Author: Rowan Gallagher

The aspirations and career goals of teenagers are often influenced by the ever-changing job market, encompassing a wide array of industries, professions, and skill sets. This article aims to provide an in-depth understanding of various careers and offer advice on preparing for the evolving job market. We will explore trades, remote jobs, and more, while discussing earning potential and necessary skills for each. In today's increasingly connected world, remote jobs are becoming more prevalent, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere using a computer and internet connection. However, it's important to note that some remote positions may still require occasional in-person meetings or online collaboration with team members. Trades Trades involve skilled manual labor and technical expertise in various industries, offering stable employment opportunities with competitive wages. Tradespeople often work on-site, using their specialized skills to build, repair, and maintain essential infrastructure and systems. Electrician Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. They ensure the safe and efficient operation of electrical systems in homes, offices, and factories by troubleshooting problems, upgrading wiring, and installing new electrical components. Median annual wage (2020): $56,900 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2021) Skills required: Problem-solving, manual dexterity, knowledge of electrical codes How to obtain skills: Complete an apprenticeship program or attend a trade school Standard working conditions: Work in various indoor and outdoor environments, often in tight spaces or at heights; physical labor and risk of electrical hazards This job may be right for you if: You enjoy hands-on work, problem-solving, and have an interest in electrical systems. Plumber Plumbers install, maintain, and repair plumbing systems in different settings, such as homes, offices, and industrial facilities. They handle tasks like fixing leaky faucets, unclogging drains, and installing new pipes, ensuring that water and waste systems function correctly and efficiently. Median annual wage (2020): $56,330 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2021) Skills required: Problem-solving, mechanical aptitude, physical stamina How to obtain skills: Apprenticeships or trade schools Standard working conditions: Work in various indoor and outdoor settings, often in tight or wet spaces; physical labor and potential exposure to hazardous materials This job may be right for you if: You enjoy working with your hands, problem-solving, and have an interest in plumbing systems. Welder Welders use heat to join metal pieces together, working across various industries, including automotive manufacturing, shipbuilding, and construction. They play a critical role in creating and repairing metal structures, such as bridges, vehicles, and pipelines. Median annual wage (2020): $44,190 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2021) Skills required: Manual dexterity, attention to detail, blueprint reading How to obtain skills: Training programs at trade schools and community colleges Standard working conditions: Work in various indoor and outdoor environments, often with exposure to heat, fumes, and loud noise; protective equipment required This job may be right for you if: You enjoy hands-on work, have strong attention to detail, and have an interest in metalwork and fabrication. Remote Jobs Remote jobs allow professionals to work from anywhere, often using technology and digital tools to communicate, collaborate, and complete tasks. These jobs provide flexibility and can be found in various industries, such as information technology, marketing, and customer support. Software Developer Software developers design, create, and maintain computer programs and applications that power everything from websites and mobile apps to complex business systems. They work with clients or employers to develop customized software solutions that meet specific needs and requirements. Median annual wage (2020): $110,140 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2021) Skills required: Programming languages (e.g., Java, Python), problem-solving, collaboration How to obtain skills: Pursue a computer science degree or attend coding boot camps Standard working conditions: Remote work from home or other locations, typically in an office-like setting with a computer and internet connection; flexible hours possible This job may be right for you if: You have strong analytical and problem-solving skills, enjoy working with technology, and have an interest in creating software solutions. Graphic Designer Graphic designers create visual concepts to communicate ideas through images, websites, and various media. They work with clients or creative teams to develop branding materials, advertisements, and user interfaces that effectively convey messages and engage audiences. Median annual wage (2020): $53,380 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2021) Skills required: Creativity, technical proficiency in design software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite), strong communication How to obtain skills: Pursue a degree in graphic design or related fields, or attend specialized design courses Standard working conditions: Remote work from home or other locations, using a computer and design software; collaboration with clients or team members through online platforms This job may be right for you if: You have a strong sense of aesthetics, enjoy using technology for creative purposes, and have an interest in visual communication. Content Writer Content writers produce written material for various media, such as websites, blogs, and social platforms. They research, write, and