kansas college & career guide, 2016-17

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Kansas College And Career Guide 2016-17

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what’s inside Junior Achievement of Kansas College & Career Guide

2016-2017

Amy Burns Publisher

President, Junior Achievement of Kansas

Alice C. Hunt Editor-in-Chief, Managing Editor

Public Relations Manager, Junior Achievement of Kansas

Tammy Casteen,

Editor Administrative Manager,

Junior Achievement of Kansas

Melissa Kershner Graphic Designer

To learn more about Junior Achievement of Kansas, visit www.kansasja.org or call

785.235.3700.

AcknowledgementsWe would like to thank the following for their

contributions to this guide:

Ron Estes, Kansas State Treasurer

Marci Werne, Sedgwick County District Director, Junior Achievement of Kansas

Debbie Harman, Douglas County District Director Junior Achievement of Kansas

Julie Carver, Education Coordinator Junior Achievement of Kansas

Kansas College & Career Guide 2016-17

Copyright 2016, Junior Achievement of Kansas: Topeka, Kansas

This guide contains information which is intended for personal use. It may not be used for any commercial use and must not be distributed, modified, reused, posted or reprinted on any website or publication, or used for any other purpose without the express permission of Junior Achievement of Kansas.

Any text of this publication, or any part thereof, may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, storing in an information-retrieval system or otherwise, except with the permission of Junior Achievement of Kansas.

Some material excerpted from JA Be Entrepreneurial® and JA Career Success®. Used with permission from Junior Achievement USA®. All rights reserved.

Letter from the Kansas State Treasurer’s Office

Postsecondary Ed 101

Cracking the Code

Top 50 Jobs in Kansas

Plan Your Future 15 - Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources16 - Architecture & Construction18 - Arts, Audio/Visual Technology & Communications21 - Business, Management & Administration23 - Education & Training25 - Finance26 - Government & Public Administration27 - Health Sciences32 - Hospitality & Tourism33 - Human Services35 - Information Technology36 - Law, Public Safety & Security38 - Manufacturing40 - Marketing, Sales & Service42 - Science, Technology, Engineering & Math (STEM)45 - Transportation, Distribution & Logistics

15 Ways to Afford School

Your Education, Your Choice

Financial Aid Offices - Contact Us!

I Wish I Knew...

No Place Like Home

Be Entrepreneurial

Get That Job!

Extra Credit

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The prospect of paying for college can be daunting, but every dollar you save now is a dollar you won’t borrow in the future. Learning Quest is here to help you prepare to meet the costs associated with your child’s higher education, not to mention that investing has it’s benefits.

Before investing, carefully consider the plan’s investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses. This information and more about the plan can be found in the Learning Quest Handbook and should be read carefully before investing. If you are not a Kansas taxpayer, consider before investing whether your or the beneficiary’s home state offers a 529 plan that provides its taxpayers with state tax and other benefits not available through this plan.Circular 230 Disclosure: American Century Companies, Inc. and its affiliates do not provide tax advice. Accordingly, any discussion of U.S. tax matters contained herein (including any attachments) is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, in connection with the promotion, marketing or recommendation by anyone unaffiliated with American Century Investments of any of the matters addressed herein or for the purpose of avoiding U.S. tax-related penalties.*The availability of tax or other benefits may be conditioned on meeting certain requirements, such as residency, purpose for or timing of distributions, or other factors.**The earnings portion of nonqualified withdrawals is subject to federal and state taxes, and a 10% federal penalty. As with any investment, it is possible to lose money by investing in this plan. The value of your Learning Quest account may fluctuate, and it is possible for the value of your account to be less than the amount you invested.Notice: Accounts established under Learning Quest and their earnings are neither insured nor guaranteed by the state of Kansas, the Kansas State Treasurer or American Century Investments.This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as tax advice.

Who doesn’t love tax breaks and benefits?Kansas account owners may be able to receive an annual adjusted gross income tax deduction of up to $3,000 ($6,000 if married, filing jointly).* Plus, withdrawals used to pay for qualified education expenses are tax-free at the federal and Kansas state levels.**

Open to any and all

Any U.S. citizen or resident can open an account, contribute or be a beneficiary. That means anyone can open an account for themselves, children, grandchildren or anyone else.

Pick a college, any collegeFunds can be used at any qualified institution in any state. That includes two and four-year colleges, as well as vocational and technical colleges.

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Administered by Kansas State Treasurer Ron Estes Managed by American Century Investment Management, Inc.Learning Quest | P.O. Box 29202 | Shawnee Mission, KS 66201-9202LQ-ADV-90184 1608

With a Learning Quest 529 account you will enjoy special benefits such as:

Ready to start planning for their big dreams?

Visit: LearningQuest.com

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Calculate the cost of college

start saving for college

K.I.D.S. Matching Grant program

LearningQuest.com Features

A Message from Kansas State Treasurer Ron Estes

One of my roles as Kansas State Treasurer is to administer the Learning Quest 529 Education Savings Program and encourage families to save for higher education, whether at a university, community college or technical college. The more families can save now, the less that students have to rely on loans to finance their education. As the cost of college continues to rise, news of student debt levels seem to be more prevalent than ever and rightfully so. Currently, student loan debt is at an all-time high exceeding $1.2 trillion and is the second-highest form of consumer debt next to mortgages. When our young people should be planning their lives, many are now faced with the burden of lifelong student debt that restricts their disposable income. As a result many are unable to afford a car, a home, health insurance or even the resources necessary to start a family. In order to help prevent students from getting in over their head with student loan debt, we must collectively do a better job at educating and preparing our students for the financial decisions they’ll face when deciding how to finance their career education. Much like other major purchases, like buying a car or shopping for your first home, it’s to your advantage to make informed decisions. Which educational institutions offer the degree program or technical training a student intends to pursue, and at what cost? How do they plan to finance their continued education? And what can they expect for a beginning salary in their career field? These are all important considerations for a student to weigh.Fortunately, the Junior Achievement of Kansas College & Career Guide is a valuable resource that provides a lot of that information, making it a great starting point for Kansas students and their families when they begin to discuss the education and financing necessary to achieve their career goals. By presenting our youth with a clear understanding of the expenses they can expect throughout college, the long term ramifications student loans or other forms of debt can have on their future, and the average starting salary for their chosen profession, we better equip and prepare our youth to make financially secure decisions and succeed in their future endeavors.

Best regards,

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postsecondary education 101what is it? Why Does it Matter?What is postsecondary education? Postsecondary education is the school you go to after you finish high school. There are many paths you can follow to receive more training after you graduate high school. Why isn’t a high school diploma enough?As our world has become more connected through the global trade, the Internet, and other technology, specialized training after high school is necessary to be successful. What is a postsecondary certificate program?Students who complete a course of study in a very specific field may receive a certificate proving their expertise. These programs usually take less than two years to complete. On average, certificate holders earn 20 percent more than people with just a high school diploma.• In the charts on pages 15-47, careers requiring

postsecondary certificate program completion are marked “Certificate.”

What is an associate's degree?Associate's degrees are given out by community colleges, junior colleges, and some four-year colleges or universities. These programs usually take two years to complete if you are attending full time, and can prepare you for a job, or prepare you to transfer to complete a four-year degree.• In the charts on pages 15-47, careers

requiring an associate’s degree are marked “Associate’s.”

What is a bachelor's degree?Granted by colleges and universities, bachelor’s programs usually take four years to complete if you attend school full time. Bachelor's degrees include classes in a variety of subjects (called general education or gen ed requirements), and specialized classes leading to a major, showing you have expertise in one or two academic areas.• In the charts on pages 15-47, careers

requiring a bachelor’s degree are marked “Bachelor’s.”

What is a master’s degree?Granted by colleges and universities, master’s programs usually take 15 months to two years to complete after you finish your Bachelor's degree if you attend school full time. It can take three years or more if you attend part time, or study certain fields. Master’s degrees give you an additional layer of expertise in a specific subject area beyond your bachelor’s degree.• In the chart’s on pages 15-47, careers requiring a

master’s degree are marked “Master’s.”

What is an advanced or professional degree?Professional degrees require schooling beyond the years you spend earning your bachelor’s degree. These degrees can take anywhere from 15 months to five years to earn. Some jobs, like being a doctor, lawyer, or researcher, require an advanced degree. Other people choose to get an advanced degree to study a topic in depth, or to earn more money or a promotion at work.• In the charts on pages 15-47, careers requiring

a professional degree are marked Doctoral or Professional.

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Crack The CodeDiscover your career personalityMany people choose what job they’d like to do by exploring their interests. The Holland Occupational and Personality Model is a popular tool dividing job seekers into six personality types: Conventional, Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social and Enterprising.

Take our quiz to discover your Holland Code job personality.STEP 1: Is this an activity you truly enjoy? If the answer is yes, circle the statement. Be choosy! You don’t have to circle everything – in fact, it’s better if you don’t.

Use a copy machine.Fly an airplane.Talk to people at a party.Draw or paint.Fix a car.Study astronomy.Belong to a club.Type a report.Go to a concert.Study wildlife.Compete at a science fair. Study people who live in other places.

Work from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.Attend a sports event.Use a cash register.Give a speech.Buy clothes for a store.Write novels or poems.Fix electric supplies.Teach children.Keep detailed records.Work on a sales campaign.Design clothing.Decorate a room or office.Meet with leaders.

Read art or music magazines.Build something using tools.Use a chemistry set.Make a new friend.Type.Talk to sales people.Act in a play.Work with animals.Learn advanced math.Work with the elderly.Follow a budget.Be elected class president.Learn a new language.

Cook a meal.Study physics.Sell life insurance.Solve puzzles or brainteasers.Go to church.File letters and reports.Play a musical instrument.Put together model kits.Work in a lab.Help people find solutions to personal problems.

STEP 2: Count the number of green statements you circled. Record that in the blank next Green (C = Conventional). Do this for statements of each color (yellow, orange, pink, purple and blue).

Green (C = Conventional) _________Yellow (R = Realistic) _________Orange (I = Investigative) _________Pink (A = Artistic) _________Purple (S = Social) _________Blue (E = Enterprising) _________Which three colors had the most circled statements? _________________________________________

STEP 3: The letter next to your top three color choices represents your Holland Code. For example, if you circle mostly pink, yellow and purple statements, your Holland Code is ARS and your career personality is Artistic, Realistic and Social. Record your Holland Code Here: __________________________________________________________________

CONVENTIONAL

REAL

ISTI

C

ENTERPRISING

SOCI

AL

ARTISTIC

INVE

STIG

ATIV

EDoers THINKERS

Organizers

HELPERS

Persuaders

Creators

LEARN MORE:Visit https://www.onetonline.org/explore/interests/ to see more jobs that relate to your Holland Code

interests. 10

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Read more about your Holland Code:

C = Conventional (Organizers): These job seekers enjoy activities that permit the organization of information in a clear, orderly manner. They are detail-oriented people who are responsible, logical and who enjoy structured settings. Job examples: website editor, computer programmer, safety manager, telecommunications specialist.

R = Realistic (Doers): These job seekers are technically and athletically inclined. They enjoy working with machines, tools, objects and animals. They are practical, reserved and physical. They will enjoy working outdoors on concrete problems and see tangible results. Job examples: electrician, surgeon, pilot, civil engineers, veterinarians.

I = Investigative (Thinkers): These job seekers are abstract problem solvers. They enjoy researching, exploring ideas, collecting data, analyzing, inquiring and using instruments. They are methodical, original and logical, and often have a strong interest in science. Job examples: software developer, biologist, robotics engineer, coroners,automotive mechanics.

A = Artistic (Creators): These job seekers enjoy being original, independent, introspective, self-expressive, innovative and unstructured. They develop skills in music, art, drama, language and writing. Job examples: architect, fashion designer, photographer, graphic designer, writer.

S = Social (Helpers): These job seekers enjoy working with people to inform, train, enlighten or cure. They are perceptive, responsible, emphatic and patient. These job seekers may enjoy group activities and are usually good with words. Job examples: social worker, loan officer, psychologist, police officer, teacher.

E = Enterprising (Persuaders): These job seekers use their minds, words and feelings in dealing with people to motivate, persuade, manage and sell goods or services or to promote ideas. They are assertive, sociable, enthusiastic, influential, and goal oriented. They may take personal or financial risks. Job examples: production manager, politician, financial planner, real estate agent, industrial engineer.

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50 top jobs in kansas

Source: Kansas Department of Labor, Labor Market Information Services in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Labor.

Notes:

1) The job rank was determined by the total score combining the job vacancy survey scores, short-term demand scores, and long-term demand scores. 2) Wage data is from the 2015 edition of the Kansas Wage Survey.

These 50 jobs are the fastest growing in the state of Kansas for both the short and long term. This list is based on how many jobs are likely to be available in 2020.

