Finishing your studies and getting a college degree is highly important, but work experience should be taken seriously as well.

Many people believe that a diploma is a ticket to employment. However, individuals who have work experience are more attractive to employers now.

Several studies from California State University found that employers view work experience as vital to hiring, a belief that dates back to the '80s. In 1993, 93 percent of interns in work-study programs have scored jobs offered by their employers, according to a Northwestern University study that was covered in California State's review.

In a 2013 report from High Fliers Research, it was found that college graduates who have no work experience have "little chance" of getting hired.

An analysis conducted by ZipRecruiter found that these six qualifications appeared the most when they examined 250,000 job ads. These are communication (51 percent), time management (21 percent), ability to work with a team (19 percent), independent motivation (12 percent), precise experience in Microsoft Office (11 percent) and ability to work in a fast-paced environment (7 percent).

That being said, here are some jobs that value work experience more than an educational degree.

1. Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics

Potential technicians and mechanics undergo post-secondary training programs that usually take from six months to a year to complete. They tackle basic mathematics, computers and electronics, among others. These programs give both classroom and on-the-job training. Several service technicians acquire an associate's degree thanks to sponsorships from car manufacturers and dealerships.

2. Machinists

Machinists should be able to operate large machines as well as produce unique and usually difficult-to-replace machine parts. Workers need to have high competency in math, which can be attained through formal multiyear apprenticeship programs. Given that apprentices have to balance work and technical school, these programs are not a walk in the park.

3. Carpenters

The majority of people learn carpentry through a paid apprenticeship that lasts for three or four years. It is required for apprentices to finish 144 hours of technical training (such as mathematics, carpentry and safety) and 2,000 hours of on-the-job training.

4. Electricians

Electricians are required to have a high school diploma with at least a year of algebra. They should also have a four-year apprenticeship, which is a combination of school attendance and on-the-job training.

5. Plumbers, Pipefitters, Steamfitters

Plumbers, pipefitters and steamfitters must be available to work both nights and weekends, and are usually called for residential and industrial projects. Workers usually have a high school diploma, but they are required to possess multiyear apprenticeships, on-the-job training and class work consisting of math, physics, regulations and chemistry.

On a related note, here are some careers that could match your skill set.