The seven careers in this list are not only in high demand but also pay well. All but one have a projected growth rate at a much faster-than-average rate.
These careers are a mix as far as the education required to enter into these fields and median pay, so there is something for everyone.
1. Photovoltaic Installer
Workers in this field assemble, install, and maintain solar systems on rooftops and other locations. Much of the work is done outside in various weather conditions. The projected growth for this career field is based on the development of the alternative energy field as a whole over the next 10 years. By the end of 2032, this field is expected to have grown by 6,600 workers.
- Projected Growth: 22% (Much faster than average)
- Median Pay: $48,800
- Projected Number of Openings per Year: 3,500
- Education Required: Vocational-Technical School or 1-year OJT
2. Mental Health Professional
Workers going into this career field can specialize as therapists, psychiatrists, counselors, or social workers. In general, mental health professionals advise people with mental health conditions such as alcoholism, addictions, depression, anxiety, etc., and help them work through the issues they are having. The education required does vary by specialty, but generally, at least a 4-year degree is required for entry into this field. Overall, the field is set to grow by 71,500 by 2032.
- Projected Growth: 18% (Much faster than average)
- Median Pay: $53,710
- Projected Number of Openings per Year: 42,000
- Education Required: Bachelor’s degree
3. Veterinary Technician
Most technicians assist veterinarians and take care of animals that are at the animal clinic for an annual checkup or specialized care such as a surgical procedure or if the animal is injured or sick. Most work in private clinics, laboratories, and animal hospitals. Overall, this field is expected to grow by 25,200 jobs over the next 10 years.
- Projected Growth: Over 21% (Much faster than average)
- Median Pay: $43,740
- Projected Number of Openings per Year:14,800
- Education Required: Associate’s degree
4. AI Engineer
This is a new field that developed as a result of the boon of Artificial Intelligence (AI). AI engineers develop computer algorithms that mimic the human mind. They must have strong knowledge of programming, engineering, and data science. Because this is a new field, the number of openings per year is an estimate and likely to be much higher as the field develops and grows.
- Projected Growth: 13% (Much faster than average)
- Median Pay: $140,000
- Projected Number of Openings per Year: 3,400
- Education Required: At least a Bachelor’s degree; Master’s degree or PhD preferred
5. Wind Turbine Technician
As the alternative energy field grows, so will the number of wind generators. Technicians install and maintain wind generators. Workers in this field must be able to work in tight spaces, at extreme heights, and in all types of weather. Overall, this field is expected to grow by 5,000 over the next 10 years.
- Projected Growth: 45% (Much faster than average)
- Median Pay: $61,770
- Projected Number of Openings per Year: 1,800
- Education Required: Vocational/Technical school and OJT
6. Wildland Firefighter
This is a specialized field of firefighting in that they mainly fight wildfires in non-urban areas. Seventy percent of the workforce are in permanent positions and include fire behavior analysts and fire investigators in addition to firefighters. As the planet continues to heat up due to climate change, so will the number of wildfires grow. Do be aware that this is a physically demanding and sometimes dangerous job. The overall employment change in this field is a plus 12,000 over the next 10 years.
- Projected Growth: 4% (As fast as average)
- Median Pay: $57,120
- Projected Number of Openings per Year:26,400
- Education Required: Fire academy or vocational/technical school training
7. Software Developer
This list would not be complete without mentioning software development, as this field is poised to explode over the next 10 years. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, this field is projected to grow by 451,200 jobs by 2032; there are already 1,795,300 working in this field. If you like working with computers and software, this is the field to get into with only a four-year degree required.
Projected Growth: 25% (Much faster than average)
Median Pay: $130,160
Projected Number of Openings per Year: 153,900
Education Required: Bachelor’s degree
NOTE: Data courtesy of the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Any of these fields would be a great choice for a career. With the anticipated projected growth, not only do each of them provide job stability, but also opportunity for career advancement while earning a good living.
