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Job outlook for vocational specialists in the United States
Vocational specialist job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected vocational specialist job growth rate is 10% from 2018-2028.
About 32,400 new jobs for vocational specialists are projected over the next decade.
Vocational specialist salaries have increased 7% for vocational specialists in the last 5 years.
There are over 5,942 vocational specialists currently employed in the United States.
There are 33,643 active vocational specialist job openings in the US.
The average vocational specialist salary is $37,486.
Are vocational specialist jobs in demand?
Vocational specialist job and salary trends over time
Vocational specialist jobs over time
Vocational specialist job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 5,942 | 0.00% |
| 2020 | 6,267 | 0.00% |
| 2019 | 6,624 | 0.00% |
| 2018 | 6,446 | 0.00% |
| 2017 | 6,209 | 0.00% |
Average vocational specialist salary over time
Vocational specialist salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $37,486 | $18.02 | +1.9% |
| 2024 | $36,790 | $17.69 | +1.3% |
| 2023 | $36,319 | $17.46 | +1.6% |
| 2022 | $35,738 | $17.18 | +1.6% |
| 2021 | $35,190 | $16.92 | +1.7% |
Vocational specialist jobs by state
Most common states for vocational specialists
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 1,949 | 28% |
| 2 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 124 | 18% |
| 3 | Maine | 1,335,907 | 208 | 16% |
| 4 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 837 | 14% |
| 5 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 132 | 13% |
| 6 | Alaska | 739,795 | 95 | 13% |
| 7 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 781 | 11% |
| 8 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 569 | 10% |
| 9 | Iowa | 3,145,711 | 301 | 10% |
| 10 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 106 | 10% |
| 11 | Illinois | 12,802,023 | 1,131 | 9% |
| 12 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 516 | 9% |
| 13 | Connecticut | 3,588,184 | 327 | 9% |
| 14 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 175 | 9% |
| 15 | Idaho | 1,716,943 | 146 | 9% |
| 16 | South Dakota | 869,666 | 76 | 9% |
| 17 | Michigan | 9,962,311 | 756 | 8% |
| 18 | Arizona | 7,016,270 | 589 | 8% |
| 19 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 113 | 8% |
| 20 | Vermont | 623,657 | 49 | 8% |
Most common cities for vocational specialists
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Saugus | 1 | 4% | $47,108 |
| 2 | Annapolis | 1 | 3% | $39,562 |
| 3 | Dover | 1 | 3% | $37,038 |
| 4 | Newark | 1 | 3% | $37,372 |
| 5 | Barnstable Town | 1 | 2% | $47,128 |
| 6 | Savannah | 1 | 1% | $31,356 |
| 7 | Des Moines | 1 | 0% | $38,319 |
| 8 | Fresno | 1 | 0% | $52,902 |
| 9 | New York | 1 | 0% | $40,477 |
| 10 | Philadelphia | 1 | 0% | $37,869 |
| 11 | Urban Honolulu | 1 | 0% | $36,484 |
Vocational Specialist job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of vocational specialist experts
Husson University
Lipscomb University
University of Arkansas at Little Rock
Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis
Brenau University
Assumption University
LaGrange College
Columbia University Irving Medical Center
Ohio Wesleyan University
Kentucky Christian University
Missouri Sate
Neumann University
Villanova University
Lewis University
Northern Michigan University
Marshall University
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Vanguard University
Elsa Drevyn PT, DPT
Clinical Assistant Professor and Director of Clinical Education and Vice Chair for Clinical EducationWhat general advice would you give to a Vocational Specialist?
Elsa Drevyn PT, DPT: It brings a lot of satisfaction to help someone recover or achieve the greatest potential that they possibly can after an injury, accident, illness, etc. This profession probably offers more flexibility than many as far as job sharing, hours, settings, etc. There is also flexibility in the types of settings that we can work in and the opportunity to change settings throughout our careers. We deal with a lot of emotional situations, patients in pain and distressed, that does take a toll. There is pressure from administrators for increased productivity and that also gets taxing.
