• MODULE 2 •
Where am I Going?
“If you don’t know
where you’re going,
you’ll end up
somewhere else.”
20
Where
am I Going?
THE CONCEPT OF CAREER CLUSTERS.
Career Clusters identify the knowledge and skills learners
need as they follow a pathway toward their career goals.
The knowledge and skills identified form a strong basis
for learner success whether the learners are in high
school, college, technical training or in the workplace.
The career clusters also provide a means of exploring the
many occupational options.
Each Cluster is divided into different pathways. Pathways
are grouped by the knowledge and skills required for
occupations in these career fields. Each pathway provides
instruction as a basis for success in an array of careers
and educational pursuits.
The U.S. Department of Education’s Career Clusters
provide a way for schools to organize instruction and
student experience around 16 broad categories that
encompass virtually all occupations from entry through
professional levels.
21
CAREER CLUSTERS
The 16 clusters and sample occupations for each are:
Banker
Paramedic
Insurance Agent
Paralegal
Financial Planner
Manufacturing
Loan Officer
Machinist
Tax Examiner
Manufacturing Engineer
Biochemist
Health Science
Automated Process Technician
Veterinarian Assistant
Pediatrician
Production Engineer/Technician
Physical Therapist
Welding Technician
Radiologic Technologist
Quality Technician
Actor
Occupational Therapist
Video Producer
Medical Assistant
Government & Public
Administration
Journalist
Hospital Administrator
Legislator
Audio Engineer
Hospitality & Tourism
City Manager
Telecommunications Technologist
Lodging Manager
Policy/Budget Analyst
Printing/Graphics Technologist
Chef
Recreation/Parks Director
Architecture & Construction
Travel & Tourism Manager
State/Federal Agency Director
Contractor
Food Service Manager
Urban/Regional Planner
Architect
Restaurant Manager
Retail/Wholesale Sales & Service
Electrician
Leisure & Entertainment Manager
Sales Associate
Heavy Equipment Operator
Human Services
Interior Designer
Carpenter
Social Worker
Marketing Director
Plumber
Psychologist
Buyer
Business & Administration
Child Care Worker
Real Estate Broker
Human Resource Administrator
Substance Abuse Specialist
Customer Service Representative
Administrative Specialist
Employment Specialist
Scientific Research/Engineering
Financial Analyst
Psychotherapist
Chemical Engineer
International Trade Manager
Information Technology
Mathematician
Entrepreneur
Software Engineer
Bio Technologist
Accountant
Network Administrator
Electrical Engineer
Education & Training
Web Designer/Developer
Biologist
Teacher
Database Manager
Oceanographer
Principal
Technical Writer
School Counselor
Multimedia Producer
Transportation, Distribution
& Logistics
College Professor
Law & Public Safety
Corporate Trainer
Attorney
Coach
Fire Fighter
Finance
Police Officer
Stock Broker
Judge
Agricultural & Natural Resources
Food Scientist
Environmental Engineer
Horticulturist
Animal Scientist
Arts, A/V Technology
& Communications
22
Pilot
Automotive Technician
Logistics Manager
Flight Attendant
Warehouse Manager
Truck Driver
AGRICULTURE, FOOD & NATURAL RESOURCES
This diverse Career Cluster prepares learners for careers in the planning,
implementation, production, management, processing and/or marketing of
agricultural commodities and services, including food, fiber, wood products,
natural resources, horticulture, and other plant and animal products. It also
includes related professional, technical and educational services.
The Seven Pathways.
PA
AND
SKI
LLS
AN
DS
K
Animal
Cluster
Systems
Knowledge
& Skills Power, Structural
Environmental
EC
I
IT
IE
S
PATH
LLS
WAY K
NOWLEDGE AND SKI
CA R
N
YK
WA
H
T
PA
CA
IAL
ITIE
S
and Technical
Systems
EC
AN
DS
KIL
LS
Natural
Resource
Systems
SP
SP
AL
Service
Systems
R
PATHWAY KNOWLEDGE
Plant
Systems
IE
OW
LE
DG
EA
ND
SKIL
LS
C
ES
ITI
IAL
Food Products
and Processing
Systems
IT
ECIALITIES
R SP
CA R E E R S P E C
PATHWAY
KNOW
LED
GE
Agribusiness
Systems
GE
ED
WL
NO
AY K
PATHW
EER
• Agribusiness Systems
CA R
• Environmental Service
Systems
SKILLS
REE
• Natural Resource Systems
Y
WA
TH
D
GE AN
LED
OW
KN
RS
PEC
IA
L
CA
• Power, Structural &
Technical Systems
R
CA R E E
EDGE AND SKILLS
NOWL
AY K
HW
PAT
• Animal Systems
EE
IES
S
ILL
• Plant Systems
AR
IALIT
S
• Food Products &
Processing Systems
EC
SP
RE
E
EER SPECIALITIES
Employment Outlook.
