I recently attended a webinar with a representative of the US bureau of labour statistics which offered some important information about the job market, that you will want to have too! (don’t worry, there is a Canadian equivalent noted below!)
The most interesting insight was about the jobs that are predicted to experience the greatest growth in the next several years. This list of the top jobs (almost all within the healthcare sector, the largest overall) included the following:
- Diagnostic medical sonographers
- Respiratory therapists
- Dental hygienists
- Radiologic technologists and technicians
- Occupational therapy assistants
- Veterinary technologists
- Medical equipment repairers
Of further interest about this, is that these do not require a 4-year degree. The education and training programs for these occupations range from one to three years. Often, these jobs are excellent entry points for work in healthcare and to explore healthcare environments, that can also be used as a springboard into further education, training, and advancement or transition into careers with increased responsibility and higher salaries. That said, starting salaries for these careers are in the range of $50,000 to $75,000 per year more (in major metropolitan areas).
There were many more insights provided, which can be found in the US Occupational Outlook Handbook (which presents the labour data gathered by specialists and economists in a searchable, filterable, organized format to help guide those who are planning their educational and employment futures).
And, the Canadian equivalent: the Career Handbook, which is based on the National Occupational Classification system.
These are indispensable resources in the US and Canada, for students and families, and anyone seeking the most accurate future projections, and descriptions, of occupations.
Lastly, here are some careers with growing demand, where 4-year degrees and higher are required:
Software Engineer or Designer – $43/hour
Aerospace Engineer – $39/hour
Pharmacist – $50/hour
Psychologist – $40/hour
Registered Nurse – $38/hour
