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15 Innovation Jobs That Don’t Require a Degree

Cover art for episode on innovation jobs

What if the biggest predictor of success in innovation wasn’t what everyone thinks? Our research tracking 1,000+ innovation professionals revealed a shocking truth about who succeeds in this high-paying field – and it’s not what you’d expect.

In this episode, we break down 15 innovation jobs that are transforming industries, with salaries ranging from $70k to $400k+. But here’s what makes this guide different: we’re not just giving you job titles and salaries. We reveal the actual personalities that thrive in each role, alternative paths to break in without traditional credentials, and the unexpected traits that separate success from failure.

From Research & Development to Innovation Management, Product Development, Digital Innovation, and the startup ecosystem, we explore how these roles are shaping the future – and why companies are desperate to fill them.

Key takeaways:

  • Why failing at least 3 times makes you MORE likely to succeed in innovation
  • Alternative qualification paths for every role (no degree required)
  • The personality traits that matter more than technical skills
  • Real salary data based on current market conditions
  • Which roles are best suited for different working styles

Most importantly, you’ll learn why your past “failures” might be the exact preparation you need for a successful innovation career. Whether you’re a career changer, recent graduate, or experienced professional looking to pivot, this guide shows you the practical steps to break into the innovation economy.

Bonus: Members get access to our comprehensive Innovation Careers Guide, including detailed personality profiles, qualification roadmaps, and monthly salary updates. Plus, connect with innovation professionals in our private community.

Become a member on YouTube at www.youtube.com/@PhilMcKinney or at Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/philmckinney

To learn about the innovation jobs that don’t require a college degree, listen to this week’s show: 15 Innovation Jobs That Don’t Require a Degree.

Author

  • Phil McKinney headshot

    Phil McKinney is an innovator, thinker, creator, author, and speaker. He is the former CTO of HP who has built teams that have innovated award-winning technologies and products currently used by half-billion people worldwide. Fast Company and Businessweek named these teams as being among the “50 Most Innovative”. As host of the award-winning podcast, Killer Innovations, he shares his insights on creativity and innovation to help listeners develop their ideas into actionable plans for success. Launched in 2005, the podcast is the longest continuously produced podcast in history. In 2011, Phil authored Beyond The Obvious – a book on innovation and creativity. The book is available in hardcover, digital, and audio. Media recognition includes Vanity Fair as “The Innovation Guru”, MSNBC and Fox Business as “The Gadget Guy” and San Jose Mercury News as the “Chief Seer”.

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