Rank Job Title Minimum Education Level Career Cluster

Median Annual Wage

1 Accountants and Auditors Bachelor’s Finance $58,5702 Registered Nurses Associate’s Health Sciences $55,880

3 Truck Drivers (Heavy and Tractor-Trailer) Certificate Transportation, Distribution

& Logistics $38,750

4 Customer Service Representatives Some College Business, Management &

Administration $30,480

5 Nursing Assistants Certificate Health Sciences $22,720

6Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/

Technical EducationBachelor’s Education & Training $46,010

7 Elementary School Teachers, Except Special Education Bachelor’s Education & Training $44,590

8 Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses Certificate Health Sciences $38,700

9 Administrative Assistants Some College Business, Management & Administration $29,510

10 General and Operations Managers Bachelor’s Business, Management &


11 Carpenters Certificate Architecture & Construction $36,920

12 Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics Certificate Transportation, Distribution

& Logistics $36,600

13 Truck Drivers (Light and Delivery Services) Certificate Transportation, Distribution

& Logistics $30,280

14 Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists Certificate Human Services $21,480

15 Management Analysts Bachelor’s Business, Management & Administration $72,400

16Middle School Teachers,

Except Special and Career/Technical Education

Bachelor’s Education & Training $46,700

17Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and

InstallersCertificate Architecture & Construction $44,200

18 Police and Sheriff’s Patrol Officers Some College Law, Public Safety &

Security $42,180

19 Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists Bachelor’s Marketing, Sales & Service $55,890

20 Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters Certificate Architecture & Construction $50,890

21 Computer User Support Specialists Some College Information Technology $42,800

22 Coaches and Scouts Bachelor’s Education & Training $24,980

23 Software Developers, Applications Bachelor’s Information Technology $85,160

24 Insurance Sales Agents Some College Finance $56,990

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Rank Job Title Minimum Education Level Career Cluster

Median Annual Wage

25 Electricians Certificate Architecture & Construction $48,500

26 Medical and Health Services Managers Bachelor’s Health Sciences $75,770

27 Human Resources Specialists Bachelor’s Business, Management &


28 Software Developers, Systems Software Bachelor’s Information Technology $90,830

29 Computer Programmers Bachelor’s Information Technology $69,560

30 Network and Computer Systems Administrators Bachelor’s Information Technology $63,730

31 Loan Officers Bachelor’s Finance $61,10032 Substitute Teachers Bachelor’s Education & Training $26,040

33 Chief Executives Bachelor’s Business, Management & Administration $142,310

34 Financial Managers Bachelor’s Finance $95,00035 Electrical Engineers Bachelor’s STEM $82,090

36 LawyersDoctoral or professional

degree

Law, Public Safety & Security $79,250

37 Civil Engineers Bachelor’s STEM $71,970

38 Electrical Power-Line Installers and Repairers Certificate Manufacturing $67,950

39 Cost Estimators Bachelor’s Architecture & Construction $57,370

40 Graphic Designers Bachelor’sArt, Audio/Visual

Technology & Communications

$40,610

41Operating Engineers

and Other Construction Equipment Operators

Certificate Architecture & Construction $35,400

42 Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education Associate’s Education & Training $26,590

43 Computer Systems Analysts Bachelor’s Information Technology $75,65044 Mechanical Engineers Bachelor’s STEM $69,440

45 Training and Development Specialists Bachelor’s Business, Management &


46First-Line Supervisors of Construction Trades and

Extraction WorkersSome College Architecture & Construction $55,990

47Property, Real Estate, and

Community Association Managers

Bachelor’s Marketing, Sales & Service $52,820

48 Production, Planning, and Expediting Clerks Some College Transportation, Distribution

& Logistics $43,450

49 Sheet Metal Workers Certificate Architecture & Construction $38,670

50 Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers Certificate Architecture & Construction $34,020

The “Minimum Education Level” is to help you figure out the expected education requirements you should have to work in this job.

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Plan Your Future Where to get an education for your dream careerOn the following pages, you will find charts listing a wide variety of careers available to you in the state of Kansas. The charts are organized by the career clusters listed earlier in this guide, so jobs requiring similar skills and interests are grouped together.

Each chart includes a job title, a job description, information about how much you can expect to earn working in this field, the minimum education level you should have to get a job in this field, and a listing of schools that have degrees that can lead to a career in this field.

Career clusters are groups of jobs and industries that are related by skills and products. Identifying possible jobs from the career clusters now will help you make good decisions in the future. On the following pages, you’ll see a list of different types of jobs, listed by career cluster.

As you’re exploring the career clusters, think about which three clusters seem the most interesting to you, and have the jobs you would most like to do when you grow up.

Data is compiled from Kansas Department of Labor, Kansas Labor Information Center, the U.S. Department of Labor Statistics and the Occupational Information Network. Entry-level, median and experienced wage rates represent salaries in the 25th, 50th and 75th percentile.

Information regarding education available in Kansas was submitted by the schools. If a school you are interested in has not reported their information for inclusion, we recommend reaching out to that school for more information.

*Data unavailable

The Following Schools Are Listed By Their Abbreviations:

Benedictine - Benedictine CollegeBethany - Bethany CollegeButler - Butler Community CollegeCCC - Central Christian College of KansasCleveland U. - Cleveland University – Kansas CityCloud - Cloud County Community CollegeColby - Colby Community CollegeCowley - Cowley CollegeDC3 - Dodge City Community CollegeESU - Emporia State UniversityFriends U. - Friends UniversityGarden City - Garden City Community CollegeHesston - Hesston CollegeHighland - Highland Community CollegeJCCC - Johnson County Community CollegeK-State - Kansas State UniversityKWU - Kansas Wesleyan UniversityMATC - Manhattan Area Technical CollegeNeosho - Neosho County Community CollegePitt State - Pittsburg State UniversitySterling - Sterling CollegeTabor - Tabor CollegeKU - The University of KansasU. St. Mary - University of Saint MaryWashburn - Washburn UniversityWashburn Tech - Washburn University Institute of TechnologyWATC - Wichita Area Technical CollegeWSU - Wichita State UniversityZ Hair Academy - Z Hair Academy

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Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources Jobs related to agriculture, livestock, crops and produce.

Job Title & Description Annual Wage Entry Level

Annual Wage

Median

Annual Wage Experienced

Education Required Available Local Education

Agricultural Engineers Use engineering technology and biological science to solve large-scale agricultural problems including power and machinery, electrification, structures, and soil.

$63,770 $77,920 $90,600 Bachelor’sButler

Garden City K-State

Environmental Engineers Design, plan or perform engineering duties in the prevention, control and remediation of environmental health hazards. They use a variety of engineering disciplines.

$72,760 $90,000 $108,510 Bachelor’s

Butler CCC Colby

Cowley Hesston K-State

KU

Farm Equipment Mechanics & Technicians Diagnose, repair, or overhaul farm machinery and vehicles, such as tractors, harvesters, dairy equipment, and irrigation systems.

$32,700 $39,550 $54,270 Certificate

DC3 Garden City

Highland K-State

KU Washburn Tech

Farm, Ranch and Other Agricultural Managers Manage farms, ranches, aqua cultural operations, greenhouses, nurseries, timber tracts, cotton gins, packing houses, or other agricultural establishments for employers.

$45,930 $64,170 $83,360 Certificate

Butler CCC Cloud Colby

Cowley DC3

Garden City Highland

First-Line Supervisors of Landscapers, Lawn Service, and Groundskeepers Plan, organize, direct, or coordinate activities of workers engaged in landscaping or grounds-keeping activities, such as planting and maintaining of ornamental trees, shrubs, flowers and lawns.

$33,440 $40,120 $50,630 Certificate

Butler Cloud Colby DC3


Fish and Game Warden Patrol assigned area to prevent fish and game law violations. Investigate reports of damage to crops or property by wildlife. Compile biological data.

$40,160 $41,200 $46,450 Certificate

Butler CCC DC3 ESU

Friends U. Garden City

Highland K-State

KU Sterling

Washburn Tech

Landscaping Managers Plan, organize, direct, or coordinate workers engaged in landscaping or groundskeeping activities, such as planting and maintaining of ornamental trees, shurbs, flowers and lawns.

$28,780 $41,260 $51,210 Certificate

CCC Cowley JCCC

K-State Tabor

Nursery and Greenhouse Managers Plan, organize, direct, control, and coordinate activities of workers engaged in propagating, cultivating, and harvesting horticultural specialties, such as trees, shrubs, flowers, mushrooms, and other plants.

$45,930 $64,170 $83,360 Certificate

CCC Cowley

Friends U. JCCC

K-State Tabor

Soil and Plant Scientists Conduct research in breeding, physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock. Study the chemical, physical, biological, and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative practices on soil and crop productivity.

$48,870 $61,840 $72,610 Bachelor’s

CCC Cloud Colby DC3


Hesston Highland

JCCC K-State Tabor

U. St. Mary

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Architecture & Construction Jobs related to designing, planning, managing, building, and maintaining buildings and other structures.


Annual Wage

Median



Architects Design and oversee the construction of safe, functional, and attractive buildings.

$48,500 $64,300 $78,270 Bachelor’s

Benedictine Colby

Cowley DC3

Garden City

Hesston K-State

KU WATC

Architectural and Civil Drafters Prepare detailed drawings of architectural and structural features of buildings, or prepare drawings and topographical relief maps used in civil engineering projects such as highways, bridges, and public works.

$35,370 $43,470 $53,240 Associate’s

Brick Masons – Stone Masons Design and create floors, partitions, fireplaces, and other structures with brick, concrete block, and other masonry units.

$45,190 $53,520 $62,370 CertificateJCCC MATC

Washburn Tech

Carpenters Perform various building jobs from home buildings to large commercial projects.

$31,400 $37,230 $46,820 Certificate

DC3 Hesston Highland Neosho

Washburn Tech WATC

Carpet, Floor, and Tile Installers and Finishers Apply blocks, strips, or sheets of shock-absorbing, sound-deadening, or decorative coverings to floors.

$22,290 $41,400 $53,970 Certificate

DC3 Highland

Washburn Tech WATC

Cement Masons Mix, place, and finish concrete for various construction projects.

$31,680 $39,750 $48,260 Certificate DC3

Construction and Building Inspectors Inspect structures using engineering skills to determine structural soundness and compliance with specifications, building codes, and other regulations.

$43,410 $51,970 $63,030 Some College

DC3 Garden City

JCCC KU

Pitt State Washburn Tech

Construction Equipment Operators Operate one of several types of power construction equipment used to excavate and move. Includes motor graders, bulldozers, scrapers, compressors, pumps, derricks, shovels, or front-end loaders.

$29,890 $35,810 $46,890 Some College

DC3 Washburn Tech

Construction Trade Laborers Perform routine physical labor at building sites. Supply tools, materials and equipment to other craft workers.

$25,370 $30,390 $37,320 Certificate

DC3 Hesston Highland

MATC Washburn Tech

Benedictine Cowley

DC3 Garden City

Hesston Highland

JCCC

K-State KU

MATC Pitt State

Washburn Tech WATC

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Annual Wage

Median



Construction Managers Plan, direct, coordinate, or budget, usually through subordinate supervisory personnel, activities concerned with the construction and maintenance of structures, facilities, and systems.

$57,480 $73,400 $93,660 Bachelor’s

CCC DC3

Hesston Highland

JCCC

K-State KU

MATC Pitt State

Washburn Tech

Cost Estimators Predict the cost of future products. $49,610 $61,860 $76,650 Bachelor’s

CCC DC3

Hesston JCCC

K-State

KU Pitt State

Tabor Washburn Tech

Electricians Install and maintain electrical systems including climate control, security, and communications.

$40,970 $50,680 $63,250 CertificateButler DC3


JCCC K-State


Excavating and Loading Machine and Dragline Operators Operate or tend machinery equipped with scoops, shovels, or buckets, to excavate and load loose materials.

$33,500 $38,390 $48,500 Certificate

DC3 Highland

JCCC Washburn Tech

Heating, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (HVAC) Mechanics and Installers Install and repair heating, central air conditioning, or refrigeration units.

$36,830 $44,910 $56,260 Certificate

Highland JCCC MATC

Neosho Washburn Tech

WATC

First-Line Supervisors of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers Directly supervise and coordinate activities of construction or extraction workers.

$44,090 $56,570 $74,980 Some College

Highland JCCC

K-State KU

MATC Neosho


WATC

Mechanical Drafters Prepare detailed working diagrams of machinery and mechanical devices, including dimensions, fastening methods, and other engineering information.

$37,120 $46,280 $58,400 Associate’s

Butler Garden City

Hesston K-State

KU MATC

Pitt State

Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators Drive, maneuver, or control the heavy machinery used to construct roads, bridges, buildings, and other structures.

$29,890 $35,810 $46,890 CertificateButler MATC

Washburn Tech

Painters, Construction and Maintenance Workers Apply paint, stain, varnish, and other finishes to buildings and other structures.

$25,310 $32,880 $42,180 Certificate DC3

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Annual Wage

Median



Plumbers, Pipe Layers, Pipe Fitters and Steam Fitters Build and repair the drinking water, waste disposal, drainage, and gas systems in homes or buildings.

