Six careers you didn't know were growing

Half of these booming fields actually come from just one industry.

Wondering which careers are entering their boom phase? Check out these six careers, for which experts see optimistic times ahead.

By Terence Loose
Are you considering starting a new career, but want to make sure it's one whose future will boom, not bust?
Good thinking - changing careers requires focus, dedication, and a good plan.
"It's important for people to dedicate themselves to finding the right career for them, and to make sure they make smart, rewarding choices," says Mary Jeanne Vincent, a career expert and strategist who spent years in the human resources business. She's seen people make every mistake in the book, including not pursuing careers with a good future.
So, we figured we'd jump in and help you avoid that mistake by identifying some careers that are projected to maintain growth in the future.
In fact, we chose six careers that are projected to have at least a 21 percent job growth rate from 2010 to 2020, according to the U.S. Department of Labor - a favorable forecast when compared to the total U.S. employment growth rate of 14 percent.
So read on to learn more about these six careers expected to boom into the future.

Booming Career #1: Human Resources Specialist
Projected Growth Rate 2010 to 2020: 21 percent*

Are you good at assessing people's skills and talents? You could be born to pursue a booming career in human resources.
Human resources specialists generally identify a company's hiring needs and then interview applicants, contact their references, and perform background checks, says the U.S. Department of Labor. Other duties could include keeping employment records and assisting with new employee orientation.
Why This Career is Booming: Susan Heathfield, a management consultant and About.com's guide to human resources, sees a greater need for employees in human resources.
"The war for talent is escalating," says Heathfield. "[Companies] have human talent that they want to manage and make happy. And trying to attract, hire, and retain people... is becoming a huge problem. But it's also an opportunity for the people who have human resources degrees."
The Department of Labor confirms an optimistic forecast for human resources specialists as companies continue to emphasize "the importance of finding and keeping quality employees."
Click to Find the Right Business Administration Program.
Education Options: Intrigued by this field? According to the Department, most human resources specialist positions require a bachelor's degree. But keep in mind that most employers favor candidates with a bachelor's degree in human resources, business, or a related field.

News Source: Yahoo