There are an estimated 30 million ‘good jobs’ available in the current workforce. These ‘good jobs’ are middle-skill positions that require education beyond high school but not a bachelor’s degree.

These positions are an excellent opportunity for GED graduates to meet the needs of the workforce, while pursuing stable, well-paying careers.

The GED test program was designed to prepare adult learners for life beyond the GED credential, including success in postsecondary education and their careers. Adult education courses have the opportunity to help students identify careers of interest and encourage the development of the hard and soft skills they need to be effective and reliable employees. While there is a need to acquire math, science, writing and reading comprehension skills, employers are also looking for soft skills. According to a report released by consulting company Accenture, many companies cited candidates’ lack of foundational skills such as communication, collaboration and problem-solving as an additional obstacle to filling open positions. 

Across the country industries like healthcare, information technology and skilled trades are in high demand for workers. The U.S. Department of Labor’s O*NET website has a full list of middle-skill jobs with details on related tasks and qualifications. Adult learners can use the site to match their work styles and interests with detailed work activities related to each position. National and state wage information is available, as well as a link to find jobs in their desired field based on their geographic location. 

There are many jobs across the country that remain vacant or are expected to see a higher demand for workers in the next few years. The Department of Labor’s Occupational Outlook Handbook identified the following middle-skill jobs as having a substantial projected growth rate:

  • Dental assistants
  • Licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses
  • Emergency medical technicians and paramedics
  • Hairdressers, hairstylists, barbers and cosmetologists
  • Automotive service technicians and mechanics
  • Paralegal and legal assistants
  • General and operations managers
  • Web developers
  • Radiation therapists
  • Computer network support specialists

Visit this site for more information about how GED graduates are preparing for life after the GED credential.