Money Savers

Finding A Virtually Recession Proof Career

BOSTON (AP) ―
But there are some industries where jobs are virtually recession-proof.

There are certain areas where jobs are stable and there is potential for growth. "Anything within the field of health care," career counselor Dan King said.

He says the aging population virtually guarantees the need for more health care workers.

That's one of the reasons why at age 40, Josh Sandeman decided to enroll at Simmons College Nursing School. "This path was virtually a guaranteed job for life."

Sandeman sayss he felt burned out after years of working as a computer programmer and wanted to connect with people. "It's just sort of an added bonus that I probably am never going to have to worry about having a job."

But if you can't stand the site of blood, King says there are other options. "There are some services that just can't be cut. They are fixed expenses in any economy."

That means teachers in fields like math and science, public safety officials and insurance workers.

"As much as we hate insurance, there's generally some security for people who provide insurance," he said.

Energy is another big one. Experts say anyone working on new ways to power cars or heat homes is probably pretty safe.

There's also a growing industry to combat global warming, so experts say if your job involves helping a company or consumers go green, you're probably in good shape.

King says if you feel like your job is in danger; don't be afraid to get out there.

"When the economy turns sour, a lot of the people who would normally be out in the job market drop everything and say 'I'm staying where I am. This is not the time to look.'"

(© 2008 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

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