What are the Fastest Growing Occupations?

Choosing a career path can be a daunting decision, but one important factor may help narrow your options. It helps to know the outlook of the career field you choose, as opting for an industry with high-demand jobs provides greater opportunities. Consider this list of the top nine fastest-growing occupations to enjoy a bright future.

1. Nursing

Thanks to the growing population, nurse practitioner is expected to be one of the fastest-growing occupations, with jobs estimated to increase by 31 percent, between 2017 and 2027. Nurse practitioners work in a variety of specialties, typically providing care in hospitals or doctor's offices.

2. Paralegal

Paralegal and legal assistant’s jobs don't always require post-graduate degrees. Those in this field aid lawyers and may work for a legal firm or perform freelance duties.

3. Hydraulic Fracturing

The natural gas industry has made hydraulic fracturing work one of the fastest-growing occupations of 2017. These workers use a process known as fracking to extract natural gas from shale rock.

4. Statistics

Making an average of $80,000 per year as of 2017, statisticians analyze and interpret data to aid in decision-making. This career path typically requires a master's degree for entry-level positions, and jobs in this field are expected to increase 34 percent by 2027.

5. Dental Hygienist

Dental hygienists perform routine teeth cleaning and assist dentists with other routine dental procedures. One of the fastest growing occupations, dental hygienists often enjoy flexible schedules.

6. Chiropractic Care

Chiropractors manipulate the musculoskeletal system, including the spine, to relieve pain in the joints. While chiropractors make the list as one of the fastest-growing occupations, those who specialize in the sports medicine field may be in even greater demand.

7. Supply Chain Workers

Supply chain jobs have experienced a steady rise in recent years. Some of the fastest-growing occupations in this field include procurement manager, supply chain consultant, distribution center supervisor and demand planning analyst.

8. Wind Turbine Technology

With society's recent focus on renewable energy, workers in the wind and solar industries are in high demand, making wind turbine technician one of the fastest-growing occupations. This career path requires very little post-graduate education, if any, and the average pay is about $51,000 per year, as of 2017.

9. Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapy jobs are expected to increase by about 43 percent between 2017 and 2027, and workers typically make about $54,000 per year. Occupational therapists aid patients in regaining and improving their skills following an injury.

Whether you're a soon-to-be high school graduate deciding on a future career path or you're a seasoned worker looking for a change of scenery, it helps to know which types jobs are in demand. Consider these nine fast-growing occupations before making a decision.

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