What Vocational Specialist skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Elsa Drevyn PT, DPT: This would totally depend on the setting. Generally speaking, in an acute setting, the PT would be working on early mobilization of the patient to prevent complications from prolonged positioning. If the patient is stable, the PT would most likely be working on bed mobility, transfers, gait training, exercises, while at the same time monitoring the pt’s reaction to the intervention. In an inpatient rehabilitation setting, the PT would be working with the patient for close to an hour or so, two times per day to help them achieve the highest level of function possible. In an OP setting, the PT would be working on the specific issue/impairment, to help the patient attain ROM, strength, function, decrease pain, etc.
What will help Vocational Specialists increase their earning potential?
Emily Yowell Ph.D.: Psychologists should be aware of what others in their field are making for similar positions. It is important to ask for what your work is worth in an initial position to assure raises are based on a solid starting salary. Newer psychologists may also consider asking for an early review that prompts an early conversation around potential raises, bonus, or other job benefits.
What soft skills should all Vocational Specialists possess?
Chad Howland: As outlined previously, a rehabilitation specialist needs to be an active listener and form a partnership with their patient/client. Expanding upon this point, they need to be effective communicators with other healthcare professionals. Establishing trust between various stakeholders is essential.
What soft skills should all Vocational Specialists possess?
Dr. Ruth Henry: Important soft skills for rehab are creativity and flexibility. Not every "textbook" type of therapy will work for every patient, so being about to "think outside the box" in developing a novel protocol is useful. During the pandemic, flexibility was essential because some sessions had to be held remotely, and while those sessions are not ideal, being able to adapt to the current needs is essential. People skills are also needed. Therapists meet with their patients several times per week over a period of several weeks, and sessions are more fun for the patient if the therapist has an ability to interact with them; this helps the therapist make a connection for the patient and better compliance with the program can result. On the other hand, silent therapy sessions with no therapist/patient interaction can be awkward and unmotivating.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Vocational Specialists?
Dr. Ruth Henry: It goes without saying that experience and skill in manual therapy are the cornerstones of the therapist's skill set. Experience in or exposure to a variety of treatment modalities, including heat & cold therapy, ultrasound, TENS, K-tape, electrical stimulation, cupping, and others, is also useful. Willingness to try new modalities when the patient's needs indicate a different approach.
Dr. Raymond Ortega Ph.D.
Associate ProfessorUniversity of Arkansas at Little Rock
Rehabilitation Counseling Program
What skills stand out on Vocational Specialist resumes?
Dr. Raymond Ortega Ph.D.: The job market for rehabilitation counselors has changed substantially over the years. Initially, it was limited to public sector agencies but now includes several private and non-profit opportunities. As a result, the requisite skillset has also increased. The essential skills that "stand out" include knowledge of career and occupational standards and requirements, legal and regulatory standards, physical and psychological disability, and counseling skills.
What skills will help Vocational Specialists earn the most?
Dr. Raymond Ortega Ph.D.: Specialization in Life Care Planning, Psychiatric Rehabilitation, or Worker's Compensation.
Erin Foster Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Occupational Therapy, Neurology and PsychiatryWashington University School of Medicine in St Louis
Program in Occupational Therapy
What skills stand out on Vocational Specialist resumes?
Erin Foster Ph.D.: Track record of publications, presentations, funding; advanced statistical analysis; clinical experience; teaching and mentoring.
Dr. Robert Cantu
Associate ProfessorBrenau University
Physical therapy Department
What skills stand out on Vocational Specialist resumes?
Dr. Robert Cantu: These are not necessarily skills per se, but as a hiring manager, this is what I would look at in a resume for a new grad:
Clear objective statement in the resume that matches the needs of the clinic. This shows a focus on job seeking and career path.
Clinical education experiences that match the needs of the clinic.
Skills gained in their clinical training that matches the clinic's needs: Examples: Strong manual therapy training in a clinic that emphasizes one-on-one care of patients. Strong exercise training in sports medicine clinics.
For those with some career experience:
Job stability--i.e., how long is the candidate at one place of employment. At least 18-24 months in a job or longer is good. This means they were perceptive and chose wisely. Six jobs in the first 5 years will raise red flags.
Current and frequent continuing education attendance in the area in which the clinic specializes. This shows a focus on growing and staying current in clinical skills.
What soft skills should all Vocational Specialists possess?
