Hello Jobsamerica-ga,
Uncle Sam is on the job -- at least as far as gathering information
relative to your question.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics at the US Dept. of Labor has a recent
report that describes different career paths, and areas where there
are currently (and expected to be) either a shortage of candidates, or
an abundant supply. The report is called "Thee 2002-2003 Career Guide
to Industries" and can be found at:
http://www.bls.gov/oco/cg/home.htm
The following list includes the major career areas listed as facing
(or soon to face) a shortage of qualified applicants:
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Roman Catholic Priests
Preparation generally requires 8 years of study beyond high school,
usually including a college degree followed by 4 or more years of
theology study at a seminary.
The shortage of Roman Catholic priests is expected to continue,
resulting in a very favorable outlook.
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Education Administrators
Most jobs require experience in a related occupation, such as teacher
or admissions counselor, and a master's or doctoral degree.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills are essential, because
so much of an administrator's job involves working and collaborating
with others.
Job outlook is excellent, as a large proportion of education
administrators are expected to retire over the next 10 years.
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Cashiers
Cashiers are trained on the job; this occupation provides
opportunities for many young people with no previous work experience.
About one-half of all cashiers work part time.
Good employment opportunities are expected because of the large number
of workers who leave this occupation each year.
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Construction Equipment Operators
Job opportunities for construction equipment operators are expected to
be good through 2010 -- due, in part, to the shortage of adequate
training programs. In addition, many potential workers may prefer work
that is less strenuous and has more comfortable working conditions.
Well-trained workers will have especially favorable opportunities.
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Drywall installers, Ceiling tile installers, and Tapers
Job opportunities for drywall installers, ceiling tile installers, and
tapers are expected to be excellent through 2010, partly due to a
shortage of adequate training programs. In addition, many potential
workers may prefer work that is less strenuous and has more
comfortable working conditions. Well-trained workers will have
especially favorable opportunities.
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Teachers-Preschool, Kindergarten, Elementary, Middle, and Secondary
Public school teachers must have at least a bachelor's degree,
complete an approved teacher education program, and be licensed.
Many States offer alternative licensing programs to attract people
into teaching, especially for hard-to-fill positions.
Excellent job opportunities will stem from the large number of
teachers expected to retire over the next 10 years, particularly at
the secondary school level; job outlook will vary by geographic area
and subject specialty.
----------
Brickmasons, Blockmasons, and Stonemasons
Job prospects are expected to be excellent.
The International Masonry Institute (IMI), a joint trust of the
International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftsworkers and the
contractors who employ its members, operates training centers in
several large cities that help jobseekers develop the skills needed to
successfully complete the formal apprenticeship program. In view of
the shortage of entrants, IMI has expanded these centers in recent
years to recruit and train workers before they enter apprenticeship
programs.
----------
Computer-Control Programmers and Operators
Computer-control programmers and operators use computer numerically
controlled (CNC) machines to cut and shape precision
products, such as automobile parts, machine parts, and compressors.
Workers learn in apprenticeship programs, informally on the job, and
in secondary, vocational, or postsecondary schools; many entrants have
previously worked as machinists or machine setters, operators, and
tenders.
Job opportunities will be excellent, as employers are expected to
continue to have difficulty finding qualified workers.
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Teachers & Adult Literacy and Remedial and Self-Enrichment Education
The majority of employed adult teachers work part time and receive no
benefits; many unpaid volunteers also teach these subjects.
Opportunities for teachers of English as a Second Language are
expected to be very good, as the number of immigrants seeking classes
is expected to increase.
Demand for self-enrichment courses is expected to rise as more people
embrace lifelong learning.
----------
Construction
Job opportunities are expected to be excellent in the construction
industry, due largely to the numerous openings arising each year from
experienced construction workers who leave jobs.
Many potential workers may prefer work that is less strenuous and has
more comfortable working conditions.
The continued shortage of adequate training programs also will
contribute to the favorable job market.
----------
Teachers--Special Education
A bachelors degree, completion of an approved teacher preparation
program, and a license are required to qualify; many States require a
masters degree.
Many States offer alternative licensure programs to attract people
into these jobs.
Excellent job prospects are expected due to rising enrollments of
special education students and reported shortages of qualified
teachers.
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Education Administrators
Job prospects also are favorable for college and university
administrators,
particularly those seeking nonacademic positions.
While competition for positions as academic deans and department
heads remains keen, as faculty strive for these prestigious jobs,
there
is a shortage of applicants for nonacademic administrative jobs.
For example, positions as directors of admissions or student affairs
are difficult to fill. Furthermore, the requirement for a masters or
doctoral degree in education administration discourages many
people -- who can earn higher salaries elsewhere -- from entering
the profession.
----------
I hope this is the information you were seeking, but if anything here
requires elaboration -- or if this answer is off-target from what you
need -- please post a Request for Clarification, and I'll be happy to
assist you further. |