13 AI-resistant careers that only require a high-school diploma

As college tuition continues to climb and AI transforms the workforce, many Americans are reconsidering the traditional four-year degree path.

Last week, we looked at how over a third of Gen Z college graduates are pursuing blue-collar work, and on a similar theme, Resume Now has released some analysis that may further guide job seekers’ focus.

Using data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, it reveals 13 promising careers that tick several boxes: they require only a high-school diploma, offer median salaries, face low to moderate risk of automation, and are projected to grow faster than average through 2032.

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These roles typically combine hands-on skills, human judgment, and interpersonal expertise –– all areas where AI still falls short.

Fast-growing, and low risk

Among the top-paying roles are forest fire inspectors and prevention specialists, who earn a median salary of $71,420.

This work requires boots-on-the-ground expertise, assessing fire hazards, investigating causes of wildfires, and implementing prevention strategies. Unfortunately, with wildfires continuing to devastate vast areas and communities, these roles are predicted to continue in high demand.

Flight attendants follow closely with a median pay of $68,370. Responsibilities for this role extend beyond safety checks to include managing in-flight emergencies, and providing customer service, which requires emotional intelligence, and adaptability.

Staying with hospitality, lodging managers earn around $65,360 annually. This role involves overseeing hotel operations, managing staff and resolving guest issues, which depend heavily on personalized service, and critical thinking.

Next, we move onto skilled trades. Electricians, plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters all earn median salaries around $61,500, while industrial machinery mechanics command around ​​$61,170 per year.

All of these occupations require real-time, and hands-on problem solving with customized solutions that are beyond robots’ abilities.

Back to hospitality, chefs and head cooks receive a median salary near $59,000. They bring creativity, taste, and leadership to the kitchen, all qualities AI do not have.

Hearing aid specialists are listed in eighth place, and have a low-risk of automation as these professionals fit and adjust devices based on personalized patient care.

Finally, personal service managers, who oversee wellness programs or concierge services, round out the list, earning around $57,570. This work demands emotional intelligence and team management skills, further highlighting the human element that AI struggles to match.

Moderately at-risk careers

Some careers shared by the report face moderate risk of AI automation, but still remain stable due to the need for complex decision-making.

For example, maintenance workers for machinery perform routine upkeep, which could be automated, however, more intricate repairs requires human expertise. The median pay for this role is $61,170.

Next up on the moderate-risk list is insurance sales agents, whose media pay is $59,080. Though assessing client needs can be covered by AI-driven underwriting, personalized service, relationship building, and trust-based sales remain human-driven. 

Next time you're at an airport, keep an eye out for aircraft cargo handling supervisors. Though automation is hugely affecting cargo handling roles, supervisors are still required to manage logistics, ensure safety compliance, and handle unexpected challenges. The median pay for this title is $58,920.

And in thirteenth place, it’s security and fire alarm systems installers, who command a median pay of $56,430. Whether it’s a residential or commercial property, these professionals install, maintain, and repair systems that require hands-on skills, and adaptability.

New pathways

These 13 careers really show that a high-school diploma can be the gateway to a number of stable jobs in an increasingly AI-driven economy.

All roles listed emphasize skills that machines cannot easily replicate: human judgment, creativity, adaptability, and interpersonal communication.

It’s easy to see why for those hesitant about the rising costs and uncertain returns of college, these roles offer a viable alternative. As the job market evolves, employers and educators can play a crucial role in guiding talent toward these AI-resistant paths, ensuring a workforce prepared for the future without the requirement of a four-year degree.

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