Artificial intelligence is automating routine tasks at lightning speed. Yet some roles—rooted in hands-on skill, human judgment, or complex social interaction—remain remarkably immune. A recent MSN report lists several US jobs that don’t require a college degree and start above $70,000/year. Let’s digest these findings, then map out the Philippine equivalents.
Summary of the MSN Findings
MSN highlights that AI struggles with manual dexterity, real-world troubleshooting, and high-stakes decisions. The report identifies five careers—each commanding six-figure salaries without a four-year degree—because they demand on-site expertise and human resilience.
AI-Resistant Jobs in the US (No College Degree Required)
- Elevator/Escalator Technicians: Diagnose, maintain, and repair lift systems in commercial/residential buildings. Starting salary: $74,000/year.
- Commercial Airline Pilots (Pathway via Flight School): Licensed through flight hours and exams rather than a bachelor’s in aviation. Starting salary: $77,000/year.
- Power Plant Operators: Oversee generation equipment, balance loads, and respond to emergencies. Starting salary: $74,000/year.
- Firefighters & Emergency Personnel: Provide crisis-response, medical aid, and rescue operations. Base pay: $50,000–$70,000/year, plus hazard differentials.
- Wind Turbine Technicians: Install, maintain, and troubleshoot renewable-energy turbines in remote settings. Starting salary: $56,000/year.
Each role resists AI because it intertwines technical craft, unpredictable environments, and split-second judgment.
What Are AI-Resistant Jobs in the Philippines?
While local pay scales differ, the core criteria remain: hands-on skill, on-site problem-solving, and human interaction. Here are the Philippine counterparts—no degree needed, but TESDA certifications or short-term training may apply:
- Elevator/Escalator Technicians TESDA offers courses in mechanical and electrical maintenance. Metro Manila entry pay: ₱25,000–₱35,000/month.
- Heavy-Vehicle & Bus Drivers Professional licenses via LTO; short academies train for defensive driving. Pay: ₱20,000–₱30,000/month plus allowances.
- Industrial Machinery Mechanics Factories and plants demand troubleshooters for production lines. Entry salary: ₱30,000–₱45,000/month with overtime.
- Certified Welders & Pipefitters Shipyards and infrastructure projects pay ₱25,000–₱40,000/month; specialized offshore roles command premiums.
- HVAC & Refrigeration Technicians Courses in air-conditioning systems repair. Pay: ₱20,000–₱35,000/month, plus service-call fees.
- Healthcare Aides & Paramedics Short-course EMT programs; hospitals and ambulance services. Starting pay: ₱18,000–₱28,000/month.
- Renewable‐Energy Technicians, Solar-panel installers, and wind-power assistants via industry certifications. Pay varies: ₱20,000–₱40,000/month.
By upskilling through vocational schools, bootcamps, or apprenticeships, Filipinos can secure resilient careers that AI can’t easily replace.
AI-Resistant Now But…
Like the classic fable of the rabbit and the turtle, today’s AI-resistant jobs give us a choice: be the overconfident rabbit that rests on speed and complacency, or the steady turtle that keeps moving forward. Just because AI can’t match your hands-on expertise today doesn’t mean it won’t catch up tomorrow. Better safe than extinct: Start future-proofing your career now by adopting the turtle’s strategy of consistent, incremental improvement.
Tips to solidify your AI-resistant role:
- Continuous Upskilling: Enroll in short AI and IoT courses to complement your trade.
- Tech Integration: Learn to operate and troubleshoot the digital tools that work alongside you—sensor networks, predictive diagnostics, etc.
- Soft Skills Mastery: Develop communication, leadership, and crisis-management abilities that machines can’t replicate.
- Certifications & Specializations: Pursue advanced TESDA certificates or industry-endorsed badges in niche areas.
- Networking & Mentorship: Join professional guilds and seek mentors who can guide your long-term growth.
- Side Projects & Portfolios: Document case studies or DIY fixes on social media to showcase your evolving expertise.
🔥 Final Thought
AI will continue transforming white-collar roles, but the future belongs to careers blending manual expertise with human judgment. For Filipinos without degrees, these hands-on professions offer robust incomes and job security. Invest in your craft today, so AI can’t replace what you do tomorrow.
📚 Sources
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