Happy 2024, everyone! As you go on to make important decisions about your career path, it’s important to do research, ensuring you make a well-educated decision. One of the best ways to understand whether or not a career will offer future growth is to look at the “job outlook.” Job outlook is the predicted change in employed people over a specific period of time. One of the best places to find information about job outlook is the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), a division of the United States Department of Labor. After looking at the 2024 Job Outlook for dental assistant, medical assistant, veterinary assistant, and veterinary tech, you can make an informed decision about your future career!

Dental Assistant Job Outlook (Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Over the next ten years, the dental assistant field is supposed to grow by 7 percent (faster than average). These professionals work in dental offices, providing patient care, taking x-rays, keeping records, and scheduling appointments. Most dental assistants work full-time, and in May 2022, the average annual wage for dental assistants was $44,820. It is likely that the aging population and data linking oral health and general health will lead to continued increases in the demand for preventive dental services.

Medical Assistant Job Outlook (Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)

The medical assistant field is predicted to grow by 14 percent (much faster than average) in the next 10 years. Medical assistants complete administrative and clinical tasks in hospitals, offices of physicians, and other healthcare facilities. The average annual wage for medical assistants was $38,270 in May 2022. Over the next decade, the growth of the aging baby boom population will continue to increase the demand for preventive medical services, and it’s likely that physicians will hire more assistants to perform routine administrative and clinical duties, allowing physicians to see more patients.

Veterinary Assistant Job Outlook (Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)

The Veterinary Assistant field is supposed to grow by 20 percent (much faster than average) in the next 10 years. Daily, veterinary assistants handle routine animal care and help scientists, veterinarians, and others with their tasks. In May 2022, the average annual wage for vet assistants and laboratory animal caretakers was $34,740. Over the next decade, the growing number of household pets should result in a strong demand for these positions.

Veterinary Tech Job Outlook (Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)

The veterinary tech field is supposed to grow by 21 percent (much faster than average) in the next 10 years. Veterinary techs do medical tests that help diagnose animals’ injuries and illnesses in private clinics, laboratories, and animal hospitals. Both technologists and technicians must take a credentialing exam and become registered, licensed, or certified, depending on the requirements of the state in which they work. The average annual wage for veterinary techs was $38,240 in May 2022. Over the next decade, the growing number of household pets will result in the need for more trained Veterinary technicians.

Where can I get training?

If you want to join a growing career field, consider getting quality training at Milwaukee Career College. Our hands-on career training programs will give you the skills you need to succeed in your chosen field. Our accelerated training programs mean you can complete a degree in two years or less. Students have the option to choose from either day or evening classes so they can find a program that fits into their busy schedule.

CALL 1-414-348-4405 TODAY AND LEARN MORE ABOUT VOCATIONAL TRAINING IN MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN.

Updated January 17, 2024