edit content to inform, entertain, or persuade audiences, often working with clients or employers to develop engaging and relevant pieces. Median annual wage (2020): $67,120 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2021) Skills required: Strong writing, research, and SEO knowledge How to obtain skills: Pursue a degree in English, journalism, or communications, and gain experience through internships or freelance work Standard working conditions: Remote work from home or other locations, using a computer and internet connection; may require occasional meetings with clients or team members This job may be right for you if: You have excellent writing and communication skills, enjoy researching diverse topics, and have an interest in creating content for various platforms. Broader classifications of job types When exploring career options, it's helpful to understand the broader classifications of job types. In this article, we'll discuss various categories, including Blue-collar, White-collar, Medical jobs, and more: Blue-collar jobs: These jobs typically involve manual labor and can be found in industries such as manufacturing, construction, and transportation. Examples in this article include Electricians, Plumbers, and Welders. White-collar jobs: Usually professional, administrative, or managerial roles in industries like finance, law, and education. In this article, Software Developer and Graphic Designer fall under this category. Medical jobs: These jobs encompass various professions within the healthcare sector, including physicians, nurses, pharmacists, and healthcare administrators. Creative and Arts jobs: Focused on creativity, innovation, and aesthetics, these jobs can be found in industries such as entertainment, design, fashion, and the fine arts. Examples include musicians, artists, photographers, and fashion designers. Service jobs: These positions involve providing services to customers or clients in industries like hospitality, retail, and customer support. Examples include waitstaff, retail associates, and customer service representatives. Technical and Scientific jobs: Roles requiring specialized knowledge and skills in scientific, technical, or engineering fields, found in industries such as research, technology, and engineering. Examples include scientists, engineers, and lab technicians. Educational jobs: These jobs are found in the field of education and learning, including roles in schools, universities, and other educational institutions. Examples include teachers, professors, and educational administrators. Government and Public Sector jobs: These jobs are found within various government agencies and public organizations. Examples include civil servants, police officers, firefighters, and social workers. Understanding these broader categories can provide a foundation for assessing specific career paths and determining which types of jobs align with individual interests, skills, and goals. Additional Resources CliftonStrengths (StrengthsFinder) https://www.gallup.com/cliftonstrengths/ CliftonStrengths, formerly known as StrengthsFinder, is an assessment developed by Gallup that helps individuals identify their top talents and strengths. By focusing on what they do best, students can leverage their unique abilities to excel in their chosen careers. My Next Move https://www.mynextmove.org/ My Next Move is an interactive tool by the U.S. Department of Labor that helps students explore different careers based on their interests and preferences. The website provides information on job outlook, required skills, and education needed for various occupations. ONET Online https://www.onetonline.org/ ONET Online is a comprehensive database of occupational information, providing details on job requirements, skills, and education for various professions. Users can explore careers based on their interests, skills, or work values. 16Personalities https://www.16personalities.com/ 16Personalities is a free online personality test based on the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI). By understanding their personality type, students can gain insights into potential career paths that align with their strengths and preferences. CareerOneStop https://www.careeronestop.org/ CareerOneStop, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor, offers a range of tools and resources to help students explore careers, assess their skills, and plan for their future. Resources include career assessments, information on education and training, and job search tools. YouScience https://www.youscience.com/ YouScience is a platform that combines aptitude testing with interest assessments to help students discover their best-fit careers. By identifying their natural abilities and interests, students can make more informed decisions about their education and career paths. Conclusion: Navigating the aspirations and career goals of teenagers in today's dynamic job market involves understanding various industries and professions, and preparing accordingly. By exploring trades, remote jobs, and other opportunities, and focusing on lifelong learning, transferable skills, networking, experience, adaptability, and mentorship, teenagers can successfully prepare for the evolving job market and achieve their career goals. Additionally, utilizing resources like CliftonStrengths (StrengthsFinder), My Next Move, O*NET Online, 16Personalities, CareerOneStop, and YouScience can help students identify their strengths, weaknesses, and aptitudes to make more informed decisions about their education and career paths. Ultimately, the ideal career choice depends on an individual's interests, skills, and goals, and staying adaptable and continuously learning are essential factors for success in the evolving job market