Tuesday, October 31, 2017

Career of the Day: General Contractor

Construction managers, often called general contractors or project managers, coordinate and supervise a wide variety of projects, including the building of all types of residential, commercial, and industrial structures, roads, bridges, powerplants, schools, and hospitals. They oversee specialized contractors and other personnel. Construction managers schedule and coordinate all design and construction processes to ensure a productive and safe work environment. They also make sure jobs are completed on time and on budget with the right amount of tools, equipment, and materials. Many managers also are responsible for obtaining necessary permits and licenses. They are often responsible for multiple projects at a time. It is increasingly important for construction managers to have a bachelor’s degree in construction science, construction management, architecture or engineering. As construction processes become increasingly complex, employers are placing more importance on specialized education.

Monday, October 30, 2017

Career of the Day: Child Care Worker

Across the nation, millions of parents entrust their children to the judgment of child care workers at all times of day, so that they can balance family and work responsibilities. Being a child care worker requires a commitment to the successful development of the children you work with, and can be incredibly gratifying if you can maintain your patience with a clientele that has naturally not developed communication skills or their own patience or perspective. At a minimum, you need at least a year of training and supervised experience, and most states require accreditation or certification to maintain a child care center, either for young children or for before and after school.

Friday, October 27, 2017

Career of the Day: Forensic Chemist

A forensic chemist is a professional chemist who analyzes evidence that is brought in from crime scenes and reaches a conclusion based on tests run on that piece of evidence. A forensic chemist's job is to identify and characterize the evidence as part of the larger process of solving a crime. Forensic chemists rarely conduct any investigative work; they handle the evidence collected from the crime scene. Evidence may include hair samples, paint chips, glass fragments, or blood stains. Understanding the evidence requires tools from many disciplines, including chemistry, biology, materials science, and genetics. The prevalence of DNA analysis is making knowledge of genetics increasingly important in this field. A strong background in chemistry and instrumental analysis as well as a good grounding in criminalistics is vital. A forensic science degree at both the undergraduate and graduate level is recommended.

Thursday, October 26, 2017

Career of the Day: Biomedical Engineer

Biomedical engineers may design instruments, devices, and software; bring together knowledge from many technical sources to develop new procedures; or conduct research needed to solve clinical problems. They often serve a coordinating function, using their background in both engineering and medicine. In industry, they may create products where an in-depth understanding of living systems and technology is essential. They frequently work in research and development or in quality assurance. Biomedical engineers typically need a bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering from an accredited program to enter the occupation. Alternatively, they can get a bachelor’s degree in a different field of engineering and then either get a graduate degree in biomedical engineering or get on-the-job training in biomedical engineering.

Wednesday, October 25, 2017

Career of the Day: Arborist

Arborists are excellent problem solvers. They are well educated about the botany of numerous species of trees and the unique needs of each one. Arborists also take into consideration the life cycle of each tree, and its symbiosis with the organisms in its immediate ecosystem, including humans. With the inescapable power and telecommunications lines placed both overhead and underground, a talented arborist must effectively plan and maintain the planting and growth of just the right type of tree for a client's purposes. Arborists are both artists and scientists.

Career of the Day: Arborist

Arborists are excellent problem solvers. They are well educated about the botany of numerous species of trees and the unique needs of each one. Arborists also take into consideration the life cycle of each tree, and its symbiosis with the organisms in its immediate ecosystem, including humans. With the inescapable power and telecommunications lines placed both overhead and underground, a talented arborist must effectively plan and maintain the planting and growth of just the right type of tree for a client's purposes. Arborists are both artists and scientists.

Tuesday, October 24, 2017

Career of the Day: Pilot

Airline and commercial pilots fly and navigate airplanes or helicopters. Airline pilots fly for airlines that transport people and cargo on a fixed schedule. Commercial pilots fly aircraft for other reasons, such as charter flights, rescue operations, firefighting, aerial photography, and crop dusting. Many pilots learn to fly in the military, but a growing number now earn an associate’s or bachelor’s degree from a civilian flying school. All pilots who are paid to transport passengers or cargo must have a commercial pilot's license and an instrument rating. To qualify for a commercial pilot’s license, applicants must be at least 18 years old and have at least 250 hours of flight experience.

Monday, October 23, 2017

Career of the Day: Nutritionist or Dietician

Dietitians and nutritionists are experts in food and nutrition. They advise people on what to eat in order to lead a healthy lifestyle or achieve a specific health-related goal. Some dietitians and nutritionists provide customized information for specific individuals. For example, a dietitian or nutritionist might teach a patient with high blood pressure how to use less salt when preparing meals. Others work with groups of people who have similar needs. A dietitian or nutritionist might, for example, plan a diet with reduced fat and sugar to help overweight people lose weight. Most dietitians and nutritionists have earned a bachelor’s degree in dietetics, foods and nutrition, food service systems management, or a related area. Programs include courses in nutrition, physiology, chemistry, and biology.

