F E AT U R E
Evolutionary process By Carol Brzozowski
Among the many factors the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted is the growing demand for more healthcare and science-educated professionals. Even after the pandemic is in the rearview mirror, the need will continue. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports employment in healthcare occupations is projected to grow 15 percent from 2019 to 2029, adding about 2.4 million jobs. More broadly, the bureau reports that employment in life, physical, and social science occupations is projected to grow 5 percent from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations, and will result in about 68,200 new jobs. Healthcare occupations are projected to add more jobs than any occupational groups as an aging population leads to greater healthcare services demand. Increasing demand for expertise in the sciences, particularly in occupations involved in biomedical research, energy management, and environmental protection, is projected to result in substantial employment opportunities in the comming years. Thiel College is positioning itself to meet that growing demand and professors, students and alumni are optimistic about its success. Firdaus Kharas ’78, H’07, founder of Chocolate Moose Media, points out that while there have been many unfortunate aspects to the COVID-19
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