To find a successful career in today’s economy, education and training are essential ingredients. For those with the inclination to drive a semi-tractor-trailer, the first question is how do I become a truck driver? There are different routes to this profession and certain qualifications must be met to become a truck driver.

What It’s Like To Be A Truck Driver

Lifestyle is a major consideration for those wanting to drive trucks for a living. It is important to maintain a clean driving record. To become a truck driver, moving violations in excess or a Driving Under the Influence conviction leads to disqualification for the job. The promotion of safe driving during the off hours benefits the truck driver and the company he works for. In addition, it is very important to understand that life as a truck driver has the person on the road for many hours and away from home often. It can be a solitary job, but some company’s offer work teams. Teams are made up of two drivers who ride together and share the hours driving. This team effort helps to avoid over-tired drivers.

Education Requirements

To become a truck driver, a high school or GED is required. There are some companies who are prone to choose the high school graduate. This preference is evident in about a third of the trucking companies. A high school education is considered effective preparation in the areas of basic mathematics, science, and written communications. These skills are very important for maintaining the drive to record and reporting daily activities. Truck drivers are also required to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License. This license allows a driver to operate trucks over 26,000 pounds. Any truck transporting hazardous materials is also allowed. To acquire this license, the driver must pass a written and driving examination. These tests measure knowledge and operating skills necessary for safe driving. The next step is to take Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations exam. This is given by the U.S. Department of Transportation. The process requires the driver to pass not only a written exam but a physical exam that includes vision and hearing screening. This test, also known as the FMCSR, requires that the physical exam be passed every two years. Once complete, the driver is ready to enter the work force.

Entering the Work force

In the effort to become a truck driver, the driver has already met the standards of the industry that will qualify them for work with a trucking company. To get a job in this profession, the driver needs to simply search the job websites or contact the trucking companies directly. These places can also provide a list of the different types of trucking available. There are those that haul dry product such as package delivery or those that haul refrigerated products such as grocery items. Livestock hauling can require a slight different set of skills. Over-sized hauling may be for the more experienced drivers. Experience is the determining factor when it comes to salary. According to the Bureau of Labor statistics in 2010, the average salary is $37,770 and it is expected to grow faster than average through the year 2020.

Interested in becoming a Tattoo Artist? Tattoos are an art appreciated by many people. They are a great way to have a permanent reminder of something important or meaningful in one’s life. However, in order to turn ideas and sketches of tattoos into a reality, it is important to have a great tattoo artist. If this is something that you are interested in, then you may be wondering, “How do I become a tattoo artist?”

What is it Like to be a Tattoo Artist?
Being a tattoo artist can be a great career path for those who enjoy being creative, are good with people, and who do not get too queasy at the sight of blood. Tattoo artists use a variety of different inks and needles as a way of turning customers’ dreams of tattoos into a reality. However, working as one of these artists can be stressful, as one is under a lot of pressure to please the customer with their new and very permanent ink. Therefore, this is a job best suited for people who are confident in their artistic abilities and work well under pressure.

As far as education requirements to become a tattoo artist goes, these are typically not very rigid. For those who want to start their own tattoo parlor, no minimum education is necessarily required. For those looking to be employed by other parlors, however, these requirements can vary. Some may hire artists right out of high school, while others would prefer to hire those who have had higher education in the field of art, such as a Bachelor’s degree.

The most important aspect of being a successful tattoo artist is simply having experience and a lot of practice. Often times, to become a tattoo artist, one must experiment. There are actually dummy arms, legs, and other body parts specifically made for tattoo artists who practice on. The surface of these replicates that of human skin, allowing the artist to practice and improve his or her skills. This also requires the artist to purchase his or her own tattoo kit, which includes needed and inks needed to create tattoos.

Many parlors looking to hire tattoo artists will ask to see samples of one’s work, so for those who ant to become a tattoo artist, it is best to get some practice in and build a portfolio of his or her work over time. This can be a valuable piece of work to present to any potential employer. One may also want to consider the option of opening up their own tattoo parlor in order to become a tattoo artist and work on one’s own rules and schedule.