$36,640 $49,380 $60,620 Certificate DC3 Garden City

Roofers Install and repair roofs made of various materials.

$26,970 $33,520 $51,130 CertificateDC3

Hesston Highland

Sheet Metal Workers Measure, cut, bend, shape, and fasten sheet metal to various products.

$31,300 $39,090 $62,210 Certificate Butler WATC

Structural Iron and Steel Workers Raise, place, and unite iron or steel girders, columns, and other structural members to form completed structures or structural frameworks.

$34,130 $38,720 $52,830 Certificate Garden City

Surveyors Make exact measurements and determine property boundaries. Provide data relevant to the shape, contour, gravitation, location, elevation, or dimension of land or land features on or near the earth’s surface.

$42,330 $52,160 $62,410 Bachelor’s

Hesston JCCC

K-State KU

Pitt State

Welders Use hand-welding or flame-cutting equipment to weld or join metal components or to fill holes, indentations, or seams of fabricated metal products.

$29,640 $35,770 $44,050 Certificate

Butler Cowley

DC3 Garden City

Highland

JCCC MATC

Neosho Washburn Tech

WATC


Annual Wage

Median



Art Directors Formulate design concepts and presentation approaches and direct workers engaged in art work, layout design, and copy writing for visual communications media such as magazines, books, newspapers, and websites.

$44,690 $59,630 $77,640 Bachelor’s

Benedictine Bethany Butler CCC Colby

Cowley DC3 ESU


Hesston JCCC

K-State KU

KWU Pitt State Sterling Tabor

U. St. Mary Washburn

Broadcast Technicians Operate and maintain the electronic equipment used to transmit radio and television programs. Mostly monitor equipment behind the scenes.

$18,990 $31,940 $39,040 Associate’s

Benedictine Butler CCC Cloud

Cowley DC3

Garden City Hesston K-State

KU Pitt State Sterling

Arts, Audio/Visual Technology & Communication Jobs related to the creation of artwork and related applications including interior/textiles, graphic design, and 21st-century communications.

19


Annual Wage

Median



Camera Operators (Television, Video & Motion Pictures) Use television, video, or motion picture cameras to capture images or scenes for various purposes such as TV broadcasts, advertising, video production, or motion pictures.

$23,750 $32,240 $45,280 Bachelor’s

Benedictine Bethany Butler CCC DC3

Garden City K-State


Commercial and Industrial Designers Develop and design manufactured products, such as cars, home appliances, and children’s toys. Combine artistic talent with research on product use, marketing, and materials.

$43,160 $56,650 $69,440 Bachelor’s

Benedictine Butler CCC Colby

Cowley DC3


Hesston

K-State KU



Editors Plan the contents of publications and supervise their preparation.

$31,910 $42,640 $63,920 Bachelor’s

Benedictine Butler CCC Cloud Colby

Cowley DC3 ESU


Hesston

Highland JCCC

K-State KU



WSU

Fashion Designers Design clothing and accessories. Create original designs or adapt fashion trends.

$42,390 $56,420 $75,630 Associate’s

Cowley Hesston JCCC

K-State

Graphic Designers Design or create graphics to meet specific commercial or promotional needs such as packaging, displays, or logos. These workers may use a variety of media to achieve artistic or decorative effects.

$33,500 $42,260 $55,490 Associate’s

Benedictine Butler Cloud Colby

Cowley DC3 ESU


Hesston

Highland K-State

KU KWU

Pitt State Sterling Tabor


Washburn Tech WSU

Multimedia Artists and Animators Create special effects, animation, or other visual images using film, video, computers, or other electronic tools and media for use in products or creations, such as computer games, movies, music videos, and commercials.

$35,250 $45,840 $57,300 Bachelor’s

Bethany Butler

Garden City Hesston JCCC

K-State KU



20

Musicians and Singers Play one or more musical instruments or entertain by singing songs in recital, in accompaniment, or as a member of an orchestra, band, or other musical group. Musical performers may entertain onstage.

* * * Some College

Benedictine Bethany Butler CCC Cloud Colby

Cowley DC3 ESU


Hesston Highland K-State

KU KWU


U.St. Mary Washburn

Washburn Tech WSU

Photographers Use their cameras to portray people, places, and events.

$23,940 $30,280 $39,170 Associate’s

Benedictine Butler CCC DC3

Garden City Hesston Highland K-State

KU KWU

Sterling Tabor


Washburn Tech WSU

Producers and Directors Produce or direct stage, television, radio, video, or motion picture productions for entertainment, information, or instruction. Responsible for creative decisions such as interpretation of script, casting of actors, and the overall feel of the production.

$32,850 $43,220 $61,090 Bachelor’s

Benedictine Bethany Butler CCC DC3 ESU

Friends U. Hesston Highland

K-State KU

KWU Sterling Tabor


Washburn Tech WSU

Public Relations Specialists Engage in promoting or creating goodwill for individuals, groups, or organizations by writing or selecting favorable publicity material and releasing it through various communications media.

$35,230 $47,190 $64,260 Bachelor’s

Benedictine Butler CCC DC3 ESU


Hesston JCCC

K-State KU



WSU

Sound Engineering Technicians and Radio Operators Set up, operate, and maintain the electrical equipment for radio and television broadcast, concerts, sound recordings, and movies in office and school buildings.

$36,780 $47,980 $61,740 Certificate

Benedictine Butler CCC DC3

Garden City

JCCC K-State Sterling WSU

Telecommunications Line Repairers Install and repair telecommunications cable, including fiber optics.

$36,350 $51,630 $70,030 Certificate DC3 MATC

Technical Writers Put scientific and technical information into readily understandable language.

$43,510 $56,870 $70,600 Bachelor’s

Benedictine CCC DC3

Hesston K-State

KU

MATC Pitt State Sterling Tabor

U. St. Mary

21

Business, Management & AdministrationJobs relating to business ownership and creating an efficient and productive business operation.


Annual Wage Median



Accountants and Auditors Examine, analyze, and interpret accounting records for the purpose of giving advice or preparing statements. Install or advise on systems of recording costs or other financial and budgetary data.

$45,000 $57,360 $74,770 Bachelor’s


Cowley DC3 ESU


Hesston

Highland JCCC

K-State KU

KWU Neosho



WSU

Administrative Assistants Provide high-level administrative support by conducting research, preparing statistical reports, handling information requests, and performing clerical functions such as preparing correspondence.

$24,740 $30,310 $37,090 Certificate


Cowley DC3


Hesston Highland

JCCC KWU MATC

Sterling Tabor


Washburn Tech WATC WSU

Chief Executives Determine and formulate policies and provide the overall direction of companies or private and public sector organization within the guidelines set up by a board of directors or similar governing body.

$101,610 $143,380 * Bachelor’s

Benedictine CCC Colby DC3 ESU


Hesston K-State

KU KWU



WSU

Compensation and Benefits Managers Conduct programs of compensation and benefits and job analysis for employer. May specialize in specific areas such as position classification and pension programs.

$60,590 $88,740 $114,930 Bachelor’s

Benedictine CCC

Friends U. Hesston K-State

KU KWU



WSU

Computer and Information Systems Managers Coordinate the activities of staff in such fields as electronic data processing, information systems, systems analysis, and computer programming.

$81,520 $103,300 $129,900 Bachelor’s


Cowley DC3 ESU


Hesston

Highland K-State

KU KWU

Neosho Pitt State


Washburn Tech WSU

22


Annual Wage Median



Customer Service Representatives Interact with customers to provide information in response to inquiries about products and services, and to handle and resolve complaints.

$25,280 $31,420 $38,460 Some College



Hesston JCCC

K-State KU

Pitt State Tabor


WSU

General and Operations Managers Plan, direct, or coordinate the operations of companies or public- and private-sector organizations. Duties and responsibilities include formulating policies, managing daily operations, etc.

$60,840 $84,730 $123,410 Bachelor’s

Benedictine Butler CCC


Hesston Highland

JCCC

K-State KU



WSU

Human Resources Assistants Compile and keep personnel records and record data for each employee. This information may include addresses, weekly earnings, absences, amount of sales or production, supervisory reports on ability, and more.

$31,940 $37,510 $43,530 Associate’s

Benedictine CCC ESU


Hesston K-State



WSU

Human Resources, Training and Labor Relations Specialists Plan, direct, and coordinate human resource management activities of an organization to maximize the strategic use of human resource and maintain functions such as employee compensation and recruitment.

$40,630 $54,460 $70,180 Bachelor’s

Benedictine CCC ESU


Hesston

K-State KU

KWU Pitt State Washburn

WSU

Industrial Production Managers Plan, direct, or coordinate the work activities and resources necessary for manufacturing products in accordance with cost, quality, and quantity specifications.

$64,090 $78,620 $101,070 Bachelor’s



Hesston K-State

KU KWU

Pitt State Tabor

U. St. Mary Washburn Tech

Legal Secretaries Perform secretarial duties utilizing legal terminology, procedures, and documents. Prepare legal papers and correspondence, such as summonses, complaints, motions, and subpoenas.

$27,000 $32,960 $42,250 Certificate

CCC Cowley Hesston JCCC

Washburn Washburn Tech

Management Analysts Conduct organizational studies and evaluations, design systems and procedures, conduct work simplifications and measurement studies, and prepare operations and procedures manuals to assist management.

$55,130 $73,080 $97,370 Bachelor’s

Benedictine Butler CCC ESU


KU KWU

Pitt State Tabor


WSU


Annual Wage Median



Office and Administrative Support Managers Supervise and coordinate the activities of clerical and administrative support workers.

$58,910 $76,040 $98,960 Some College


Cowley ESU


Hesston

K-State KU



Washburn Tech WSU

Public Relations Managers Plan and direct public relations programs designed to create and maintain a favorable public image for employer or client; or if engaged in fundraising, plan and direct activities to solicit funding and maintain an operating budget.

$62,860 $83,880 $111,460 Bachelor’s



Hesston JCCC

K-State

KU KWU



WSU

Training and Development Managers Plan, direct, or coordinate the training and development activities and staff of an organization.

$62,960 $79,870 $126,860 Bachelor’s

Benedictine CCC

Friends U. Hesston

KU

Pitt State Tabor

Washburn WSU

Training and Development Specialists Design and conduct training and development programs to improve individual and organizational performance. May analyze training needs.

$40,790 $55,570 $75,600 Bachelor’s

Benedictine CCC


KU Pitt State Washburn

WSU

23

Education & TrainingCareers related to education and training services, learning support services including administration and professional support services.


Annual Wage Median



Coaches and Scouts Teach or coach groups or individuals in the fundamentals of sports. Demonstrate techniques and methods of participation. May evaluate athletes’ strengths and weaknesses as possible recruits or to improve the athletes’ technique to prepare them for competition.

$17,980 $27,580 $45,230 Bachelor’s

Benedictine Bethany Butler CCC Cloud Colby DC3 ESU

Garden City

K-State KU



WSU

Education Administrators Plan, direct, or coordinate the academic, clerical, or auxiliary activities of public or private schools.

$69,740 $81,290 $95,060 Bachelor’s / Master’s



Hesston

Highland JCCC

K-State KU

Pitt State Sterling


Washburn Tech WSU

24


Annual Wage Median



Education, Vocation, and School Counselors Counsel individuals and provide group education and vocational guidance services.

$38,720 $49,200 $59,740 Master’s

Benedictine CCC Colby

Cowley DC3 ESU

Garden City Hesston

K-State KU

KWU Pitt State Sterling


WSU

Elementary School Teachers Introduce children to the basics of mathematics, language, science, and social studies.

$39,210 $45,110 $51,500 Bachelor’s


Cowley DC3 ESU


Hesston

Highland K-State

KU KWU

Neosho Pitt State Sterling Tabor


WSU

Health Educators Promote community health by encouraging healthy habits. Identify community needs prior to planning and implementing programs.

$42,750 $51,620 $66,280 Bachelor’s


Cowley DC3 ESU


Hesston K-State

KU KWU



WSUInstructional Coordinators Develop instructional material, coordinate educational content, and incorporate current technology in specialized fields that provide guidelines to educators and instructors for developing curricula.

$37,180 $52,430 $68,400 Master’s

Benedictine CCC ESU

Hesston K-State



WSU

Preschool Teachers (Except Special Education) Instruct preschool-aged children in activities designed to promote social, physical, and intellectual growth needed for primary school in preschool, day care center, or other child development facility. May be required to hold state certification.

$19,820 $24,570 $36,510 Associate’s



Hesston

Highland JCCC

K-State KU

Pitt State Sterling


Washburn Tech WSU

Secondary School Teachers Engage students in deeper and more varied subject matter than that introduced in elementary school.

$40,790 $46,690 $55,050 Bachelor’s


Cowley DC3 ESU


Hesston

Highland K-State

KU KWU

Neosho Pitt State Sterling Tabor


WSU

25

FinanceFinancing and investment planning, banking, insurance and business financial management.


