What can you do that will still get you a good job, but skipping college/university

The myth is that qualifications solve everything. They don't. We get quite a few people on CV Tips who are qualified, and for one reason or another the qualifications go nowhere. Some have hit a wall in terms of career paths, others have found they actually dislike the career. Some professions are so oversupplied with qualified candidates the qualifications are useless for getting a job because they're not a distinguishing skill.

It's not the end of the world.

There are a few moves available, for just about anyone:

Trade jobs often lead to extremely lucrative businesses and careers. Demand is extremely strong. The career path is:

Obviously, there's a lot to learn, but did you ever see an unemployed tradesman?

Major employers sometimes have career paths for their staff, actively developing their own workforce. It means starting from the baseline, but there's a way up. This works for employers because it's a very productive approach and a good way of adding value to their staff's productivity. They need people who know their systems, and speak the language of the business. They pay for training, and a range of qualifications comes through employment, instead of the other way round.

It's worth checking out in house training, wherever you are. Career paths aren't obvious, despite the mythology of the employment seminars. Doing it this way, you can find a workable way of advancing yourself.

Often overlooked, these employers are built-in trainers. They need skills, and despite the theory of outsourcing anything and everything, someone has to do the actual work.

That experience can't be found outside. High school educational levels are quite enough for an entry position, they do the rest, and you can also branch out when you find a form of qualification you want. You get study leave, etc, with the added security of a job and opportunities for advancement.

Non-profit organizations are similar, in that they specialize in their fields. Training and skills have to be mainly learned in house. At high school level, you start mainly in administration, but the possibilities increase as you learn how to develop a career. It's pretty easy to apply for basic training in the non-profit sector, and you can get entry-level qualifications with assistance from the organizations.

Some external qualifications, like "counselor" or "social worker" have generic similarities. Specialization, however, like in government jobs, is a natural development. In terms of a career the non-profits need those who can work effectively in their sector. The level of commitment required is high, but the careers are exceptional, offering a range of developmental paths. Experience in these fields is often essential, and opens up other career opportunities.

Important:

Don't write yourself off because you don't have qualifications.

Look for paid training, career tracks, anything which moves forward. Don't be overawed by those with qualifications as competition. Competence beats theory, any day of the week.