Dr. Robert Cantu: People skills: For the workgroup: ability and willingness to work in groups and manage conflict. Flexibility: Willingness to occasionally work late or come in early to accommodate the patient load. Team player attitude. Willingness to play their assigned part on the team. Strong commitment and discipline for timely completion of tasks such as daily paperwork. This shows "discipline in the drudgery," which is critical for the smooth operation of the clinic and results in better customer service.
People skills: For patient management: Empathy, the warmth of personality, a caring demeanor, and express kindness. And absolutely, a willingness to always put the patient first. Good eye contact, firm but kind, reassuring handshake (or a kind elbow bump). The understanding is that even though they work for a company, ultimately, the clinician works for the patient.
Susan Scully-Hill Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Human Services and Rehabilitation Studies and Director of the School Counseling program at Assumption UniversityAssumption University
Department of Human Services and Rehabilitation Studies
What certifications/licenses/courses can have the biggest impact for Vocational Specialists?
Susan Scully-Hill Ph.D.: -Being licensed as a school counselor and/or a school adjustment counselor will have the biggest impact on our graduates. Licensed counselors will be sought after to fill student support personnel positions.
-Coursework focused on academic, learning, social, emotional, and behavioral interventions will be essential for counselors who wish to work in the schools and have a positive impact on student learning outcomes.
What's a good job out of college for Vocational Specialists?
Amber Leiker McGlawn Ph.D.: I like to be blunt with my students-your first job out of college most likely isn't going to be your dream job, but that's okay! A good job out of college is one that can help not only build your resume, but build your professional character. For example, in our senior seminar course at LaGrange College, we set short-term and long-term career goals. In analyzing your own goals, look for a first job that can help you build skills that will be applicable as you're on your way to dream job, and ones that can still apply once you get there.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Vocational Specialist job market given the pandemic?
Amber Leiker McGlawn Ph.D.: With the pandemic, I think a lot more people are recognizing the role of healthy living habits in the prevention of disease. As Exercise Science practitioners have the ability to provide services to improve baseline health, I'm hoping to see increases in the utilization of exercise for preventative care, especially once the general population feels safe to do so again. Until then, we'll likely continue to see opportunities to provide services online or in smaller, more personal settings. Either way, creativity will be key with the ever-changing dynamics of the pandemic.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Vocational Specialist job market given the pandemic?
Christopher Kevin Wong Ph.D.: In the short term, the immediate effect has been reduced clinic density and overall patient care. Thus, there may be fewer opportunities for new graduate Rehab Techs at the current time. In addition, elective surgeries are down in number in many areas thus there are fewer people to rehabilitate from such surgeries. Other people with minor injuries and dysfunctions that have comorbidities that put them at risk for COVID may opt to wait or use telehealth (which has little role for Rehab Techs). It may be a good time to take the next step to apply to professional programs if you can afford it.
For rehab professionals, however, the demand for care remains strong in telehealth, home care, hospital based, out patient care. However, assumed is potential care for people with COVID if in institutional settings and for exposure to COVID via patients in any setting.
In the long term, there will be many people with lingering cardiovascular impairment that may introduce more opportunities for Rehab Techs particularly in Physical and Respiratory Techs in both private and hospital based out-patient care. The job market for rehab care will rebound, though telehealth will likely remain as a part of how we interact with patients.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Vocational Specialists?
Dr. Andrew Busch: In terms of students gaining the types of experiences needed for internships, graduate school applications, etc., surprisingly we have not seen a great deal of impact within the Exercise Science arena. For Sport Management majors, that is different, because almost all major sporting events where undergraduate students have worked in the setup, preparation, planning, organizing, etc. to gain experience have been shut down in that industry. So those majors have been severely affected. For Exercise Science majors however, undergraduate students have still been able to get the observation hours needed for graduate schools, and to fulfill internship responsibilities off campus at private businesses or rehabilitation centers.
What type of skills will young Vocational Specialists need?
Dr. Andrew Busch: Obviously any type of specific-skill training is beneficial, but what we have found is employers are looking for young graduates eager to learn, who have been taught problem solving skills/approaches. So many successful individuals within many industries did not go into that industry with exact experiences, but they were quick learners with an ability to think creatively and solve problems/questions from a holistic approach. We look to provide our students with hands-on experiential learning opportunities that give them the chance to apply the content/theories/processes they learn in a real-world setting. For example, we teach our students how to conduct a VO2max test on subjects with various exercise modalities (treadmill, stationary bike, rower). They don't need to become experts at testing VO2 on only the 'Bruce Protocol', because they may encounter a work situation where that is not necessary, or they don't have that equipment, so we are constantly asking students how they could answer the same question, given different circumstances.
What experience really stands out on Vocational Specialist resumes?
Dr. Andrew Busch: For students looking to get into graduate school and those looking to get hired within the field of Exercise Science (Physiology, Kinesiology, Athletic Training, Physical Therapy, Strength Coaching) the more hands-on experiences one can be exposed to, the better equipped they will be to hit the ground running. I know of many different four-year institutions that hand out degrees in this field where the students never actually work with a real person. Everything is a theory or textbook-based approach, and while those things are certainly important, if a student is never asked to actually apply those concepts, and asked to respond to the issues/questions that arise when those concepts don't always work like advertised in the textbook, they are missing out on the big picture of what a degree should be giving them. If practical experiences are not part of a given academic program, then students should seek out these experiences, because that is what they will be asked about in their interview process with employers. What have you done? Why are you interested in this field? What differences can you make? They are never asked what score they got on their midterm or final exam.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Vocational Specialist job market given the pandemic?
Dr. Rob O'Lynn: In terms of the ministry job market, it has always been a tricky market to navigate. There are still more candidates than there are positions. Also, over the last couple of decades, the number of full-time jobs in ministry have decreased. Now, many congregations can only afford a part-time minister or rely on a heavy cadre of volunteers. Yet, there are also congregations across the country that are growing -- some at phenomenal rates.
These congregations employ a vast array of full-time and part-time ministers and support staff persons. I think most ministry positions in a post-pandemic society will continue to trend toward positions at mostly smaller congregations, and then primarily part-time. This will require many ministers to seek bi-vocational employment, something that many associates, youth and worship ministers (and academics, like myself) have been relying on for several years.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Vocational Specialists?
Dr. Reesha Adamson: No graduate's experience is like that of any other cohort or generation. They are a cohort of resiliency, versatility, and change. We have seen these themes presented within an uprising of educators about the field over the past years. Still, this generation of students is in a place to advocate for themselves and the area like never before. Our nation has been facing a crisis over a pandemic and a racial problem that cannot be ignored. The use and scrutiny of social media and popular press have been discussed on national platforms, and ultimately answers continuously come back to the science and data behind decisions.
I believe that this generation of students, more than any other, know the importance of science and data collectively better than others, highlighting their experiences and decisions in the future. Graduates genuinely do have the power to change the world, and they are going to be entering the field of education in a time where a broken system of underpaid and understaffed professionals was highlighted on a national platform and impacted all generations and classes of individuals. Having Dr. Jill Biden in the White House, and as a long-standing educator with knowledge about our system and experience with this graduating class, can help catalyze a system that needs to be redefined.
I am hopeful of a nation of change and promise and the creation of acknowledgment of the valuable resource and commodity that teachers and educators are. We know what needs to be done to improve kids' outcomes, but the process to get there is complicated and is only compounded by an underfunded and continuously unsupported system. I hope that these graduates not only have been given the voice to speak up about the issues of injustice, but the knowledge and reasoning to be able to determine what practices are grounded in science and the ability to directly impact change across our nation to create the best possible outcomes for ALL students of ALL abilities.
What experience really stands out on Vocational Specialist resumes?
Dr. Reesha Adamson: With the current hybrid and virtual environments required within K-12 educational settings, knowledge around technology and resources is vital. There are multiple inexpensive certifications offered through Microsoft, Google, and Apple for educators, and these educational certifications make candidates stand out as competent and trendsetters. The format and context for education delivery typically fall within these platforms, and the knowledge of future teachers about their features allows them to build internal supports to differentiate instruction and use the technology as a tool to enhance and accommodate high-quality education but not to supplement instruction.
Also, future teachers documenting their abilities to adapt and be creative in their thinking is critical. We know that this year and potentially future years do not look typical. Their experiences within practicum and student teaching may be substantially different from their predecessors and potential colleagues. Therefore, highlighting their versatility and ability to rise above challenges and still get successful student outcomes is essential.
Creating high quality of engagement through innovative and authentic assignments that are versatile is critical. I believe it is essential for students to feature their abilities to develop multimodal lessons that could be implemented in person, virtually, and with potentially minimal support is a crucial component for educational success in the classroom. I also believe that thinking about the school and instruction beyond just the "school walls" has been a revolution that I hope catches fire and continues to push the educational community forward. We have a chance to reinvent public education and think about how to ensure that we are meeting all students' needs, across all formats, and within a framework of research and evidence-based practices. Students that can demonstrate their knowledge and abilities around using assignments based on research and outlets to access best practices will be the most qualified for academic positions in the future.
Finally, the knowledge around assessment and data collection is critical for any educator, but more specifically, for our special educators. Having formative assessments that are naturally embedded in instruction and can help determine instructional needs and design allows future educators to be playful in their approach to educational outcomes, have a targeted direction for implementation, and know that their practices are grounded within science. These distinctions create promise and possibility for student achievement beyond other formats.
How do you envision technology impacting Vocational Specialists in the next 5 years?
Suzanne Mayer Ph.D.: As is evident from my previous answers, the need to reach out to persons with technology needs will be made increasingly more available and affordable. Then, it remains for the young, bright, dedicated grads to go and get trained to reach whoever is the most in need -- burnt-out veterans, addiction clients who are almost at the point of giving up, overlooked and underserved populations who do not believe anyone can or will help and, most significantly, young people in pockets of turmoil, crime and decay.
What type of skills will young Vocational Specialists need?
Stacey Havlik Ph.D.: School counselors must be great at building partnerships and connecting students and families to resources. They should also be adept at brief counseling to support students' social/emotional, academic, and career/college development and gather evidence showing their effectiveness.
What type of skills will young Vocational Specialists need?
Dr. Keith Lavine Ph.D.: Probably the best place to start is to look at the latest competency model developed by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). Below is the link to the webpage where individuals can learn more about the different competencies. Their model gets updated every few years, so it always reflects the latest thinking on what is essential for HR professionals in the field.
LearningAndCareer
Of all of the SHRM competencies, the one that is perhaps most noteworthy because of its increasing importance in the coming years is Global and Cultural Effectiveness. This is partly due to the changing demographics of the U.S. workforce, the growing use of teams in organizations, and the economy's continued globalization. More and more organizations recognize the importance and advantage of being diverse, inclusive, and culturally savvy. Not only will HR professionals be expected to be competent in these areas, like everyone else, but they will be increasingly tasked with helping organizations develop these competencies in their workforce.
I also think that adaptability will be a crucial competency for young graduates to possess as they enter the workforce in the coming years. Adaptability is one of the sub-areas of Global and Cultural Effectiveness. But I'm thinking of it in an even broader sense. With globalization and rapidly-developing technology, organizations face constant change, requiring all of us to adapt to the change continually. Fortunately, many new graduates are accustomed to this and don't know anything different, as this has been an increasing trend over the last 25 years. Also, this recent pandemic has required most of us to adapt in a big way.
How do you envision technology impacting Vocational Specialists in the next 5 years?
Dr. Keith Lavine Ph.D.: Technology is already significantly impacting the field and is likely to continue to do so. It has increased and will continue to increase the speed and efficiency with which HR functions are completed. For example, in terms of recruitment, organizations can reach potential employees quicker than ever before through job sites like Indeed.com and can use resume-scanning software to make rapid screening decisions and keep track of applicant contact information. Technology has introduced new training methods that require less travel, provide greater access to employees working around the world, and allow for self-paced learning. It has taught new ways for employees to access pay and benefits information 24 hours per day.
On the surface, technology may lessen the need for certain HR functions. However, there will still be a need for HR professionals who understand and operate the technology systems. That's why one of the SHRM "sub-competencies" is HR Technology. There will still be a need for people who can provide live advice, counsel, etc. to employees. Technology can facilitate this, but not replace it. Perhaps most importantly, while some HR functions may be lessened by technology, it opens the door for HR professionals to play an even more strategic role in organizational effectiveness, helping organizations tackle issues such as:
- How to best manage change
- How to create a more inclusive corporate culture
- How to keep employees engaged
- How to attract the right employees to the organization
In this way, the HR professional of the future is more transformational and less transactional. So I think this is how technology is changing the field. At the same time, I think it brings us back to the first question and speaks to the skills the HR professional will need entering the workforce now instead of what was required 25 years ago. I think that makes this a more exciting field to be in than it was in the past.