Employment opportunities will continue to increase for those who provide and
market an expanding array of food, forest, and veterinary medical consumer
products to a growing world population. Continued globalization of the food,
agricultural and natural resources system will increase opportunities for graduates
who understand the socio-economic factors that define international markets.
Graduates who know how to satisfy the diverse consumer needs and preferences in
different cultures, and who have the language skills to communicate effectively,
will have the best opportunities to be employed by the growing number of multinational businesses.
23
ARCHITECTURE & CONSTRUCTION
This diverse Career Cluster prepares learners for careers in designing, planning,
managing, building and maintaining the building environment. People employed in
this cluster work on new structures, restorations, additions, alterations and repairs.
The Three Pathways.
RE
CA
• Design/Pre-Construction
ER SPECIALITIE
S
OWLEDGE AND
Y KN
SKI
WA
LL
H
T
S
PA
• Construction
• Maintenance/Operations
ES
S
TH
PA
TIES
LED
OW
EC
AY
ND
TI
ILL
SP
EA
SK
Maintenance/
Operations
KN
EDG
A
CI
PE
RS
Design/
Pre-Construction
W
ER
KNOWL
Cluster
Knowledge
& Skills
IALI
PAT
H WAY
CAREE
LI
G E A N D S KIL L S
Construction
R
CA
E
Employment Outlook.
Architecture and construction comprise one of the largest industries in the United
States. Based on the latest statistics, this career cluster has 13.8 million jobs. In the
next few years, many new jobs will be added and many employment opportunities
will result from the need to replace experienced workers who leave jobs.
24
ARTS, A/V TECHNOLOGY & COMMUNICATIONS
Broadly, individuals that work in the AV communications industry manufacture,
sell, rent, design, install, integrate, operate, and repair the equipment of audiovisual
communications. They are involved in the presentation of sound, video, and data to
groups in such venues as corporate boardrooms, hotels, convention centers,
classrooms, theme parks, stadiums, and museums. The major activity sectors in the
AV communications industry are distributive service firms (AV dealers, rental
companies, consultants, designers, and related firms), manufacturers of AV
presentations and communications products, and large end-users.
EC
IA
LI
TI
N
PAT
HW
CA
RE
ER
SP
LED
ECI
GE A
N D S KI
ALIT
IES
KN
LLS PATHWAY
OW
LE D
E
CA RE
GE
IES
S
ILL
AN
D
ES
OW
TI
TH
PA
KN
SK
LS
AY
Broadcasting,
Film &
Journalism
EER SPECIALIT
Visual Arts
K IL
W
Printing
Technology
DS
AY KN
O WLED GE AN
OWLEDGE AND S
Cluster
Telecommunications Knowledge
& Skills
CA R
Audio-Video
Communications
Technology
LS
CA
SP
KNO
WL
ED
GE
A
S
ILL
Performing
Arts
S PATHWAY
SK
PA
TH
WA
D SKILL
E AN
ER
ES
K
EDG
WL
NO
CA R E
IES
WA
Y KN
• Visual Arts
Y
ALIT
PA
TH
• Telecommunications
R SPECIALITIES
• Printing Technology
REE
• Performing Arts
CA
• Broadcasting, Film &
Journalism
RE
S
ER
CI
PE
D
• Audio/Video
Communications
Technology
K IL
THE SIX PATHWAYS.
P
RS
I
EC
AL
I
Employment Outlook.
Most observers expect the job growth rate within AV industries to be at 20-30% for
the foreseeable future. In just the AV systems technician field, the industry could
expect to add 20,600 jobs annually.
25
BUSINESS, MANAGEMENT & ADMINISTRATION
The Business, Management and Administration Cluster prepares learners for
careers in planning, organizing, directing and evaluating business functions
essential to efficient and productive business operations. Career opportunities are
available in every sector of the economy and require specific skills in organization,
time management, customer service and communication.
The Six Pathways.
EC
WL
ED
GE
A
IA
LI
N
K IL
PAT
HW
OW
CA
ER
SP
LED
ECI
GE A
N D S KI
ALIT
IES
LLS PATHWAY
KNO
ED
WL
CA RE
ER
GE
ILL
Business Analysis
AN
D
ES
KN
TI
Marketing
AY
SK
TH
PA
S
LS
W
S
C
PE
IA
LI
Employment Outlook.
