Entrepreneurship

If you like turning ideas into action, a career in entrepreneurship could be for you!

The field has a range of job types, so there is a place for many different skill sets and backgrounds.

View Other Career Paths

Ashley Cooper, Watlow

Watlow is a local manufacturing employer with a range of job positions and a dedication to bettering the community. Watch this video to learn more about the career field and about Watlow.

View Salary Ranges in Manufacturing

Career Progression*

By either participating in an apprenticeship or showcasing your strong work ethic, you have the
potential to advance and lead in your career.

STARTING YOUR CAREER

You’re turning an idea or passion into your first business. This might look like starting a side hustle, selling products or services locally, or freelancing part-time while learning business basics.

Salary range:
$20,000-$50,000
(Early-stage or part-time entrepreneurs often reinvest profits back into their business.)

Possible Job Positions:
Freelance Service Provider
(graphic design, cleaning, tutoring, home repair, photography)

Side-Hustle Owner (Etsy Shop, food truck, online store, lawn care)

Independent Contractor (delivery driver, consultant, childcare provider)

Startup Founder (early stage idea or prototype)

ADVANCING IN YOUR CAREER

Your business is established and generating steady income. You may be hiring part-time help, renting space, or expanding your client base. You’re focused on building systems, reputation, and financial stability.

Salary range:
$50,000-$120,000
(Average range for established small business owners in MO and similar-sized markets.)

Possible Job Positions:
Small Business Owner/Franchise Operator

Owner-Operator of a
Local Service Company
(landscaping, salon, catering, cleaning, etc.)

Consultant/Agency Owner

Online Business Owner or
Content Creator

Business Partner in a Local Venture

LEADING IN YOUR CAREER

You’ve grown your business into a larger operation with multiple employees, locations, or revenue streams. You may mentor others, invest in startups, or take on leadership roles in the local business community.

Salary range:
$120,000-$250,000
(Top-earning entrepreneurs and business owners in MO often fall in this range, depending on industry and scale.)

Possible Job Positions:
CEO / Founder of a Growth Company

Multi-Location Business Owner

Franchise Developer

Investor / Angel Fund Member

Business Consultant or Coach

*Data Sources: Salary and progression information is based on input from HR staff at Columbia businesses, statistics from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, and local job market listings found on Indeed, Glassdoor, and ZipRecruiter.

What You Need to Succeed

Frequently asked questions about how to excel in a manufacturing career

  • Manufacturing experience is preferred but not required for most manufacturing jobs.  On-the-job training for those with or without prior experience is usually provided.  Often apprenticeships are available to employees who want to move into more skilled positions.  Employees have the opportunity to shadow, be shadowed, and transition to working on their own.

  • Most entry-level manufacturing jobs do not require a degree, but those with technical certifications or diplomas are eligible for higher entry wages as well as preference for employment within the candidate pool.

  • If a candidate does not return the needed documents for employment consideration, there can be a delay in the hiring process. Job candidates are encouraged to complete things like background checks and drug-testing in a timely manner to prevent hiring delays.

  • Nothing precludes job candidates from applying for positions. However, a demonstrated inability to keep a consistent job will be heavily weighed when reviewing applications. It's also helpful if job candidates express a willingness to work overtime if needed. Employers value high-caliber, morally driven employees.

Your Path to
Getting Started

Click a path number for more information.

Discover your entrepreneurial potential. Click to take the quiz!

View Local Resources — Discover Columbia-area tools and services to help you start or grow your business

Apprenticeships, Certificates, and Colleges/Technical Schools that could be helpful for career progression

Career Testimonials

Name, CEO of _
Started in food services and did not have a high school diploma

Employee, Calibration Technologies
Started out working in a pet supply store and is now the Kitting and Inventory Specialist at Calibration Technologies.

Rob Williams, Production Manager, Kraft-Heinz
Began as an Operator, progressed through mid-level roles, and advanced into supervisory and managerial leadership, ultimately serving as Production Manager.

Additional Career Resources

Video Education

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