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by Francie Russell, Ed.D.,
President, Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE)
(NAPSI)-You may be able to earn more than you dreamed of. All it takes is a little patience and making the effort to get specialized training in modern technology. Technology plays an important role in today's workplace, and has changed many occupations dramatically.
For instance, automotive service technicians must deal with a staggering array of diagnostic equipment, in cars that may contain 15 or more different on-board computers. Thousands of people install, service and repair air conditioning systems, a fixture of American life. Many other skilled trades are increasingly incorporating robotics as well as human crafts people into the manufacturing process.
Students should be exposed to the wide range of "new vocational" opportunities that require technical education. These include agriculture, automotive service, business services, communications, computer technology, construction trades, health occupations, hospitality, transportation support, and the full range of professional services that people use every day. These excellent occupations offer great pay and opportunity for advancement. These jobs are among those expected to grow the most in the next five years.
The Association for Career and Technical Education wants to make students and their parents aware of the great futures that can result from career and technical programs. The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that 18 of the 20 fastest growing occupations within the next decade will require career and technical education.
Here are just a few examples of the wide range of opportunities along with average annual salaries that can be explored through career and technical education.
• Technicians in some medical fields earn more than $44,000, while dental hygienists can earn more than $58,000
• Engineering technicians can earn more than $45,000
• Automotive service technicians generally earn more than $42,000. With more experience and training, they can earn significantly higher salaries. Motorcycle mechanics earn more than $29,000.
• Computer programmers can earn more than $64,000
• Salaries for air conditioning, refrigeration and plumbing technicians and installers range from $35,000 to more than $100,000, depending on experience and training
These are careers that can be explored at any stage of life by anyone willing to make the effort, whether in middle and secondary schools or through community colleges and technical institutes.
To learn more about career and technical education, including salary growth potential, visit www.getcareerskills.com.
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The fastest growing occupations require specialized technical education.