Outline:
Stable Careers That Will Be in Demand for Years to Come
In today’s economy, many people are concerned about job security. If you’re worried about losing your job, it might be time to consider a career change that offers more stability. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), certain jobs are expected to see significant growth over the next decade. These careers vary widely in terms of education requirements, salary, and responsibilities, making them suitable for a range of individuals.
Here are 10 jobs that are likely to remain in high demand over the next 10 years:
1. Nurse Practitioner
Median annual salary: $132,050
Nurse practitioners, along with nurse anesthetists and nurse midwives, are expected to be in high demand. These professionals provide patient care in various ways, such as administering anesthesia or managing childbirth. The BLS predicts a 35% increase in job opportunities for these roles by 2034, with around 134,000 new positions opening up.
2. Software Developer
Median annual salary: $133,080
Software developers design computer applications and programs. They are expected to be in high demand over the next decade, as will software quality assurance analysts and testers who identify and report problems with apps and programs. The BLS projects a 15% increase in employment for these fields, with about 287,900 new jobs expected to open.
3. Electrician
Median annual salary: $62,350
Electricians who install, maintain, and repair electrical equipment are projected to be in demand over the next decade. Many electricians learn their trade through apprenticeships rather than formal education. The BLS forecasts a 9% increase in job opportunities, with about 77,400 new positions available by 2034.
4. Cook
Median annual salary: $60,990
Those who work with and prepare food can expect strong job growth across the board. Chefs and head cooks, who oversee food preparation at restaurants, hotels, and other food service spots, are expected to see a 7% increase in employment, with 14,000 new jobs added.
5. Umpire, Referee, or Other Sport Official
Median annual salary: $38,820
Umpires, referees, and other sports officials are expected to be in surprisingly high demand over the decade, according to BLS statistics. These officials help enforce the rules in various types of sports. Employment is expected to grow 6% over the decade, adding 1,100 jobs. Many of these officials work part-time or for seasonal pay, so they may need other paying gigs during their off-season.
6. Taxi Driver
Median annual salary: $36,660
The BLS foresees job growth for taxi drivers, along with other passenger-vehicle drivers like bus drivers. The projected job growth for passenger vehicle drivers is expected to grow by 9% through 2034, with about 39,000 jobs added.
7. Physician Assistant
Median annual salary: $133,260
Physician assistants provide patient care under the supervision of doctors at hospitals, doctors’ offices, outpatient clinics, and other health care settings. Job growth is projected to be 20% in the next 10 years, with about 33,200 job openings for physician assistants expected.
8. Massage Therapist
Median annual salary: $57,950
Massage therapists, who treat clients by applying pressure and manipulating tissues and joints to alleviate pain and help patients relax, are also expected to be in high demand over the next decade. Job growth is expected to be 15% over the next decade, with about 25,900 job openings expected through 2034.
9. Plumber
Median annual salary: $62,970
Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters can expect steady, but not booming, employment over the next decade. The BLS predicts employment in these trade jobs will grow about 4% in the next 10 years, which is faster than average. On average, about 22,700 jobs are expected to open across these three trades.
10. Occupational Therapist
Median annual salary: $98,340
Occupational therapists treat patients who have injuries, illnesses, or disabilities and help them learn how to perform everyday tasks. Job growth is expected to surpass the average in the U.S., at 14% through 2034. Around 22,100 job openings are expected through the decade.
Conclusion
The rise of automation and the current economic outlook might make job prospects appear bleak, but plenty of industries will likely continue to hire over the next decade and beyond. One way to prepare yourself financially and ensure job security is to explore switching to a new career. When planning your financial future, look at BLS data, which includes average salaries and education requirements for various jobs. Then explore career opportunities that you may have overlooked in the past.