What fields are growing?

The labor market is in a state of perpetual flux, and if there is one thing that the last year has taught us, it is that having both potential and stability in our jobs is something that should be greatly valued. It may be in your best advantage to select a profession that is anticipated to expand in spite of changing technology, global calamities, and altering work patterns whether you are trying to make a career transition or are just starting out. Use this list to future-proof your career and obtain insight on the 20 occupations that are projected to increase at the quickest rate over the next decade.

We present information on the occupations and sectors that are anticipated to increase at the highest rate from 2019 to 2029 based on data provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) of the United States of America. You are welcome to skip down to the infographic if you are interested in seeing a visual representation of the future of work in the United States.

1. Technicians in Charge of Servicing Wind Turbines

Wind turbine service technicians, also known as windtechs, are expected to have the highest rate of employment growth over the next ten years, with their growth rate being fifteen times faster than that of other vocations. The installation, maintenance, and repair of wind turbines are the primary tasks of a windtech. Their line of work requires them to go to locations where turbines are located, and it puts them in potentially hazardous situations such as climbing and rappelling at tremendous heights. Even without a bachelor's degree, prospective windtechs have the opportunity to find work all around the country and earn a respectable wage in spite of the risks associated with this line of work. Wind power is also the greatest source of renewable energy in the United States, and it is anticipated that the demand for energy would result in a rise in the number of employment available in this industry.

wind-turbine-technician-inspection

The anticipated annual growth rate comes in at 61 percent.

Median Salary: $56,230

Education requirements include a certificate from a trade school or an associate degree, in addition to 12 months of on-the-job training.

There is no need for years of experience.

Locations with a High Job Market Participation Rate: the Midwest, the Great Plains, and Coastal Areas

2. Advanced Practice Registered Nurses

Another vocation that is expanding rapidly, with a growth rate that is above average of 52 percent, is that of nurse practitioners. In order to serve patients with health care services, these health care professionals can collaborate with medical practitioners or operate on their own. Even though the range of services provided by nurse practitioners differs from one state to another, most of them are qualified to provide primary and preventive care, including making medical diagnoses and writing prescriptions. It is necessary to complete extensive training and get a master's degree in order to be eligible for this employment. Because nurse practitioners earn a median income of $117,670 annually, the extra time spent in school may prove to be an investment that was well worth the money.

The anticipated annual growth rate comes in at 52%.

Median Salary: $117,670

Education: a Master's degree in addition to a license to practice as a registered nurse from the past

There is no need for years of experience.

The states of California, New York, Texas, Florida, and Ohio all have relatively high employment rates.

3. Installers of solar photovoltaic systems

In addition to wind power, solar energy is another source of energy and employment that is expanding rapidly. Installers of solar photovoltaic systems (also known as PV installers) are in charge of the construction and maintenance of all solar energy systems. There is a lot of rivalry for the few available jobs, despite the fact that employment growth is substantial. Applicants with technical training, community college credit, or apprenticeship experience have a more hopeful work outlook than those with only a high school diploma. Entry-level occupations often require candidates to have a high school diploma.

The anticipated annual growth rate comes in at 51%.

Median Salary: $46,470

Education: a diploma from an accredited high school or its equivalent.

There is no need for years of experience.

The states of California, New Jersey, North Carolina, New York, and Virginia all have relatively high employment rates.

4. Individuals who work as assistants in occupational therapy

Occupational therapy assistants are expected to have a growth rate of 35% over the next several years, which will help meet the need for patients who require assistance in regaining and retaining the abilities essential to go about their everyday lives. Assistants in this field work under the supervision of occupational therapists to conduct therapy activities for people with developmental impairments, with the goals of improving sociability and mobility. To become an occupational therapy assistant, you will need to have at least 16 weeks of practical fieldwork experience in addition to an associate degree in a health-related subject.

The anticipated growth rate is thirty-five percent.

