Education to employment: Southeast Technical offers training in top jobs with above-average wages
If you're looking for an education that can lead to a high-paying job, and you want to be sure that job will still be there for you in 10 years, Southeast Technical is here to help.
New long-range employment projections by state agencies in Minnesota and Wisconsin demonstrate that colleges like Southeast Technical are preparing the workforce of the future for most of the top 10 high-growth, high-paying occupations.
As baby boomers retire and the work environment shifts, occupations like construction, truck driving, accounting and health care will see the opportunity for strong growth in the next decade. "It's no coincidence that Southeast Technical, with its focus on Education to Employment, offers training in these fields," says Dr. Dorothy Duran, president of Minnesota State College - Southeast Technical.
Southeast Technical offers certificates, diplomas and degrees in Accounting, Carpentry, Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Technology, HVAC, Industrial Technology, Medical Laboratory Technician, Medical Support Careers, Nursing, Radiography, Retail & Sales Management, Truck Driving, and Welding - all programs which can lead directly to almost all of the top 10 high growth, high paying occupations in both states.
Approximately 94% of Southeast Technical graduates find work in their chosen field, and 82% of graduates remain in the region. The return on investment in a two-year college is high. A 2013 study released by the Federal Reserve Bank reported that over the course of their lifetimes, students with associate degrees made $325,000 more than those with only a high school diploma.
"Our objective is to provide programs that are integral to state and regional economic needs," says Dr. Duran. "We're here to help the economy grow, and to help our students become part of a strong economy."
Top 10 high growth, high pay occupations in Minnesota through 2022; median annual salary 2014
1. Cement Masons and Concrete Finishers: $ 42,400.09
2. Medical Secretaries: $ 38,781.56
3. Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technicians: $ 44,303.02
4. Carpenters: $ 45,881.14
5. Physical Therapists: $ 78,215.72
6. Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists: $ 62,931.20
7. Radiologic Technologists: $ 61,330.19
8. Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters: $ 66,565.10
9. Cost Estimators: $ 59,787.66
10. Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses: $ 41,551.15
Source: Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development Employment Projections
Top 10 high growth, high pay occupations in Wisconsin through 2020; median annual salary 2014
1. Carpenters: $42,350
2. Medical secretaries: $31,970
3. Sale reps: $56,900
4. Bookkeeping, accounting, auditing clerks: $34,500
5. Registered nurses: $63,260
6. Market research analysts, specialists:$50,730
7. Customer service reps: $32,420
8. Construction laborers: $36,260
9. Heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers: $39,120
10. Elementary school teachers: $57,470
Source: Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development, La Crosse Tribune ("Labor: The Next 10 Years")