As far as pay goes, this will vary from parlor to parlor. Some artists make a decent salary of $40,000 per year. However, many start off with an hourly pay rate until they work their way up. Those who work as a tattoo artist may also end up managing a parlor at some point in their careers.

Overall, the demand for tattoo artists only seems to be increasing as body art becomes more acceptable in today’s culture. Therefore, for those who appreciate tattoos and enjoy art, working to as a tattoo artist can be a great and fun career move.

Structural engineering, a subset of the civil engineering field, is an area of expertise that is in high demand. In fact, CNN Money ranked it No. 47 on its list of “Top 100 Best Jobs in America.” Many students ask, “How do I become a structural engineer?” Consider the following.

Job Responsibilities
What is it like to be a structural engineer? Structural engineers provide a vital component to meeting the demand for new structures and maintaining existing ones. They plan, design and supervise construction projects, including skyscrapers, apartment complexes, bridges, airplanes, ships, oil rigs, dams, tunnels and many other structures. They can also hold positions designing roadways, water and sewer systems and various other types of critical infrastructure. Individuals who want to become a structural engineer work to apply the principles of science and math, combined with environmental and human use, to ensure the stability, longevity, safety and cost effectiveness of the structures they design.

Educational Requirements
Those seeking to become a structural engineer must first obtain a bachelor’s degree. In order to get a structural engineering license, students must complete a degree program approved by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology. At the undergraduate level, students focus on math, science, and mechanical, civil and structural engineering. It is common for students to obtain a bachelor’s degree in civil or architectural engineering. Some institutions offer a general engineering bachelor’s degree as well. Although not required for most entry-level positions, many students focus on structural engineering at the graduate level. Students wanting to serve in management roles or launch their own engineering company often add an MBA in business or management to their education portfolio.

In order to become a structural engineer, more is required than classroom education. Individuals must complete an apprenticeship with an experienced structural engineer that lasts four to five years. During this time, you are allowed to complete the first half of your individual state’s licensing test, entitled the Fundamentals of Engineering and Principles and Practice of Engineering Exam. If you pass, you are classified as an Engineer in Training or Engineer Intern. The second half of the exam can be completed once your apprenticeship is finished. The exam is a requirement to be licensed and become a structural engineer in any state.

Depending on state requirements, some structural engineers may have to complete continuing education courses to get re-licensed.

Job Opportunities
As a whole, it is projected that engineering fields will experience an 11 percent increase in job opportunities by 2016, with civil engineering having an 18 percent growth rate. As population grows, structural needs grow. Positions in demand can vary from design and planning to managing people and projects. Other professionals may work on the research and teaching side of structural engineering. Many qualify for government positions, designing roadways, water systems and other infrastructure.

Salaries for structural engineers can vary based on education, experience, certifications and geographic location. An entry-level applicant can expect to make an annual salary of $45,000 to $58,000. The average base salary for entry-level positions nationwide is $56,000 in the Northeast, $50,400 throughout the South, $54,300 in the West and $52,000 in the Midwest. The average yearly salary for all structural engineers was calculated in 2009 to be $79,560.

Pharmacists are valued members of healthcare teams who care for patients, prevent medical mistakes and earn six figures. As a pharmacist, you can own your own business, discover life-saving new drugs or care for patients in a hospital. If you’re wondering “how do I become a pharmacist?” then keep reading.

To become a pharmacist, you’ll need years of higher education, advanced scientific knowledge and the patience to deal with the general public. Most pharmacists work in retail drugstores dispensing prescription medication. Pharmacists are the last safety check for patients and must be vigilant for medication errors or patient allergies. Retail pharmacists supervise pharmacy technicians and work flexible hours. Working at a hospital pharmacy is similar to working in a retail store, but your patients will be sicker and usually on more medication. You’ll need to thoroughly review patients’ charts for adverse medication reactions before filling prescriptions.

If you want to become a pharmacist, you will need at least six years of college education, although most people take eight or more years to earn their pharmacy degree. Some universities offer two year undergraduate pre-pharmacy programs that feed into graduate pharmacy programs. However, most aspiring pharmacists earn bachelor’s degrees in chemistry or biology. Either way, to become a pharmacist you must do well in chemistry, organic chemistry, biology and biochemistry classes, including laboratory classes. You will also need to pass the Pharmacy College Admission Test, shadow pharmacists and volunteer in your community.