Thursday, October 19, 2017

Career of the Day: Computer Programmer

Computer programmers are in high demand, and the demand will only increase as our economy grows more reliant upon technology. They write code in a language that is standard for their industry, but responsible programmers stay up-to-date on the most current and emerging trends, as the field continues to evolve. In addition to being incredible strong in math and science, the best computer programmers are also creative, flexible, and good listeners, as they will need to produce a product that meets the demand of the user, as specified by their employers or clients.

Wednesday, October 18, 2017

Career of the Day: Diagnostic Medical Sonographer

Diagnostic medical sonographers use special imaging equipment that directs sound waves into a patient’s body (in a procedure commonly known as an ultrasound, sonogram, or echocardiogram) to assess and diagnose various medical conditions. Diagnostic ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of the inside of the body. The sonographer presses an instrument called an ultrasound transducer to the parts of the patient’s body that are being examined. The transducer emits pulses of sound that bounce back, causing echoes. The echoes are then sent to the ultrasound machine, which processes them and displays them as images. Colleges and universities offer both associate’s and bachelor’s degree programs in sonography.

Tuesday, October 17, 2017

Career of the Day: Electrician

Almost every building has an electrical system that is installed during construction and maintained after that. Electricians do both the installing and maintaining of electrical systems. Maintaining older equipment involves identifying problems and repairing malfunctioning equipment that is sometimes difficult to reach. Electricians doing maintenance work may need to fix or replace outlets, circuit breakers, motors, or robotic control systems. Electricians read blueprints, which are technical diagrams of electrical systems that show the location of circuits, outlets, and other equipment. They use different types of hand and power tools, such as pipe benders, to run and protect wiring. Other commonly used hand and power tools include screwdrivers, wire strippers, drills, and saws. While troubleshooting, electricians also may use ammeters, voltmeters, and multimeters to find problems and ensure that components are working properly. In order to be an electrician, you will need some technical training and a period of time as an on-the-job apprentice.

Monday, October 16, 2017

Career of the Day: Carpenter

Do you like working with your hands? Would you like to see your handiwork produce a structure such as a deck or even a house? Carpenters have that honor and tradition of using a combination of manual skill and a keen mathematical mind for details to build things that will last for years or even generations. In order to be a licensed carpenter, you need specific training and an apprenticeship, but then you have the opportunity to work for a contracting company or run your own enterprise. Contractors work in many weather conditions, but the feeling of making shelter for people where one did not previously exist can be immensely gratifying.

Friday, October 13, 2017

Career of the Day: Flight Attendant

Airline companies are required by law to provide flight attendants for the safety and security of passengers. The primary job of flight attendants is to keep passengers safe and to ensure that everyone follows security regulations. Flight attendants also try to make flights comfortable and enjoyable for passengers. Flight attendants work primarily in the cabin of an airplane. Although they enjoy much free time and many travel benefits, flight attendants’ work can be strenuous. Flight attendants stand during much of the flight and must remain pleasant, regardless of passenger demands or their own fatigue. Occasionally, flight attendants must deal with turbulence, which can make service more difficult and causes anxiety in some passengers. Applicants with a degree in hospitality, tourism, public relations, or communications may have an advantage over others. Most airlines also require 1 to 2 years of customer-service experience. Those who work on international flights may have to speak a foreign language fluently in addition to English. 

Thursday, October 12, 2017

Career of the Day: Composer

Composers write music of all types - works of classical distinction, pop ballads, jingles for advertising, or background music for stage, television, and film. It takes lots of patience and a willingness to receive constructive criticism in order to stay in the music industry, and it will be beneficial to have the training and coursework that comes with a bachelor's degree in music composition in order to assist in your success as a composer. Be prepared to master numerous instruments in order to artfully arrange your compositions.

Tuesday, October 10, 2017

Career of the Day: Art Educator

Art teachers are very important in the educational development of students. In addition to inspiring budding artists at the middle and high school level, art teachers are also incredibly valuable members of the elementary school faculty. Art educators help students learn to understand their world in visual terms and how to express themselves in nonverbal ways. In order to be an art teacher, you will need to earn at least a bachelor's degree in art education, which requires coursework in both visual art and education pedagogy.

Monday, October 9, 2017

Career of the Day: Chemist

A career in chemistry requires a degree in a related science, and usually involves many late hours working in the lab, conducting research into advancements related to your objective. Whether you are developing cures for diseases or analyzing the structure of existing compounds, chemists continue to push our society's understanding the physical world around us and find solutions to our problems. It is critical for an aspiring chemist to follow rules and laws, because safety is of the highest priority, and if you don't follow industry standards, your results will always be in question.