Annual Wage

Median



Actuaries Use statistical and economic techniques to evaluate future risks.

$85,560 $149,760 $181,660 Bachelor’s

Butler CCC Colby

Friends Hesston K-State

KU

MATC Pitt State

Tabor U. St. Mary Washburn

Claims Adjusters Review settled claims to determine that payments and settlements have been made in accordance with company practices and procedures, ensuring that proper methods have been followed.

$45,320 $60,720 $74,620 Bachelor’s

Benedictine CCC


KU Pitt State


Financial Analysts Analyze and interpret data about all aspects of investment.

$58,580 $73,210 $94,380 Bachelor’s

Benedictine CCC


KU

Pitt State Tabor


WSU

Financial Managers Plan, direct, and coordinate accounting, investing, banking, insurance, securities, and other financial activities of a branch, office, or department of an establishment.

$75,010 $98,980 $132,890 Bachelor’s



Hesston K-State

KU Pitt State Sterling Tabor


WSU

Insurance Sales Agents Sell life, property, casualty, health, automotive, or other types of insurance. May refer client to independent brokers, work as an independent broker, or be employed by an insurance company.

$36,470 $52,880 $69,700 Some College


Friends U. K-State

KU



WSU

Loan Officers Evaluate, authorize, or recommend different types of loans.

$48,720 $65,780 $91,320 Bachelor’s



KU



WSU

Payroll Clerks Compile and post employee time and payroll data. May compute employees’ time worked, production, and commission. May compute and post wages and deductions. May prepare paychecks.

$32,000 $39,450 $47,660 Some College



Hesston Pitt State


WSU

26


Annual Wage

Median



Personal Financial Advisors Advise clients on financial plans using knowledge of tax and investment strategies, securities, insurance, pension plans, and real estate.

$52,780 $89,950 $167,570 Bachelor’s



KU Pitt State Sterling Tabor


WSU

Securities, Commodities, and Financial Services Sales Agents Buy and sell securities in investment and trading firms, or call upon businesses and individuals to sell financial services. Provide financial services, such as loan, tax, and securities counseling.

$54,650 $89,700 $139,590 Bachelor’s


Friends U. Hesston

K-State KU

Pitt State Tabor

U. St. Mary WSU

Title Examiners, Abstractors, and Searchers Search real estate records, examine titles, or summarize pertinent legal or insurance details for a variety of purposes.

$30,260 $37,060 $48,080 Certificate

CCC Friends U. Hesston K-State

KU

Pitt State Tabor

U. St. Mary WSU

Government & Public AdministrationThese jobs use leadership and teamwork skills to manage and participate in government, public agencies and institutions to serve the public good.


Annual Wage

Median



Compliance Officers (Construction, Health and Safety, and Transportation) Examine, evaluate, and investigate eligibility for or conformity with laws and regulations governing contract compliance of licenses and permits, and other compliance and enforcement inspection activities.

$42,380 $53,680 $70,430 Bachelor’s

CCC Friends U.

K-State KU

Pitt State WSU

Social and Community Service Managers Plan, organize, or coordinate the activities of a social service program or community outreach organization. Oversee the program or organization’s budget and policies regarding participant involvement.

$43,830 $54,170 $69,220 Bachelor’s

Benedictine CCC


KU

KWU Pitt State

Tabor U. St. Mary

WSU

27

Health SciencesJobs related to diagnosing, treating and preventing health problems, related support services and biotechnology research and development.


Annual Wage

Median



Athletic Trainers Evaluate, advise, and treat athletes to assist recovery from injury, avoid injury, or maintain peak physical fitness.

$31,540 $38,290 $47,890 Bachelor’s


Cowley DC3 ESU



KU KWU

Neosho Sterling Tabor


WSU

Cardiovascular Technologists and Technicians Conduct tests on pulmonary or cardiovascular systems of patients for diagnostic purposes. May conduct or assist in electrocardiograms, cardiac catheterizations, pulmonary-functions, lung capacity, etc.

$31,120 $53,220 $65,600 Associate’s

CCC Colby

KU

Chiropractors Encourage the use of natural, nondrug, nonsurgical health treatments.

$37,730 $52,990 $76,080 Doctoral or Professional

Butler CCC

Cleveland U. Colby

Cowley

Garden City K-State Tabor

U. St. Mary

Clinical Laboratory Technologists Perform complex medical laboratory tests for diagnosis, treatment, and preventions of disease. May train or supervise staff.

$44,760 $55,140 $65,400 Bachelor’s


Garden City Hesston

K-State KU

MATC Pitt State


WSU

Dental Assistants Help dentists as they examine and treat patients.

$26,890 $33,350 $40,370 Certificate

CCC Garden City

Hesston WATC

Dental Hygienists Provide preventative oral health care. $58,620 $68,780 $79,010 Associate’s

Colby Cowley Hesston JCCC

MATC WATC WSU

Dental Laboratory Technicians Construct and repair full or partial dentures or dental appliances. Artisans make their product especially for a particular customer.

$32,070 $40,830 $47,850 Some College

CCC Garden City

Hesston

28


Annual Wage

Median



Dentists Diagnose and treat problems with a patient’s teeth, gums, and other parts of the mouth. Provide advice and instruction on taking care of teeth and gums and on diet choices that affect oral health.

$121,070 $152,490 * Doctoral or Professional

Bethany Butler CCC Colby

Cowley Friends U.

Garden City Hesston K-State KWU


Diagnostic Medical Sonographers Produce ultrasonic recording of internal organs for use by physicians.

$55,670 $66,100 $78,200 Associate’s

Garden City Hesston

KU Washburn

Dieticians & Nutritionists Apply the principles of food and nutrition to impact the public’s health and well-being.

$44,130 $54,670 $63,730 Bachelor’s

CCC Colby

Garden City Hesston JCCC

K-State KU

KWU Washburn

Emergency Medical Technician or Paramedic Assess injuries, administer emergency medical care, and extricate trapped individuals. Transport injured or sick persons to medical facilities.

$21,100 $27,480 $36,110 Certificate

Butler CCC Cloud Colby

Cowley DC3


JCCC Neosho

Washburn Tech

Family and General Practitioners Diagnose, treat, and help prevent diseases and injuries that commonly occur in the general population.

$171,840 * * Doctoral or Professional


Cowley Friends U.

Garden City Hesston

K-State KU

KWU Sterling Tabor


WSU

Internists (General) Diagnose and provide nonsurgical treatment of diseases and injuries of internal organ systems. Provide care mainly for adults who have a wide range of problems associated with the internal organs.




Hesston

K-State KU

KWU Sterling Tabor


WSU

Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses Assist in caring for the sick under the direction of doctors and registered nurses.

$34,990 $39,370 $45,410 Certificate

Colby DC3

Garden City Hesston Highland

JCCC KU

KWU MATC

Neosho Washburn

Washburn Tech WATC

29


Annual Wage

Median



Medical and Health Services Managers Plan, direct, or coordinate medicine and health services in hospitals, clinics, managed care organizations, public health agencies, or similar organizations.

$61,810 $75,470 $95,190 Bachelor’s

CCC Colby DC3


Hesston K-State

KU Neosho

Pitt State Tabor


WSU

Medical Equipment Preparers Test, adjust, or repair biomedical or electro medical equipment.

$25,330 $29,190 $34,250 Some College

DC3 Hesston

WashburnMedical Records and Health Information Technicians Compile, process, and maintain medical records of hospital and clinic patients in a manner consistent with medical, administrative, ethical, legal, and regulatory requirements of the health care system. Process, maintain, compile, and report patient information for health requirements and standards in a manner consistent with the healthcare industry’s numerical coding system.

$26,840 $33,390 $42,280 Certificate

Butler CCC

Cowley Hesston Highland

JCCC

K-State KU

Neosho U. St. Mary Washburn

Washburn Tech

Medical Secretaries Perform secretarial duties using specific knowledge of medical terminology and hospital, clinic, or laboratory procedures. Duties may include scheduling appointments, billing patients, and compiling and recording medical charts, reports, and correspondence.

$25,720 $30,720 $36,860 Some College

Butler CCC Colby

Cowley Highland

JCCC

MATC Neosho


WSU

Neurodiagnostic Technologists Conduct electroneurodiagnostic (END) tests such as electroencephalograms, evoked potentials, polysomnograms, or electronystagmograms. May perform nerve conduction studies.

$36,060 $49,610 $58,720 Associate’s JCCC Washburn

Nursing Assistants Provide routine individualized healthcare such as changing bandages and dressing wounds, and applying topical medications to the elderly, convalescents, or persons with disabilities. Monitor or report changes in health status. Provide personal care such as bathing, dressing, and grooming of patient.

$21,190 $23,320 $26,490 Certificate

Butler CCC Cloud Colby DC3

Garden City

Highland JCCC MATC

U. St. Mary Washburn Tech

WATC

Obstetricians and Gynecologists Diagnose, treat and help prevent diseases of women, especially those affecting the reproductive system and the process of childbirth.


Butler CCC Colby

Cowley Friends U.

Hesston KU

KWU Tabor

U. St. Mary

Occupational Therapists Assess, plan, organize, and participate in rehabilitative programs that help restore vocational, homemaking, and daily living skills, as well as general independence, to disabled persons.

$67,560 $78,770 $92,850 Master’s

CCC Cowley


Hesston

K-State KU


30


Annual Wage

Median



Ophthalmic Laboratory Technicians Make prescription eyeglasses and contacts. Glass lenses can be shaped by hand or using automated equipment.

$27,860 $33,230 $38,760 Some College

Hesston U. St. Mary

Optometrists Examine, diagnose, treat, and manage diseases and disorders of the visual system.


CCC Colby

Cowley Friends U.

Garden City Hesston

K-State KU

KWU Tabor


WSU

Pediatricians Plan and carry out medical care programs for children from birth to age 21.

$98,700 $153,170 * Doctoral or Professional


Cowley Friends U.

Garden City

Hesston KU

KWU Tabor


WSU

Pharmacists Serve society as the health professional most knowledgeable about the proper use of medicines.


Bethany CCC Colby

Cowley Garden City

Hesston

K-State KU

Tabor U. St. Mary

WSU

Physical Therapist Aides Work with evaluation, treatment, and prevention of physical disability, movement dysfunction, and pain, under the guidance of a physical therapist.

$18,300 $24,010 $29,320 Some College

CCC Friends U.

Garden City Hesston

K-State KWU

U. St. Mary

Physical Therapist Assistants Work with evaluation, treatment, and prevention of physical disability, movement dysfunction, and pain, under the guidance of a physical therapist.

$45,850 $54,540 $62,360 Associate’s

CCC Colby


Hesston

K-State KWU


Physical Therapists Practitioners work with evaluation, treatment, and prevention of physical disability, movement dysfunction, and pain.


Bethany CCC Colby

Cowley Friends U.


KU KWU

Sterling Tabor


WSU

31


Annual Wage

Median



Physician Assistants Under the supervision of a physician, diagnoses and treats patients suffering from disease and injury.

$81,570 $95,090 $112,640 Master’s

CCC Colby

Cowley Friends U.

Garden City

Hesston K-State Tabor

U. St. Mary WSU

Radiologic Technologists and Technicians Take X-rays and CAT scans or administers nonradioactive materials into patient’s blood stream for diagnostic purposes. Includes technologists who specialize in other modalities.

$42,970 $49,950 $58,530 Associate’s

Colby Friends U.

Garden City Hesston

Washburn

Registered Nurses Care for the sick and help people stay well. $47,020 $56,320 $66,990 Associate’s

Benedictine Butler Cloud Colby

Cowley DC3 ESU

Garden City Hesston

Highland JCCC

K-State KU

KWU MATC


Respiratory Therapists Evaluate, treat, and care for patients with breathing disorders.

$43,080 $50,110 $58,610 Associate’s

CCC Colby


Hesston

JCCC K-State

KU U. St. Mary Washburn

Speech and Language Pathologists Identify, assess, and treat people with speech and language disorders.

$50,650 $65,970 $86,200 Master’s

Colby Friends U.


KU WSU

Surgeons Physicians who specialize in performing operations to re-establish the patients’ health and well-being.

* * * Doctoral or Professional


Cowley Friends U.

Garden City Hesston

KU U. St. Mary Washburn

WSU

Surgical Technologists Work closely with surgeons, registered nurses, and anesthesiologists to provide the best possible care for the patient in surgery.

$32,890 $37,710 $45,740 Certificate

CCC Friends U.

Garden City Hesston Neosho


WATC

32


Annual Wage

Median



Veterinarians Care for pets, livestock, sporting animals, and protect humans against diseases carried by animals.



Cowley Friends U.

Garden City

Hesston K-State


Washburn Tech WATC WSU

Veterinary Technicians Perform medical tests in a laboratory environment for use in the treatment and diagnosis of diseases in animals. Prepare vaccines and serums for prevention of diseases. Prepare tissue samples, take blood samples, and execute laboratory tests, such as urinalysis and blood counts. Clean and sterilize instruments and materials and maintain equipment and machines. May assist a veterinarian during surgery.

