Everyone likes to be needed. And, while this applies to your love and social life, it also applied to the workplace. Choosing a career path in the right career ensures you have a bright and lucrative future. If you're considering your career options, why not choose one of these in-demand career paths?
Software Developer
In this day of smartphones, tablets, and computers, it should come as no surprise that this is one of the most sought after careers. It's because of developers that we can use software on phones and computers. While some developers make applications for tasks, others work on whole operating systems.
Developers need to understand the needs of users and figure out how to make software that meets those needs. Usually, they work for companies that make computers or publish software. It's not a very active job and often requires teamwork.
Most software developers have a bachelor's degree in computer science or software engineering. However, some positions in the field may require a master's degree. People often get started with an internship, which boosts their experience.
The job outlook for a software developer is excellent. In 2019, there were almost 1.5 million software developers in the U.S. According to the OOH, the field will grow 22% by 2029.
Postsecondary Teacher
While elementary, middle, and high school teachers are always in demand, postsecondary teachers are even more in need. Although they can teach any subject above high school, postsecondary teachers in health, business, and nursing are in the highest demand. They teach classes, do research, and advise students on their majors and career plans.
Usually working in universities and professional schools, postsecondary educators often teach a few classes. The rest of their time may be spent in a lab, advising students, or working in the field. To be a postsecondary teacher, you need a doctorate and experience in your field. In rare cases, someone with a master's degree could obtain employment as an educator at a community college.
The pay for this career varies tremendously. While vocational teachers could receive $40,000 a year, a nursing instructor may receive as much as $67,000. Large universities sometimes pay their educators much more. By 2029, there's an expected growth of 121,500 jobs in this field.
Financial Manager
No matter how much the economy or technology changes, there's always an exchange of funds. Because every company deals with money on some scale, financial managers are in demand. The financial manager is responsible for tracking the income, expenses, and other financial details of a business or organization. To maximize profits, a financial manager needs to combine analytical and problem-solving skills.
As a financial manager, you could expect to work for any type of business or organization. They're usually high in the hierarchy and work with executives. Because a financial manager is such a high-level position, most people in this position work long hours. The career demands a bachelor's in economics, accounting, or other related niches.
With this title usually comes a high salary. In 2019, the median income for the career was over $129,000. According to the BLS, the field will grow 15% by 2029.
Construction Manager
You probably can't drive two miles without seeing a construction project. Although you might see plenty of construction workers, you don't usually see the people behind the project. Construction managers remain behind-the-scenes and run their sites. In addition to supervising their workers, construction managers also ensure the work remains up to code.
While construction managers aren't as hands-on with tools as their workers, they do spend quite a bit of their time on the construction site. Generally, they have a field office and make day-to-day decisions from there.
If you want to be involved in this field, you need a bachelor's degree in a related field along with experience assisting as a manager for a project. However, you may be able to start out on a small project with an associate's degree. The median salary is just under $100,000, and the field should grow by 8% in the next decade.
Physical Therapist
For years, physical therapists have been in high demand. They help people with injuries or illnesses to regain their mobility. Using stretching and exercises on their clients, physical therapists are able to alleviate pain and improve mobility.
Physical therapists work in offices, clinics, and hospitals. To obtain employment, they need a doctor of physical therapy from a recognized program. Typically, the program takes three years to complete after the individual earns a bachelor's degree. The field should see an 18% growth in the next ten years.
Computer & Information Systems Manager
The computing power used by companies is impressive, but it's not self-sustaining. Therefore, businesses need computer and information systems managers to handle things. In this role, you can expect to analyze the company's computer needs, recommend upgrades, and direct other professionals.
Because large companies have such grand computer needs, they often employ multiple managers. One manager might handle the overall goals, while another manager might handle the needs of a department. Regardless of your title, you can expect to have a full workload. This isn't an easy job, and could require you to work over 40 hours each week.
As a general rule, you need a bachelor's degree in information science or computers to work as a computer and information systems manager. You also need years of experience in the field. However, the requirements pay off with a high median salary of well over $100,000. The expected growth in the field is about 11% in the next ten years.
Are Any of These Jobs Right for You?
When it comes to choosing a career path, you have a lot to think about. Sure, you want to do something you love. But there are other details to consider, such as the salary and expected job growth.
A career you love won't do you any good if there's no demand for it. If any of the jobs above sound appealing to you, it might be time to start job hunting.