Unveiling the 10 Careers Set to Soar Over the Next Decade

Written by Reece E. Ohmer, MWSE Career Advisor

12.07.2023

Embarking on the journey into the next decade, the employment landscape is poised for dynamic shifts and unprecedented growth. According to a news release from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, total employment is expected to grow by 11.9 million jobs, increasing from 153.5 million to 165.4 million jobs through 2030. The fastest increases are expected in the areas of leisure and hospitality, and the greatest number of new jobs are forecast for the areas of healthcare and social assistance.

As technology advances and societal needs continue to change, certain professions are projected to experience significant growth over the next 10 years. Check out the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook to see the complete list of jobs on the rise. This article explores the top ten fastest-growing careers, ranked by growth rate percentage; shedding light on the skills and qualifications that will be in high demand in the coming decade.

Wind turbine service technicians, 45% growth rate; $57,320 per year median salary.

• Inspect, diagnose, adjust, or repair wind turbines. Perform maintenance on wind turbine equipment including resolving electrical, mechanical, and hydraulic malfunctions.

Nurse practitioners, 45% growth rate; $121,610 per year median salary.

• Diagnose and treat acute, episodic, or chronic illness, independently or as part of a healthcare team. May focus on health promotion and disease prevention. May order, perform, or interpret diagnostic tests such as lab work and x rays. May prescribe medication. Must be registered nurses who have specialized graduate education.

Data scientists, 35% growth rate; $103,500 per year median salary.

• Develop and implement a set of techniques or analytics applications to transform raw data into meaningful information using data-oriented programming languages and visualization software. Apply data mining, data modeling, natural language processing, and machine learning to extract and analyze information from large structured and unstructured datasets. Visualize, interpret, and report data findings. May create dynamic data reports.

Information security analysts; 32% growth rate; $112,000 per year median salary.

• Plan, implement, upgrade, or monitor security measures for the protection of computer networks and information. Assess system vulnerabilities for security risks and propose and implement risk mitigation strategies. May ensure appropriate security controls are in place that will safeguard digital files and vital electronic infrastructure. May respond to computer security breaches and viruses.

Physician assistants, 27% growth rate; $126,010 per year median salary.

• Provide healthcare services typically performed by a physician, under the supervision of a physician. Conduct complete physicals, provide treatment, and counsel patients. May, in some cases, prescribe medication. Must graduate from an accredited educational program for physician assistants.

Physical therapist assistants, 26% growth rate; $62,770 per year median salary.

• Assist physical therapists in providing physical therapy treatments and procedures. May, in accordance with state laws, assist in the development of treatment plans, carry out routine functions, document the progress of treatment, and modify specific treatments in accordance with patient status and within the scope of treatment plans established by a physical therapist. Generally requires formal training.

Occupational therapy assistants, 24% growth rate; $64,250 per year median salary.

• Assist occupational therapists in providing occupational therapy treatments and procedures. May, in accordance with state laws, assist in development of treatment plans, carry out routine functions, direct activity programs, and document the progress of treatments. Generally requires formal training.

Solar photovoltaic installers, 22% growth rate; $45,230 per year median salary.

• Assemble, install, or maintain solar photovoltaic (PV) systems on roofs or other structures in compliance with site assessment and schematics. May include measuring, cutting, assembling, and bolting structural framing and solar modules. May perform minor electrical work such as current checks.

Home health and personal care aides, 22% growth; $34,670 per year median salary.

• Monitor the health status of an individual with disabilities or illness, and address their health-related needs, such as changing bandages, dressing wounds, or administering medication. Work is performed under the direction of offsite or intermittent onsite licensed nursing staff. Provide assistance with routine healthcare tasks or activities of daily living, such as feeding, bathing, toileting, or ambulation. May also help with tasks such as preparing meals, doing light housekeeping, and doing laundry depending on the patient's abilities.

Veterinary technologists and technicians, 21% growth rate; $38,240 per year median salary.

• Perform medical tests in a laboratory environment for use in the treatment and diagnosis of diseases in animals. Prepare vaccines and serums for prevention of diseases. Prepare tissue samples, take blood samples, and execute laboratory tests, such as urinalysis and blood counts. Clean and sterilize instruments and materials and maintain equipment and machines. May assist a veterinarian during surgery.

As we excel into the next year, the job market is undergoing profound transformations driven by technological innovation, environmental consciousness, and societal changes. The top ten fastest-growing careers outlined in this article offer a glimpse into the future job landscape, emphasizing the importance of staying adaptable and acquiring skills that align with emerging trends. Whether you are a recent graduate, a mid-career professional, or someone considering a career transition, these growth areas present exciting opportunities for personal and professional development. By understanding the evolving demands of the job market, individuals can position themselves for success in the dynamic years ahead.

Want to stay ahead of the job market? Get connected with our Michigan Works! Southeast Career Advisors and see all the ways we can support your employment needs today! Click here for more information.