$24,180 $28,520 $34,800 Associate’s

CCC Colby


Hesston WATC

Hospitality & TourismPromoting skills management of restaurants and other food-related service, travel, tourism and events including culinary arts and lodging.


Annual Wage Median



Chefs and Head Cooks Responsible for the preparation and cooking of food in restaurants, hotels, hospitals, and other establishments.

$24,500 $32,650 $40,400 Associate’s

Butler Garden City

JCCC Washburn

Washburn Tech

Food Service Managers Plan, direct, or coordinate activities of an organization or department that serves food and beverages.

$35,020 $44,030 $61,790 Certificate

Butler CCC

Cowley Friends U.

Garden City

Hesston JCCC

K-State Washburn

Lodging Managers Plan, direct, or coordinate activities of an organization or department that provides lodging and other accommodations.

$30,260 $40,230 $72,210 Associate’s

Butler CCC Colby

Cowley

Friends U. Hesston JCCC

K-State

First-Line Supervisors of Housekeeping and Janitorial Workers Supervise work activities of cleaning personnel in hotels, hospitals, offices, and other establishments.

$28,400 $34,940 $43,800 Certificate

Butler CCC


Washburn

33


Annual Wage Median



Recreation Workers Conduct recreation activities with groups in public, private, or volunteer agencies or recreation facilities. Organize and promote activities, such as arts and crafts, sports, games, music, dramatics, social recreation, camping, and hobbies, taking into account the needs and interests of individual members.

$18,570 $23,280 $29,310 Bachelor’s

Benedictine CCC ESU


Hesston K-State

KU KWU

Pitt State Washburn

Human ServicesJobs that meet the needs of individuals, children and families through human service and family and consumer sciences careers.


Annual Wage Median



Clergy Conduct religious worship and perform other spiritual functions associated with beliefs and practices of religious faith or denomination. Provide spiritual and moral guidance, and assistance to members.

$34,830 $41,580 $49,570 Bachelor’s

CCC Friends U. Hesston

KWU Sterling Tabor


Clinical, Counseling, and School Psychologists Diagnose and treat mental disorders; learning disabilities; and cognitive, behavioral, and emotional problems using individual, child, family, and group therapies.



Cowley DC3 ESU


Hesston K-State

KU KWU

Pitt State Tabor


WSUDirectors, Religious Activities and Education Plan, direct, or coordinate programs designed to promote the religious education or activities of a denominational group. May provide counseling and guidance relative to marital, health, financial, and religious problems.

$44,270 $63,070 $72,080 Bachelor’s

Benedictine CCC

Cowley Friends U. Hesston

KWU Sterling Tabor


WSU

Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists Provide beauty services, such as shampooing, cutting, coloring, and styling hair, and massaging and treating scalp. May apply makeup, dress wigs, perform hair removal, and provide nail and skin care services.

$17,790 $21,110 $30,500 Certificate

Cowley DC3

Garden City JCCC

Washburn Tech Z Hair Academy

Interpreters and Translators Interpret oral or sign language, or translate written text from one language into another.

$23,970 $30,700 $46,210 Bachelor’s

Benedictine Friends U.

JCCC KU

WSU

34


Annual Wage

Median



Marriage and Family Therapists Diagnose and treat mental and emotional disorder, whether cognitive, affective, or behavioral, within the context of marriage and family systems.

$38,270 $45,270 $66,970 Master’s

CCC Colby

Cowley Friends U.


KU KWU

Pitt State Tabor

Washburn WSU

Massage Therapists Perform therapeutic massages of soft tissues and joints. May assist in the assessment of range of motion and muscle strength, or propose client therapy plans.

$18,400 $22,540 $34,280 CertificateColby

Garden City WATC

Mental Health Counselors Work with individuals and groups to promote the best possible mental health.

$30,830 $40,290 $48,020 Master’s


Cowley ESU


Hesston

Highland K-State

KU KWU



Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists Provide social services to assist in rehabilitation of law offenders in custody or on probation or parole. Make recommendations for actions involving the formulation of rehabilitation plans or treatments.

$34,850 $38,430 $44,460 Bachelor’s


Cowley Friends U.

Garden City

Hesston K-State KWU

Pitt State Tabor

Washburn

Social and Human Service Assistants Assist experts in psychology, rehabilitation, or social work to provide client services and support for families.

$25,990 $30,870 $34,990 Some College



Hesston

Highland K-State

KU KWU

Pitt State Sterling

Washburn

Social Workers Provide social services and assistance to im-prove the social and psychological functioning of children and their families and to maximize the family well being and the academic func-tioning of children.

$38,430 $41,350 $60,510 Bachelor’s


Cowley DC3 ESU



KU KWU


Washburn WSU

Substance Abuse and Behavioral Disorder Counselors Counsel and advise individuals with alcohol, tobacco, drugs or other problems, such as gambling and eating disorders. May counsel individuals, families, or groups or engage in prevention programs.

$28,910 $35,520 $45,050 Master’s


Cowley Friends U.

Garden City Hesston

K-State KU

KWU Pitt State


35

Information TechnologyCareers related to the design, development, support and management of hardware, software, multimedia, training and more.


Annual Wage Median



Computer Software Engineers Develop, create, and modify computer software or specialized utility programs to meet the needs of particular clients or the general computer user.

$76,870 $95,430 $117,570 Bachelor’s

Butler Colby DC3


Hesston

Highland JCCC

K-State KU

KWU Washburn

WSU

Computer and Information Systems Managers Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as electronic data processing, information systems, systems analysis, and computer programming.

$81,520 $103,300 $129,900 Bachelor’s

Benedictine Butler Colby

Cowley DC3 ESU


Hesston

K-State KU

KWU Neosho

Pitt State U. St. Mary Washburn

Washburn Tech WSU

Computer, Automatic Teller, and Office Machine Repairers Repair, maintain, or install computers, word processing systems, automated teller machines, and electronic office machines, such as duplicating or fax machines.

$24,160 $31,190 $44,050 Some College JCCC

Computer Support Specialists Provide technical assistance to computer system users. Answer questions or resolve computer problems for clients in person, via telephone, or from remote locations.

$44,520 $54,180 $64,490 Bachelor’s

Benedictine Butler Colby DC3


Hesston JCCC

K-State KU

KWU Neosho

Pitt State U. St. Mary Washburn

Washburn Tech WATC

Computer Systems Analysts Plan and develop methods for computerizing business and scientific tasks for improving computer systems.

$58,300 $75,640 $93,320 Bachelor’s

Benedictine Butler DC3 ESU

Friends U. Hesston

K-State KU

KWU Pitt State


Database Administrators Coordinate changes to computer databases, test, and implement the database applying knowledge of database management systems.

$56,770 $74,230 $97,800 Bachelor’s

Butler DC3


KU KWU

Pitt State Washburn

36


Annual Wage Median



Forensic Computer Analysts Provide many services based on gathering digital information, from investigating computer systems and data to determining how an unauthorized user hacked a system. Protects computer systems, recovers and restores files, analyzes data, provides reports, feedback, and in some cases, testimony.

$58,300 $75,640 $93,320 Bachelor’s KWU

Information Security Analysts Plan, implement, upgrade, or monitor security measures for the protection of computer networks and information. May ensure appropriate security controls are in place that will safeguard digital files and vital electronic infrastructure.

$49,330 $63,640 $86,890 Bachelor’s

Butler Cowley

DC3 Friends U.

Garden City Hesston

JCCC K-State

KU KWU

Pitt State Washburn

Network and Computer Systems Administrators Install, configure, and support an organization’s local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), and Internet system or a segment of a network system. Maintain network hardware and software.

$52,540 $66,830 $82,370 Bachelor’s

Benedictine Butler DC3


Hesston Highland

JCCC

K-State KU

KWU MATC

Pitt State U. St. Mary

Washburn Tech WSU

Software Developers / Applications Develop applications that allow people to do specific tasks on a computer or other devices. Develop the underlying systems that run the devices or control networks.

$68,960 $90,640 $111,520 Bachelor’s


Hesston JCCC

K-State

KU KWU

Pitt State Washburn

WSU

Web Developer Design, create, and modify websites. Analyze user needs to implement website content, graphics, performance, and capacity. May integrate websites with other computer applications. May convert written, graphic, audio, and video components to compatible web formats by using software designed to facilitate the creation of web and multimedia content.

$39,380 $51,950 $72,650 Associate’s

Benedictine Butler

Cowley DC3

Hesston JCCC

K-State KU

KWU Pitt State Washburn

WSU

Law, Public Safety & SecurityCareers related to legal, protective services and homeland security, including professional and technical support services.


Annual Wage Median



Detective and Criminal Investigators These plainclothes investigators collect facts and evidence for criminal cases.

$41,790 $50,200 $69,350 Some College


Cowley DC3 ESU

Friends U.

Garden City Hesston K-State KWU

Sterling Tabor


WSU

37


Annual Wage Median



Emergency Management Directors Plan and direct disaster response or crisis management activities, provide disaster preparedness training, and prepare emergency plans and procedures for natural (e.g., hurricanes, floods, earthquakes), wartime, or technological (e.g., nuclear power plant emergencies or hazardous materials spills) disasters or hostage situations.

$38,440 $48,220 $67,270 Bachelor’s KWU

Firefighters Control and extinguish fire or respond to emergency situations where life, property, or the environment is at risk.

$28,650 $35,500 $44,380 Certificate

Butler CCC

Cowley DC3

Garden City JCCC

Lawyers Draw up wills, contracts, and other legal documents, offer legal advice and opinions, and prosecute or defend people in courts.


Butler CCC Colby

Cowley Friends U.

Garden City Hesston

K-State KU

KWU Sterling Tabor


WSU

Supervisors of Police and Detectives Supervise and coordinate activities of members of the police force.

$48,730 $63,200 $77,800 Some College



Hesston K-State


WSU

Paralegals and Legal Assistants Assist lawyer by researching legal precedent, investigating facts, or preparing legal documents. Conduct research to support a legal proceeding to formulate a defense, or to initiate legal action.

$35,720 $42,010 $50,010 Associate’s

CCC Cowley Hesston JCCC


WSU

Police and Sheriff’s Patrol Officers Prevent crime and apprehend law breakers. $35,710 $43,950 $53,560 Some

College


Cowley DC3


JCCC K-State KWU Tabor


WATC WSU

38

ManufacturingCareers related to the processing of materials into intermediate or final products and related professional and technical support activities (such as maintenance and repair).


Annual Wage

Median



Buyers and Purchasing Agents Make sure the goods and services purchased by the company are suitable and sufficient.

$37,750 $50,440 $66,000 Some College


Friends U. K-State

KU Pitt State

Tabor Washburn

Chemical Engineers Design chemical plant equipment and devise processes for manufacturing chemicals and product, such as gasoline, synthetic rubber, plastics, detergents, cement, paper, and pulp.

$87,990 $106,410 $119,650 Bachelor’s


Cowley Friends U.


KU KWU

Chemical Equipment Operators, and Tenders Operate or tend equipment to control chemical changes or reactions in the processing of industrial or consumer products.

$35,010 $44,970 $63,930 Some College

Benedictine CCC

Civil Engineering Technicians Apply theory and principles of civil engineering in planning, designing, and overseeing construction and maintenance of structures and facilities under the direction of engineering staff.

$33,450 $41,330 $50,290 Associate’s

Benedictine Bethany Butler CCC

Cowley Garden City

Hesston JCCC

K-State Pitt State

U. St. Mary

Computer-Controlled Machine Tool Operators (Metal and Plastic Materials) Operate computer-controlled machines or robots to perform one or more machine functions on metal or plastic pieces.

$28,350 $34,180 $40,310 Certificate

Benedictine Butler

Cowley DC3

Highland

JCCC K-State

Pitt State Washburn

Washburn Tech

Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technicians Apply electrical theory and related knowledge to test and modify developmental or operational electrical machinery and electrical control equipment and circuitry in industrial or commercial plants.

$45,650 $57,010 $68,880 Associate’s


Garden City Hesston

JCCC K-State

Pitt State WSU

Electrical and Electronic Equipment Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers Repair, test, adjust, install, and assemble electronic equipment, such as industrial controls, transmitters, and antennas.

$29,640 $45,130 $59,570 Certificate

Benedictine Butler

Hesston JCCC

K-State Pitt State

Washburn Tech

First-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers Supervise and coordinate the activities of mechanics, installers, and repairers.

$43,420 $56,340 $73,200 Certificate

CCC Friends U.

Garden City JCCC

K-State Pitt State

39


Annual Wage

Median



First-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers Supervise and coordinate the activities of production and operating workers such as inspectors, precision workers, machine setters and operators, assemblers, fabricators, and plan and system operators.

$42,390 $54,020 $67,260 Certificate

CCC Friends U.

K-State Pitt State

Industrial Engineering Technicians Apply engineering theory and principles to problems of industrial layout or manufacturing production, usually under the direction of engineering staff.

