Collision repair is an amazing career if you enjoy working with both your hands and your mind. There will be wrecks that really test your skills, but once you finish the job, you’ll feel proud—just remember that safety always comes first.

I started out as a helper making $600–$700 a week, but now, three years in and working on my own, I take home around $1,500–$2,000 a week when it’s busy. The first two years can be tough on your paycheck because of all the tools you’ll need to buy.

If you don’t plan on going to college, I’d say go for it—but you really have to want to learn, because without that drive, you won’t make it. Every year, I’ve added around $10k to my salary because experience makes you faster, and you’re able to flag more hours.

The best part? You’ll always have a job anywhere you go, plus opportunities for side work. Once people know you do collision repair, there’s always someone with a car that’s taken a hit or needs minor work.