If you’re thinking about making a career pivot, here’s four in-demand career fields in 2022. It can feel overwhelming to think about making a big career change. However, if you start the process by researching career fields that are in demand, you can put yourself ahead of the game! Read below to learn about four in-demand career fields in 2022, as well as tips for breaking in:
Healthcare
With aging baby-boomers and the global pandemic, it’s no surprise that healthcare jobs are projected to be in extreme high demand over the next decade. If you’re someone who enjoys helping people and working in a medical environment, you can consider researching these fast-growing healthcare jobs:
- Home health aids
- Nurse practitioners
- Occupational therapy assistants
- Physical therapy assistants
- Vaccine specialists
- Physician assistants
In terms of breaking into these fast-growing medical fields, it’s going to depend on the specific job you’re targeting. For example, if you’re thinking about a career in nursing, you will need a nursing degree (you can earn an associate’s degree in nursing), as well as pass an exam to get a nursing license.
If you’re thinking about becoming a home health aide, a high school diploma is required as well as on-the-job-training. Again, the requirements for each specific job will vary based on which state you reside in, so doing your homework is critical when thinking about making a career pivot!
Information Technology (IT)
Another in-demand career field in 2022 is IT. Helping organizations process large amounts of data, stay innovative, and remain secure has increased the demand for information technology jobs. Tech savvy folks who want to help companies with technological productivity and innovation have a wide variety of fast-growing jobs to choose from:
- Data architect
- Cybersecurity analyst
- Web developer
- Data / business analyst
- Technical support engineer
- Data Scientist
It obviously helps to have strong technical skills in order to successfully pivot into an IT position. If you’re someone who might not have a technical degree but you did well in computer science and technical courses, many of these jobs do not require extensive training. To become a web developer, for example, does not require a specific degree. There are web developer programs if you want more formal training or a certificate. Or you can take courses as well.
Real Estate
Houses are selling faster than ever, and real estate agents are enjoying the increase in their commissions! If you have a knack for sales and strong organization and people skills, real estate is definitely an industry worth checking out.
- Real estate agent
- Mortgage broker
- Loan officer
- Property manager
- Leasing agent
- Credit analyst
- Foreclosure specialist
- Escrow officer
Most of the jobs listed above do not require a specific degree. However, if you are willing to go back to school, getting an associate or bachelor’s degree in business, finance, or marketing would be hugely beneficial. In order to become a real estate agent, you will need to get a license. Check out your state’s specific requirements and steps for licensure.
Education
There will always be a strong need for enthusiastic, skilled educators. Employment projections show that many jobs within the field of education will grow on average of 10% in the next decade. If you love to help people and you want a steady, secure job, the field of education could be a great fit for you. Here’s some of the fastest growing jobs:
- Teaching assistants
- Elementary school teachers
- Instructional coordinators
- Private tutors
- College counselors
- Career counselors
- School counselors
- School psychologists
- Interpreters and translators
- Librarians
- Library Media Specialists
- Coaches & scouts
- Facilities managers
- School administrators
Many of these jobs require a college degree and / or credential. If you’re motivated to go back to school to earn a new degree, a job in education is worth the investment!
In Conclusion
Researching in-demand career fields in 2022 is a great place to start when you’re making a career change. It’s also equally important to do some self-reflection regarding your strengths, interests, personality traits, and values. In other words, find out if who you are connects well with jobs in your targeted industry. For next steps on researching careers, check out O’Net and the OOH (Occupational Outlook Handbook).
