There are some career fields that still have difficulty finding qualified individuals to fill positions. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the following careers are high demand with growth predicted. It is always important to look at personal interests, strengths, aptitudes and values to see if a career will be a good fit. However, outlook is an important factor, which should not be overlooked. Taking courses, while still in high school, that are related to the major will help your child know if they would enjoy continuing in that area of study.
Biomedical Engineer
A Biomedical Engineer will often find a job in a biotech company, work on research with a team of doctors, nurses, technicians, medical scientists or manufacturing representatives. They work in healthcare, engineering and biology to create innovative ways to solve problems. Some will work in pharmaceutical companies to create synthetic drugs. They create prosthetic limbs, medical instruments or research stem cells and tissues. Arthroscopic and robotic surgery is also a field within biomedical engineering. Rapid changes in technology will continue to create new areas for biomedical engineers.
What major would one obtain to be a Biomedical engineer? Biomedical Engineering, Chemical or Mechanical Engineering
Helpful classes in high school: Biology, Engineering, Physics
What is the median salary? $88,360
Employment Growth Expected: Much faster than average
Related high demand careers: Chemical, Civil or Mechanical Engineer
Actuarial Scientist
An actuary would work in the field of finance and insurance, as well as government. They evaluate risk. Ever changing insurance and financial regulations make this career a service that is much needed by corporations. There is also a shortage of graduates who hold this degree. This career can also lead to being a financial manager.
What major would one obtain to be an Actuary? Mathematics, Statistics, Actuarial Science, Corporate Finance
There will be required courses for professional certification and a series of exams. An internship as an actuary is also highly desired.
Helpful classes in high school: Economics, Statistics, Computer Science, Programming, High level of math
What is the median salary? $103,000
Employment Growth Expected: Faster than average
Related High Demand Careers: Cost Estimator, Statistician, Logistician
Mechatronics Engineer
Mechatronics is a multidisciplinary branch of engineering that focuses on electrical, mechanical and computer engineering to increase efficiency in the production and function of manufactured goods. This field teaches students how to build and control mechanical devices like motors and robots as well as develop new machinery and tools. Computers, telecommunications and product engineering, including the field of autonomous driving, are areas of study within this major. In general, engineering grads have the highest starting salary of any major.
What major would one obtain to be a Mechatronics Engineer? Mechatronics, Robotics, Automation Engineering Technology/Technician, Mechanical Engineering
Helpful classes in high school: Math through Calculus, Electronics, Chemistry, Physics, Engineering, Computer Programming
What is the median salary? $87,370
Employment Growth Expected: Average Growth
Related High Demand Careers: Mechanical, Electrical or Computer Engineer, Robotics
Registered Nurse
Registered nurses care for patients and educate them to help them live longer, healthier lives. They assist physicians in providing treatment to patients who suffer from various medical conditions. They monitor patient progress, work with families and administer medications. Due to our aging population, this is a job that will continue to be much needed in the future. RNs may choose to focus on a particular program like: Psychiatric, Adult and Family Health, Pediatrics, Community Health, etc.
What major would one obtain to be a Registered Nurse? Nursing (BSN)
Will need to pass licensure examination and get supervised clinical experience. This varies by state.
Helpful classes in high school: Nutrition, Anatomy, Physiology, Chemistry, Microbiology, Human Development
What is the median salary? $71,730
Employment Growth Expected: Much faster than average
Related High Demand Career: Cardiovascular Technologist, Healthcare Manager, Physical Therapist Assistant, Physician Assistant
Software Developer
People who know how to make, modify and master computers will continue to be in high demand. Between 2016 and 2026, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects this field to grow by more than a quarter-million jobs. A person in the field of software developing uses principles of science and math to develop applications for a variety of purposes. They may make games, operating systems or software. They develop the programs based on user needs, then create and test it. A good software developer can work anywhere. From a startup job to working with a corporate enterprise, there are opportunities in virtually every industry and every geographic market.
With more experience one can advance to an Information Technology Project Manager.
What major would one obtain to be a Software Developer? Computer Science, Software Engineering, Programming. Business and Communications classes are also recommended as employers often prefer workers who have strong business and communication skills.
Helpful classes in high school: High levels of math, Computer Programming, Computer Science, Communication
What is the median salary? $103,620
Employment Growth Expected: Much faster than average
Related High Demand Careers: Computer Systems Analyst, Web Design, Computer Engineer, Network Administrator
Human Resources Specialist
Human Resources Specialists handle hiring and recruiting as well as other employee relations tasks for companies or organizations. They often handle tasks related to employee relations, compensation, benefits and training. Due to the demand for data, this job will grow in the future. At this time there is more demand for Human Resources Specialists than there is a supply. The increase of analytics to drive decisions and expansion, as well as employee assistance programs that employers offer, are driving the increased need. The position is found across industries and locations. Any organization that employs people needs HR.
What major would one obtain to be a Human Resource Officer? Business, Applied Social Psychology, Human Resources
Helpful school: Psychology, Communications, Accounting
What is the median salary? $61,920
Employment Growth Expected: Average
Related High Demand Careers: Labor Relations Specialist, Public Relations Specialist