$45,640 $59,030 $80,920 Associate’s

Butler CCC


Pitt State WSU

Industrial Machinery Installation, Repair, and Maintenance Workers Lubricate machinery, change parts, or perform other routine machinery maintenance.

$39,760 $48,640 $60,070 Certificate

Butler K-State

Washburn Tech WATC

Machinists Set up and operate a variety of machine tools to produce precision parts and instruments. Includes precision instrument makers who fabricate, modify, or repair mechanical instruments.

$33,050 $38,630 $47,280 CertificateButler

Cowley Hesston

K-State Washburn Tech

WATC

First-Line Supervisors of Helpers, Laborers, and Material Movers Supervise and coordinate the activities of helpers, laborers, or material movers.

$35,980 $46,150 $58,270 Some College

CCC Garden City

Hesston K-State

Pitt StateManagers of Production and Operating Workers Supervise and coordinate the activities of production and operating workers such as inspectors, precision workers, machine setters and operators, assemblers, fabricators, and plan and system operators.

$42,390 $54,020 $67,260 Certificate

Butler CCC

Friends U. Hesston

K-State Pitt State

U. St. Mary

Mechanical Engineering Technicians Apply theory and principles of mechanical engineering to modify, develop, and test machinery and equipment under direction of engineering staff or physical scientists.

$41,360 $48,890 $58,660 Associate’s


Hesston K-State

Pitt State U. St. Mary

WATC WSU

Millwrights Install, dismantle, or move machinery and heavy equipment according to layout plans, blueprints, or other drawings.

$44,160 $65,090 $80,170 Some College Cowley

Painters (Transportation Equipment) Operate or tend painting machines to paint surfaces of transportation equipment, such as automobiles, buses, trucks, trains, boats, and airplanes.

$29,940 $36,350 $49,590 Certificate Highland WATC

Power Plant Operator Control, operate, or maintain machinery to generate electric power. Includes auxiliary equipment operators.

$44,630 $62,690 $77,230 Certificate Garden City K-State

40

Marketing, Sales and Service Planning, managing and performing marketing activities to reach organizational objectives.


Annual Wage Median



Advertising and Promotions Managers Plan and direct advertising policies and programs or produce collateral materials such as posters, contests, coupons, or giveaways, to create extra interest in the purchase of a product or service.

$56,690 $68,620 $80,660 Bachelor’s

Benedictine Butler CCC Colby DC3 ESU


Hesston JCCC

K-State KU



WSU

Advertising Sales Agents Sell or solicit advertising, including graphic art, advertising space in publications, custom-made signs, or TV and radio advertising time.

$28,630 $44,400 $62,940 Some College

Benedictine Butler CCC Colby DC3


Hesston KU



WSU

Interior Designers Plan and furnish the interiors of private homes, public buildings, and commercial establishments.

$30,120 $39,250 $49,960 Bachelor’s

CCC JCCC

K-State Pitt State Sterling WATC

Market Research Analysts Research market conditions in local, regional or national areas to determine potential sales of a product or service. May gather information on competitors, prices, sales, and methods of marketing.

$43,930 $57,370 $76,060 Bachelor’s

Benedictine Butler CCC DC3 ESU

Friends U. Hesston

K-State KU

KWU Pitt State

Tabor Washburn

WSU

Marketing Managers Determine the demand for products and services offered by a firm and its competitors and identify potential customers. Develop pricing strategies with the goal of maximizing the firm’s profits or shares.

$84,830 $114,210 $153,140 Bachelor’s

Benedictine Butler CCC Colby ESU


Hesston JCCC

K-State KU



WSU

41


Annual Wage Median



Property, Real Estate, and Community Associations Managers Plan, direct, or coordinate selling, buying, leasing, or governance activities of commercial, industrial, or residential real estate properties.

$37,290 $52,120 $65,140 Bachelor’s

CCC Friends U.

K-State KU

Sterling Tabor


WSU

Real Estate Sales Agents Rent, buy, or sell property for clients. Perform duties such as study property listings, interview prospective clients, accompany clients to property sites and discuss conditions of sale.

$29,750 $57,570 $76,340 Some College

CCC Friends U.

K-State Sterling Tabor

Washburn WSU

Sales Managers Direct the actual distribution or movement of a product or service to the customer. Coordinate sales distribution by establishing sales territories, quotas, and goals, as well as establishing training programs for sales representatives.

$72,730 $104,080 $156,960 Bachelor’s



Hesston JCCC

K-State KU



WSU

Sales Representatives, Wholesale & Manufacturing (Except Technical & Scientific Products) Sell goods for wholesalers or manufacturers to businesses, government agencies and other organizations. Contact customers, explain product features, answer any questions that their customers might have, and negotiate prices.

$41,110 $58,310 $84,650 Bachelor’s


Friends U. Hesston JCCC

K-State KU

Pitt State Tabor


WSU

Sales Representatives, Wholesale & Manufacturing (Technical & Scientific Products) Sell goods for wholesalers/manufacturers to businesses, government agencies, and other organizations. Contact customers, explain product features, answer any questions the customers might have, and negotiate prices.

$53,460 $73,870 $113,700 Bachelor’s



KU Pitt State

Tabor U. St. Mary

WSU

42

Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM)Jobs related to scientific research, professional and technical services including laboratory and testing services, and research and development services.


Annual Wage Median



Biological Technicians Assist with set up, operation, and maintenance of laboratory instruments and equipment, monitor experiments, make observations, and calculate and record results.

$34,240 $40,190 $49,900 Bachelor’s

Benedictine Butler CCC Cloud DC3 ESU


Hesston JCCC

K-State KU

KWU MATC



Biomedical Engineers Use what they know about engineering, biology, and biomechanical principles to design artificial organs, prosthetics, instrumentation, and medical information systems.

$77,890 $93,640 $149,360 Bachelor’s

Butler CCC DC3


KU KWU

Sterling WSU

Chemists Search for and put into practical use new knowledge about chemicals.

$51,550 $67,800 $87,190 Bachelor’s


Cowley DC3 ESU



KU KWU



WSU

43


Annual Wage Median

Annual Wage Median


Civil Engineers Design and supervise construction of roads, airports, tunnels, bridges, water supplies, sewages systems, and buildings.

$63,070 $74,770 $90,720 Bachelor’s



KU U. St.Mary

Electrical and Electronics Drafters Prepare wiring diagrams, circuit board assembly diagrams, and layout drawings used for the manufacture, installation, or repair of electrical equipment.

$41,100 $50,640 $64,560 Associate’s

Benedictine Butler


Pitt State

Electrical Engineers Design, develop, test, and supervise the production of electrical and electronic equipment.

$68,620 $81,430 $99,860 Bachelor’s

Benedictine Bethany Butler CCC Colby DC3


KU WSU

Electrical Engineering Technicians Test or modify developmental or operational electrical machinery or electrical control equipment and circuitry in industrial or commercial plants or laboratories. Usually work under direction of engineers or technologists.

$45,650 $57,010 $68,880 Certificate Cloud

Electronics Engineers Research, design, develop, and test electronic components and systems for commercial, industrial, military, or scientific use using knowledge of electronic theory and materials properties.

$63,880 $78,300 $98,620 Bachelor’s

Butler CCC DC3


KU WSU

Engineering Managers Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as architecture and engineering, or research and development in these fields.

$90,420 $110,400 $137,850 Bachelor’s


Hesston K-State

KU WSU

Environmental Science and Protection Technicians Performs laboratory and field tests to monitor the environment and investigate sources of pollution, including those that affect health. Work under direction of an environmental scientist or specialist.

$31,590 $43,620 $59,640 Associate’s

CCC Cloud

Hesston K-State

KU KWU


44


Annual Wage Median



Environmental Scientists and Specialists Conduct research or perform investigation for the purpose of identifying, abating, or eliminating sources of pollutants or hazards that affect either the environment or the health of the population.

$49,060 $55,330 $79,690 Bachelor’s


Hesston K-State

KU KWU



Industrial Engineers Determine ways for organizations to use people, machines, materials, information, and energy.

$63,050 $79,440 $97,200 Bachelor’s

Butler CCC Colby

Cowley Garden City

Hesston K-State WSU

Mechanical Engineers Involved with the production, transmission, and use of mechanical power and heat.

$57,940 $70,680 $86,220 Bachelor’s


Cowley Garden City

Hesston K-State

KU U. St. Mary

WSU

Medical Scientists Conduct research dealing with the understanding of human diseases and the improvement of human health. Engage in clinical investigation or other research, production, technical writing, or related activities.



Cowley Garden City

Hesston KU


Microbiologists Investigate the growth, structure, development, and other characteristics of microscopic organisms, such as bacteria, algae or fungi.

$42,360 $49,060 $58,230 Bachelor’s

Butler CCC Colby

Cowley DC3 ESU


Hesston

Highland K-State

KU KWU



45


Annual Wage Entry Level



Nuclear Engineers Work with or supervise nuclear power plant design, construction or operation; nuclear medicine and health physics; industrial applications such as gauging, tracing, forensics and food sterilization; and research at national laboratories.

$80,860 $100,760 $121,450 Bachelor’s

Butler CCC Colby

Cowley Hesston K-State

Physicists Conduct research into physical phenomena, develop theories on the basis of observation and experiments, and devise methods to apply physical laws and theories.

$130,200 $143,470 $155,720 Doctoral or Professional KWU

Surveying and Mapping Technicians Perform surveying and mapping duties, usually under the director of a surveyor, cartographer, or photogrammetrist to obtain data used for construction, mapmaking, boundary location, mining, and other functions.

$27,920 $34,750 $43,030 Certificate K-State KU

Wind Turbine Service Technicians Inspect, diagnose, adjust, or repair wind turbines. Perform maintenance on wind turbine equipment including resolving electrical, mechanical, and hydraulic malfunctions.

$47,260 $55,020 $60,730 Certificate Cloud

Transportation, Distribution & LogisticsJobs related to the maintenance and repair of delivery trucks, cargo planes and other transport vehicles.


Annual Wage Median



Air Traffic Controllers Responsible for keeping air traffic flowing smoothly, safely, and efficiently.

$82,070 $120,590 $144,560 Associate’s Hesston K-State

Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians Diagnose, adjust, repair, or overhaul aircraft engines and assemblies, such as hydraulic and pneumatic systems.

$54,910 $63,900 $74,080 Certificate K-State WATC

Automotive Body and Related Repairers Repair and refinish automotive bodies and straighten vehicle frames.

$31,070 $38,370 $54,960 Certificate

Butler Highland

MATC Washburn Tech

WATC

Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics Diagnose, adjust, repair, or overhaul automotive vehicles.

$26,420 $35,470 $46,850 Certificate

Butler Cowley

DC3 Garden City

Highland JCC

MATC Pitt State

Washburn Tech WATC

46


Annual Wage Median



Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists Diagnose, adjust, repair, or overhaul trucks, buses, and all types of diesel engines. Includes mechanics working primarily with automobile diesel engines.

$33,460 $40,900 $50,760 Some College

DC3 Highland Pitt State

Washburn Tech

Commercial Pilots Pilot and navigate the flight of small fixed or rotary winged aircraft, primarily for the transport of cargo and passengers. Requires commercial rating.

$79,930 $101,380 $117,220 Certificate

CCC DC3

Hesston K-State

Locomotive Engineers Drive electric, diesel-electric, steam, or gas-turbine-electric locomotives to transport passengers or freight. Interpret train orders, electronic or manual signals, and railroad rules and regulations.

$43,250 $50,370 $57,530 Some College CCC JCCC

Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanics Diagnose, adjust, repair, or overhaul mobile mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic equipment, such as cranes, bulldozers, graders, and conveyors, used in construction, logging, and surface mining.

$36,680 $45,700 $56,810 Certificate Washburn Tech

Production, Planning, and Expediting Clerks Plan and prepare production schedules for the manufacturing of industrial or commercial products.

$37,800 $49,260 $59,440 Some College

CCC Hesston K-State

Pitt State

Rail-Track Laying and Maintenance Equipment Operators Lay, repair, and maintain track for standard or narrow-gauge railroad equipment used in regular railroad service or in plant yards, quarries, sand and gravel pits, and mines. Includes ballast cleaning machine operators and railroad bed tamping machine operators.


Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators Operate railroad track switches. Couple or uncouple rolling stock to make up or break up trains. Signal engineers by hand or flagging. May inspect couplings, air hoses, journal boxes, and hand brakes.


Railroad Conductors and Yardmasters Coordinate activities of switch-engine crew within railroad yard, industrial plant, or similar location. Conductors coordinate activities of train crew on passenger or freight trains. Yardmasters review train schedules and switching orders and coordinate activities of workers engaged in railroad traffic operations, such as the makeup or breakup of trains and yard switching.


47


Annual Wage Median



Recreation Vehicle Service Technicians Diagnose, inspect, adjust, repair, or overhaul recreational vehicles including travel trailers.

$23,030 $29,330 $34,970 Certificate Butler

Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers Plan, direct, or coordinate the transportation, storage, or distribution activities in accordance with governmental policies and regulations.

