1. 11th Grade Career Focus/Job Market January 14, 2019
Parent University
Presentation adapted from “Starting the Conversation…talking to your children about career exploration,” a publication issued by the Texas Workforce Commission.
11th Grade
Career Focus/Job Market
January 14, 2019

2. Today’s Labor Market
It is important to help students understand what they enjoy doing and equally important to help them understand the labor market. Many jobs today did not exist 20 years ago. Technology is a driving factor which has influenced the economy and the behavior of employees and employers.

3. Top 15 Occupations by Student Interest Rank
Top 15 Occupations by Market Demand
Registered Nurses 1
Multi-Media/Video Game Designers 2
General & Operations Managers
Sports Athletes 3
Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers
Forensic Science Techs 4
Elementary School Teachers
Architects 5
Accountants & Auditors
Chief Executive Officers/ Entrepreneurs 6
Secondary School Teachers
Lawyers 7
Nursing Assistants
Teachers (High School) 8
Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses
Veterinarians 9
Middle School Teachers
Physicians 10
Medical Assistants
Physical Therapists 11
Substitute Teachers
Accounts, Auditors 12
Computer System Analysts
Dental Hygienists 13
Auto Service Mechanics/Technicians
Special Education Teachers 14
Software Developers
Web Developers 15

4. Skill Set Strong mathematics background Experience and contacts
Cultivate soft skills
Technology
With an ever changing market, it is important for students to develop a general and transferable skill set.
Math – STEM field and healthcare industry
Experience and contacts – work experience, internships, networking, school activities
Soft skills – pride in work, attendance, integrity, positive attitude, maximum effort
Technology – become proficient in technological programs

5. Work/Education Connection
Student interests matter and students should major in a field that interests them, but they also need to understand the labor market values some courses of study more than others. The more we help students recognize the work/education connection, the more informed life choices they are likely to make.

6. High School Graduation Plans
Requirement for students in Texas…completed in 8th grade career pathways course……endorsement……..
High school is a great time to experiment. .

7. Education Level/Earnings
The more you learn, the more you earn (There are always exceptions). Because of the earnings and education connection, it is important for students to take courses in high school that prepare for successful post secondary education as well as expose them to subjects and career fields they may not have previously considered.

8. Post Secondary Options
Four year colleges and universities
Two year colleges
Technical Colleges
The U.S. Armed Forces
Work Force
Four year college – gain exposure to varied courses, develop research, gain knowledge in specific disciplines
Two year – prepare to transfer to four year or enter workforce, cost effective
Technical – specialized education that leads directly to employment; research these extensively
Military – multi-year service commitment, career training and experience, GI Bill for education

9. Educational/Workforce Trends
The number of jobs a worker holds in his/her lifetime is increasing.
Education pays, but some degrees and certificates pay better than others.
The major field of study matters.
Social media influence
Student will have to be responsible for their career development and actively learn how to successfully secure jobs.
The cost of higher education is increasing, but a degree is often a good investment. There are also certificates and training that result in differing employability and income levels.
Choosing a major that directly relates to an indemad occupation can make it easier to find work. Occupations with easily identifiable links between college major and occupation tend to pay well after college.
Social media – LinkedIn, etc….social media etiquette

10. Resources Ben Barber Innovation Academy TexasRealityCheck.com
Texas Workforce Commission
Texas Crews
Texas OnCourse