American industry is constantly changing. We have seen a recent decline in manufacturing, and an increase in high level information technology and software development positions, and also environmental / renewable resource careers. We are becoming more and more high tech by the day, and as a result, many new jobs are being created. In fact, there are millions of jobs available in America right now, but they are so specialized that we do not have enough qualified workers to fill them. Whichever career you have chosen, you need to look at it from a long-term perspective. Is your industry growing? If yes, can you start training yourself to become a high-level manager later in your career? If no, have you considered training in one of the many growing American industries, in order to protect yourself from the inevitable decline within your own? Sticking around in a career that will surely dissipate is not a good career decision.

There are several American industries that will grow at a high rate, including health care, elderly care, real estate, computer systems and software design, engineering, and environmental services. As a result of this growth, many affordable training programs have come to the surface in order to give workers the necessary skills to land an entry-level position in the industry. Our government has taken a lot of steps to provide us with the opportunity to learn these trades through college level training. For example, the alternative energy industry is still relatively new, but it will be very important in the future as we rely less and less on fossil fuels. The sun, wind, and geothermal energy are renewable, whereas fossil fuels are a finite resource. As we make this switch, we also need highly specialized workers to facilitate the process. The industry is growing fast, and it’s hard to find qualified workers. Engineers and technicians who concentrate in these areas are a valuable asset, so it would be an excellent idea to pursue a collegiate or certificate program to get yourself started. Although these industries are still relatively small, they will grow significantly over time, so positioning yourself now to succeed later is in your best interest. Getting your foot in the door at a growing industry is one of the best career moves you can make, because a growing industry means growing opportunities for upper management. You might start out as an entry-level laborer or technician, but having expertise in a relatively new industry that is experiencing growth is always a great career move. You will be promoted to management in no time.

On the other hand, working in an industry that is shrinking is very dangerous. The American manufacturing industry is the perfect example. Decades ago, it was the biggest and fastest growing industry in America. Towns were built on manufacturing jobs, and it was the main source of income for millions of citizens. However, outsourcing this work overseas eventually became the better option from a business standpoint, and as a result, factories closed and jobs evaporated into thin air. Several communities are still feeling the effects. Foreclosed houses are commonplace near these closed factories. It’s not anybody’s fault for taking a job in this industry, but the decline was foreseen by economists worldwide. If more people were armed with this information, they would have thought twice before taking a job in a fading business. Train yourself in a position that will experience growth, and opportunities will soon follow. You do not want to end up jobless with no options as we have seen happen to millions of Americans.

Finding training programs for new industry is simple. Get online and research some colleges or technical schools. As our country progresses industry changes along with it, so aligning yourself for success now is a great decision. The competition is lower and the opportunities are greater. If you are currently risking working in a declining industry, consider your options, because you don’t want to end up jobless. There are plenty of companies that will hire you with limited experience, just make sure you contemplate all of your educational options.