Median Salary: $62,940

Education: Two-year college diploma

There is no need for years of experience.

The states of Ohio, Texas, Florida, New York, and Illinois all have relatively high employment rates.

5. Analysts of statistics

Because statisticians are able to examine data and use statistical methods to find solutions to problems, their skills are in high demand in a variety of industries, including business, health care, government, and engineering. For the most part, statisticians are required to get a master's degree or doctorate in a subject of quantitative study before they may advance their careers. It is anticipated that there will be an increase in the demand for statisticians over the course of the next decade. The job outlook is expected to be particularly favorable for individuals who possess strong data analysis skills, in-depth statistical knowledge, and prior experience with modeling or computer programming.

The anticipated growth rate is thirty-five percent.

Median Salary: $92,270

Education: the equivalent of a Master's degree

There is no need for years of experience.

The states of California, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, and Texas all have relatively high employment rates.

6. Personal Care Aides in the Home

The significant increase in the number of persons aged 65 and older is creating a big need for home health care services. Trends toward aging in place are also creating this demand. Home health aides provide support to patients suffering from chronic illnesses or disabilities, as well as to anybody else who need assistance in their day-to-day activities. In addition to providing assistance with day-to-day tasks, they also provide fundamental medical care, such as monitoring vital signs and administering medications when necessary. To become a home health aide, you will need to have completed high school or received an equivalent credential, in addition to receiving training via a program or on the job.

The anticipated growth rate is thirty-four percent.

Median Salary: $27,080

Education: a diploma from an accredited high school or its equivalent.

There is no need for years of experience.

The states of California, New York, Texas, Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts all have relatively high employment rates.

7. Individuals who assist in physical therapy

Physical therapy assistants (PTAs) aid patients recovering from accidents or diseases by restoring their range of motion and assisting with the management of any discomfort connected with the healing process. In most cases, you will need to get an associate degree in addition to a license or certification that may be earned by passing the National Physical Therapy Exam in order to work as a physical therapist assistant (PTA). The demand for personal care aides is expected to increase at a rate that is much higher than the norm over the next several years. Aspiring personal care aides (PTAs) who are interested in finding work may investigate home health care, nursing homes, and orthopedic outpatient centers.

The rate of growth anticipated is 33 percent.

Median Salary: $59,770

Education: Two-year college diploma

There is no need for years of experience.

Florida, Texas, Ohio, California, and New York are among the states with the highest employment rates.

8. Supervisors of Medical and Health Care Services

Managers of medical and health services are accountable for leading and organizing the provision of medical care within a particular establishment, organization, or administrative division. They are also referred to as health care administrators or health care executives, and they are tasked with the responsibility of managing services in accordance with the ever-evolving rules and technology. Even while a bachelor's degree is necessary, businesses increasingly choose candidates with master's degrees and consider them more valuable to their companies. In addition to having a degree, those who aspire to management positions need to have experience either in clinical or administrative settings.

The anticipated annual growth rate comes in at 32%.

Median Salary: $104,280

Education: completed a Bachelor's degree program.

Required Minimum Number of Years of Experience: less than five

The states of California, Texas, New York, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania all have relatively high employment rates.

9. Medical Assistants in Primary Care

It is necessary to have physician assistants (PAs) who work in conjunction with other medical professionals in order to conduct medical exams, make diagnosis, and provide treatments. It is necessary to get a master's degree in order to work as a physician assistant (PA), and prospective candidates often need previous experience caring for patients in order to be accepted into a graduate school. There are a large number of work options available in the medical and health care fields for PAs after they have earned their degree and obtained their licensure.

The growth rate forecast is at 31 percent.

Median Salary: $115,390

Education: the equivalent of a Master's degree

There is no need for years of experience.

