Pandemic Proof Careers in Transportation

COVID-19 has changed the landscape of employment as we know it. As the world continues to put back the pieces of their individual jobs, there is a new post-pandemic normal in the world of work. Many jobs that existed before the pandemic are either gone or have completely changed, both for the good and the bad. This leaves many to wonder what jobs are the best to last a pandemic. The good news is, there is no need to research any further, the Imagine America Foundation has done the work for you! In this post, we will discuss the field of transportation. The transportation field is one that provides its employees with stability, demand, flexibility, and ROI. Those looking to begin careers in automotive, diesel, or broader transportation occupations are entering the field at an exciting time. It’s a time when manual classics from the late twentieth century are driving alongside Teslas, and when intermodal transportation still powers the global supply chain and keeps our lives moving.  If all of these things sound good to you, transportation might be the answer to your occupation question!

Here is a look at the 5 hottest emerging careers in transportation:

Airline or commercial pilot

Projected percent change, 2020–2030: 13% Faster than average. Projected employment change: 14,700 new job openings
Median annual wages, May 2020: $130,440
Education: Bachelor’s degree and/or postsecondary nondegree training and certification

Delivery truck driver or driver/sales worker

Projected percent change, 2020–2030: 12% Faster than average. Projected employment change: 182,900 new job openings Median annual wages, May 2020: $34,340
Education: High school diploma

Heavy vehicle and mobile equipment service technician
Projected percent change, 2020–2030:11% Faster than average. Projected employment change: 24,300 new job openings Median annual wages, May 2020: $53,370
Education: Postsecondary nondegree award

Passenger vehicle driver

Projected percent change, 2020–2030: 25% Much faster than average. Projected employment change: 215,300 new job openings Median annual wages, May 2020: $34,670
Education: Standards and certification vary by vehicle type

Water transportation worker

Projected percent change, 2020–2030: 12% Faster than average. Projected employment change: 7,800 new job openings Median annual wages, May 2020: $59,250
Education: Postsecondary nondegree credentials

If one of these careers sparked your interest, a job in the transportation industry might be the perfect fit for you. For more information about the transportation industry, including additional careers within it, make sure you download the Imagine America Foundation’s full brochure on Pandemic Proof Careers in Transportation here: