4 Not So Ordinary Careers for Millennials

Millennials are quickly becoming the world’s leaders, which means it really is time to figure out what you want to be when you grow up. But in a time when there are so many more career possibilities than becoming a doctor, teacher, policeman or astronaut, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by what path to choose. So how about venturing outside the proverbial box? Below are four ideas perfect for the millennials in search of a not-so-ordinary career path.

Wine Sommelier

A sommelier is a certified expert in fine wines and is typically responsible for coordinating the wine menu in bars, restaurants and hotels. Today, sommeliers offer services to fine restaurants and upscale hotels, as it is seen as a symbol of luxury to have a wine expert on staff. A sommelier knows detailed information about wine including such things as types of grapes and what regions they come from, the vineyards where the grapes were grown, a wine's overall rating and particular pairing suggestions. Sommeliers often travel the world to taste new wines as a form of continuing education. Learn more about becoming a certified sommelier from the Court of Master Sommeliers, the leading educator on the subject.

Average annual salary: $53,000

Additive Manufacturing Engineer

If you’re not familiar, additive manufacturing is a process in which materials are combined to make objects from 3D model data, layer by layer. More simply put: it’s 3D printing, but more specific; additive manufacturing refers to the actual 3D printing process. In recent years, 3D printing has boomed, heavily impacting the healthcare, fuel, aerospace and even sports industries (among others). A case study by sealing device manufacturer Apple Rubber provides some insight into how additive manufacturing has impacted major industries worldwide.

Since this career path requires a high level of scientific understanding, most opportunities in the field require a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry or engineering; however, the growth potential of additive manufacturing is infinite.

Average annual salary: $90,000

App Developer

If you’re interested in coding or just have a natural affliction for all things IT, mobile application development might be the right path for you. Mobile app developers write programs using Objective C, C++, C# or Java programming languages (language depends on the mobile platform and operating system he or she is writing for, i.e. Google Android, Apple iOS, etc.). The cool thing about a career in mobile app development is that the demand comes from not only businesses, but consumers as well, making it one of the fastest growing professions in the information technology field. Anyone can have a great app idea, but it’s the app developers that bring the ideas to fruition.

Average annual salary: $94,000

Air Traffic Controller

Like pilots and flight attendants, air traffic controllers are hugely responsible for thousands of travelers’ lives on a daily basis, plus multiple flight routes and guiding landings and takeoffs all at the same time. Certainly not the job for those who have a hard time concentrating or are easily overwhelmed, but an exciting and well-paying career nonetheless. In fact, air traffic control is one of the highest paying careers that doesn’t require a degree; although, if you’re planning a future in ATC, you must meet the minimum requirements and begin training at the FAA Academy before your 31st birthday.

Average annual salary: $110,000

Okay millennials: you spend more waking hours at your job than you do anywhere else... so no matter which career path you choose, just be sure it makes you happy.