition and purpose there. It would hopefully provide a springboard into either college or another career.

100% agree

 

[cage99]

@BLKGUY2006, your side gig happen to be in ES&H? Seems like a lot of the environmental, safety, and health outfits have firefighters on payroll. The jobs do go hand in hand.

Cage

 

[gauge22-v2]

Recent talks with him has him leaning to Electrician. He is, rightfully so, concerned about fields that will be obsolete in the future. Truth be told, a lot of what I do WILL be replaced by AI/ML. IE: Valuations, forecasting, analysis etc.

I reached out to a finance peer and they have a company that designs/installs substations. Looking like he can get in as an electronic panel assembler and the company will also pay for the electrician apprenticeship. In the future he could also layer on an electrical engineering degree, which I assume would be extremely attractive.

I also counseled him NOT to go into a career that is heavily dependent on a single industry. Electrician gives him quite a few options I believe and are industry agnostics once you are ticketed. Similar to what my accounting designation gives me.

Appreciate all the responses guys. Will provide an update on him in the near future!