The American workforce is projected to experience a notable slowdown in growth over the next decade. A new report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows total employment rising by 5.9 million jobs between 2025 and 2035.
That projection lifts total employment from 170.3 million to 176.2 million over the ten-year span. It amounts to a modest 3.5% growth rate, marking a sharp decline from the 10.9% growth rate seen between 2015 and 2025.
Healthcare professions and the energy sector completely dominate the list of the ten fastest-growing occupations. An aging population is driving massive demand for medical and social services across the country.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics explained that health complications naturally increase as people age. That demographic shift heavily boosts the need for home health and personal care services nationwide.
Nurse practitioners take the top spot as the fastest-growing occupation over the next decade. Employment in the field is expected to surge by 41%, adding roughly 137,800 jobs.
Solar photovoltaic panel installers rank second on the list with a projected growth rate of 36.5%. That expansion will bring about 11,300 new jobs through 2035 as energy demands climb.
Data scientists secure the third position with a projected employment growth of 34.6%. The role is set to add 95,400 positions over the decade.
Wind turbine technicians follow closely as the fourth-fastest growing role with a 29.5% growth rate. The sector will add about 3,500 jobs through 2035.
Medical and health services manager roles will see the largest nominal employment growth on the list. The profession is projected to grow by 24.2%, adding 155,100 jobs in that timeframe.
Physical therapist assistants rank sixth with a projected growth rate of 23%. The occupation will add 26,200 jobs through 2035.
Psychiatric technicians take seventh place with a 22.3% growth rate. The field is expected to add 36,000 jobs over the next decade.
Computer and information research scientists rank eighth with growth of 21.8%. The specialized tech role will add 8,400 jobs.
Occupational therapy assistants secure the ninth spot with a 21.5% growth rate. The profession will see an increase of 11,200 jobs.
Ophthalmic medical technicians round out the top ten fastest-growing occupations. The role features a 21.4% growth rate and will add 15,500 jobs by 2035.