Educational Opportunities

Educational

Opportunities

A Special Publication of The Punxsutawney Spirit and Jefferson County Neighbors Š2013 The Punxsutawney Spirit & Jefferson County Neighbors

A Guide to Educational Resources From Pre-School Through Post-Graduate April 2013

Educate yourself before starting the path to a new career (BPT) – If you’re looking to start a career – whether it’s because you’re just beginning your journey as a working adult or because you’re ready for a change in life – you should know that the process is much larger than just getting a degree and looking for a job.

A career involves knowing your interests in a particular industry or area, knowing what to expect as far as compensation and responsibility and researching what tools and knowledge you will need to be an asset for companies in that industry.

It’s wise to begin your pursuit by educating yourself on what careers are in demand and what skills you need to enter those careers.

“Job seekers and students seeking a degree to build their skills need to take control of their careers,” says Abby Kohut, a human resources executive, recruiter and author of “Absolutely Abby’s 101 Job Search Secrets.”

“They need to understand the connection between their education and a meaningful career by becoming more informed about where their interests lie, what jobs are in demand and what education is needed to gain the skills that today’s employers demand.”

Here are few simple steps that can help get you started: 1. Understand your interests – Some colleges and universities offer prospective and current students complimentary self-assessment options to help determine careers that fit their interests. For example, University of Phoenix offers Phoenix Career Services, a comprehensive suite of tools and services specifically designed to help prospective and current students make informed decisions regarding their career paths and educational needs.

And the Career Interest Profiler helps students to identify professional interests in several areas,

allowing them to plan ahead for of Phoenix students incorporate anticipated timing for paying off paths of study. into their academic journey so a college expense can help you 2. Understand employer they are developing the com- set a budget as you pursue your needs – Knowing what jobs petencies that employers are new career goals. University of will keep your interest going seeking in the workforce today. Phoenix, for instance, offers a strong is a good start, but it’s And career preparation tools complimentary Financial Plan also important to learn what provide students with resume, designed to help prospective stuemployers need from workers cover letter and interview de- dents estimate tuition and fees in that field so you can take the velopment services so they can for their entire degree program right college courses and learn put the best foot forward while and build a personal plan for the appropriate skills. You also job searching. how they will pay for it. should learn what jobs are in 4. Understand your finanA new career is an exciting demand in your field of interest, cial responsibilities – Schools opportunity, and can provide a so you can assess whether your will provide information on new look on life from income career of choice offers room to financial obligations and op- to social connections and even enter and grow. University of tions, helping potential students where you live. Just be sure Phoenix’s Job Market Research determine if starting or going to educate yourself before you Tool helps potential and existing back to school is a viable op- jump into schooling so you can students learn the demand and tion at the moment. Having a prepare yourself for the perfect typical salary information in the clear picture of the total cost and career. current market.

3. Understand educational needs – Starting a new career often involves the need to return to school for a new degree so you can be more competitive (BPT) – The sky is the limit for cloud computing as it continues to when entering the job market. drive job growth – garnering interest from Main Street, Wall Street, My Career Plan is a personalcorporations and governments. A 2012 Microsoft-commissioned ized roadmap that University report by the International Data Corporation (IDC) indicated that spending on cloud services will generate nearly 14 million jobs worldwide by 2015.

In the past decade, cloud computing pioneers such as Amazon, Salesforce, Google and Apple-have developed comprehensive cloud services, platforms and applications. Now, traditional businesses of school will qualify for financial all kinds – even those that don’t operate in the technology space - are aid (though all adults who can’t incorporating cloud services more frequently, laying the groundwork afford to pay out of pocket for cloud-related career paths that are rich with opportunity and should still apply), while oth- growth.

In fact, a related study from the Sand Hill Group suggests that cloud ers will not qualify for enough financial aid to cover the costs computing – driven by the 21st century surge in mobile computing, of their education. In such in- social networking and big data – may generate more job growth in stances, you can go directly to the coming years than the Internet itself did during the 1990s.

Cloud computing provides the means through which technologythe bank and apply for a private loan. Adults with strong credit based services – from computing power and infrastructure to applihistories should not have too cations, processes and collaboration – can be immediately accessed much trouble securing private by users through the Internet, or the “cloud.” This instant access can loans. However, loans from result in greater flexibility, reduced environmental impact, lowered private lenders almost always costs and tightened security for businesses.

Due to heightened demand for these benefits, business intelligence come with higher interest rates company WANTED Analytics reports more than 12,000 cloud-related than government loans. jobs – from software engineers and software developers to cloud Should I tap into my architects and security specialists – were advertised online in April retirement savings?

Tapping into retirement sav- 2012. That represents an increase of 50 percent from the previous ings to pay for your education is year and more than 275 percent since April 2010.

As the nature of information technology continues to evolve, requira potentially costly maneuver. In addition to substantially reduc- ing its workforce to obtain cloud-based knowledge, understanding ing your nest egg, withdrawing and technical skills, some higher education providers have launched money from a retirement account degree programs that align with cloud-related fields.

DeVry University, for example, offers bachelor’s degree programs might incur penalties and taxes.

What’s more, if your retirement in computer information systems and network and communications account has tax-deferred growth, management, as well as a master’s degree program in network and then you’ll be missing out on communications management. Each program provides students with potentially significant earnings the skills and knowledge needed to implement software solutions once you remove money from for major corporations, not-for-profit organizations and government the account. It’s typically a bad agencies that can also be used in cloud-related applications.

“As cloud providers grow the scale of their service offerings, idea to tap into your retirement savings until you’re actually and more businesses embrace and capitalize on them, there will be retiring, so resist the temptation increasing demand for professionals who possess cloud computing to do so when establishing your skills,” says Thomas Bieser, a solution architect for HP and graduplan to pay for continuing your ate of DeVry University’s bachelor’s degree program in computer information systems. education.

