Whether you are choosing a career for the first time or making a change for the third time, it can be a daunting task. You want to choose a career you will enjoy and one that gives you a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment. You also want to choose a career that offers you opportunities to grow and increase your earning potential.
The employment outlook is bright; between 2016 and 2026, employment is expected to increase by 11.5 million, a 0.7 percent annual growth, according to the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics. A large portion of this growth will continue to be in the healthcare and service industries, as the needs of an aging population increase. If you enjoy helping people, have strong math and science skills, and possess the necessary critical-thinking and communications skills, a career in one of these areas might be for you.
If a career in healthcare or service is not something you are interested in, that is ok. Those are not the only industries expected to grow. Construction is also a growing industry, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. It is projected to grow approximately 11 percent between 2016 and 2026.
Automation Engineering Technology
In addition to expected growth in the construction industry, in our area advanced manufacturing employers continue to seek workers. In response to local industry’s needs, CCC has worked with local companies to begin short-term training academies in addition to the degree, diploma and certificate programs it offers in areas such as automation (robotics) and machining. The Advanced Manufacturing Academy, open to rising eleventh graders, was started last fall as another avenue to employment for soon-to-be high school graduates. The Academy offers pathways in welding, mission critical operations, machining and other areas of advanced manufacturing.
Company growth and the fact that many experienced and skilled workers are approaching retirement age leave many local companies struggling to fill open positions in both advanced manufacturing and construction. In 2016, almost 45 percent of the general labor force was 45 years in age, or older, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Particularly in construction, employers are looking for candidates with a strong set of basic skills, and the willingness to learn.
“CCC talks to local employers on a regular basis as part of our efforts to provide skilled workers, and to ensure our students are acquiring skills that lead to jobs,” said Bruce Mack, dean of advanced manufacturing and public services. “Local employers tell us they need carpenters, HVAC technicians, electricians, plumbers, machinists, welders, and robotics technicians, and good ones are difficult to find.”
Mechanical Drafting Technology
If you enjoy hands-on work, problem-solving, being in an active environment, and knowing your efforts contribute to the economic success of your community, you should consider a career in advanced manufacturing or the construction industry.
The basic technical skills for many jobs in advanced manufacturing or the construction industry can be learned in two years or less, and some in as little as one semester at CCC.
Registration for fall semester is now open. Visit www.clevelandcc.edu, call 704-669-4081, or email [email protected] for more information on these and other programs offered at CCC.
