Did you know that according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics that technical jobs will have an average growth of 50% by 2016? It makes blue collar look pretty good considering some guy with his MBA was ringing up my groceries today. One of the biggest jumps will be in home health and personal care aides.

The baby-boomers are aging and many of them need full or part-time care. Nursing homes are busting at the seems and agencies are scrambling to find qualified CNA (certified nursing assistant) to fill the positions. This is a really great way for people to give back to the community by caring for the disabled and elderly. It also pays pretty well too. The average salary for a home health aide is around $14 an hour with a high of almost $20 an hour depending on where you work.

It only takes one semester or less of training to get certified to become a CNA. CNAs work in nursing homes, hospitals, home health agencies, and even in private homes as personal aides.

If you’re compassionate and have a knack for caring for others then this could be a great place to start. Check back tomorrow for more info on becoming a CNA.