There are more than 200,000 open positions in Georgia, though as we mentioned last week certain sectors are more in demand than others.

While healthcare, for example, is the sector with the most current openings, there are specific occupations in other fields that are in high-demand.

According to the Workforce Division of Georgia’s Department of Economic Development, these are the top-10 high-demand occupations in the state.

  1. Business Management and Operations
  2. CNC Operator
  3. Computer Programmer
  4. Electric Engineer
  5. Machinist
  6. Maintenance Technician
  7. Manufacturing/Production Technician
  8. Mechanical Engineer
  9. Software Developer
  10. Welder

There are a couple of takeaways that stand out to me. One, the mix of “blue collar” and “white collar” occupations is noticeable. Welding, CNC operator, and machinist are vastly different than computer programmer, software developer, and mechanical/electrical engineers.

The varied mix of what’s in-demand says a lot about the diversity of occupational choices in the state.

The second thing that stood out was how many of these roles don’t require advanced degrees. Sure, some do, but many have educational barriers less than two years. A CNC operator, for example, might only require a high school diploma or equivalent. Becoming a Welder can take less than two years. Just ask Skylar Huggett. She went from waiting tables to working full-time as a welder in less than two years.

Once again, here’s my pitch for you to reach out and connect with the Technical College System of Georgia. The TCSG is equipped to help prepare students for many of the occupations on this list, and you can start earning credits or certifications now if you get on the ball.