Hiring managers seeking to fill cloud computing and related Thanks to the recession, many adults have returned to school to positions desire candidates with problem solving skills, an eye for counter a layoff or advance a security concerns and good communication skills for working with stagnated career. Before making professional teams or clients. Job seekers with these attributes and such a decision, explore if it is an applicable educational background may find career success in cloud computing. financially prudent.

Where the tech jobs are: In the ‘clouds’

As the economy has struggled, many adults have found themselves heading back to school. Mass layoffs contributed to high unemployment rates and left many adults without work wondering if going back to school is a good way to weather the storm and, once that storm is over, stand out among a crowded pool of job seekers.

In 2009, 100 community colleges were surveyed by the American Association of Community Colleges, which, based on the survey, reported that community college enrollment had increased from 2 percent to 27 percent in just a year’s time.

Displaced workers played a significant role in that spike in enrollment, as men and women who lost their jobs increasingly decided to find a new career path that might offer more security.

Though the economy has slowly started to recover, many adults are still considering a return to school. Of course, school can be expensive, and it helps to explore your financial options when mulling a return to school.

Where will the money come from?

Determining the cost of graduate school is not easy, as tuition varies greatly depending on a student’s course of study. Public graduate schools are typically more affordable than private schools, but tuition will be expensive regardless of

the university. Even adults who don’t want to pursue a graduate degree but a new field of study entirely should expect tuition to be substantially higher than it was when they were students years ago.

That said, adults must decide from where the money for their continued education is going to come. Paying out of your own pocket will require some sacrifices in other areas of your life and could also deplete your personal savings. Financial aid, grants and private loans are other options, and each of these should be thoroughly explored before making a final decision.

Will your employer help pay?

For those men and women who are still employed and want to continue their careers, it’s quite possible your employer will help pay your tuition. Employer-funded tuition programs might earn your employer a tax deduction, so don’t just assume your employer won’t help cover some of the bill for your education. Some employers who help pay their employee’s tuition will ask an employee to commit to the company for a certain number of years after they have earned their degree, while others will only provide assistance to employees who are not training for another career.

Can I go directly to the bank?

Not all adults returning to

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Financial considerations for adults mulling a return to school

The future careers of this year’s high school graduates (BPT) – High school seniors nationwide are preparing to graduate, receiving college acceptance letters and possibly enrolling in a college or university. The challenging economy has made many of these young adults acutely aware of the important role their degree can play when they face commencement once again, this time entering the job market.

Some schools offer degree programs that address the skills required to enter fast-growing fields, such as cyber security, cloud computing, health care and accounting – U.S. News & World Report included accounting in its ranking of 25 Best Jobs in 2012. This strong connection to a promising career path can be attractive to prospective students.

“Knowledge of projected industry growth is extremely helpful as students choose their major or area of study,” says Dr. Chad Kennedy, chair and professor of biomedical engineering technology in the College of Engineering and Information Sciences at DeVry University. “Unlike some career fields where opportunities are shrinking, many technology and engineering fields are expanding at double-digit rates. In

fact, many employers can’t find enough qualified applicants to meet their needs.”

Careers in technology are growing up to three times faster than other fields. For students interested in pursuing employment in this thriving industry, ComputerWorld recently outlined the “10 hot IT skills for 2013.” Cloud computing was among the most coveted skills.

Though relatively unfamiliar to the average consumer, this data management knowledge drives the services that support many of today’s businesses.

Similarly, cyber security professionals will play an integral role in keeping information safe as the majority of companies’ assets move online. According to Today’s Engineer, the monthly Web publication of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, the cyber security field is growing “in leaps and bounds.”

Employment in health care fields is also on the rise. An aging population of baby boomers and expanded access to health care has placed growing pressure on the health care industry to add

workers in fields ranging from health information systems and biomedical engineering technology to nursing and ambulatory care.

“Given the sensitive nature of medical data, my role – ensuring data integrity, availability, and security for every current and former patient – is essential and growing in demand,” explains Adam Franzen, a systems administrator at Presence Health Care who holds a bachelor’s degree in Computer Information Systems from DeVry University.

“As health care evolves, so do

the technology and management skills that are central to career success in the field.”

The workforce is rapidly evolving; some of the most desired professional roles of yesterday are shrinking today and will become obsolete tomorrow. The class of 2013 will enter emerging career fields, managing the technologies that drive advanced hospital settings, leading development of the next cloud-based application and protecting companies and consumers from cyber and financial fraud alike.

Trade school enrollment on the rise As overseas production operations return to the United States, enrollment in trade schools continues to rise. Despite high levels of unemployment, domestic manufacturing companies are finding it difficult to fill positions, thanks in part to an attitudinal shift over the years wherein young people did not consider manufacturing a respectable or attractive trade.

Such attitudes are starting to change, as indicated by the surging enrollment at trade schools. The Dunwoody College of Technology in Minneapolis, for example, is experiencing its highest enrollment in years, with students young and old looking to take advantage of the growing number of

available manufacturing positions. Thanks to high demand, the school has even introduced a six-month certificate program for the first time in its history.

Many manufacturers have bemoaned the lack of qualified machinists to fill positions, and those manufacturers are emphasizing that today’s machinists must be computer literate and be skilled in computer-aided design and engineering. That increased demand for skilled workers has driven up their wages. In fact, a 2012 study from Georgetown University’s Center for Education and the Workforce noted that 63 percent of workers with associate’s degrees in the fields of science, technology, engineering or

manufacturing earned more money than the average person with a bachelor’s degree in the humanities or social sciences.

As trade schools continue to benefit from the return of manufacturing jobs, recent college graduates continue to find a job market that is less than welcoming. Analysis of government data for the Associated Press found that in early 2012 half of recent college graduates were either unemployed or underemployed (working in positions unrelated to their degree).

Such a reality has been advantageous to trade schools, which have become an increasingly attractive option for the masses of unemployed men and women.