The business management and administration services industry is projected to be
one of the fastest growing through the year 2008. Nearly half of all jobs are in
managerial and professional occupations, and nearly one-fourth of all workers are
self-employed. The business management and administration services industry is
one of the highest-paying industries. In the next few years, many new jobs will be
added and many openings will result from the need to replace experienced workers
who leave jobs.
26
IES
EER SPECIALIT
OWLEDGE AND S
Human
Resources
CA R
WA
Y KN
Cluster
Knowledge
& Skills
LS
Business Financial
Management and
Accounting
S
ILL
Management
Administration
and Information
Support
RE
TI
K IL
CA
SP
SK
PA
TH
WA
ER
ES
Y
G
LED
OW
N
K
CA R E
S PATHWAY
D SKILL
KNO
E AN
PA
TH
• Administration &
Information Support
R SPECIALITIES
• Marketing
REE
• Business Analysis
CA
• Human Resources
R
EE
IES
D
• Business Financial
Management & Accounting
R
S
ALIT
DS
AY KN
O WLED GE AN
• Management
CI
PE
EDUCATION & TRAINING
This diverse Career Cluster prepares learners for careers in planning, managing and
providing education and training services, and related learning support services.
Millions of learners each year prepare for careers in education and training in a
variety of settings that offer academic instruction, vocational and technical
instruction, and other education and training services.
The Three Pathways.
RE
CA
• Teaching and Training
• Professional Support
Services
T
PA
ER SPECIALITIE
S
NOWLEDGE AND
AY K
SKI
HW
L
LS
ES
W
A
CA
TIES
SP
H
PAT
IALI
LED
Y
ND
TI
OW
EA
Teaching and
Training
KN
EDG
A
CI
PE
RS
Professional
Support
Services
SK
ILL
S
ER
KNOWL
Cluster
Knowledge
& Skills
EC
PAT
H WAY
CAREE
LI
G E A N D SKILL S
Adminstration and
Administrative Support
• Administration and
Administrative Support
RE
Employment Outlook.
A growing emphasis on improving education and making it available to more
Americans will increase the overall demand for workers in the Education and
Training Cluster. Employers are expected to devote greater resources to job-specific
training programs in response to the increasing complexity of many jobs, the aging
of the work force, and technological advances that can leave employees with
obsolete skills. This will result in particularly strong demand for training and
development specialists across all industries.
27
FINANCE
The Finance Cluster prepares learners for careers in financial and investment
planning, banking, insurance and business financial management. Career
opportunities are available in every sector of the economy and require specific
skills in organization, time management, customer service and communication.
The Four Pathways.
ES
CA
E
RE
ITIE
AL
E
CI
WL
PE
AY
PATH W
O
KN
S
S
SKILL
EA
ND
Insurance
Services
DG
SP
PATHW
AY K
NO
WL
E
EER
E
ITI
SP
S
CA R
Business
Financial
Management
Cluster
Knowledge
& Skills
Banking
and Related
Services
ED
GE
AN
DS
KIL L S
AL
R
NO
WL
L
SP
CI
EE
ITIE
Financial and
Investment
Planning
PATHW
AY
K
IAL
W
ER
NO
CARE
YK
PATH WA
• Insurance Services
KILLS
DS
AN
S
SKILL
ND
EA
• Banking and Related
Services
E
DG
CA R
S
G
ED
• Business Financial
Management
A
CI
IE
LIT
EC
E
• Financial and Investment
Planning
R
S
Employment Outlook.
The finance industry is a critical sector of the United States economy with over six
million people employed in finance-related occupations. Although some of the
finance occupations project only moderate growth through the year 2008, the
advances in technology and trends toward direct marketing provide exciting and
challenging opportunities for careers across all areas of the cluster. In the next few
years, many new jobs will be added and many openings will result from the need to
replace experienced workers who leave jobs.
28
GOVERNMENT & PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION
Government affects Americans in countless ways. In a democratic society,
government is the means of expressing the public will. This includes a variety of
activities. In fact, virtually every occupation can be found within government. There
are, however, some activities that are unique to government. The federal government
defends us from foreign aggression; represents American interests abroad;
deliberates, passes and enforces laws; and administers many different programs.
