Webucation architects and nano-technologists are set to
become as familiar posts as shopkeepers and accountants as new
technology and changing lifestyles transform the UK job
market.
In the first analysis of its kind, awarding body the City &
Guilds has forecast which careers are set to emerge, thrive or
change over the next decade.
Although postal workers and milkmen may find themselves out in the
cold, the report said it would be a boom time for personal
dieticians, psychologists and plastic surgeons.
Rising affluence, complex family arrangements and an in-creased
lifespan will create a demand for many different types of workers
who are paid to keep people looking good and feeling physically and
mentally fit.
Longevity consultants are predicted to emerge to help retired
people make best use of their later years, giving advice on health,
financial planning and lifestyle pursuits.
However, tomorrow's brightest children would do well to turn to
science.
The hottest jobs are likely to be among nanotechnologists -
scientists involved in building tiny structures - and
bioinformatics specialists, who fuse technology and science to aid
medical research.
Tax advisers are predicted do well thanks to an increasingly
complex tax regime, and education tutors will be in greater demand
as growing numbers of parents decide to "top up" their children's
education.
Less job security will be enjoyed by insurance brokers and estate
agents, whose roles will change beyond recognition thanks to the
internet.
Chris Humphries, director general at City & Guilds, said, "We
are living in an exciting era that is constantly evolving and
bringing with it new career opportunities.
"Globalisation, technology and changes in consumer behaviour are
the main influences in this changing job market, and it is
fascinating to see what the next decade will deliver in terms of
jobs.
"Indeed, 10 years ago, many people would not have known what a
web page designer does."