Once you’re admitted to pharmacy school, you’ll continue to study chemistry and other topics. Many programs require business, pharmacology, anatomy and toxicology classes. You’ll learn the chemical properties of medicinal drugs and how these drugs affect the body. You’ll also learn how poisons and biological weapons affect humans. You’ll study how to run your own pharmacy, learn pharmacy law, develop skills for communicating with patients and study public health. Some schools teach each class as traditional, self-contained disciplines, while other schools teach the anatomy and pathophysiology of each particular body system as a unit.

In many states, you have an internship experience to become a pharmacist. Most programs offer supervised practical experience during your final year of study, although some programs start sooner. You may have to travel an hour or two from your school, as local hospitals can only support so many clinical students at a time. After your classroom studies and internship are complete, you’ll need to pass the North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination and take continuing education courses throughout your professional life.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for pharmacists in 2011 was $113,390. Pharmaceutical companies paid the most and mail-order stores paid the least, although all employers paid a median of more than six figures. To work as a pharmacist, a current state-issued license is required. Because pharmacists are specialized workers and gain practical experience during their education, it is not hard for them to find employment after graduation. Retail drug stores are always hiring, although new employees may have to start with an undesirable shift. Pharmacy is an exciting, stable career for students willing to put in the work to become licensed.

Many people have asked, “How do I become a nutritionist?” as they explore possible career paths. The first step to answering this question is understanding exactly what a nutritionist does. Essentially, a nutritionist helps people to eat a healthy, balanced diet. They may assist clients who simply want to look and feel better or help clients meet a specific health related goal.

People who become a nutritionist may meet with clients one on one to assess their nutritional needs. Many of these health care professionals also counsel groups of people about the benefits of a healthy diet. Nutritionists are often responsible for designing and implementing a meal plan that allows clients to meet a specific goal like weight loss or cholesterol reduction. For this component of their job, the nutritionist will also follow up with clients to assess how well the meal plan is working, and make any necessary adjustments. Many nutritionists also plan the daily menus for schools, hospitals and other care facilities.

When someone decides that they would like to become a nutritionist, they must undergo the required education and training. Most nutritionists start by earning a bachelor’s degree in a discipline such as food service systems management, dietetics or foods and nutrition. Students enrolled in such a degree program will encounter subjects like anatomy and physiology as well as exploring nutrition related diseases and methods of weight management. Sanitation, food preparation and food storage are also introduced in these courses. Most students in a nutritionist degree program will be required to complete a number of scientific related courses like chemistry and biology.

In order to become a nutritionist, students must also complete many hours of supervised, on-the-job training. Some nutritionists complete this training after graduating with a degree, while other degree programs make an internship a part of the educational process. Some nutritionists also go on to earn higher degrees so that they are qualified for other jobs that have greater responsibility and better earning potential. In most states, the nutritionist will be required to become licensed or certified in order to practice. To become licensed or certified, applicants must typically have a bachelor’s degree, have completed their supervised training and passed the licensure examination.

The majority of nutritionists work in full time positions and enjoy good benefits. Average salaries for nutritionists are around $50,000 to $55,000 annually, although some nutritionists who work for large hospitals or major health care organizations may earn more. Studies suggest that the job outlook for people who want to become a nutritionist is strong, especially as the general population ages and more people are dealing with nutrition related health issues.

People who have achieved the proper education and training are likely to find that they will not lack for employment opportunities. Also, joining a professional organization like the National Association of Nutrition Professionals shows dedication to the field and provides valuable networking opportunities. With these kinds of credentials, getting a start as a nutritionist is easier than most people realize. This rewarding career allows workers to positively impact the lives of others and educate the public about the benefits of eating well.

Answering the question, “How do I become a nurse practitioner?” requires a basic understanding of a nurse practitioner’s duties, work conditions and licensing. A nurse practitioner is an advanced nurse with additional training in an area of specialization such as family practice, neonatal or pediatrics. Nurse practitioners can perform duties often performed by doctors, such as independent diagnosis and treatment. In rural areas, a nurse practitioner often functions as the primary care practitioner.

