Knowledge & Information / Projected Job Statistics

Over the next 50 years, the population of the U.S. is expected to grow by nearly 50%. Growth is influenced by immigration rates and longer life expectancy.

Between 2001 and 2029, the baby boomers will be reaching the traditional retirement age of 65. By 2050, the elderly population is expected to double that of the 33.5 million recorded in 1995 and will represent 20% of the population.

Service-producing industries will account for nearly all job growth until 2008. Health services,
business services, engineering, and management are expected to account for 1 out of 2 jobs.

The gap between women and men's average earnings is closing as more women break through the glass ceiling. This is due in part to women entering college at a higher rate
than men, 69% to 62% respectively. One in four wives now earns more than her husband.

"People with disabilities will be attaining more college education. This is due in part to laws
requiring equal access coupled with advances in assistive technologies.

Since 1967, the percentage of women participating in the labor force has increased from 41% to 60%. At the same time, the percentage of men participating has declined from 80% to 75%. These trends are likely to continue.

By 2006, nearly half of all U.S. workers will be employed in industries that produce or intensively use information technology, products, and services.

Employers spent $105 billion for on-line recruiting in 1998. Such spending is expected to increase more than tenfold by 2008.

Twenty percent of jobs will require a four-year degree. This statistic has not changed since the 1950's. However, these careers promise more advantages and monetary benefits than ever before.

Technical and professional jobs will account for 30% of all jobs
and one-fourth of all new jobs created.

An increasing number of workers will be "contingency workers" (outsourced). These include freelancers and subcontractors.

Women are increasingly working outside the home and returning to work while their children are still preschool age. In 1950, 33% of women worked outside the home.