State and local governments pass laws or ordinances and provide vital services to
constituents. There are many opportunities in government in every career area. The
Government and Public Administration Career Cluster focuses on those careers
that are unique to government and not contained in another Career Cluster.
I
IT
IE
S
PATH
LLS
WAY K
NOWLEDGE AND SKI
E
AN
DS
K
CA
ITIE
IAL
EC
N
YK
WA
H
T
PA
S
AND
SKIL
LS
Foreign
Service
Planning
Revenue
and Taxation
TI
SP
PATHWAY KNOWLEDGE
Regulation
AN
DS
KIL
LS
EC
AL
Cluster
Knowledge
& Skills
LI
R
PA
National
Security
AND
SKI
LLS
ITI
IAL
CA R E E R S P E C
Governance
IA
ECIALITIES
R SP
SP
GE
ED
WL
NO
AY K
PATHW
EER
Employment Outlook.
PATHWAY
KNOW
LED
GE
Public
Management and
Administration
CA R
• Public Management and
Administration
ILLS
AND SK
DGE
WLE
O
KN
REE
• Regulation
RS
PEC
CA
• Revenue and Taxation
Y
WA
TH
CA R E E
EDGE AND SKILLS
NOWL
AY K
HW
PAT
• Planning
ER
IES
S
ILL
• Foreign Service
ES
• National Security
E
AR
IALIT
S
C
• Governance
EC
SP
OW
LE
DG
E
The Seven Pathways.
RE
E
CA R
EER SPECIALITIES
Because of its public nature, the
factors that influence federal
government staffing levels are
unique. The Congress and President determine the government’s payroll budget.
Each Presidential Administration and Congress have different public policy
priorities, which increase levels of federal employment in some programs and
decrease federal employment in others.
State and local government employment is projected to increase approximately 12
percent during the next decade. Employment growth will stem from a rising
demand for services at the state and local levels. An increasing population, along
with state and local assumption of responsibility for some services previously
provided by the federal government, is fueling the growth of these services.
29
HEALTH SERVICES
Health Services is one of the largest industries in the country, with more than 11
million jobs, including the self-employed. The health services industry includes
establishments ranging from small-town private practice physicians who employ
only one medical assistant to busy inner city hospitals that provide thousands of
diverse jobs. More than half of all non-hospital health service establishments
employ fewer than five workers. On the other hand, almost two-thirds of hospital
employees were in establishments with more than 1,000 workers.
The Four Pathways.
E
30
S
D SK
AN
GE
CI
PE
L
SP
Note: Adapted from information currently available.
ED
W
ER
NO
CARE
Wage and salary employment in
the health services industry is
Information
Environmental
projected to increase more than
ED
L
GE
25 percent through 2010,
OW
AN
N
K
DS
AY
CI
KILL S
compared with an average of 16
PATH W
S
AL
R
ITI
E
percent for all industries.
E
ES
CAR
Employment growth is expected
to account for about 2.8 million
new jobs – 13 percent of all wage and salary jobs added to the economy over the
2000-2010 period.
ITIE
Cluster
Knowledge
& Skills
SP
IL L S
E
SP
PATHWA
YK
NO
WL
EER
Diagnostic
R
S
CA R
Therapeutic
E
DG
YK
PATH WA
Employment Outlook.
PATHW
AY
KN
OW
L
ITIE
• Diagnostic
EE
KILLS
DS
AN
IAL
• Environmental
C
CA R
ES
ILLS
EC
D SK
AN
GE
ED
E
• Information
IA
I
LIT
AL
• Therapeutic
HOSPITALITY & TOURISM
The Hospitality and Tourism Cluster prepares learners for careers in the
management, marketing and operations of restaurants and other food services,
lodging, attractions, recreation events and travel-related services. Hospitality
operations are located in communities throughout the world.
The Four Pathways.
Lodging
E
CA
L
E
RE
ITIE
AL
W
CI
SP
IES
AY
PATH W
O
KN
S
IL L S
D SK
GE
L
ED
W
ER
LIT
SP
AN
Travel and
Tourism
NO
CARE
YK
PATH WA
Cluster
Knowledge
& Skills
Recreation,
Amusement and
Attractions
ED
GE
AN
DS
CI
KILL S
A
R
PE
E
SP
PATHWA
YK
NO
WL
EER
Restaurant and
Food and Beverage
Services
EE
PATHW
AY
KN
OW
L
S
CA R
KILLS
DS
N
EA
ITIE
• Recreation, Amusements
and Attractions
DG
CA R
S
IAL
• Lodging
• Travel and Tourism
A
CI
IE
LIT
ILLS
EC
D SK
AN
GE
ED
E
• Restaurant and
Food/Beverage Services
R
S
Employment Outlook.