Educational Opportunities, The Punxsutawney Spirit & Jefferson County Neighbors, April 2013 - 3

High school girls inspired to become next generation of innovators majority of job growth in the U.S., the number of students enrolling in relevant degree programs in college to fill these positions continues to decline, leaving a gap of skilled professionals. Women, in particular, are underrepresented in STEM. While women account for nearly half of all filled jobs nationwide, only a quarter of

(NewsUSA) – As the economy begins to improve, all industries will require the expertise of management professionals to help sustain financial growth and prepare for new organizational structure.

Many recent grads and working professionals consider earning a master’s degree in Business Administration (MBA) to set themselves apart. According to the Corporate Recruiters Survey from the Graduate Management Admission Council (2011), 67 percent of employers expect to hire recently graduated management talent in 2012, and they plan to hire in increasing numbers.

It is important to remember, however, that there are no guarantees; it is important to determine the true value of an MBA in each unique career field.

Will an MBA launch my career?

While an MBA can enhance your career, increase earning potential and possibly give you a competitive edge, it isn’t always necessary to obtain one to achieve these results. Take the time to research your desired position to gauge whether the skills acquired through an MBA program are a necessary credential. Some graduates find it worthwhile to gain work experience before applying to business schools, and many business schools favor applicants who have real-world experience.

“Prospective MBA students need to look at the big picture,” said Dr. Donna Loraine, DeVry University provost and vice president of academic affairs for DeVry, Inc. and dean of DeVry University’s Keller Graduate School of Management. “We’ve found that students who map out long-term career goals and determine the potential benefit and relevance of an MBA in advance end up being the most satisfied with the value of their advanced degree.”

What is the financial ROI of an MBA?

It is crucial that students fully understand the commitment required for continuing education.

According to the Corporate Recruiters Survey from the Graduate Management Admission Council (2011), tuition for an MBA program can soar above $100,000 – pursuing one can be a life-changing decision.

It can be beneficial to work with a financial planner to determine the return on investment.

Scholarships, financial aid options and paid internships can help ease the financial impact.

Is there only one type of MBA program available?

MBA programs that can be tailored to specific schedules, concentrations, geographic locations and online needs have made earning an additional degree possible for many students.

How can I help maximize my MBA? Career services can help students make the most of their education. For example, DeVry University’s Keller Graduate School of Management recently partnered with CareerBuilder to supply its MBA students with a variety of career resources and counseling at no additional cost.

Students have access to dedicated career coaches, writing assistance and online tools for effective job searching, as well as insight for building a competitive edge.

Whether you are seeking more professional responsibility or a higher salary or are striving to climb the corporate ladder, an MBA can be a valuable asset, but only when utilized correctly.

Conduct research and map out your options before making this significant career decision.

By thoroughly preparing, you can increase the likelihood that your MBA delivers success.

For more information, visit www.keller.edu and www. devry.edu.

Knowing the value of an MBA

STEM-related positions are held by women.

Even with the known gap, many women are pioneering the industry, showing young girls they too can be successful in STEM. They are leading the charge in bettering the world by developing innovations and technologies such as global, online crowd-sourcing platforms that allow supporters to give funds from mobile devices.

Others are advancing alternative energy products that deliver electricity, water and other basic resources in developing countries.

To help bridge the gap and ready the next generation of women innovators, many organizations support initiatives to introduce students, specifically young girls, to the importance of STEM. DeVry University, for instance, has its annual HerWorld program.

“HerWorld was created 16 years ago to educate high school girls about STEM and careers

in STEM,” says Donna Loraine, provost/vice president of Academic Affairs at DeVry University. “Our goal is to show girls how they can make a difference in the world through these fields.”

A recent study by the Girl Scout Research Institute found that more than 80 percent of high school girls surveyed expressed interest in considering a career in a STEM field, including engineering, information technology and software development. This is a positive outlook, as positions in STEM are becoming available more rapidly than opportunities in any other field.

HerWorld empowers young women to succeed alongside their male counterparts by participating in confidencebuilding activities and handson workshops. They also hear inspirational stories from real, female role models working in STEM fields.

This year, nearly 7,000 girls

from high schools across the country will attend local events during National HerWorld Month in March. Emmy-Award nominated actress Mayim Bialik, renowned for her roles on television series Blossom and The Big Bang Theory, is partnering with DeVry University to further the mission of HerWorld and inspire these girls by sharing her personal STEM journey – balancing her acting career while earning her Doctorate of Philosophy degree in neuroscience from UCLA. “When I was a teenager, my biology tutor on the set of Blossom inspired me to think about science in a way that showed me that science was made for girls, too,” says Bialik. “It gave me the confidence to pursue a degree in the sciences. I want to motivate and encourage girls to work hard to improve their math and science skills and their perceptions about those fields, regardless of their career goals.”

Things to look for in an internship College students typically clamor for internships. An opportunity to gain on-the-job experience while still in college, an internship looks great on a resume and, in some instances, can lead to an offer of employment upon graduation.

But not all internships are equal. College students might be enthusiastic when landing an internship, only to find out once the opportunity begins that they will be doing little more than fetching coffee and not gaining valuable experience they can use down the road. In other instances, however, an internship can be all a student expects and more, providing hands-on experience in a student’s desired field and maybe even earning the student a few dollars along the way.

When it comes to finding an internship, there are a few things college students can look for to determine if the opportunity is the right fit.

• Companies that let interns and employees grow: Nowadays it’s easy to get a grasp of the culture within a certain company. Social networking sites such as LinkedInTM and Facebook(R) can paint a pretty accurate picture of a company’s environment. An environment that allows its employees to learn on the job and grow with the company might be more ideal for interns than a company with a less nurturing environment. In addition, some companies list information

about their employees on their Web site, including how they started with the company and how long they have been there.

A company with a roster of long-term employees is likely one where people like to work, an important thing for you to consider.

• Potential experience: An internship looks good on a resume, but college students should seek out an internship that allows them to gain valuable experience. An internship at a renowned law firm might boost a resume, but if you spend all of your time in the mailroom or fetching coffee then that internship will not necessarily serve you very well. Look for an internship that provides you with an array of experiences within your field. A good internship won’t involve you doing the same thing every day. Instead, it should allow you to try various tasks over the course of your summer or semester with the company. This will give you a more accurate depiction of the industry, while allowing you to list more experiences on your resume. When interviewing for an internship, ask about the specific tasks and responsibilities you’ll be entrusted with.