Yan Ciupak Ph.D.
Associate ProfessorNorthern Michigan University
Department of Sociology and Anthropology
What technology do you think will become more important and prevalent for Vocational Specialists in the next 3-5 years?
Yan Ciupak Ph.D.: As in many other fields, high-level computer skills are becoming more and more crucial to work effectively. Sociology students have the advantage of gaining high-level computer skills since sociology is so data- and research-driven. Sociologists use the internet, software, and other computer skills to assist data collection and analysis, communications, and problem-solving.
Will there be an increase or decrease in demand for Vocational Specialists in the next 5 years?
Yan Ciupak Ph.D.: Based on the Bureau of Labor Statistics' report in September 2019, sociologists' employment is projected to grow 4 percent from 2019 to 2029, about as fast as the average for all occupations. The median annual wage for sociologists was $83,420 in May 2019, and most Sociologists held a Masters's or Ph.D. Although few careers include "sociologist" in their title at the Bachelor's level, the sociological studies are excellent preparation for a wide variety of occupations. A Bachelor's degree in sociology is a perfect springboard for entering the world of business, industry, and organizations. Students with a BA in Sociology pursue careers in social services, higher education, human resources, policy or market analysis or government or nonprofit research, or apply to graduate school to pursue advanced degrees.
As your questions indicate, the 21st-century labor market is fast-changing, increasingly global, and technology-driven. The National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) identifies eight Career Readiness Competencies and, based on the essential need in the Job Outlook surveys, the top four competencies have remained consistent the past three years: Critical Thinking/Problem Solving, Teamwork/Collaboration, Professionalism/Work Ethic, and Oral/Written Communications. Sociology is uniquely suited to help students develop these skills.
Dr. Lisa Burton Ph.D.
Associate Professor, School Counseling Coordinator and Clinical Placement CoordinatorMarshall University
Counseling Department
Will there be an increase or decrease in demand for Vocational Specialists in the next 5 years?
Dr. Lisa Burton Ph.D.: The demand in the next five years, I hope it will be bigger than now. As I said before, many veteran counselors/educators chose to retire early with the virtual component being added to the mix and the fear of being exposed to COVID-19. Therefore, I think there will be more openings for school counselors due to this. I hope the state realizes that students will be struggling emotionally and mentally from being isolated for so long from the pandemic. Kids are social. They need to be social to thrive, grow, and learn. They need interaction with friends, teachers, staff, etc. to feel connected and a part of something. The pandemic has created isolation for everyone, and the mental health of our nation, states, communities will see this impact. Therefore, I hope those making budget decisions make good choices about funding additional school counselors to help with this need. Trust me - it will be needed.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Vocational Specialist job market given the pandemic?
Dr. Lisa Burton Ph.D.: I think we are going to see more virtual school counseling positions open up. Many veteran counselors/educators chose to retire early with the pandemic, which means openings for graduates or even students being hired on the permit. As a clinical placement coordinator, many students have already been employed on the license in counties due to shortages of certified school counselors. This is a good and bad thing, in my opinion. I think our students' mental health needs will also be more significant from the pandemic, which means if students are being hired on a permit, they are not fully prepared or educated yet to handle some of the issues.
What type of skills will young Vocational Specialists need?
Dr. Thomas Dearden Ph.D.: Indeed, the way we work is changing. The skills that young graduates will need are diverse. Transferable skills and soft skills will certainly be marketable. These include traditional crafts such as communication, but I also think the world expects more empathy from its employees. Young graduates with an understanding of racism, sexism, and environmental responsibility will become increasingly important.
Dr. Tommy Casarez Ph.D.
Dr., Assistant Professor of Historical and Systematic TheologyVanguard University
Religion, Undergraduate Religion
What general advice would you give to a Vocational Specialist?
Dr. Tommy Casarez Ph.D.: Opportunities come in many different shapes and sizes, but they are still out there. Whether you are seeking to land a job in education or the non-profit sector, you will need to familiarize yourself and get used to all things digital, for the sake of communicating effectively. The younger your student or service partner's mindset, the more digitally savvy you will need to be, especially in the classroom and in the non-profit world.