What’s it like to be a nurse practitioner?
Working conditions vary based on specialty, location and practice setting. Practitioners specializing in neonatal and acute trauma care conduct a majority of services in a hospital setting. Nurse practitioners do not work a typical nine to five shift. A nurse practitioner in a hospital setting may work rotating shifts, with on-call hours to provide immediate patient care. Rural area practitioners may perform morning, evening or late night house calls for patients with limited or no transportation. All nurse practitioners must stay atop of new medical technologies and treatments. This may involve additional training, research and attending medical conferences.

Education
To become a nurse practitioner, you must meet state requirements. All nurse practitioners must hold a registered nursing license. Registered nurse education varies by choice of study. A Bachelor of Science in Nursing can take at least four years, while an Associate Degree in Nursing takes two years. A Diploma in Nursing is a hospital-based course of study that can last three years or more. Diplomas in nursing are now the least common method of licensing.

According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, 38 states require a master’s degree. The length of a graduate program varies based on full- or part-time study. Part-time study averages between three to five years of study. Full-time study ranges between two and three years. Most schools require a bachelor’s degree for entry into a master’s program. To become a nurse practitioner, speak with a career counselor at an accredited educational facility.

The District of Columbia and 11 states have no advanced degree requirements to become a nurse practitioner. However, the nurse must meet other state requirements, such as passing a state board exam, obtaining malpractice insurance and advanced pharmacology training. Practitioners can increase marketability by obtaining a doctoral degree in nursing. According to Advance for Nurse Practitioners, by 2015, a doctorate will be the standard requirement to become a nurse practitioner.

Salary based on setting, gender and education
According to a 2011 survey conducted by Advance for NPs & PAs, nurse practitioners working in an emergency department setting earned $103,722 per year followed by neonatal nurse practitioners who earned $99,810. Nurse practitioners in an elementary or secondary school setting earned $69,945, while those in a college health setting earned $60,684 annually. Family practice nurse practitioners received an annual salary of $89,506.

Male nurse practitioners earned $7,396 more than female practitioners in 2011. According to the survey, a male practitioner earned $97,329, while a female nurse practitioner earned $89,933.

A nurse practitioner with an associate’s degree earns $84,695 annually compared to $84,451 for practitioners with a bachelor’s degree. Nurse practitioners with a master’s degree earned $90,250, while those with a doctorate earned $97,566.

Growing public interest in a long, healthy life creates excellent career opportunities for nurse practitioners. According to Marla Salmon, past director of the Division of Nursing for the US Department of Health and Human Services (1991-1997), nurse practitioners can perform 60 to 80 percent of preventative and primary medical services, while providing cost-effective, premium and individualized medical treatment.

Further Resources

American Nurses Association

American Academy of Family Physicians

State Regulations of Nurse Practitioner Practice

2009 National Salary and Workplace Survey of Nurse Practitioners

Advance for NPs & PAs: National Salary Report 2011

John Hopkins Magazine: Nurse at the Helm: Joseph Anthony

Nurses contribute to the health care system by providing services to patients and their families. Nurses are currently in high demand and can be found working in a variety of medical centers. If you have always been interested in helping others, then you might be asking right now, “How do I become a nurse?” If so, then read on for more information about this exciting field.

What’s it like to be a nurse?

A nursing career includes helping patients in a variety of capacities. Nurses provide information to patients about their health care plan and educate them about any necessary treatments and medications. In hospitals, nurses tend to a patient’s personal needs, administer medications and work alongside doctors and families to ensure that patients receive the best medical care possible. Nurses can work in hospitals, schools, clinics and rehabilitation centers. They may work with patients of all ages and often work alongside elderly or youth patients. The best nurses are easily able to adapt their caregiving techniques to the unique needs of a patient. Although being a nurse can sometimes be stressful, most nurses report that helping others is a rewarding experience, and that the decision to become a nurse was the best thing for their career.

What are the education requirements?