The more, the better.

• Value and relevance: The great thing about an internship is it gives college students the chance to get a glimpse of their potential field prior to graduation. After completing an

internship, some students reconsider their course of study, while others grow even more committed. But when looking for an internship, look for one that is relevant to your current course of study. It’s alright to change afterward, but the internship should be one wherein you can apply the lessons you’ve learned and gain practical experience to complement those lessons. Avoid accepting an internship that has nothing to do with your course of study, as it’s not likely to help you after graduation.

• Impact on your future: College students pursue internships because of the role an internship can play in their future. An internship can not only provide valuable experience, but also it’s a chance to get your foot in the door with a company that you might want to work for after you graduate. When interviewing for an internship, ask about the potential for turning an internship into full-time employment.

Some companies enable this transition by allowing successful interns to work on an hourly basis during the school year after they have completed their internships. Others admit they look to previous interns first when entry-level positions become available. A company that wants its interns to eventually become full-time employees is one that can have a significant impact on your future.

4 - Educational Opportunities, The Punxsutawney Spirit & Jefferson County Neighbors, April 2013

(BPT) – When the high school class of 2014 graduates from college in five years, more than 8 million jobs will be available in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). For students today, STEM is their future.

Innovations driven by STEM are shaping today’s economy.

Though STEM accounts for a

Considering self-employment?

Helpful hints when choosing a college

(BPT) – Americans were born to make lemonade. If you have any doubt about the resiliency of U.S. workers, consider the many reports that indicate millions of Americans are turning life’s lemon of layoffs into an opportunity to work for themselves. With unemployment rates still high, many people are looking to self-employment to create stable, rewarding careers for themselves.

Self-employment offers many advantages, including more flexible work schedules, less job uncertainty and the satisfaction of working for yourself. If you’re considering a career change to self-employment and want to start your own business, insurance may be the field for you.

It’s one of four fields, including child care, accounting and financial planning, that the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts will see double-digit growth in the next few years.

Opportunities in the insurance industry for sales agents will grow 22 percent between now and 2020, according to the BLS’s Occupational Outlook Handbook. Agents help clients understand their insurance needs and choose policies that best fit those needs and protect the things that are most important: homes, automobiles, businesses and

High school seniors may be preparing for prom or getting ready to receive their diplomas, but high school juniors may be spending their time investigating various colleges.

During the spring of their junior year, many high school students study for and take the Scholastic Achievement Test, or SATs. Test scores and applications factor heavily into where a student will go to college, but students must also find a school where they feel comfortable.

Choosing the right college can help a person start off on the right foot. Here are some helpful hints for students when researching colleges.

• Brand-name schools aren’t the be-all, endall. While the well-known schools, particularly the Ivy League universities, may garner a lot of attention, there are many other lesser-known schools that will provide a quality education.

• Think about school size. Students who thrive regardless of class size may not have to worry as much about the size of a school.

Those who like an intimate setting and more one-on-one interaction may want to gear their searches to schools that have a smaller population.

• Factor in costs. Part of the decision-making process will involve the costs of going to school. A private university will likely be more expensive than a public institution. Although some students deter paying for college by taking out loans, keeping the bigger picture in mind – especially the loan payments that will await students upon graduation – can help steer school choices.

• Be honest with yourself. Students should

Career fields with double-digit growth above all else, lives.

The insurance field offers quick entry, even for those with only a high school diploma, and profitability can be even more accessible for those who pursue professional training. Companies like Farmers Insurance, which is expanding into eastern states from its base in California, offer self-employment opportunities for those who wish to run their own agencies. Farmers provides training and can even assist with start-up financing at attractive terms. Along with all the benefits of self-employment, including a more flexible work schedule and the potential to work at home, agents who align themselves with an established company like Farmers can enjoy the benefit of working with a wellrecognized brand.

While it may be difficult to predict what the country’s overall unemployment rate will be, there is still plenty of good news for career changers looking for fields that offer growth potential. Choosing a career in insurance, financial planning or another industry that anticipates double-digit growth in the next decade can help many career-changers achieve their dream of becoming successful entrepreneurs and help them make lemonade out of life’s lemons.

be honest when assessing their academic history and abilities. Some schools have very stringent acceptance policies and will only accept students who fit a certain academic profile. If a grade point average or SAT score falls significantly below a school’s requirement, applying to that school and paying the application fee might not be in a student’s best interest.

• Seek out personal referrals. Students can reach out to alumna of certain schools and get their perspective on a given school. They can then schedule tours at some of the schools that seem the best fits and judge for themselves if the school are right for them.

• Think about personal and academic interests. Some school decisions are made simply by the programs offered. For a student who has a very specific degree in mind, there may be a limited number of schools that specialize in that course of study. However, a liberal arts major can select among a much greater number of options. Also, students should think beyond academics to the athletics or after-class activities offered.

• Consider a school’s proximity to home.

Some students want to be close to home, and others want to be as far away as possible. If getting away from home to broaden your horizons is important, then keep in mind the cost of travel on holidays and during breaks.

While high school seniors are busy choosing prom dates and graduation wardrobes, high school juniors are generally on the hunt for colleges. Scheduling tours and visiting national college fairs can help students narrow down their choices.

Educational Opportunities, The Punxsutawney Spirit & Jefferson County Neighbors, April 2013 - 5

Butler County Community College

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Trends provide guidance as technology shapes career landscapes workplace landscape not only impact job seekers, but educators and employers as well. It’s estimated that by 2025, we could have 20 million jobs without enough qualified people to fill them, according to a report by Georgetown University.

Daniel Burrus, a globally renowned corporate strategist and author of six books including The New York Times and Wall Street Journal best-seller “Flash Foresight,” recently released his inaugural Certainties list, based on a scientific method aimed at providing various employment sectors with a clearer outlook of their respective futures. As a strategist, he advises a wide range

of Fortune 500 firms to develop projections by analyzing trends.