$67,610 $86,330 $113,620 Bachelor’s

CCC Hesston K-State

KU

Truck Drivers (Heavy and Tractor-Trailer) Drive a tractor-trailer combination or a truck with a capacity of at least 26,000 GVW, to transport and deliver goods, livestock, or materials in liquid, loose, or packaged form.

$32,100 $38,870 $48,950 Certificate

Cloud DC3

Garden City JCCC

Washburn Tech

Truck Drivers (Light and Delivery Services) Deliver or pick up merchandise and packages in a local area. Often includes driver for companies like UPS or FedEx who use automatic routing or location software.

$20,970 $29,050 $39,630 Certificate Cloud DC3

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48

15 Ways to Afford SchoolBecome a financial aid pro to earn that degree

1. Know your terms.Tuition is the cost of the instruction itself. Fees are extra payments to cover services like the library, and extra materials for class (i.e. lab or art fees). Tuition and fees vary depending on your school and program. Out-of-pocket expenses include cost of textbooks, parking permits, computers, your living space, food and entertainment.

2. Budget.After high school, you’ll face all kinds of new experiences and opportunities, and many will cost money. Work with a trusted adult to discover exactly how much money you have to spend each week or month and stick to it. Practice budgeting now so it’s not new when you start college.

3. Save money in a 529 plan – LearningQuest.com.A 529 college savings plan is designed to help families save for higher education costs. In Kansas, the program is called LearningQuest, and anyone – parents, grandparents, friends – can make contributions. The money put into the plan is invested and earnings grow tax deferred. Dispersements for qualified expenses such as tuition, fees, books, and room and board are not taxed.

4. Take AP or IB classes in high school.You can earn college credit while still in high school by taking Advanced Placement (AP) classes. Depending on how you score on the exam at the end of the course, you can earn a varying number of college credit hours allowing you to bypass introductory classes when you go to college. An International Baccalaureate (IB) program also offers more intense classes that can replace college courses. Check with your school to see what classes may be available.

5. Take college courses for dual credit.Some colleges, technical schools and other schools let you earn college credit while fulfilling your requirements to graduate high school. As a high school student, you may receive a free or reduced tuition rate for college courses you take while still in high school. To earn credit, you must past the course just as you would in college, but you take the course at your high school.

6. Fill out the FAFSA form.To qualify for financial aid from the U.S. government (and usually the schools themselves), you or your parents will need to fill out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form while you are still a high school senior. The form is available online, and the submission priority deadline in Kansas is March 1. The form uses your and your parents’ income information from their federal tax return to help determine how much aid you may qualify for to pay for school.

7. Read your financial aid package carefully.Once you’ve been accepted to a school, you may get information about a financial aid package. The package is put together by your school and is a collection of grants, scholarships, loans and work study programs. Grants and scholarships are the best kind of financial aid because you do not need to repay them.

49

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8. Apply for grants.Grants are gifts usually based on how much you or your parents can afford. Grants can be given by the government, the school you are attending, or private organizations. A common grant is the Pell grant, which is issued by the federal government. Most grants have specific requirements you must meet to receive them.

9. Apply for scholarships.Some scholarships are based on financial need, but many are related to your academic performance, athletic abilities, musical talents and other achievements. Scholarships are issued by education institutions, private foundations, your high school and other organizations.

10. Apply for loans wisely.Loans are money you borrow from the government, a bank, or other institution. Loans have to be paid back and you are charged interest (a percentage of the amount of money you borrow), so you pay back more than you borrowed. Use government loans first. Direct and Perkins loans (both government loans) usually have lower interest rates and more flexible repayment options. Check whether the loan is subsidized (no interest builds until you graduate) or unsubsidized (interest starts building immediately); subsidized loans cost you less. Not sure if you qualify? Apply!

11. Take ONLY what you need.Loan lenders may offer you more money than you actually need. You can choose to borrow less than what you’re offered, so ONLY take what you absolutely need. The less you borrow, the less you have to pay back.

50

12. Work, work, work, work, work.Work study programs give you a part-time job as part of your overall financial aid package and help students with the greatest need earn money for expenses. The program encourages community service and work related to your study area. Part-time jobs offer valuable work experience and can help pay tuition and other expenses. Most schools have career service websites that list job openings for students. Remember! Your education is your #1 priority. Don’t work so many hours that you don’t have time to study.

13. Take advantage of articulation agreements.Most freshmen and sophomores have to take general education classes before they start studying what they want to be when they graduate. Many Kansas colleges have articulation agreements (formal agreements between two schools allowing credits to transfer easily), or even programs called 2+2 programs, where you attend community college for two years, then take the remaining classes at another Kansas school. Check with both schools you want to attend to make sure credits will transfer.

14. Attend summer school or online classes.By taking classes each summer, you can finish college a semester or even a year earlier, cutting down on living costs. You can also take online classes from less expensive schools and transfer the credit to your main school. Make sure your main school will accept those transfer credits before you sign up.

15. Graduate on time.With good planning and a strong work ethic, you can graduate on time and not pay for more semesters than necessary. Remember: 12 credits is considered a full-time student, but you need to take 15-16 credits a semester to graduate with a bachelor’s degree in four years.

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What factors should you consider when selecting which schools to apply to?

Your Education, Your Choice

Do you change your mind a lot?

We all have a vision of what the future looks like, but as you learn more about what jobs are out there, you may

change your mind a lot! Consider attending a school with several programs that interest you.

Take classes that can be applied to several majors and careers. This will give you the

freedom to change your mind without taking extra classes or extra time, to

finish your degree.

Are you self-motivated?

Some students do homework without being told. Others need constant

reminders. Be honest with yourself about how self-motivated you are, and what kind

of support you will need. Schools with smaller classes will likely have professors who notice

whether you’ve been to class or not. But larger schools can offer larger support

services like tutors and writing centers to help you.

Should you stay or should you go?

Going to a school far away can be exciting: it’s a chance to make new

friends and be independent. But there are benefits to living close to home, too. Think about how you get along with your family,

mentors and friends. Would you rather visit on the weekend, or only for

holidays?

How much money will you make?

Fancy cars and vacation homes are awesome, but not every job will earn you

enough to live that life. Some careers lead to big paychecks; some don't. If earning a lot matters, check out the expected salaries in

this guide, and pursue a career that can support your dreams.

What kind of job do you want?

Your education should lead to the job you want. If you dream of being an

architect, make sure the schools you apply to offer architecture as a major. If you want to be

an architect but want to start at community college, make sure your classes will

transfer. Colleges and counselors can help you during the application

process.

How long will you be in school?

Some careers, like welding or being an LPN, require only 1-2 years of training

at the certificate or associate's degree level. Others take a lot more schooling. Vets,

for example, earn four-year degrees, and then spend at least another four years in

specialized training.

How much will it cost?

Cost matters, but it's only one factor to consider. The cheapest option is not

always YOUR best option, just as the most expensive option does not guarantee your success. Your education’s true value is in how it helps you reach your goals. Check

out our story on page 48 for more on how to make your education more

affordable.

There isn't just one path to success, and there isn't just one college or school that's right for everyone. Finding the path that's right for you takes some self-knowledge, which is being honest about what kind of an education and career you want versus what others think you should have.The following questions are designed to help you explore what you want from your education, which will help you choose your best educational path.

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who you need to contact at each school to discuss affording your education

Financial Aid Offices - Contact Us!

The following information will help you contact the financial aid offices at schools throughout Kansas. The workers in these offices can help you in many ways. They can provide the latest information regarding the school’s tuition, fees and other costs. They can also explain how you apply for financial aid loans from the government and private organizations. Additionally, they can give you updated information on available scholarships, grants and school-specific programs that can help reduce your education costs.

Benedictine CollegeAtchisonOffice of Financial AidTony [email protected]/admission/financial-aid/index

Bethany CollegeLindsborgFinancial AidAmy Hosswww.bethanylb.edu

Butler Community CollegeEl DoradoFinancial Aid OfficeHeather [email protected]/financial-aidButler Community College is the second largest community college in Kansas. With a proud tradition in academics, athletics and community service, more than 13,000 students choose Butler annually. And, Butler is affordable. May 2016 Butler graduates collectively saved more than $8.6 million in tuition when compared to the average cost of attending a Kansas four-year university. Visit www.butlercc.edu.

Central Christian College of KansasMcPhersonFinancial Aid OfficeJanice Schroeder620.241.0723 ext. 335www.centralchristian.edu/fa-resources

Cleveland University - Kansas CityOverland ParkFinancial AidCaprice Calamaiowww.cleveland.edu/admissions/financial-aid-scholarships

Cloud County Community CollegeConcordiaFinancial AidSuzi Knoettgenwww.cloud.edu/Admissions/Covering-the-Cost/index

Colby Community CollegeColbyFinancial Aid OfficeVicki [email protected]/students/financial-aid

Cowley CollegeArkansas CityFinancial Aid ServicesKelsey Steinerwww.cowley.edu/finaid/index.htmlCowley is recognized as a premier community college and vocational, technical school accredited by the Higher Learning Commission with enrollment of more than 4,500. Locations include a main campus – Arkansas City, two educational centers – Wichita and Mulvane, an online college and outreach centers. Over 80 majors and degree possibilities connect students to their future!

Dodge City Community CollegeDodge CityFinancial AidRuss McBeewww.DC3.eduAt Dodge City Community College, we are dedicated to helping you find your passion and purpose. Our focus is on you and your education. We take a personal interest in your success and guide you toward choosing the right field of study.

Emporia State UniversityEmporiaOffice of Student Financial Aid and Veterans ServicesElaine [email protected]/finaid/Emporia State University, located in Emporia, Kansas, was established in 1863. Since its founding, ESU has improved the lives of students from Kansas, throughout the U.S., and around the world. ESU offers over 65 majors, minors and concentrations. Find your degree at iamahornet.com/kansasja

Friends UniversityWichitaFinancial [email protected]/admissions/costs-financial-aid/

Garden City Community CollegeGarden CityOffice of Financial AidMelinda Harrington620.276.9519melinda.harrington@gcccks.eduwww.gcccks.edu/admission/tuitionandfees/finaid/

Hesston CollegeHesstonHesston College Financial Aid OfficeMarcia Mendez620.327.8208www.hesston.edu/admissions/financial-aid/

Highland Community CollegeHighlandOffice of Financial AidJoshua North785.442.6020www.highlandcc.eduReady to take that next step? Highland Community College is right for you! Choose from our comprehensive selection of affordable academic programs that prepare you for your future. Our technical centers offer hands-on training. Take online classes at your own pace. From here, you can see anywhere!

Johnson County Community CollegeOverland ParkFinancial Aid OfficeChristal [email protected]/admissions/financial-aid/

Kansas State UniversityManhattanOffice of Student Financial [email protected]/sfa/

Kansas Wesleyan UniversitySalinaStudent Financial PlanningLois [email protected]/future-students/tuition-fees/financial-aid

Manhattan Area Technical CollegeManhattanFinancial AidShania Dekat785.320.4559shaniadekat@manhattantech.eduwww.manhattantech.edu/financial-aidManhattan Area Technical College provides quality technical and general education to prepare individuals to pursue technologically advanced careers and lead productive lives in a dynamic and diverse global environment. MATC offers associate of applied science degrees and technical certificates that meets student, employer, and community needs.

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Neosho County Community CollegeChanuteFinancial AidLori Clementswww.neosho.edu/Departments/FinancialAid.aspx

North Central Kansas Technical CollegeBeloit, HaysFinancial AidGary Odle or Leah Bergmann785.738.9028www.ncktc.edu/financial-aid/ The NCK Tech Financial Aid office will help provide important information that will help you navigate the world of financial aid. We can tell you about scholarships, grants and loans, where to find them, how to apply and much more! Gary Odle (785.738.9028) or Leah Bergmann (785.738.9062).

Pittsburg State UniversityPittsburgOffice of Student Financial AssistanceTammy [email protected]/office/financial_aid

Sterling CollegeSterlingOffice of Financial AidMitzi Suhlerwww.sterling.edu/financial-aid

Tabor CollegeHillsboroFinancial AidTricia Brotherswww.tabor.edu/undergraduate/financial-aid/

The University of KansasLawrenceFinancial Aid & Scholarships785.864.4700financialaid@ku.eduwww.affordability.ku.eduThe University of Kansas is an international educational and research institution with an enrollment of more than 28,000 on five campuses, in Lawrence, Kansas City, Overland Park, Wichita, and Salina. KU is one of 34 U.S. public institutions – and the only school in Kansas — belonging to the prestigious Association of American Universities.

University of Saint MaryLeavenworthDepartment of Financial AidAnnissa [email protected]/Admissions/Financial-Aid.aspx

Washburn UniversityTopekaFinancial [email protected]/admissions/paying-for-college/financial-aid/index.htmlWashburn University exists to help you become your best self. We have a vibrant campus with more than 200 academic programs. At Washburn, we focus on teaching – making sure our students are encouraged, equipped, and prepared to be the best version of themselves – in college and beyond. Because it isn’t about us. It’s about you.