Travel and tourism is one of the largest and fastest-growing industries in the world.
Each year, travel and tourism employers around the world pay more than $1.6
trillion in wages and salaries and create 12.5 million new jobs. Beginning salaries
depend on the employee’s skills, education and job level at a hotel, restaurant,
tourism office, recreation facility, amusement park or attraction site. Salaries range
from entry-level wages to six figures. This industry is known for promoting from
within and for its large number of young managers.
31
HUMAN SERVICES
This diverse Career Cluster prepares individuals for employment in career
pathways related to families and human needs.
CA
SK
AY KN
O W LED GE A ND
REE
EE
PA
I
LLS
R SPECIALIT
RS
PECIA
LITIES
LS
A N D S KIL
LEDGE
NOW
WA
YK
TH
RE
CA
PAT
HW
AY
KN
SK
PAT
HW
I
ES
Counseling
and Mental
Health
Services
Family and
Community Services
LS
EC
Early Childhood
Development
and Services
Cluster
Knowledge
Personal Care
& Skills
Services
IL
SP
PATHW
AY K
NO
WL
ED
GE
LS
Consumer
Services
ND
E A
S
KILLS
ER
ITI
• Consumer Services
S
AN D
CA R E
K IL
• Personal Care Services
G
PATH
W LE D
W
O
A
N
Y
K
IE
LIT
CAREER SPECIA
• Family and Community
Services
LE
OW
E
DG
ITIES
DS
AN
• Counseling and Mental
Health Services
R
S
PE
L
CIA
AL
E
• Early Childhood
Development and Services
AR
The Five Pathways.
C
IES
Employment Outlook.
Based on the latest statistics, more than 7.2 million people are employed in human
services occupations. Faster than average employment growth through the year
2010, coupled with high turnover, should create numerous employment
opportunities.
32
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
IT careers involve the design, development, support and management of hardware,
software, multimedia and systems integration services. The IT industry is a
dynamic and entrepreneurial working environment that has a revolutionary impact
on the economy and society. In addition to careers in the IT industry, IT careers
are available in every sector of the economy – from Financial Services to Medical
Services, Business to Engineering and Environmental Services.
Anyone preparing for an IT career should have a solid grounding in math and
science.
The Four Pathways.
E
ITI
AN
DS
ES
K IL L S
KN
AY
PATH W
OW
CAR
ITIE
S
IL L S
D SK
GE
AL
L
ED
W
SP
AL
AN
Information
Support
& Services
L
PE
E
NO
WL
E
SP
EER
PATHWA
YK
NO
ER
CI
GE
S
YK
PATH WA
CARE
ED
ITIE
CA R
Network
Systems
Cluster
Knowledge
& Skills
Interactive
Media
SP
IAL
Programming
Software
Engineering
EE
R
PATHW
AY
KN
OW
L
SKILLS
ND
EA
• Programming/Software
Engineering
DG
LS
SKIL
ND
A
E
EC
• Interactive Media
C
CA R
ES
G
ED
• Information Support &
Services
IA
I
LIT
CI
• Network Systems
R
EE
S
Employment Outlook.
Even in times of economic downturn, there is still a large market for people with IT
skills in organizations of all sizes. ITAA expects continued growth opportunities
within the IT field.
33
LAW, PUBLIC SAFETY & SECURITY
The Law, Public Safety and Security Cluster helps prepare students for careers in
planning, managing, and providing legal, public safety, protective services and
homeland security, including professional and technical support services.
SP
EC
Emergency and
Fire Management
Services
PAT
HW
CA
SK
AY KN
O WLEDGE AND
REE
LS
A N D S KIL
LED GE
WA
YK
Law Enforcement
Services
LS
NO W
Cluster
Knowledge
Security and
& Skills Protective
TH
SK
IL
I
PA
I
LLS
R SPECIALIT
RS
PECIA
LITIES
DG
E
Services
ND
E A
S
PATHW
AY K
NO
WL
E
EE
N
RE
PAT
HW
AY
K
Legal
Services
ER
ES
Correction
Services
ILLS
CA R E
ITI
CA
SK
A ND
S
LS
KIL
• Legal Services
L
OW
GE
ED
LITIE
AL
• Law Enforcement
Services
G
PATH
WLED
W
O
A
N
Y
K
IE
LIT
CA R E E R SPECIA
• Security and Protective
Services
R
SP
IA
EC
DS
AN
• Emergency and Fire
Management Services
E
• Correction Services
AR
The Five Pathways.