Burrus’ list of Certainties, which highlights 12 technologies that will continue to transform present and future careers, uses his proprietary scientific method of separating “Hard Trends” – trends that will happen – from “Soft Trends” – trends that might happen.

Over the past five years, Burrus has collected Certainties from thousands of senior executives from every industry around the world, providing a clear picture of the direction different sectors are heading.

“The goal is to give people a road map regarding how technol-

Be a real life hero

Taking on impossible missions to keep America safe (BPT) – When the Navy needs to complete seemingly impossible missions or track elusive targets, the job is often assigned to Naval Special Warfare (NSW) or Naval Special Operations (NSO) teams. These elite men and women work with dedication and intense courage in locations all over the world, and in every possible climate, to neutralize potential threats.

Although the young men and women interested in pursuing a career in the NSW/NSO community do not need to have a college degree to excel in these challenging environments, they do need to be specially trained to work closely and efficiently with other special forces to ensure the successful completion of missions around the globe.

The training these individuals go through is truly life-altering: training can include advanced swimming and lifesaving techniques, diver and parachute training, maritime navigation and helicopter operations. Some of the careers individuals can excel in include: • Aviation Rescue Swimmers (AIRR) The motto of the Aviation Rescue Swimmer community is “So Others May Live.” The responsibilities vary from rescue and recovery to surveillance and operational support for Sailors who serve as part of this top emergency response unit.

AIRRs are typically attached to an aircraft for their tasks, which can include saving pilots of downed aircraft, coming to the aid of civilians during natural disasters, rappelling to reach survivors at a remote crash site, collaborating with other forces on joint rescue missions, jumping out of a helicopter to pluck

crewmembers out of frigid waters and conducting surveillance in anti-submarine warfare and drug interdiction operations.

Intense training is required for these Sailors. This includes nearly two years of training in advanced swimming and lifesaving techniques, as well as training in water and land survival, flight safety, search and rescue, Naval aviation and more. The training is as true to life as possible because work environments can be different for every situation.

• Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician (EOD) EODs are brought in to deal with disposal of chemical, biological and nuclear weapons.

They clear IEDs, parachute out of aircraft, dive beneath ships – protecting others by handling situations with steady hands and even steadier nerves. They also investigate and demolish underwater obstructions, prepare coastal regions for amphibious landings and provide intelligence about potential threats, both in the United States and abroad. This work has EODs located all around the world, and missions could be by air, land or sea.

Training involves 51 rigorous weeks, including various levels of EOD preparation, diver training and parachute training.

Duties of EODs may include demolition of hazardous munitions, pyrotechnics and outdated explosives, locating and identifying underwater foreign and domestic ordinances, performing parachute and helicopter insertion operations in support of missions, supporting military and civilian law enforcement agencies, and executing underwater mine countermeasure

operations to clear waterways in support of the Fleet.

• Special Warfare Combatant-Craft Crewman (SWCC) Named the “Quiet Professionals,” SWCC provide critical mission support to Navy SEALs. They operate state-ofthe-art, high-performance boats.

They protect global waters from enemy combatants. This elite team carries out military actions that are beyond the capability of standard forces. These Sailors secure the freedom of global waters via the riverine and littoral environments by operating independently among small units or while integrated with other U.S. Special Operations forces or within U.S. Navy carrier and expeditionary strike groups.

SWCC perform direct action raids against enemy shipping and waterborne traffic, as well as provide rapid mobility in shallow water areas where larger ships cannot operate.

They maintain ammunition, weapons, combat vehicles and other equipment associated with SWCC and other special operations missions.

Training for SWCC is as intense as all other NSW/NSO ratings, but Sailors interested in this opportunity may receive specialized training in areas including maritime navigation, radio communications, boat/ propulsion systems engineering and parachute and helicopter operations.

The Navy is A Global Force for Good with many exciting and challenging career opportunities available. Visit navy. com to learn more about some of these opportunities, and the background required to serve.

ogy will transform their careers and how to ensure they’re not caught in disappearing careers, but rather preparing and positioning themselves for the predictable changes in their current fields as well as emerging careers with real, long-term demand,” says Burrus.

According to Burrus’ Certainties list, some of the technologies that will transform our world and careers include: 3-D Web and 3-D printing Employment for graphic artists, designers and programmers will grow as the Web-surfing experience transforms from a one-dimensional “flat” page to a dynamic 3-D experience for the user.

Additionally, the manufacturing industry will be revolutionized by 3-D printing, which will allow any size company to manufacture goods quickly, locally and at lower cost.

Gamification of education Both employees and students will have training and teaching methods delivered to them in a highly-personalized and accelerated way, through the use of simulations and skill-based learning systems transmitted through smartphones and tablets.

Cloud services and virtualization As more organizations maintain and store information using cloud computing, the demand for professionals skilled in information technology is expected to

rise. Employees who can safeguard important company and client data will be vital to business success.

In order to meet the anticipated demands of the 21st century, individuals must reassess their skills to make certain they are equipped with the necessary knowledge to remain relevant in their field.

Burrus recently teamed with DeVry University to launch his Certainties list. He believes the institution exemplifies the kind of forward-looking curriculum development necessary to ensure degree programs adequately prepare students for the future.

“DeVry University is committed to effectively aligning our students’ academic experience with the plausible future demands of the industries in which they seek successful careers,” says David Pauldine, president of DeVry University. “As a university, we are continuously interfacing with Fortune 100 companies to ensure our educational programs prepare our graduates for current and emerging job opportunities.”

Burrus urges employers, employees and educators alike to give serious consideration to these career-transforming Certainties so that the American worker is better positioned for careers of the 21st century. To learn more about Burrus’ full list of career-transforming “Certainties,” visit www.DeVry.edu/ Certainties.

These 10 gigs pay big bucks Workers scouring the want-ads in the United States may be interested in finding out which professions are the most lucrative.

