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Matt Damon and Bill Gates aside, conventional wisdom says you need to get a four-year college degree to land a top-paying job.

Turns out conventional wisdom is just plain wrong.

There are many top-paying professions that don’t require a four-year degree. If you’re looking for a solid career path that bypasses the university route, here are some professions you should consider:

Air Traffic Controller
Air traffic controllers monitor and direct private and commercial air traffic. They are highly trained and skilled, but the job does not require a college degree. The Federal Aviation Administration, which employs practically all air traffic controllers, requires enrollment in a FAA-approved education program and entrance tests. The road to becoming a fully qualified air traffic controller can take several years, but this is a profession with opportunities. The median salary is more than $100,000 a year.

Elevator Mechanic
Many construction jobs are high-paying. Elevator mechanic jobs are lucrative and stable. There is a lot of training involved, however, and new mechanics have to start in an apprenticeship program. Still, with a mean income of more than $60,000 a year, this is one gig that can take you higher.

Police Detective
Police detectives can easily earn more than $70,000 a year in large cities, all without a degree. The catch is you have to start as a beat cop and work your way up. Still, law enforcement jobs are always in demand and you can count on good benefits.

Flight Attendant
If you’re willing to fly all over creation, deal with rowdy passengers and keep a smile on your face throughout, you can earn a good living as a flight attendant. The mean salary for a flight attendant is in the $55,000 a year range, but top earners can rake in nearly $100,000. If you can speak a foreign language, you’ll go far—literally.

Real Estate Broker
The ultimate eat-what-you-kill job, real estate brokers can earn big bucks if they invest big effort. All earnings are commission-based. Although you’ll need a license, you don’t really need a degree. The downside is, when the housing market is suffering—like now—your salary may suffer with it. In good times, the mean income for this job is around $80,000 a year.

Nuclear Power Operator
Believe it or not, you don’t need a degree to operate a nuclear power reactor, but you will need training both in the classroom and on the job. You’ll also need a license. The median salary for a reactor operator is $80,510 a year. Hey, if Homer Simpson can do it, why not you?