Can I get a job at 34 with no degree or skills?

TLDR : Baking for 10 years, it’s a dying industry, I need a new job. No experience/skills/degrees beyond baking, mostly bread. Can’t afford a degree. Could possibly afford cheap classes. No traveling either.

My brother started a bakery when I was early 20s. I had no job before then and worked with him until late last year when he unexpectedly shut down with 1 day notice. He had a job lined up for himself and screwed me and our other brother. We don’t talk to him now but after 10 years of only baking, I’m looking for a new job, preferably one that pays somewhat well at least, more the better of course.

Also, a little addition to the bakery part, he had me mainly baking bread, not even the good sweets you’d expect. I can bake large scale bread which is what I do now for one of our prior competitors but with all the economy shit going on, I can’t be working in a dying industry. I’m going to be royally fucked one day, probably sooner than later. I can’t let my family down.

I’m relatively new to the whole get out there and apply yourself, make a resume - with my 10 years baking experience? - put applications in - I had one job. What do you think I can do? I’m not exactly dumb, I could probably do a lot of things that don’t involve intense critical thinking and equations as long as I have time to learn a trade, I just don’t know how to start.

Jobadvisor:

It's understandable that you're feeling overwhelmed right now, but it's absolutely possible to find a fulfilling and stable job at 34, even without a degree or extensive skills outside your baking experience. Here's a breakdown of how you can approach this:

1. Leverage Your Baking Experience:

• Don't underestimate it: 10 years of experience is valuable! You have demonstrated reliability, physical stamina, time management, and the ability to follow instructions and produce consistent results.
• Highlight transferable skills:
  • Production and efficiency: You know how to manage large-scale production, which applies to many manufacturing and food service roles.
  • Attention to detail: Baking requires precision, a skill valued in many fields.
  • Physical stamina: You're used to working on your feet and handling physical tasks.
  • Teamwork: Even if you worked mostly independently, you likely interacted with suppliers, customers, and other staff.
  • Time management: Baking requires strict adherence to schedules.
  • Following directions: recipes are instructions.
• Refine your resume:
  • Instead of just listing "baker," use action verbs to describe your responsibilities: "Produced large quantities of bread," "Managed inventory," "Ensured consistent product quality," "Maintained a clean and organized workspace."
  • Quantify your achievements whenever possible. For example, "Produced an average of X loaves of bread per day."
  • Tailor your resume to each job you apply for. Highlight the skills most relevant to the specific position.

2. Explore Potential Career Paths:

• Manufacturing and Production:
  • Your experience with large-scale production makes you a good fit for entry-level roles in food manufacturing, warehousing, or other production environments.
  • Look for positions like production worker, machine operator, or warehouse associate.
• Food Service:
  • While you want to move away from baking, your food service experience is still valuable.
  • Consider roles in food preparation, catering, or restaurant kitchens.
• Trades:
  • Many trades don't require a degree and offer on-the-job training or apprenticeships.
  • Consider fields like:
    • Construction (carpentry, plumbing, electrical)
    • HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning)
    • Maintenance and repair
  • These trades often offer good pay and job security.
• Transportation and Logistics:
  • Warehousing, delivery driving, and logistics roles are often in demand.
  • A commercial driver's license (CDL) can open up many opportunities, though that can be expensive.
• Customer Service:
  • Even just the small interactions with customers over 10 years is customer service experience.
  • Call centers, retail, and support roles are available.

3. Strategies for Skill Development:

• Online Courses:
  • Platforms like Coursera, edX, and Udemy offer affordable online courses in various fields.
  • Focus on courses that provide practical skills, such as computer skills, data entry, or project management.
• Community Colleges and Vocational Schools:
  • Even without a full degree, you can take individual classes or short-term certificate programs to gain specific skills.
  • Look for programs in trades, technology, or business.
• Apprenticeships and On-the-Job Training:
  • Many employers are willing to train motivated individuals, especially in skilled trades.
  • Look for entry-level positions that offer opportunities for advancement.
• Free Resources:
  • Libraries offer free access to computers, the internet, and educational resources.
  • Online tutorials and videos can teach you basic computer skills and other practical skills.

4. Job Search Tips:

• Network: Talk to friends, family, and former colleagues about job opportunities.
• Online Job Boards: Use websites like Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor to search for jobs.
• Temp Agencies: Temporary agencies can provide short-term work and help you gain experience in different industries.
• Local Employment Services: Check with your local government or community organizations for job search assistance.

Key Takeaways:

• Your baking experience is valuable and can be translated into other fields.
• Focus on developing practical skills that are in demand.
• Explore various career paths and be open to new opportunities.
• Network and utilize online resources to find job openings.
• Be patient and persistent, it may take time to find the right fit.

You have the drive and determination to succeed. By leveraging your existing skills and pursuing new opportunities, you can build a stable and fulfilling career.