C
IES
Employment Outlook.
Renewed national interest in public safety and security should help expand
opportunities for employment in the Law, Public Safety and Security Cluster.
Numerous job openings will stem from employment growth attributable to the
desire for increased corporate, industrial and homeland security. Also, a more
security-conscious society and concern about drug-related crimes should
contribute to the increasing demand.
34
MANUFACTURING
All careers in Manufacturing require you to have a strong mechanical ability,
specialized skills, communication skills and computation skills. You will be required
to apply problem solving, make decisions, and work in a team environment.
Preparation for careers in Manufacturing must begin in the elementary grades and
continue through high school allowing students to gain experience in applied, realtime manufacturing situations. Students will also find it advantageous to
participate in a post-high school program that will expand some skills in specific
jobs that meet the requirements of the employer.
The Four Pathways.
ITI
AN
D SK
ES
ILL S
KN
AY
W
H
T
PA
CAR
ITIE
AL
OW
L
PE
E
AL
GE
S
ILLS
D SK
GE
ED
L
SP
CI
AN
E
NO
WL
SP
EER
CA R
PATHW
AY
K
W
ER
ED
S
ILLS
Industrial
Maintenance
NO
CARE
K
AY
PATH W
Cluster
Knowledge
& Skills
Manufacturing
Engineering
SP
ITIE
Production
Planning &
Control
R
IAL
Production
EE
PATHW
AY
KN
OW
L
D SK
AN
• Industrial Maintenance
G
ED
S
SKILL
ND
A
E
EC
• Manufacturing
Engineering
C
CA R
ES
GE
ED
• Production Planning and
Control
IA
I
LIT
CI
• Production
R
EE
S
Employment Outlook.
As technology advances, each worker has the opportunity to produce more,
so fewer workers are needed. However, there are excellent opportunities in
manufacturing where technology and career pathways provide for satisfying careers.
In 2000, manufacturing was the 3rd largest jobs division, behind services and retail
trade. Manufacturing, which is considered a goods-producing industry is expected
to account for 1.3 million new jobs. This represents a modest job increase.
Note: Adapted from information currently available.
35
MARKETING, SALES & SERVICE
This diverse Career Cluster prepares learners for careers in planning, managing and
performing marketing activities to reach organizational objectives.
IE
S
PATH
LLS
WAY K
NOWLEDGE AND SKI
CA R
N
YK
WA
H
T
PA
CA
ITIE
IAL
EC
Marketing
Communications
and Promotion
S
Buying and
Merchandising
SP
PA
AND
SKI
LLS
IT
Professional
Sales and
Marketing
R
C
ES
CA R E E R S P E C
IAL
ITI
PATHWAY KNOWLEDGE
I
AL
ECIALITIES
R SP
EC
AN
DS
KIL
LS
IE
AN
DS
K
Management and
Entrepreneurship
Cluster
Knowledge
& Skills
Marketing
IT
REE
SP
• E-Marketing
PATHWAY
KNOW
LED
GE
Distribution
and Logistics
GE
ED
WL
NO
AY K
PATHW
EER
• Distribution and Logistics
SKILLS
E-Marketing
Information
Management
and Research
CAR
• Marketing Information
Management and Research
Y
WA
TH
D
GE AN
LED
OW
KN
RS
PEC
IA
L
CA
• Marketing Communications
and Promotion
R
CA R E E
EDGE AND SKILLS
NOWL
AY K
HW
PAT
• Buying and Merchandising
EE
IES
S
ILL
• Professional Sales and
Marketing
AR
IALIT
S
• Management and
Entrepreneurship
EC
SP
OW
LE
DG
EA
ND
SKIL
LS
The Seven Pathways.
RE
E
EER SPECIALITIES
Employment Outlook.
According to the latest statistics, there are 16 million jobs in sales and related
occupations. Advertising, marketing, promotions, public relations and sales
managers hold more than 700,000 jobs. Over 300,000 high-paying management
positions are likely to be available over the next decade. Employment opportunities
for retail salespeople are expected to be good. Individuals with a college degree or
computer skills will be sought for managerial positions in sales, logistics,
management information systems, marketing and e-marketing.
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SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING & MATHEMATICS
A career in science, technology, engineering or mathematics is exciting,
challenging, and ever-changing. Learners who pursue one of these career fields
will be involved in planning, managing, and providing scientific research and
professional and technical services including laboratory and testing services, and
research and development services.
