The Concept of Career Clusters

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.

CAREER CLUSTERS

The 16 clusters, along with sample occupations and pathways to entry are:

Agricultural & 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.

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.

Sample Occupations within Agricultural & Natural Resources:

Food Scientist

Environmental Engineer

Horticulturist

Animal Scientist

Biochemist

Veterinarian Assistant

The Seven Pathways into Agricultural & Natural Resources:

• Food Products & Processing Systems

• Plant Systems

• Animal Systems

• Power, Structural & Technical Systems

• Natural Resource Systems

• Environmental Service Systems

• Agribusiness Systems

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.

Architecture and construction comprise one of the largest industries in the United States, and employment in this cluster is expected to grow faster than average over the next decade. 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.

Sample Occupations within Architecture & Construction:

Contractor

Architect

Electrician

Heavy Equipment Operator

Carpenter

Plumber

The Three Pathways into Architecture & Construction:

• Design/Pre-Construction

• Construction

• Maintenance/Operations

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.

According to Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates, this cluster is expected to grow by 7% between 2010 and 2020, growing more slowly than average compared to other clusters and the national average of 14%.

Sample Occupations within Arts, A/V Technology & Communications:

Actor

Video Producer

Journalist

Audio Engineer

Telecommunications Technologist

Printing/Graphics Technologist

The Six Pathways into Arts, A/V Technology & Communications:

• Audio/Video Communications Technology

• Broadcasting, Film & Journalism

• Performing Arts

• Printing Technology

• Telecommunications

• Visual Arts

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.

Employment opportunities in this cluster are expected to grow by about 12 percent by 2020, which is about average compared to other clusters and the national average of 14%. 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.

Sample Occupations within Business, Management & Administration:

Human Resource Administrator

Administrative Specialist

Financial Analyst

International Trade Manager

Entrepreneur

Accountant

The Six Pathways into Business, Management & Administration:

• Management

• Business Financial Management & Accounting

• Human Resources

• Business Analysis

• Marketing

• Administration & Information Support

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.

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.

Overall, this cluster is expected to have an employment growth rate of almost 16 percent, which is about average compared to other clusters and the national average of 14%.

Sample Occupations within Education & Training:

Teacher

Principal

School Counselor

College Professor

Corporate Trainer

Coach

The Three Pathways into Education & Training:

• Teaching and Training

• Professional Support Services

• Administration and Administrative Support

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 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 2020, 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.

Sample Occupations within Finance:

Stock Broker

Banker

Insurance Agent

Financial Planner

Loan Officer

Tax Examiner

The Four Pathways into Finance:

• Financial and Investment Planning

• Business Financial Management

• Banking and Related Services

• Insurance Services

Government & Public Administration

Government affects American in countless ways. In 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.

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.

Sample Occupations within Government & Public Administration:

Legislator

City Manager

Policy/Budget Analyst

Recreation/Parks Director

State/Federal Agency Director

Urban/Regional Planner

The Seven Pathways into Government & Public Administration:

• Governance

• National Security

• Foreign Service

• Planning

• Revenue and Taxation

• Regulation

• Public Management and Administration

Health Science

Heath Science will be the fastest growing career cluster over the next decade. 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.

By 2020, employment in Health Science occupations is projected to increase by 29 percent, much faster than other clusters.

Sample Occupations within Health Science:

Pediatrician

Physical Therapist

Radiologic Technologist

Occupational Therapist

Medical Assistant

Hospital Administrator

The Four Pathways into Health Science:

• Therapeutic

• Information

• Environmental

• Diagnostic

Hospitality & Tourism

The Hospitality and Tourism Cluster prepares learners for careers in themanagement, 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.

This industry is known for promoting from within and for its large number of young managers. 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.

The overall growth rate for the cluster is projected to be about average compared to other clusters at 10%.