The following states and regions have a high employment rate: New York, California, Texas, Florida, and Pennsylvania

10. Analysts of Information Systems Security

When it comes to the protection of an organization's computer networks and systems, the function of information security analyst is very crucial. Because cyberattacks are becoming more often and more sophisticated, businesses are in need of people that can design security best practices and keep up with the latest developments in information technology and security trends. Those who are interested in entering this profession should begin their careers in an area related to information technology so that they may obtain experience working with computer networks and databases.

The growth rate forecast is at 31 percent.

Median Salary: $103,590

Education: completed a Bachelor's degree program.

Required Minimum Number of Years of Experience: less than five

Locations in Virginia, Texas, California, Florida, and Maryland that have a high employment rate are:

11. Data Scientists

The primary focus of a data scientist's work is to convert unprocessed data into information that can be understood by using various data applications and computer languages. Data scientists are responsible for analyzing, visualizing, and reporting their results, in addition to consulting on the analytical methods that are utilized to address issues. Science, the financial sector, and the insurance industry are among the top sectors offering possibilities in data science. To join this sector, you will need at least a bachelor's degree; however, companies may give more weight to those who have graduate degrees.

The growth rate forecast is at 31 percent.

Median Salary: $98,230

Education: completed a Bachelor's degree program.

There is no need for years of experience.

The states of California, Texas, New York, Illinois, and Washington all have relatively high employment rates.

12. Derrick Operators

Oil and gas derrick operators are responsible for the installation and operation of derrick equipment, which is used to excavate oil wells and drive drills further into the earth. In addition to this, derrick operators take part in a wide range of operations that are designed to maintain, monitor, and regulate oil derricks. There are no prerequisites in terms of education or experience to become a derrick operator; instead, on-the-job training is provided. Mining, oil and gas production, and construction are the three sectors where there is the most need for workers with this vocation.

The growth rate forecast is at 31 percent.

Median Salary: $47,920

Education: None of the aforementioned.

There is no need for years of experience.

The states of Texas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, North Dakota, and California all have relatively high employment rates.

13. Individuals Who Operate Rotary Drills

Rotary drill operators are responsible for the assembly and operation of drills that are used to extract oil and gas from underground. This employment is another role engaged in the extraction of oil and gas that is seeing rapid growth. Despite not requiring a specific degree or prior experience, this role does need some minor training while on the job. Those who are interested in this line of work may want to look into the mining, coal, oil, and construction sectors for potential employment prospects.

The growth rate forecast is at 27 percent.

Median Salary: $53,820

Education: None of the aforementioned.

There is no need for years of experience.

The states of Texas, Oklahoma, California, New Mexico, and Louisiana all have relatively high employment rates.

14. Rough-and-tumbles

The construction industry, the oil and gas industry, and the mining industry are all seeing rapid job growth in the roustabout profession. This position is essential for the installation and maintenance of oil field equipment, and the only training necessary for it is minimal on-the-job training; formal schooling is not required. This kind of worker is also known as a floor hand, rig hand, and galley hand, among other job names.

The rate of growth anticipated is twenty-five percent.

Median Salary: $39,420

Education: None of the aforementioned.

There is no need for years of experience.

The states of Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, North Dakota, and Colorado all have relatively high employment rates.

15 Those Who Specialize in Communicative Disorders

To work as a speech-language pathologist and assist those who struggle with communication and swallowing issues, you will need a clinical license in addition to a master's degree at the very least. Speech therapists are professionals who evaluate, diagnose, and treat children and adults who have communication impairments such as stuttering. They may also go by the name of speech pathologists. Patients who have suffered from a stroke, Parkinson's disease, brain damage, cleft palate, or autism may be treated by those who fill this job at health care institutions. One alternate path to take in this line of work is to work in schools as a counselor or program coordinator.

The rate of growth anticipated is twenty-five percent.

Median Salary: $80,480

Education: the equivalent of a Master's degree

There is no need for years of experience.

The states of California, Texas, New York, Florida, and Illinois all have relatively high employment rates.

