The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ (BLS) most recent ten-year employment projection reported that 11.5 million jobs are expected to be available by 2026, roughly a seven percent growth rate over the previous decade. As the world focuses more on science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), it is not surprising that most of the fastest-growing occupations are in STEM. Here are five fast-growing STEM jobs according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics:
Solar Photovoltaic Installers
As the world pushes towards more sustainable forms of energy, there is now a greater need for solar photovoltaic installers, also known as PV installers. These STEM professionals install, maintain, and repair solar panels. Solar photovoltaic installers are by far the fastest-growing occupation of both STEM and non-STEM jobs, with a projected job growth of 105 percent (11,800 positions)! The median annual salary for PV installers is $42,680, and the entry-level education required is a high school diploma.
Nurse Practitioners
Today’s increasing population and extended life expectancy has spurred a greater need for nurse practitioners who can help administer patient care. Nurse Practitioners have an entry-level education of a master’s degree and advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) are able to diagnose medical conditions, prescribe medicine, and provide treatment. The projected job growth for this occupation is 36 percent (56,100 positions) and the median annual salary is $107,030.
Statisticians
Modern life is continually bursting with data, of which only a small fraction is analyzed. As businesses seek employees who can interpret and analyze this mass amount of data into usable information, statisticians are increasingly in demand and have a projected job growth of 34 percent (12,600 positions). Statisticians earn a median annual salary of $87,780 and require entry-level education of a master’s degree.
Software Application Developers
With today’s increasing use of technology and continued technological innovation, the job of software application developers is projected to grow 31 percent (255,400 positions) by 2026. Working to create and develop application software for smartphones, tablets, computers, and other electronic devices, software application developers receive a median annual salary of $103,620 and often have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, computer programming, or other related fields.
Information Security Analysts
Cyberattacks pose a risk for all industries. Businesses are thus in greater need of information security analysts to help develop and implement online security measures. This is a fast-growing occupation with a projected growth rate of 28 percent (28,500 positions). Information security analysts have a median annual salary of $98,350, and entry-level positions require a bachelor’s degree.
