Many "Intangible" Industries Resist Employment Slump

While tangible industries-such as construction, retail trade, man­ufacturing, and transportation-that produce or distribute goods have borne the brunt of job losses in our weak economy, BusinessWeek reports that intangible industries have actually added 500,000 jobs since the beginning of the recession. Intangible industries provide "long-lasting effects, but no solid form," and include those that provide "better education, improved health, and more research" (in science, technology, etc.). Growth and innovation in these fields is critical to the suc­cess of US workers in a global economy. Additionally, studies show that industries that remain strong during a recession often continue to be among the strongest employment sectors when the economy rebounds. As a result, students should consider pursu­ing careers in education, health care, and scientific research and development. See the chart below for specific careers that will offer good employment prospects through 2016.

Fast-Growing "Intangible" Careers

Career & Employment Growth, 2006-16

Much-Faster-Than-Average Growth
 
Computer Scientists
37.0 percent

Forensic Science Technicians
30.7 percent

Database Administrators
28.6 percent

Physical Therapists
27.0 percent

Physician Assistants
27.0 percent

Cardiovascular Technologists
26.0 percent

Health Educators
26.0 percent

Environmental Engineers
25.4 percent

Radiation Therapists
25.0 percent

Surgical Technologists
24.4 percent

Environmental Scientists
24.2 percent

Occupational Therapists
23.1 percent

Teachers, Postsecondary
23.0 percent

Teachers, Self Enrichment
23.0 percent

Registered Nurses
23.0 percent

Respiratory Therapists
22.6 percent

Instructional Coordinators
22.5 percent

Pharmacists
22.0 percent

Management Analysts
21.9 percent

Medical Equipment Repairers
21.7 percent

Biomedical Engineers
21.1 percent

Faster-Than-Average Growth
 
Industrial Engineers
20.3 percent

Massage Therapists
20.3 percent

Medical Scientists
20.0 percent

Technical Writers
19.5 percent

Diagnostic Medical Sonographers
19.1 percent

Respiratory Therapists
19.0 percent

Teachers, Special Education
15.0 percent

Radiologic Technologists
15.0 percent

Nuclear Medicine Technologists
15.0 percent

Chiropractors
14.0 percent

Physicians and Surgeons
14.0 percent

Upcoming Meetings

• YC Mentoring Committee Meeting: Monday April 27th 12:00pm WIB Office
• YC Graduation Rate Committee Meeting: Wednesday April 29th 10:00am WIB Office
• WIB Budget Finance Committee Meeting: Thursday April 30th 11:00am The Community Bank Sandwich