While not everyone can be an astronaut or nuclear scientist, chances are that many others could eventually land a high-paying job with the right training and schooling.

10. Chief Executives: CEOs earn a whopping $144,000. New Jersey is one of the highest-paying states for chief executive officers.

9. Family doctors: The general practitioner earns about $149,000 each year.

8. Psychiatrists: Many might be skeptical of psychiatrists, but few would scoff at their $149,000 salary.

7. Prosthodontists: Individuals doing cosmetic dentistry and fitting dentures earn about $158,900 per year.

6. General Internists: Those who work on internal organs, such as gastroenterologists, earn $160,800. Louisiana internists earn the most.

5. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons: Need a wisdom tooth removed or jaw reconstruction? Then head to one of these surgeons, who take in about $164,700 each year.

4. Orthodontists: Oral doctors who specialize in braces and other orthodontics earn an average of $176,900.

3. OB-GYN: Treating the reproductive issues of women earns obstetricians and gynecologists an average of $178,000 a year.

However, high malpractice insurance rates may put a dent in these earnings.

2. Surgeons: General surgeons can take in $184,000 a year.

Some of the highest paid work in Wyoming.

1. Anesthesiologists: Because they are responsible for sedating patients with a powerful cocktail of drugs, anesthesiologists earn the most per year at $184,300. Move to Washington State to earn the most.

8 - Educational Opportunities, The Punxsutawney Spirit & Jefferson County Neighbors, April 2013

(BPT) – The saying goes: success is when preparation meets opportunity. As technology continues to affect our lives, workers in today’s ever-changing labor market need to be prepared with skills to adapt and succeed in the workplace.

Job opportunities in technology are growing up to three times faster than other career fields in the U.S. Long gone are the days of a linear education and career trajectory as technology continues to reshape the world’s workplace landscapes. Nowadays, the career paths of most individuals resemble a scaffold rather than a conservative straight line.

Changes in the education and

How to give your child a head start in math, science and beyond (BPT) – Throughout the busy school year, many high school students across the country are already taking steps to explore college and other post-graduation opportunities. In fact, in today’s challenging economic climate and competitive job market, it has become increasingly important to begin planning for future career options at an early stage.

One area that is particularly ripe for opportunity is in the STEM fields (science, technology, engineering and mathematics). In August, U.S. News & World Report reported that there will be a need to fill over 1.2 million STEM jobs in the U.S. by 2018. STEM careers offer lu-

crative and stable opportunities; for example, pharmacist jobs boast median salaries of $105,000, with a projected 25 percent job growth rate between 2010 and 2020. STEM fields are also drivers of innovation: Experts note that those working in STEM are overwhelmingly responsible for creating breakthrough inventions compared with non-STEM counterparts.

Despite the promise these career paths offer, less than one-third of eighth graders in this country are proficient in mathematics and science and fewer than 15 percent of U.S. undergraduates receive science or engineering degrees. This academic lag has resulted in the country’s

STEM workforce hovering under 3 percent of the total working population.

“It is important to close these gaps because STEM fields have an enormous impact on our country’s growth and also provide rich opportunities for our youth,” says John Jones, R.Ph., J.D., who is a senior vice president at OptumRx and the chair of the Pharmacy is Right for Me educational initiative. “We should reach students early in their education to get them thinking about the opportunities the sector has to offer, and begin taking those first steps toward building careers in the diverse STEM arena.”

So how can parents and caretakers help kids embark

The evolution of accounting New careers in the language of business

Educational Opportunities, The Punxsutawney Spirit & Jefferson County Neighbors, April 2013 - 9

(BPT) – Numbers span all languages and cultures, creating what is known as the language of business: accounting. The earliest accounting records date back thousands of years to the use of an abacus, a rudimentary counting tool. As the workplace has progressed, so has the role of the accounting professional. This has been particularly evident in recent years; the integration of technology in accounting has created many specializations and job opportunities within the field – from forensic accounting to health care IT auditors.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, accountants, auditors, financial bookkeepers and clerks rank among the top 25 occupations in the nation – and the employment of accountants and auditors is expected to grow 16 percent by 2020. This increasing diversity of career paths and the bright employment future are attracting many professionals to a career in accounting.

“Accounting is an exciting, expanding field going beyond traditional corporate and public accounting; the evolution of technology’s r o l e i n t h e fi e l d h a s a l lowed new concentrations to emerge,” says Sarah Engle, professor of accountancy in the College of Business and Management at DeVry University and owner of Black River Tax Prep. “Technology has expanded the traditional

boundaries associated with the profession. Mobile devices and cloud computing, for instance, allow small and mid-size accounting firms to broaden their reach to clients worldwide.”

The need for accountants with professional specializations is on the rise. The demand for forensic accountants, for instance, has expanded with the fallout from high-profile financial s c a n d a l s l i ke E n r o n a n d Lehman Brothers. These accountants focus on disputes or litigation in civil or criminal law and often investigate corporate and securities fraud, insurance and personal injury claims and computer fraud. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has adapted by adding forensic accountants to its roster of permanent positions. According to research by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), the top three characteristics for a forensic accountant to possess are analytical, detail oriented and ethical.

Environmental or “green” accounting is also a growing field. With sustainability and environmental protection becoming more prominent objectives in today’s business world, green accountants will be employed to help leaders make more informed decisions. Accountants with expertise in both traditional accounting and various environmental technologies are needed to

provide a more comprehensive analysis of the future cost of business.

“Today’s accountants need a widened skill set, learning and leveraging both hard and soft skills,” says Shanae Bond, a staff accountant at Macy’s and alumnae of DeVry University’s Keller Graduate School of Management. “For example, I use both fundamental accounting principles and economics each day as well as critical thinking and customer service skills.”

There are varied educational paths for accountants, but most positions require at least a bachelor’s degree.

Many professionals in the field choose to earn a master’s degree and certification, such as becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), to enhance their resume and marketability.

