It is becoming more common for people in the middle or later parts of their careers to decide they want to pursue a different job path, even if it involves more education. Judy Goggin, a vice president for think tank Civic Ventures, told the Dallas Morning News that many community colleges are noting this trend and increasingly catering their offerings towards baby boomers. The desire for a change, the knowledge that they will have to work past traditional retirement age, a quest for a job with more purpose and a yearning for more flexible hours are some of the reasons people of this age may decide to change careers. She described how those who have already worked for some years before retraining are more likely to want a "clear path to employment" after they finish their program, as they already have work experience and are less willing to jump through hoops. Baby boomers who are thinking of taking the leap and retraining for a new career may be able to take advantage of a predicted labor shortage; some economists have predicted that up to 35 million workers will be needed in the US by 2030, with education, healthcare and public service offering some of the most opportunities.  |