10 Fastest Growing Occupations in the US

Increasing Employment Due to Technology Advances and Baby Boomers

Apr 24, 2009 David R. Wetzel

Occupations projected to have the largest increase in employment, based on analysis of data published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Advances in technology and the increasing number of baby boomers are the two primary influences on the 10 fastest growing occupations in the U.S. As more work functions become automated, the number of people needed to maintain and monitor computer-based technologies is increasing in most industries. As with advances in technology, the increasing number of baby boomers requiring health services requires additional people to meet the demand.

Occupations with Fastest Employment Growth

Based on data recently published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 10 occupations were identified as having the greatest increase in employees in the U.S from now though the year 2016 (Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Outlook Handbook and Career Guide to Industries, 2008-2009):

1. Network Systems and Data Communications Analyst – have a projected increase of 53 percent. Growth is largely due to increased applications of emerging technologies to monitor and control computer-based technologies.

2. Personal and Home Care Aides – have a projected increase of 51 percent. Growth is chiefly due to the increased numbers of retiring baby boomers. Most personal and home care aides work with elderly or physically or mentally disabled clients who need more extensive personal and home care than family or friends can provide.

3. Home Health Aides – have a projected increase of 49 percent. Growth is due to increased numbers of retiring baby boomers. Home health aides help elderly, convalescent, or disabled persons live in their own homes instead of health care facilities.

4. Computer Application Software Engineers – have a projected increase of 45 percent. Growth is mainly due to increased applications of emerging technologies. Computer application software engineers analyze a user’s needs; then design, test, and develop software to meet those needs.

5. Veterinary Technologists and Technicians – have a projected increase of 41 percent. Growth is mostly due to increased need for specialized services. Veterinary technologists and technicians conduct clinical work in a private practice under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian.

6. Personal Financial Advisers – have a projected increase of 41percent. Growth is largely due to increasing number of baby boomers nearing retirement. Advisors use their knowledge of investments, tax laws, and insurance to recommend financial options to individuals.

7. Medical Assistants – have a projected increase of 35 percent. Growth is principally due to increasing number of baby boomers nearing retirement and increased population of the U.S. Medical assistants perform administrative and clinical tasks in the offices of physicians, podiatrists, chiropractors, and other health practitioners.

8. Veterinarians – have a projected increase of 35 percent. Growth is basically due to demand for better and advanced health care treatments for pets.

9. Substance Abuse and Behavioral Disorder Counselors – have a projected increase of 34 percent. Growth is due to a decrease of graduates from college counselor programs. Substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors help people who have problems with alcohol, drugs, gambling, and eating disorders.

10. Skin Care Specialists – have a projected increase of 34 percent. This growth is expected as more health care facilities and spas offer skin care treatments to clients. Skin care specialists provide specialized beauty services to help clients look and feel their best.

Making Connections Regarding Growth in these Occupations

Selecting an education program to meet the needs of someone considering a change in career to enter one of these top 10 occupations is essential. Along with considering one of these 10 occupations and education requirements, avoiding the occupations with the fastest decline in employment is critical for future job security. The Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Outlook Handbook provides resources for additional occupations with better than average employment growth between now and 2016.

The copyright of the article 10 Fastest Growing Occupations in the US in Career Advice is owned by David R. Wetzel. Permission to republish 10 Fastest Growing Occupations in the US in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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