D e V r y U n ive r s i t y, f o r example, is helping to meet the demand of this booming industry by offering several bachelor’s degree programs that can lead to an accounting career. Courses such as cost accounting, ethics and fraud, and accounting information systems allow students to gain insight and experience that will translate in the working world.

T h e l a n g u a g e o f bu s i ness has evolved. Future generations of accountants will have many diverse opportunities if they are welleducated and possess the skills required of today’s business world.

upon successful professional journeys in STEM and related fields? Jones recommends taking the following steps: 1. Engage young students early on and provide them with an educational roadmap.

Students may not consider careers in STEM fields because they simply do not know about what those pathways can offer. Help expose kids as early as elementary and middle school to the types of unique and exciting options found through STEM. Work with your children to build a strong foundation in math and science skills, which are essential to pursuing STEM opportunities at every level – from technical positions to those requiring advanced degrees.

2. Encourage hands-on learning. Gaining real-world STEM experience through internships, summer jobs, or even participation in student innovation competitions can help kids get excited about future possibilities and apply their science and math education in creative ways.

Shadowing STEM professionals in the local community can also provide a deeper

understanding of what STEM professions involve on a dayto-day basis.

3. Seek out additional support both in your local community and online. Preparing for post-high school and post-college life can be extremely challenging, even with parental support.

Encourage children to seek additional help at school by speaking with their guidance counselors. Find mentors at school or in the local community to provide professional guidance. Use credible We b - b a s e d r e s o u r c e s f o r educational and financial information. Online resources, such as those offered through Pharmacy is Right for Me’s website, Facebook and Twitter channels, can help young students navigate through the challenges of reaching their long-term goals.

Despite the challenging job forecast, there is a wide range of prospects open to students in the thriving STEM industries. Engaging the next generation of STEM leaders by getting kids excited about these careers can help secure successful futures for youth.

Certification can improve career prospects The many reasons to support (BP) – With the economy still recovering emphasis on advanced skills in global business technology in the classroom management, project management, information technology, skilled trades and other traditional fields to more modern credentials in sustainable and green energy or next generation design.

National and local professional organizations are a valuable resource for learning more about certification. Many provide training courses, workshops or prep materials for those contemplating pursuing a credential. You’ll also be able to learn from peers who have already gone through the process. In addition to professional organizations, many colleges and universities offer professional development and continuing education programs. The Center for Professional Development at Excelsior College offers more than 100 online, non-credit courses and career training programs, from business marketing and entrepreneurship to project management, human resources and even investigative science.

The important point to remember is that you are your greatest asset. By continually investing in your skills and capabilities, you open doors of opportunity and further your potential. You signal to your colleagues, employer and future employers that you have the motivation and drive to remain on the forefront of advancements in business practice, technology and industry standards. The challenges employers face and the dynamic, constantly evolving marketplace in which they operate require a highly skilled and flexible workforce. Certification programs can be an effective means to ensure your knowledge base is well aligned with valued and sought after competencies and capabilities.

Technology has become an integral part of life, affecting how we communicate, how we view our homes, how we conduct business and nearly every other aspect of our daily lives. That includes how we learn, especially for today’s youngsters. The classrooms of yesteryear are quickly becoming a thing of the past, as teachers are increasingly turning to technology to help students learn.

Whereas technology in the classroom once meant teaching basic computer software and fundamental computer skills, nowadays technology is being integrated in ways that supplement lesson plans regardless of the subject matter. Students are utilizing technology to tackle projects, which helps them get a more realistic grasp on how to handle projects outside of the classroom and in the professional arena. Utilizing programs that professionals use better prepares students for life after they have earned their diplomas or degrees, making them more attractive to prospective employers and more capable once they are hired.

Another way technology in the classroom is benefitting today’s students is the wealth of resources that technology can provide. Classes connected to the Internet, for instance, give students access to the latest information about topics they’re studying. This can include up-to-date studies and theories from experts in the field or, for current

events students, instant access to what is going on in their community and beyond. Such accessibility was unimaginable as recently as 15 years ago, but is quickly becoming commonplace, and benefiting students along the way.

Technology in the classroom can also help teachers. Students learn in their own ways, but teachers faced with growing class sizes and fewer resources often find it hard to connect with students who might not respond to the same teaching methods as their classmates. Technology can provide teachers with another avenue by which to reach their students, helping to engage those students who might otherwise have been turned off or lacked the necessary initiative to excel in school.

Teachers may also find that technology in the classroom makes it easier to reach students. That’s because kids tend to find technology fun, even if it’s part of the learning process. In a study sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education that reported on the experiences of teachers and students in classrooms where technology was incorporated, teachers responded that, in many instances, students chose to work on technology-based projects during recess or lunch.

As classrooms continue to change, the role of technology figures to expand. That expanded role can benefit students and teachers alike in a variety of ways.

10 - Educational Opportunities, The Punxsutawney Spirit & Jefferson County Neighbors, April 2013

from the Great Recession and increased global competition, many disillusioned workers have been left wondering: “How can I set myself apart within a shrinking job market?” Beyond degree attainment and experience, achieving specialized certification in your chosen field may be your best bet.

Earning certification is a signal to current or prospective employers of your dedication to your craft, and a demonstration of your expertise and experience. It is a validation of your skills and knowledge and it can simultaneously enhance your professional reputation while providing an opportunity for continuing education and professional development.

For service or product-based industries, certification helps demonstrate to consumers the quality of your work.

Another significant benefit – and one most often cited anecdotally – is salary. While earning a certificate in your chosen field is by no means a guarantee of a pay raise, it may raise your salary ceiling and strengthen your negotiating power.

To be true, achieving certification is a process, and one not to be taken lightly. Depending on your industry, it could mean passing challenging field assessments or certification exams. In some fields, candidates may need to undergo a rigorous application process through an industry-specific certification agency or may have to win over a panel of their peers with a presentation of their work portfolio. Each industry has unique procedures and practices.