Career of the Day: Biochemist

Biochemists and biophysicists do applied research and develop products and processes that improve our lives. For example, in medicine, biochemists and biophysicists develop tests used to detect diseases, genetic disorders, and other illnesses. They also develop new drugs and medications, such as those used to treat cancer or Alzheimer’s disease. Applied research in biochemistry and biophysics has many uses outside of medicine. In agriculture, biochemists and biophysicists develop genetically engineered crops that are more resistant to drought, disease, insects, and other afflictions. Biochemists and biophysicists also develop alternative fuels, such as biofuels—renewable energy sources from plants. In addition, they develop ways to protect the environment and clean up pollution. Biochemists and biophysicists need a Ph.D. to work in independent research and development positions. Most Ph.D. holders begin their careers in a temporary postdoctoral research position, which typically lasts 2 to 3 years. Bachelor’s and master’s degree holders are qualified for some entry-level positions in biochemistry and biophysics.

Friday, October 6, 2017

Career of the Day: Auto Mechanic

Automotive service technicians and mechanics, often called service technicians or service techs, inspect, maintain, and repair cars and light trucks. Service technicians work on traditional mechanical components, such as engines, transmissions, belts, and hoses. However, they must also be familiar with a growing number of electronic systems. Braking, transmission, and steering systems, for example, are controlled primarily by computers and electronic components. Other integrated electronic systems, such as accident-avoidance sensors, are becoming common as well. In addition, a growing number of technicians are required to work on vehicles that run on alternative fuels, such as ethanol and electricity. Service technicians use many different tools, including computerized diagnostic tools and power tools such as pneumatic wrenches, lathes, welding torches, and jacks and hoists. Completing a vocational or other postsecondary training program in automotive service technology is considered the best preparation for entry-level positions. Programs usually last 6 months to a year and provide intensive career preparation through classroom instruction and hands-on practice. Short-term certificate programs in a particular skill are also available.

Thursday, October 5, 2017

Career of the Day: Aesthetician

As long as our society values outer confidence and feeling like we are looking our best, people will flock to hairdressers, barbers, nail salons, and other beautification businesses. Aestheticians are trained and state-certified to learn industry-standard techniques that are both sanitary and effective. Highly skilled aestheticians are also talented at establishing and maintaining meaningful relationships, as your best clients are those who feel comfortable coming back to you time after time. Aestheticians require specialized training after high school.

Wednesday, October 4, 2017

Career of the Day: Conservationist

A conservation scientist studies elements of the ecosystem in order to manage its development, to limit erosion of natural resources, and to support all types of life on earth. They mostly work outside, collecting samples to be analyzed, observing growth and animal behavior, with a clear objective to limit human beings' impact on the world around us. The scientists often work with lobbyist organizations to advocate for their causes, which are at times in contrast with other corporate or governmental interests. If this career is interesting to you, you will undoubtedly enjoy AP Environmental science and explore majors like ecology and biology.

Tuesday, October 3, 2017

Career of the Day: Chiropractor

Chiropractors treat patients with health problems of the musculoskeletal system, which is made up of bones, muscles, ligaments, and tendons. They use spinal manipulation and other techniques to treat patients' ailments, such as back or neck pain. Many believe that misalignments of the spinal joints interfere with a person's nervous system and can result in lower resistance to disease and many different conditions of diminished health. Some chiropractors use additional procedures, such as acupuncture, massage therapy, and ultrasound. They also may apply supports, such as straps, tape, braces, or shoe inserts, to treat patients and alleviate pain. In addition to operating a general chiropractic practice, some chiropractors specialize in sports injuries, neurology, orthopedics, pediatrics, nutrition, internal disorders, or diagnostic imaging. Becoming a chiropractor requires earning a Doctor of Chiropractic degree and getting a state license. Doctor of Chiropractic programs take 4 years to complete and require 3 years of previous undergraduate college education for admission.

Monday, October 2, 2017

Career of the Day: Middle School Educator

Do you remember how difficult middle school was? Can you imagine how difficult it is for the teachers to keep 6th, 7th, and 8th graders focused on their growth, despite the many overwhelming changes that students experience? Middle schoolers are at a unique moment in their physical, intellectual, social, and emotional development. At the same time, there are critical skills that they must learn to be successful in high school and beyond, and it takes a special kind of teacher to help students come through this time successfully. Some colleges and states have middle-level specific certifications and training programs. If you have lots of patience and care about the well being of future generations, please consider a career in middle school education.