The Two Pathways.
• Science and Mathematics
• Engineering and
Technology
RE
CA
ER SPECIALITIE
S
NOWLEDGE AND
AY K
SK
HW
T
ILL
PA
S
Engineering and Technology
Cluster
Knowledge
& Skills
Science and Mathematics
PA
TH
CA
WAY
REE
KNO W LEDGE
S
AND
KIL
R SPECIALIT
LS
IES
Employment Outlook.
Given the critical nature of much of the work in science, technology, engineering
and mathematics, job possibilities abound even in times of economic downturn.
More scientists, technologists and engineers will be needed to meet
environmental regulations and to develop methods of cleaning up existing
hazards. A shift in emphasis toward preventing problems rather than controlling
those that already exist, as well as increasing public health concerns, also will
spur demand for these positions.
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TRANSPORTATION, DISTRIBUTION & LOGISTICS
This diverse Career Cluster exposes students to careers and businesses involved in
the planning, management, and movement of people, materials, and products by
road, air, rail and water. It also includes related professional and technical support
services such as infrastructure planning and management, logistic services, and the
maintenance of mobile equipment and facilities.
The Seven Pathways.
AND
SKI
LLS
Cluster Transportation
System
Knowledge Infrastructure
& Skills Health, Safety
Sales
Warehouse
& Distribution
Center
Operations
EC
I
IT
IE
S
PATH
LLS
WAY K
NOWLEDGE AND SKI
CA R
AY
HW
PAT
KN
CA
IAL
ITIE
S
& Environmental
Management
EC
AN
DS
KIL
LS
Facility
& Mobile
Equipment
Maintenance
SP
SP
AL
& Services
OW
LE
DG
EA
ND
SKIL
LS
PATHWAY KNOWLEDGE
Transportation
Operations
R
PA
ES
ITI
AN
DS
K
ECIALITIES
R SP
IAL
PATHWAY
KNOW
LED
GE
REE
CA R E E R S P E C
RS
PEC
IA
LIT
IE
CA
Planning &
Management
Services
CA R E E
EDGE AND SKILLS
NOWL
AY K
HW
PAT
EER
• Health, Safety and
Environmental
Management
CAR
• Transportation
Systems/Infrastructure
Planning, Management and
Regulation
D SKILLS
GE AN
LED
W
NO
YK
WA
Logistics
TH
GE
ED
WL
NO
AY K
PATHW
• Facility and Mobile
Equipment Maintenance
E
ES
S
• Warehousing and
Distribution Center
Operations
AR
S
ER
ALITI
S
ILL
• Logistics Planning and
Management
C
• Transportation Operations
I
PEC
RE
E
EER SPECIALITIES
• Sales and Service
Employment Outlook.
38
Transportation, distribution and logistics is a critical sector of the United States
economy. Almost 10 million people are employed in transportation or
transportation-related occupations. High-growth industry and career specialties
offer high-tech, high-wage opportunities. This industry sector represents over 11
percent of the gross domestic product, and is among the fastest growing of all
sectors. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 14.7 percent increase in
employment in this sector through 2008. There will be a growing number of career
opportunities in a variety of professional and technical occupations as well as highpaid, entry-level occupations that can provide career advancement opportunities.
INFORMATION AND CAREER RESEARCH
The next few pages will explain how to access information about various careers.
Family Members and Friends are good sources of first-hand knowledge.
Ask them about:
• Their careers and related fields
• Anticipated skill requirements in their fields
• The job market
• Necessary certifications
• Their working environments
• Pay and other benefits
• Possible future developments in their industries
• Educational requirements for entry level, intermediate level,
and advanced level
Don’t be shy asking people about their careers. People love to talk about
themselves. Set up “informational interviews” or job shadow experiences to ask
questions. Make a site visit!
School or Career Counselors help students plan for the future. A
counselor may use career assessment instruments, computerized information
systems, or other resources to help you to connect what you know about yourself
with what you know about careers.
School counselors can’t make your career decisions for you. They can provide you
with resources and guidance to assist you in this decision-making process. What
you get out of this information depends on your effort and input.
Job Shadowing – Request the opportunity to observe someone doing a job you
might like to do in the future. Your counselor may be able to arrange this for you.
Co-op/Internships are short term, full or part time, paid or non-paid
positions developed between student, employers and faculty, which allow students
to gain on-the-job experience related to their academic program. These positions
are possible springboards to regular permanent employment. (Depending on the
school, students can earn academic credit toward their degree or an honorary
mention in their transcripts for having held a co-op or internship position.)