And the market for certification is larger than ever, with employers placing continued

Prepping for kindergarten makes an easier transition

Educational Opportunities, The Punxsutawney Spirit & Jefferson County Neighbors, April 2013 - 11

Kindergarten used to be a time when kids grabbed a nap in between fingerpainting and playing outside, but today’s coursework is much more rigorous and kindergarteners are now introduced to concepts that were once taught in later years of elementary school. Preparing children who have never attended school for their first day could take a little time prior to the start of school.

Signing up for school Each school district has its own requirements to begin kindergarten, so parents should familiarize themselves with their school district as soon as possible. One of the primary requirements is age. Children generally have to meet a certain age requirement (usually age 5), meaning their birthdays have to take place prior to or by a cutoff date.

Public schools will also require proof of residence. They often require utility bills with the student’s address on them.

Private schools typically have more lenient residence requirements.

Most entering students also will need to have received all the necessary vaccinations. If the student has not received all immunizations, he or she will need to do so before enrolling.

Getting prepared Some children are anxious to be “big kids” and begin school. Others may be nervous about what’s in store. The best way to prepare children is to think about enrolling them in some sort of social program.

Preschool is the avenue many parents choose, but simply spending time together with other kids in a structured social setting is enough for many kids to get acclimated.

Talking about what to expect at school can also ease

jitters. Parents can establish a school-like structure at home to illustrate their points. Have set times for meals and snacks, require small chores be done on time and set additional rules and limits. Bed time and wake times should be the same each day as well. Children who are unaccustomed to having structure may find the rigors of the classroom scary.

Parents should inquire about touring the school to help calm kids’ nerves. This way children will see exactly what environment they will be working in each day.

Honing skills Children will partake in a variety of activities during kindergarten. They’ll begin learning to write and perform other activities that require fine motor skills. Parents can introduce their children to pencils, crayons, markers, and safety scissors so they can learn the proper grip and how to maneuver these tools.

It’s also never too early to read with children. Studies indicate that children who frequently read with their parents or others tend to have greater success in school. The National Education Association says that children who were read to frequently are more likely to: • count to 20, or higher than those who were not • write their own names • read or pretend to read The Educational Testing Services reports that students who do more reading at home are better readers and have higher math scores.

Kindergarten is a child’s initial foray into the world of academia. Much has changed in the kindergarten curriculum, and parents can expect their kids to be learning much more in kindergarten than they once did.

Cost of college education rising According to the College Board, the cost of a college education has risen by almost 130 percent in the last 20 years. However, middle-class incomes have flatlined, making a college education an unattainable goal for many students. Those who take out loans as a means to pay their way may want to consider college majors that may better prepare them to find jobs in well-paying fields and offset the cost of those loans. According to salary data site PayScale, engineering majors are the majors to consider if salary is a priority.

• Petroleum engineering: Starting pay, $91,000; median pay, $155,000 • Chemical engineering: $64,500; $109,000.

• Electrical engineering: $61,300; $103,000 • Aerospace engineering: $60,700; $102,000 • Computer engineering: $61,800; $101,000 • Physics: $49,000; $101,000 • Applied mathematics: $52,600; $98,600 • Computer science: $56,600; $97,900 • Nuclear engineering: $65,000; $97,800

Head Start programs offer wide range of services to children and families

Jefferson-Clarion Head Start, Inc. is a private nonprofit corporation that serves as the administrative entity for child and family development programs including Head Start, Early Head Start, Family Literacy and Pre-K Counts. Although each of these programs may differ in some respects, each has our fundamental mission at its core which is to provide comprehensive services to children and families.

To operate these programs effectively our agency has established and maintains effective partnerships with other community organizations, child care providers and school districts. Jefferson-Clarion Head Start, Inc. believes we are an integral part of our community where many agencies and service providers work together to identify needs, remove barriers and maximize our resources collectively to meet the needs of children and families.

Head Start is a federally-funded child and family development program that promotes the school readiness of low-income children from three to five years of age by enhancing their cognitive, social and emotional development in a learning environment that supports children’s growth in language, literacy, mathematics, science, social and emotional functioning, creative arts, physical skills and approaches to learning.

Head Start also provides children and their families with health, educational, nutritional, social, disabilities and other services that are determined, based on family needs assessments, to be necessary.

Early Head Start is designed to provide high quality child and family development services to low-income pregnant women and families with infants and toddlers. Services are provided year-round, at no cost, to meet the health, educational, developmental, dis-

abilities and social needs of children and families. Emphasis is placed on Parent-Child Attachment, Child Health and Safety, Child Development, Parent Support and Services to Pregnant Women and Expectant Families.

The Jefferson-Clarion Family Literacy Program is a family-focused literacy program intended to improve the educational opportunities of area adults and children by integrating early childhood education and adult education into a unified program.

Our Family Literacy lessons empower parents to improve their basic skills and to be role models for their children. As a result, parents and children view learning, especially reading, as pleasurable and a regular part of their daily lives.

The Jefferson-Clarion Pre-

K Counts Program is a high quality pre-kindergarten education program for three- and four-year-olds in Pennsylvania that is free to families with a focus on children at risk of academic failure. The children participate in half day classes, five days a week in schools, Head Start programs, and Keystone STARS child care programs with a STAR 3 rating or higher. The Pre-K Counts program is unique because every component is designed to provide high quality early education to children who can benefit most from the experience.

For more information you can visit our website at www. jcheadstart.com where the latest Annual Report is posted and an application download is available, along with other resources.

Free early Childhood Program oPPortunities!

Accepting Applications The early head STarT Program Serving low income families with infants/toddlers birth to three and pregnant women/teens

The head STarT Program

Serving low income families with children ages three to five. Transportation provided for most

The Pre-K CounTS Program

Services provided to children ages three to five with family incomes above poverty income guidelines children with disabilities receive services in all programs.

For more inFormation, Please ContaCt us at

1-800-628-6150 or 814-849-3660

Visit our website! • www.jcheadstart.com email: info@jcheadstart.com • Download your application today!

12 - Educational Opportunities, The Punxsutawney Spirit & Jefferson County Neighbors, April 2013