What does the future job market look like for someone just entering the workforce, or those wanting to change careers? CareerBuilder and Economic Modeling Specialist International (EMSI) estimated that the U.S. workforce will grow by 4.4 percent between 2014 and 2017. Here are several job options that are sure to be in demand and make for solid career choices down the road.

Healthcare

The healthcare field is one of the fastest growing job markets. It’s projected to add half a million jobs by 2017. Baby boomers are retiring and getting older. People are also living longer, which drives up the demand for personal care attendants and home health aides. The good news is the opportunities aren’t just limited to traditional jobs and careers. As seen in Phoenix AZ retirement communities alone, healthcare institutions will need accountants, auditors, directors, computer support specialists, and more.

Financial Advisers

The global financial crisis of 2008 affected many businesses and individuals resulting in company closures, foreclosed homes, and retirement savings that disappeared. Financial strains and insecurities of this nature have caused a greater need for accounting specialists and advisers. Financial advisement is expected to grow by 40 percent over the next decade. Large portions of the population are retiring or planning for retirement, so financial advisers will nearly always be in high demand.

Education

Becoming a school teacher is one of oldest professions that is still in demand. Many who work in education are nearing retirement age, which will open up job opportunities in the future. As enrollment increases, more teachers will be needed. Teachers have the honor of preparing the next generation for academic careers, and molding them into socially responsible individuals.

Software Development

Computers are a daily necessity in everyone’s life today. We simply can’t live without them. Software development is at the top of the list of jobs with good expected growth rates in the future. According to Yahoo Finance, growth is expected to exceed 30 percent over the next 10 years. Various programs and software applications have become linked to our smartphones, televisions, appliances, and automobiles. There’s also a need to protect this infrastructure, so demand for qualified technicians and security technologists will continue to grow.

The industries highlighted only represent a partial look at careers that are expected to be in demand in the future. It’s worth considering each one and determining where your own personal strengths lie. Discovering the right career isn’t as hard as it may seem. There’s plenty of growth expected in 2014 and beyond.