According to the current news, the economy is on the rebound. That may be true in some areas, but there are industries that have permanently lost jobs. Manufacturing positions in the automobile and textile sectors are chief among these. Many people that have lost their jobs during this recession are considering a career change. Here are some careers that are actually remaining stable, and some of them are even experiencing growth:

Accounting

The need for accounting professionals remains, and it is important in lean economic times. The federal Sabine-Oxley Act increased the corporate need for fiscal accountability. Because of shrinking tax revenue, the IRS is also keeping stronger tabs on tax returns. A person interested in this work can start with an Associate Degree in accounting, which takes anywhere from eighteen months to two years to complete.

Home Health Aide

It may not be as glamorous as traditional hospital work, but home health aides are expected to be in short supply as the Boomer population ages. The Bureau of Labor Statistics gives this vocation an outlook of much faster than average. Aides typically work in care homes or the residences of elderly or disabled clients. No special education is required to enter this field, but it is useful to become first aid and CPR certified. Some agencies or homes may have their own requirements.

Criminal Investigation

Criminal investigation has been in the spotlight on television and in the real world. Advances in forensic technology and increasing crime rates have elevated the need for crime scene technicians. The job entails the proper collection and analysis of evidence. Technicians often testify in court. Integrated university science programs often offer certificates or associate degrees for this field.

Veterinarian or Vet Tech

Even in a recession, people still love their animals. The veterinary field has experienced a shortage of veterinarians. This career requires an extensive investment in time and money, as the education required rivals that of a medical doctor. Enter the veterinary assistant, professionals that assist with the testing and care of animal patients. This position requires an associate degree in the field.

EMT

Health care still remains steady, but some positions, like nursing, are not exactly recession-proof. Demand does exist across the board for emergency medical technicians. EMTs are often on the front lines of life and death situations. Several levels of training and certification are available, and the highest typically takes two years to complete. There is also opportunity to advance to a paramedic, which comes with a considerable increase in pay.

While the job market has been no easy place over the last couple of years, there are still great education and career choices that can keep you employed regardless of the economic situation.  Skilled professionals are needed more than ever, so if you enter in to a career with a specific skill set, the recession will be least likely to affect you.