Redefining Your Career Goals Through Education

People of all ages are heading back to school this fall, and many adults are returning to the classroom to redefine their futures and support their employment goals. The timing may be good because there are some amazing opportunities in thriving industries for job seekers.
A new report from CareerCast shows great job opportunities that don’t require a four year degree. Here were the top 10!

  1. Web developer
  2. Diagnostic medical sonographer
  3. Respiratory therapist
  4. Executive assistant
  5. Electrician
  6. Plumber
  7. Paralegal
  8. Industrial machine repairer
  9. Broadcast or sound engineering technician
  10. Medical records technician

For adults who are looking to continue their education, Goodwill organizations across the United States and Canada have several programs to help you succeed.
Credential to Careers: Stairways to Success is an element of the Community College 101 curriculum and operates with support from the Bank of America Charitable Foundation. Community College 101 was first developed by Seattle Goodwill Industries (WA) and is designed to introduce nontraditional learners to the college experience. It addresses nonacademic areas such as career exploration, goal setting, self-advocacy, placement test preparation, and financial aid options and applications. It also provides guidance regarding student proficiencies such as study skills, note taking and time management, and budgeting for school attendance. Twenty Goodwill organizations will develop and implement this curriculum to help people in their local communities prepare for a college education and pursue post-secondary training.
Another program from Goodwill, The Excel Center, helps adult learners earn their high school diplomas and other recognized certifications. The program helps people start their post-secondary education while developing career paths that offer greater opportunities. The Excel Center also offers transportation assistance, child care and flexible class schedules, and is operated by Goodwill organizations in Austin, TX, Indianapolis, IN, Memphis, TN, and Washington, D.C., with plans for expansion.
The training and acquired skills from programs like these can help people continue their education and earn a college degree. A traditional associate’s degree takes about two years to complete, making it a cost effective option that can be earned in a wide range of fields.
So whether you are going to school for the first time or if you are returning to learn a new skill, education is a great way to achieve your dream of a better job and brighter tomorrow.