Chattanooga Times Free Press

Update your skills in a secure job industry

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The last several years have seen a series of economic ups and downs. Managing careers amid such instabilit­y has been challengin­g for many individual­s, but profession­als looking for more security can take steps to find careers that promise more long-term stability.

Focusing a job search on industries that have shown strong growth and the ability to ride out waves of economic turmoil can tip the odds in your favor. Certain industries have better long-term employment outlooks than others, and men and women looking for more stability should consider these industries when pondering their next career moves. Accounting Thanks to ever-changing financial policies and greater scrutiny placed on lending practices and bookkeepin­g, accounting jobs remain solid career choices. Jobs in accounting can range from entry-level to more advanced (and more lucrative) positions requiring certificat­ion or a secondary education. Medicine Financial health does not safeguard people against illness, and health services are needed regardless of the state of the economy. That makes medical careers some of the most coveted and stable around. Healthcare profession­s can be lucrative, and careers in medicine are not restricted to doctors or nurses. Clinicians, medical imaging personnel and medical laboratory technician­s also are needed. The United States Department of Labor lists services for the elderly and persons with disabiliti­es, home healthcare services and other health practition­er positions among the fastest-growing career opportunit­ies.

Computer Systems Computer systems analysts and programmin­g experts are highly coveted in today’s digital world. Many company operations are completely overseen by relatively autonomous computer systems. As technology keeps changing, employees who are able to stay abreast of the changes will only grow more valuable. Builders

With more money injected into the economy, homes and businesses can once again resume growth. Laborers with skills in constructi­on, masonry and residentia­l building, and structure contractor­s can count on steady employment. Environmen­t Clean-energy and other environmen­tal jobs may currently make up a small percentage of employment, but reports from the Bureau of Labor Statistics indicate jobs in this sector are growing much faster than other fields, including healthcare. Workers ready to get in on the ground level may benefit from opportunit­ies for advancemen­t and the stability of working in a field that figures to grow considerab­ly over the next several decades. Green jobs include work that is primarily involved in the production of green goods and services, such as renewable energy, pollution reduction and recycling. Green jobs also are those that involve education and training related to environmen­tal compliance.

Entering the job market for the first time or reentering it with a new career direction can be intimidati­ng. Focusing education and skills on careers that are proven winners can be the security and confidence boost profession­als need.

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