5 Careers With a Promising Job Outlook

There are lots of different reasons why people choose one career path over another. While some target careers with good earning potential, others choose vocations that allow them to help others, or to work with their hands. One thing everyone has in common, however, is the desire to know that there will be jobs available when they complete their training. Here is a look at five careers where the future looks bright.

HVAC/R Installers and Mechanics

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) growth in jobs installing and maintaining Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration equipment is expected to grow 21% in the next few years. The BLS states that the median pay for HVAC/R installers and mechanics was $43,640 in 2012, so if you are interested in the taking care of heating and cooling systems, this can be a very lucrative. To get started in the industry one will need a high school education and the proper vocational and onsite training.

Dental Hygienists

The Bureau of Labor Statistics say growth in the number of positions of dental hygienists is expected to increase 33% by 2022. In 2012, the BLS says the median income for a dental hygienist was $70,210 with top earners making almost six figures. Those who are interested in becoming a dental hygienist will require an Associate’s Degree in Dental Hygiene and appropriate certification in your state.

If you are a high school student interested in this career path you should take courses in chemistry, biology, and math. Many vocational schools and community colleges also offer dental hygiene programs.

Interpreters and Translators

As our world gets smaller the need for interpreters and translators will continue to grow. The BLS anticipates that the growth in jobs in this career path will grow 46% by 2022. In addition to solid job growth, compensation in the industry is attractive, with the 2012 median pay at $45,430.

Becoming an interpreter/translator typically will take a bachelor’s degree with specific training generally taking place on the job. This career path could lead you to a job in the government to jobs working with the deaf. The 2012 number of 63,600 interpreter and translator jobs nationwide is expected to grow by another 29,000 jobs by 2022, making it an excellent choice for those who seek job security and wish to help others communicate.

Postsecondary Teachers and Instructors

Teaching in higher education is an admirable and growing field, as more students than ever before are attending colleges and universities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, almost a quarter of a million post-secondary teaching jobs will be created between 2012 and 2022. That is a 19% expected growth rate in this employment segment. Becoming a post-secondary nursing teacherwill take at least a master’s degree and more commonly a Ph.D. The BLS shows that the median income for post-secondary instructors was $64,850 in 2012, with the top ten percent earning more than $140,000 annually.

Solar Photovoltaic Installers

Solar photovoltaic installers, or PV installers, construct, put in, and maintain solar panels. This infographic from refrigerationschool.com shows that the solar industry is expected to grow by 20% each year, making it one of the fastest growing industries in the US. The BLS also states that the median pay for these workers in 2012 was about $18 per hour. In some cases, entry-level positions in this area only take a high school education. Technical or vocational schools also offer training, so for those interested in green construction and engineering, this is a field to consider.

Monica Mills is a freelance career skills writer. She is passionate about helping people find careers and jobs that they love.