39
Libraries often have a “career section” full of valuable material. You can find
information about:
• Career planning skills
• Specific jobs
• Trends in the job market
• College, universities and training programs
Ask a reference librarian for help locating career materials, including:
• Occupational Outlook Handbook
• Encyclopedia of Careers and Vocational Guidance
• Dictionary of Occupational Titles
Professional trade associations and unions may provide information
about related careers and training requirements. Unions may also sponsor training
programs for people interested in specific careers.
You can get names and addresses of these organizations at the library in the
Encyclopedia of Associations.
The Illinois Employment and Training Center of DuPage
County offers services to help people explore career and training opportunities.
It has a career resource center were you can gather information on careers, learn
about training requirements, find out where to get training for specific careers,
and access computerized information systems. Career counseling available by
appointment, call 630-495-4345, extension 274.
The DuPage County Employment Center is located at 837 South Westmore-Meyers
Road in Lombard. Call (630) 495-4345, Ext. 1, for directions. Hours are Monday
through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Wednesdays open until 7:00 PM.
40
INFORMATIONAL INTERVIEWING
What is it?
The Informational Interview is the key tool that will assist you in obtaining the
information that you need to learn more about careers that you may enjoy.
You can get all this straight from the people who currently work in the field.
What are the purposes of the career information interview?
• To obtain information about an individuals’ experiences in career areas of
your choice.
• To meet others who share your enthusiasm, have similar talents and interests, and
are putting these factors to use in their careers. These people may also know about
the “hidden job market” in their fields and can share this information with you.
• To gain experience, self-confidence and skill in interviewing with others about
yourself and your career interests.
How do I do it?
Select an occupation you would like to know more about. Read all you can about
the occupation. That is the first step in career awareness. Once you’ve done your
research, you can arrange to meet someone who does that job. See if your friends or
relatives can give you a contact name. If not, call the place where this type of
person would be employed.
Ask if you can have 15 to 20 minutes of this person’s time to find out more about
this kind of occupation. It is very hard for someone to deny you a few minutes of
his or her time. If they do, be persistent and say you will call them next week to
arrange for a more convenient time.
You will need to prepare some questions for your meeting.
Here are some sample questions
• How did you get into this field? (Educational background, career path)
• What is your typical day like?
• What do you like most about your job? What do you like least about
your job?
• What skills are necessary for the type of work that you do? What trends do
you see for these occupations in 2 – 5 years?
• Can you refer me to other individuals in this career field or related career
field who would be helpful in discussing these same issues?
41
Follow-Up
Send a thank you note for your informational interview. At a later date, if you are
still interested in the occupation, you can call this person back and inform
him/her that you are very serious about getting into the field. Then ask him/her
how they suggest you would get started. You are not asking him/her for a job, but
you are using this person as a contact. This is a potential way for you to learn
about job openings.
MORE INFORMATIONAL INTERVIEW QUESTIONS
1. What is your job title?
2. How long have you been in this position?
3. How did you get started in this type of work?
4. Would you describe your present job responsibilities and duties?
5. How do you spend a typical day?
6. What training or education did you receive for this position?
7. What do you like best about your job? What do you like least?
8. What do you think are some important things that a person going into this type of
work should know?
9. Does this kind of work have a good future?
10. What future career goals do you have?
11. Did any of your past jobs prepare you for this one?
12. What kinds of courses did you need in college to prepare you for this job?
13. How big a factor was college in helping you obtain this kind of job?
14. What has contributed to your career success up to the present time?
15. What are some of the problems you have encountered on your job? How have you
resolved them?
16. In what way has your present job prepared you for greater responsibilities?
17. How did you decide to become an (attorney, nurse, auto technician, etc.)?
18. Have you had any additional training or education since you completed school?
19. How do you think school contributed to your overall career development?
20. How did you spend your summers while you were in school?
21. What are your hours of work? How much vacation time do you get?
22. Can you describe your work environment?
23. What advice can you give me?
24. Would you be willing to give me referrals to other people in your career field?
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Select an occupation that you have an interest in and
complete this worksheet using career research guides
and an informational interview.
Occupation - ______________________________________________
What are the major job responsibilities?
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
What types of organizations typically hire for this career field?
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
What are the working conditions? (hours, days/nights, environment)
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
What education is needed for this job?
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
What is the employment outlook for this field?
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
What is the salary range for this position? (entry level and with experience)
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
What are some related career fields?
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
What is my overall impression of how I would “fit” with this career field?
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
43