Not only do these jobs pay well, but many are also great for society.
While the near future may not offer flying cars or personal jet packs just yet, there is still reason to look forward to the approaching time ahead, especially when it comes to your career. The workforce has been rapidly changing, resulting in an increasing number of specialized and well-paying jobs for workers who are investing in their future.
Workers looking for a rewarding career that offers financial security and job stability should consider the following jobs. Not only do many of these jobs help advance the well-being of our society, but they also pay six-figure salaries. In addition, these occupations are expected to grow at an average to much-faster-than-average rate over the next decade.
Consider any of these six-figure jobs that have a well-earned place in the workforce of the future:
Workers looking for a rewarding career that offers financial security and job stability should consider the following jobs. Not only do many of these jobs help advance the well-being of our society, but they also pay six-figure salaries. In addition, these occupations are expected to grow at an average to much-faster-than-average rate over the next decade.
Consider any of these six-figure jobs that have a well-earned place in the workforce of the future:
1. Computer and information systems managers plan, coordinate and direct computer-related activities in an organization. They help determine the information technology goals of an organization and are responsible for implementing the appropriate computer systems to meet those goals.
Median annual pay: $115,780
Projected job growth, 2010-20: 18 percent (about as fast as average)
2. Dentists (general) diagnose and treat problems with a patient's teeth, gums and other parts of the mouth. They provide advice and instruction on taking care of teeth and gums and on diet choices that affect oral health.
Median annual pay: $141,040
Projected job growth, 2010-20: 21 percent (faster than average)
3. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons operate on the mouth, jaws, teeth, gums, neck and head, including procedures such as surgically repairing a cleft lip and palate or removing impacted teeth.
Median annual pay: Equal to or greater than $166,400
Projected job growth, 2010-20: 21 percent (faster than average)
4. Orthodontists straighten teeth by applying pressure to the teeth with braces or other appliances.
Median annual pay: Equal to or greater than $166,400
Projected job growth, 2010-20: 21 percent (faster than average)
5. Petroleum engineers design and develop methods for extracting oil and gas from deposits below the earth's surface. Petroleum engineers also find new ways to extract oil and gas from older wells.
Median annual pay: $114,080
Projected job growth, 2010-20: 17 percent (about as fast as average)
6. Pharmacists dispense prescription medications to patients and offer advice on their safe use.
Median annual pay: $111,570
Projected job growth, 2010-20: 25 percent (faster than average)
7. Physicians and surgeons diagnose and treat injuries and illnesses in patients. Physicians examine patients, take medical histories, prescribe medications and order, perform and interpret diagnostic tests. Surgeons operate on patients to treat injuries, such as broken bones; diseases, such as cancerous tumors; and deformities, such as cleft palates.
Median annual pay: $166,400
Projected job growth, 2010-20: 24 percent (faster than average)
8. Physicists study the fundamental nature of the universe, ranging from the vastness of space to the smallest of subatomic particles. They develop new technologies, methods and theories based on the results of their research that deepen our understanding of how things work and contribute to innovative, real-world applications.
Median annual pay: $106,370
Projected job growth, 2010-20: 14 percent (about as fast as average)
9. Podiatrists provide medical and surgical care for people suffering from foot, ankle and lower leg problems. They diagnose illnesses, treat injuries and perform surgery.
Median annual pay: $118,030
Projected job growth, 2010-20: 20 percent (faster than average)
10. Prosthodontists replace missing teeth with permanent fixtures, such as crowns and bridges, or with removable fixtures such as dentures.
Median annual pay: $118,400
Projected job growth, 2010-20: 21 percent (faster than average)
