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One of the reasons,

"A Math-Based Career Pays More,

A Lot More"

In 2017, the average annual wage

for all jobs in the United States was $37,690/year or about $19.63/hr.

Jobs that are math-based had a average salary of $84,060/year, or about $43.78/hr.

"Some Careers That Use Algebra"

Obvious Algebra Jobs

 

middle-high school math and science teachers

college math and science professors

mathematicians

cryptologists

astronomers

chemists

physicists

statisticians

 

White Collar Jobs

In addition to teachers, professors and scientists, there are many other white collar jobs that require algebra on a regular basis. Even though the jobs are based in algebra, and you need a firm understanding of the math, most of the equations are solved with computers.

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actuaries

air traffic controllers

architects

computer engineers and analysts

economists 

market research analysts

dietitians and nutritionists

engineers

foresters and conservation scientists

geologists 

jewelers

meteorologists

morticians

oceanographers

ophthalmic laboratory technicians

purchasers

social scientists

 

Blue Collar Jobs

If you're the type of person who doesn't mind getting your hands dirty, but also have an analytical mind, there are plenty of blue collar jobs that require algebra. 

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boilermakers

broadcast technicians

carpenters

concrete masons, tilers and terrazzo workers

engine mechanics

electricians

elevator installers and repairers

heating, air-conditioning, and refrigeration technicians

inspectors, testers, and graders

landscape architects

machinists and tool programmers

millwrights

power plant operators

sheet metal workers

tool-and-die makers

water and wastewater treatment plant operators

welders, cutters, and welding machine operators

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Thoughts On Algebra

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"I don't need algebra, because I'm not going to college."

Even if college isn't currently in your plans, please don't under-value yourself by thinking that you could never use algebra. Don't diminish your future potential. Many challenging and rewarding careers - not just engineering - demand a strong background in math.

 

"Having to take algebra is stupid!"

Did you ever notice that nobody asks why he "has" to take another class? So why do we generally only hear complaints about math? Perhaps because it hard...? Because it requires work and discipline...? Because it isn't always "easy"...?

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"But I won't need this stuff for my job."

Will you, to a certainty, need everything taught in algebra? No. 

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"Will I need algebra for 'real life'?"

Maybe. Maybe not. Algebra is a very unique discipline. It is very abstract. The abstract-ness of algebra causes the brain to think in totally new patterns. That thinking process causes the brain to work, much like a muscle. The more that muscle works out, the better it performs on OTHER tasks. In simple terms, algebra builds a better brain (as do other disciplines such as learning an instrument, doing puzzles, and, yes, even some video games). 

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"But why, exactly, do I have to take this stuff?"

I have no idea. I don't know what your plans, hopes, or dreams are; I don't know what your future might hold.

Nobody can say with assurance what skills will be needed five to twenty years from now. But who would want to cut himself off from future opportunities or growth by refusing to learn at least some of the knowledge which will be foundational for whatever is yet to come?

 

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'Why Math' is a summary of the following websites- 

http://www.purplemath.com/modules/why_math.htm?scrlybrkr=c2894194

http://www.mathmedia.com/whystudal.html

https://www.engineergirl.org/GetThere/HowtoGetThere/7699.aspx

http://work.chron.com/list-careers-use-algebra-14592.html

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