16. Analysts in Operations Research Positions

Operation research analysts are entrusted with the difficult job of addressing complex challenges across a variety of sectors by using sophisticated mathematical and analytical methodologies. Operations research analysts have analytical skills that may be applied to a variety of fields, including health care, business, logistics, and science. These talents are in high demand by businesses that want to reduce costs and increase the effectiveness of their operations. To get started, you will require a bachelor's degree in operations research or related quantitative discipline; however, those with graduate degrees will have a greater chance of being hired.

The rate of growth anticipated is twenty-five percent.

Median Salary: $86,200

Education: completed a Bachelor's degree program.

There is no need for years of experience.

The states of California, Texas, Virginia, and New York, along with Florida, all have relatively high employment rates.

17. Therapists Specialized in the Treatment of Behavioral Disorders, Substance Abuse, and Mental Health

Individuals who are afflicted with mental or behavioral issues that cause them to struggle in their day-to-day lives may get therapy from counselors who specialize in the field of drug abuse, behavioral disorders, and mental health. They diagnose and analyze issues such as addiction and alcoholism, and then provide therapy and education in order to facilitate recovery. To become a counselor, you will typically need to have a bachelor's degree and a clinical license; however, the criteria for becoming a counselor might range from a certification to a master's degree depending on the state. Opportunities for those interested in pursuing a career in this field will continue to expand as more and more individuals make use of mental health services.

The rate of growth anticipated is twenty-five percent.

Median Salary: $47,660

Education: completed a Bachelor's degree program.

There is no need for years of experience.

The states of California, Pennsylvania, New York, Florida, and Massachusetts all have high employment rates.

18. Experts in Fire Prevention and Inspection in the Forestry Sector

Forest fire inspectors and prevention experts assess residential and public structures, as well as outdoor spaces, for potential threats posed by wildfires. This is done with the goal of preventing fire hazards. They are accountable for reporting violations of the fire code, enforcing laws, and providing reports on the state of the fire. As a result of the growing number of wildfires that are occurring throughout the country, the number of jobs for forest fire inspectors and prevention specialists will increase to match the rising demand. Even though just a high school diploma is necessary to join this sector, the majority of those who do so have prior experience in the firefighting industry as well as some level of postsecondary education.

The anticipated growth rate is twenty-four percent.

Median Salary: $42,150

Education: a diploma from an accredited high school or its equivalent.

Required Minimum Number of Years of Experience: less than five

Locations with a High Job Market Participation Rate: Florida, California, Georgia, Mississippi, and Arkansas

19. Restaurant Cooks

Aspiring chefs in restaurants have a wide variety of career paths available to them to choose from. Becoming a chef at a restaurant does not need any kind of official schooling, and you may learn all you need to know about the handling and safety of food during your time working in the kitchen. Having said that, many individuals do decide to seek instruction in the culinary arts at a professional school, via a vocational program, or through an apprenticeship. Even while it isn't the profession on our list with the quickest anticipated growth rate, with approximately 1.8 million jobs expected to be available in 2029, it is undeniably a field that is ripe with potential.

The anticipated growth rate is 23 percent.

Median Salary: $28,800

Education: None of the aforementioned.

There is no need for years of experience.

The states of California, Texas, Florida, New York, and Pennsylvania all have relatively high employment rates.

20. Animal Caretakers

Animal caretaking might be the ideal profession for you to pursue if you have a soft spot in your heart for both domesticated and wild creatures. It is not necessary to have any previous experience or a formal degree in order to work as an animal caregiver. Your responsibilities will include feeding, grooming, and exercising the animals in your charge. The number of people who keep animals as companions is steadily increasing, and it is anticipated that the number of jobs involving animal care will rise to meet the rising demand.

The anticipated growth rate is 23 percent.

Median Salary: $26,080

Education: a diploma from an accredited high school or its equivalent.

There is no need for years of experience.

The states of California, Texas, Florida, New York, and Illinois all have relatively high employment rates.