Washburn University Institute of TechnologyTopekaFinancial Aid OfficeTammy Parsons785.228.6323tammy.parsons@washburn.eduwww.washburntech.edu/admissions/financial-aid/index.htmlWashburn University Institute of Technology (Washburn Tech) is a nationally recognized innovator in career and technical education which offers nearly 40 programs to adult and high school students. Through our unique affiliation with Washburn University, students may start with technical courses and continue to advanced degrees while preparing for today’s careers.

Wichita Area Technical CollegeWichitaFinancial Aid Office316.677.9400www.watc.edu/financialaidStudents come to WATC from all walks of life. We help improve lives by building skills required for high-wage, high-demand jobs. For those just starting, we provide direction and training needed to land a career. WATC offers a variety of financial aid options. Visit watc.edu/payingforcollege for details.

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Wichita State UniversityWichitaOffice of Financial [email protected]/scholarships

Z Hair AcademyOverland Park, LawrenceFinancial Aid OfficeAshley Dick913.223.6517www.zhairacademy.comZ Hair Academy is a progressive hair school with a focus on student success. Our contemporary atmosphere provides a unique learning experience to better prepare graduates for salon life. Our business training will provide you the opportunity to practice the skills that will get you making money faster!

EARN 20% MORE

empowerthefuture®

Join JA My Way™ for tips and tools to put your career on the express track. www.jamyway.org

with JA My Way™.Make the future yours

What I wish I knewCollege students share success secrets

Don’t get a degree in somethingJUST because you love it. Make sure it’s useful in the current market.

Ask your professors LOTS of questions. That’s what they’re there for & they want you to succeed.

Online and summer classes are not an indicator of a course being easier. 16 weeks is compressed into a 4-6 week semester. You mustread and absorb any/all material on your own.

If professors supply their own PowerPoint lectures online, printthem in handout view to take notes. Saves you a ton of writing in class!

Take advantage of internships!Experience is what sets you aside from the crowd when looking for employment.

Being a nontraditional student ishard work, but rewarding at the same time. If you have to work a full-time job & attend school, don’t let that stop you.

If you go to community college firstmake sure you know what creditswill transfer and how they’ll transferto a four-year school.

Strongly consider a junior college to complete your prequisites. It’ll save you a lot of money in the end.

Familiarize yourself with grade and drop policies. It isn’t uncommon tohave to withdraw from a difficultcourse if the load is too much.

It’s better to have a W (withdrawal)on a transcript than a D or F, and have to pay to retake the class.

Your degree is something you haveto earn; it isn’t given. Don’t wastetime partying & goofing off; instead use some of that time to study.

Attend every class! Some professorsdon’t take attendance, but most do.It can be a grade booster.

Make friends in every class. Notonly helpful if you have to miss, butwhen you get to upper division(major classes), you see the same faces again & again. It’s nice to have relationships already.

Sit in the “T” zone. Professors likestudents who sit in the front rowsor in the middle columns.

A great way to learn about higher education is to ask the experts -- current college students! We asked students what they wish they had known before starting college. Here's what they had to say:

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There’s No Place Like HomeKansas is much more affordable than other cities & states

Denver, COTo match a salary of $50,000 here, you’d need to earn $59,726.Compared to KS costs:Groceries: cost the same.Housing: 64.3% higherUtilities: 6.0% higherTransportation: 9.4% higherHealth: 14.9% higherMiscellaneous: 4.6% higher

Los Angeles, CATo match a salary of $50,000 here, you’d need to earn $76,010.Compared to KS costs:Groceries: 8.2% higherHousing: 168.4% higherUtilities: 26.9% higherTransportation: 39.3% higherHealth: 17.8% higherMiscellaneous: 6.1% higher

Chicago, ILTo match a salary of $50,000 here, you’d need to earn $63,497.

Compared to KS costs:Groceries: 14.6% higherHousing: 73.2% higherUtilities: 16.5% higherTransportation: 27.4% higherHealth: 6.0% higher

Miscellaneous: 5.8% higher

New York City, NYTo match a salary of $50,000 here, you’d need to earn $123,387.Compared to KS costs:Groceries: 26.6% higherHousing: 479.4% higherUtilities: 44.8% higherTransportation: 40.2% higherHealth: 24.1% higherMiscellaneous: 49.6% higher

KANSASThe cost of living in Kansas is 9.3% lower than the national average. This means you’d have to earn at least $54,664 most places in the United States to match a $50,000 salary in Kansas.

Source: Council for Community and Economic Research Cost of Living Index Map by Free Vector Maps

San Francisco, CA:To match a salary of $50,000 here, you’d need to earn $95,464.Compared to KS costs:Groceries: 28.5% higherHousing: 304.7% higherUtilities: 18.3% higherTransportation: 36.1% higherHealth: 27.0% higherMiscellaneous: 17.1% higher

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“This is the hardest thing

I’ve done in my life,” Tiffany said, “But

it’s the most rewarding thing I’ve done in my

life.”58

Be Entrepreneurial6 qualities of an entrepreneur

PerseveranceAs an entrepreneur you’ll face many challenges, and you need determination and commitment to succeed.

Aisha Simon and Tiffany Cody founded Smash Glam, a Kansas City makeup and photography studio, in 2013. The pair had been working for the same clients separately, and decided to bring their skills into one business.

The transition wasn’t easy, but the business is thriving. They recently opened a second location in Topeka. “This is the hardest thing I’ve done in my life,” Tiffany said, “But it’s the most rewarding thing I’ve done in my life.”

Innovative ThinkingStarting a business requires creativity—from the original product or service idea to finding a competitive edge (what makes your business better than another one)

to how to keep your business running once it starts. Innovation is the heart of a successful business.

Pizza Hut founders Dan and Frank Carney started delivering pizza from their restaurant in Aggieville near K-State in 1960. It was something no other pizzeria was doing at the time. Today, practically every pizza place has delivery. That was the first of many innovations that have made Pizza Hut the largest pizza chain in the world.

Self-Confidence & ResilienceEntrepreneurs must trust themselves to even start the business process. Self-confidence will help carry you through the times when your idea doesn’t work like you originally planned. If you are resilient, you will be willing to try again, and not let setbacks deter you from your goals.

If you’ve ever thought about starting your own business when you grow up, you’ve thought about being an entrepreneur. Entrepreneurs can work to make a profit for themselves or shareholders, or they can be social entrepreneurs, who start nonprofit businesses to support a cause.There are many benefits to being an entrepreneur. You are your own boss. You get to build something from scratch and make it your own. You have an opportunity to make money for yourself instead of someone else. But it’s hard work, too. Here are six qualities that help make entrepreneurs successful. Do you have what it takes?

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Action-OrientedWhen you’re an entrepreneur, you need to act quickly to correct failures, improve your product and build an audience. Experts say it’s better to try several things quickly and fail than to slowly try one idea at a time.

Ben Smith, owner of the Lawrence-based social media consultancy Social:IRL, researches not just today’s social media trends, but tomorrow’s, too. “You have to find out where is the next opportunity,” whether that’s dark social (sharing of content that can’t be tracked in normal ways) or artificial intelligence, he said. “That’s shaping what my future will be, so I have to be one step ahead of that. It’s absolutely critical not to be a follower and wait and see what happens.”

Good with PeopleEntrepreneurs are their own bosses, but they interact with people all the time. They must work with investors, contractors, suppliers, employees, customers and more. Developing strong and loyal relationships early on can help your business thrive.

Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers owners Bill Simon, Randy Simon and Scott Redler believe in treating people well. “We wanted someone to do it right,” Redler said. “Kinda the values Freddy [Bill and Randy’s father] and his wife, Norma Jean, have. Don’t cheat the customer. Don’t do it easier. Do it quicker, and do it right.” The relationships Freddy’s built have led to a business with 200 restaurants in 29 states.

Specific Knowledge about Your Area of BusinessYou need to be an expert in your own business. Take a class, talk to a mentor or start an internship to develop your expertise.

Join the conversation: #BeAJayhawk

Follow @BeAJayhawk

KANSANS BECOME JAYHAWKSThe University of Kansas is looking for young Kansans of promise — like you. So, bring your ideas. Apply your passion. And when the time comes, be a Jayhawk.

admissions.ku.edu

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get that job!3 experts tell you the skills you need Being successful in school and in your future job is about more than learning how to DO your job. You also need professional skills, also called soft skills. Professional skills are personal behaviors and qualities that help you succeed no matter what job you do. We’ve talked to three hiring managers at Kansas businesses to learn what they look for in potential employees, and what you can do now to build the skills that help you get – and keep – your job.

C. Patrick Woods Director of Talent Management &

Diversity Westar Energy, Topeka

You need to be able to communicate your ideas clearly, and do so in a way that connects with your audience, whoever it is. It’s often said, your “major” gets you your first job, but it’s the other skills that come with a broad, interdisciplinary education that gets you your next job.

This business requires you to interact with many people of varied backgrounds and disciplines – be they customers, co-workers, etc. You will need to be able to understand their point of view and understand how their needs/objectives fit into the larger picture for the company. Once you have that level of understanding, you can devise a successful solution that meets their needs and the company’s needs.

Study a broad array of disciplines, and pay close attention to the STEM-based disciplines (not only STEM, but don’t ignore STEM). Also, invest time in understanding people and human behavior. You’ll find that

whatever you do, your success will depend on how well you can work with and through people. So, in addition to studying biology and economics, learn a foreign language. You’ll not only have your language skills, but you’ll also learn human behavior by studying the culture that is inextricably linked to any language.

Dee Bisel Owner

Minuteman Press, Lawrence To work at Minuteman Press, you need to be prepared to arrive at work on time and be ready to work once you’re there. Be a team player. When you bring me a problem, you need to also bring me a solution. We have strict deadlines to meet and lots of work to do so we need everyone on the same page and able to solve any problem that arises.

Something you can do now to prepare is play a team sport. They teach discipline and how to work together. Work to excel in classes that involve problem solving, and participate in extracurricular activities or volunteer in your community.

Also, watch carefully what you post on social media - prospective employers WILL check it out. We do use social media as a way to decide who would be a good fit here.

Jim Walters Sr. VP of Human Resources and

Communications Textron Aviation, Wichita

Some of the most valuable skills new professionals can bring to the workplace include the ability to communicate in a clear and concise manner whether in person or via email, a genuine curiosity to learn, and problem solving.

Textron Aviation is a complex business with global locations. These skills are key to designing, building and delivering innovative products and services to our customers.

Take every opportunity to work on communication skills, whether that is giving presentations or taking on a leadership role in your school or extracurricular activities. Get to know others, including people who think and work differently than you, and try new things! You may be surprised at what you discover.

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SOFT SKILLS SELF-ASSESSMENT

Mark which answer best applies to you. Think of an example of

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Self-Assessment Skills

Got it! I already do this well.

I need to work on

this.

I have a strong work ethic, even if no one checks to make sure I’m doing the right thing.

I am good at influencing others or being a leader in a group.

When someone points out a weakness of mine, I use the information to improve without being negative to that person.

I handle change well.

I am organized and can plan my tasks so that I meet deadlines.

When under pressure, I can stay calm and focus on what needs to get done.

Even if I’m having a bad day, I can be polite to those around me.

Some material excerpted from JA Career Success®. Used with permission from Junior Achievement USA®. All rights reserved.

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Extra CreditGet a head start on your careerNow that you’ve had a chance to look at different careers, what they pay and how you get an education for them, here are four things you can do as a student to see if the career you are interested in is right for you.

Hold an informational interview.During an informational interview, you visit with a person who does the job you want to know more about. You ask questions about the job, the place of work, the future outlook for the job, and the kind of training you would need. You may also ask about the good points and bad points of the position.

Spend a day job shadowing.While some companies have formal job shadowing programs, you may need to call others to ask if they allow job shadowing. When job shadowing, you visit the business and may participate in some activities. You should expect to tour the facility and be introduced to a variety of careers. Before you visit, go online to research information about the business like the corporate mission statement, employee responsibilities and any available job postings. Job shadowing is a great way to get a glimpse of what a work day may be like.

Volunteer.There are many career areas in which you can experience your interests by volunteering. Volunteering commitments can last for a few hours or months, depending on your individual situation. When you sign up, talk with the management about why you are volunteering so they know that you want to be near employees doing the job that interests you. Ask the employees and other volunteers about the work they do, but be respectful of their time. They can be helpful but understand you are in their place of work and they do have jobs to do. Many places also have age restrictions on who may volunteer without a parent present, so keep that in mind as you decide where to volunteer.

Work a part-time job.Part-time jobs are great places to learn skills like showing up on time, working well with others, solving problems and working efficiently. You may even find a job in the area you’re interested in. By working in your chosen field, you can watch people who do the actual job you think you want later. Keep in mind there may be age requirements or other restrictions for the jobs. Most jobs in Kansas require students to be 14-16 to be hired.

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