Sample Occupations within Hospitality & Tourism:

Lodging Manager

Chef

Travel & Tourism Manager

Food Service Manager

Restaurant Manager

Leisure & Entertainment Manager

The Four Pathways into Hospitality and Tourism:

• Restaurant and Food/Beverage Services

• Lodging

• Travel and Tourism

• Recreation, Amusements and Attractions

Human Services

This diverse Career Cluster prepares individuals for employment in career pathways related to families and human needs.

Based on the latest statistics, more than 8 million people will be employed in human services occupations by the year 2020. Faster than average employment growth, coupled with high turnover, should create numerous employment opportunities.

Sample Occupations within Human Services:

Social Worker

Psychologist

Child Care Worker

Substance Abuse Specialist

Employment Specialist

Psychotherapist

The Five Pathways into Human Services:

• Early Childhood Development and Services

• Counseling and Mental Health Services

• Family and Community Services

• Personal Care Services

• Consumer Services

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.

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.

Sample Occupations within Information Technology:

Software Engineer

Network Administrator

Web Designer/Developer

Database Manager

Technical Writer

Multimedia Producer

The Four Pathways into Information Technology:

• Network Systems

• Information Support & Services

• Interactive Media

• Programming/Software Engineering

Law & Public Safety

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.

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.

Sample Occupations within Law & Public Safety:

Attorney

Fire Fighter

Police Officer

Judge

Paramedic

Paralegal

The Five Pathways into Law & Public Safety:

• Correction Services

• Emergency and Fire Management Services

• Security and Protective Services

• Law Enforcement Services

• Legal Services

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.

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 create over 720,000 new jobs and have almost 3 million job openings between 2010 and 2020. This represents a modest job increase.

Sample Occupations within Manufacturing:

Machinist

Manufacturing Engineer

Automated Process Technician

Production Engineer/Technician

Welding Technician

Quality Technician

The Four Pathways into Manufacturing:

• Production

• Production Planning and Control

• Manufacturing Engineering

• Industrial Maintenance

Marketing, Sales & Service

This diverse Career Cluster prepares learners for careers in planning, managing and performing marketing activities to reach organizational objectives.

There are an estimated 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.

Sample Occupations within Marketing, Sales & Service:

Sales Associate

Interior Designer

Marketing Director

Buyer

Real Estate Broker

Customer Service Representative

The Seven Pathways into Marketing, Sales & Service:

• Management and Entrepreneurship

• Professional Sales and Marketing

• Buying and Merchandising

• Marketing Communications and Promotion

• Marketing Information Management and Research

• Distribution and Logistics

• E-Marketing

Scientific Research/Engineering

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.

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.

Sample Occupations within Scientific Research/Engineering:

Chemical Engineer

Mathematician

Bio Technologist

Electrical Engineer

Biologist

Oceanographer

The Two Pathways into Scientific Research/Engineering:

• Science and Mathematics

• Engineering and Technology

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.

Transportation, distribution and logistics is a critical sector of the United States economy. Roughly 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 is among the fastest growing of all sectors. There will be a growing number of career opportunities in a variety of professional and technical occupations as well as high paid, entry-level occupations that can provide career advancement opportunities.

Sample Occupations within Transportation, Distribution & Logistics:

Pilot

Automotive Technician

Logistics Manager

Flight Attendant

Warehouse Manager

Truck Driver

The Eight Pathways into Transportation, Distribution & Logistics:

• Transportation Operations

• Logistics Planning and Management

• Warehousing and Distribution Center Operations

• Facility and Mobile Equipment Maintenance

• Transportation Systems

• Infrastructure Planning, Management and Regulation

• Health, Safety and Environmental Management

• Sales and Service

INFORMATION AND CAREER RESEARCH

The next few paragraphs will explain how to access information about various careers. Family members and friends are good sources of first-hand knowledge. 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!

Here are some other handy resources to learn more about careers and finding a good fit:

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.)

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.

WorkNet DuPage 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.