The education required to become a nurse depends upon what type of nurse you would like to become and any career goals that you might have for advancement in the field. Many vocational schools offer certificate programs in nursing which will allow you to become a nursing assistant. Licensed vocational nurses often choose this type of training and find that they can become a nurse in as little as one year. Licensed vocational nurses work with registered nurses and typically provide basic care for patients that include monitoring basic health information and personal care services. An associate’s degree in nursing can usually be completed in two years and is a great step for anyone who would like to become a registered nurse. A bachelor’s degree in nursing is required in order to become a registered nurse. Registered Nurses work independently beneath a doctor’s instruction to provide patient care and services. For people who would like to pursue an advanced degree, a master’s degree in nursing is required to become an advanced practice registered nurse. These nurses are able to diagnose illnesses and prescribe medications. A nurse practitioner is one type of advanced practice registered nurse. Upon graduation, a licensing exam is required to become a licensed nurse.Depending upon the educational program selected, you could become a nurse in anywhere from one to six years.

What is the job outlook for nurses?

Nursing careers are one of the highest growing careers demanded within the healthcare system. Graduates of nursing programs can expect to be able to work within many different areas. Currently, there is an increase in demand for nurses who can work with older members of the population. The average salary for a registered nurse can typically fall anywhere between $45,000 and $65,000. Obtaining an advanced degree can help you to be competitive in the job market, while also increasing your salary. Depending upon your training, job opportunities in schools, hospitals and clinics are usually available in almost any geographical area. Because nursing is a hands-on job, participating in a volunteer program or internship can be very helpful for finding a nursing position upon completing your education. If you would like to become a nurse, the first step of creating an educational plan is vital to your later success in nursing and can lead to a lifetime of enjoyable work helping others in the medical field.

Over the last decade criminal investigation fields have become very popular. There are many careers and specialties that fall into this profession, with a variety of possible education paths. The complexity of this sector leaves prospective investigators wondering, “How do I become a criminal investigator?” Below is a simple, how-to guide.

Career Characteristics

What’s it like to be a criminal investigator? Job duties vary greatly depending on education, prior experience and areas of interest. Individuals who choose to become a criminal investigator are considered law enforcement professionals who participate in the process of solving crimes through their area of specialty. Investigators may analyze evidence, gather it from a crime scene, conduct searches and interviews or perform surveillance operations. Depending on the individual’s career path, criminal investigators may work as part of a team or alone. They may work in the field or in a laboratory. Often times they are called to testify in court as to evidence recovered from a crime scene or evidence discovered via lab tests.

Education Options

The education options for students seeking to become a criminal investigator are numerous. Some states and jurisdictions will hire investigators based on experience, but most prefer a bachelor’s degree. A major in criminal justice or criminology is a popular choice for individuals wanting to become a criminal investigator. Depending on the branch of criminal investigation you are seeking, other helpful degree specialties include psychology, sociology, crime scene investigation, forensics or forensic accounting. If you seek to pursue a career in the laboratory, obtaining a degree in forensic biology, forensic science, chemistry or computer science is advisable. Many online universities offer an accelerated program that allows students to get into the field faster.

Certain areas of criminal investigation require less education. Two-year programs or certifications are available. However, they are usually very specific as to the area of evidence analysis. Obtaining a four-year degree offers greater flexibility and opportunities for advancement.

Education requirements may also vary based on the state and jurisdiction you wish to serve. Some areas will allow individuals with only a high school diploma to receive on-the-job training for specific jobs. Certain areas may also require that criminal investigators receive police officer training and work in the field before moving on to become an investigator.

Job Opportunities

According to the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Statistics, jobs in forensic science increased by 20 percent just between 2010 and 2011. If you are seeking to become a criminal investigator, the options are plentiful and salaries range depending on career path and jurisdiction. On the higher end of the salary spectrum are executive-level positions, boasting a mean wage of $96,290. The average annual salary for forensic technicians in 2010 was $51,570. Criminalists’ salaries range between $65,000 to $100,000. Crime scene supervisors can make between $65,000 and $98,000.

The key to finding a job in the field of criminal investigation is to research and prepare. Research the area that interests you the most. Prepare by receiving appropriate education. Research the job offerings and the agencies seeking to hire. Learn about their requirements, applicable exams and level of experience expected.

A profession as a cop or police officer can be a great option for those who are interested in protecting and serving their communities and bringing criminals to justice. Cops are important parts of any community, and can do anything from writing tickets to arresting criminals and responding to emergencies. Have you ever wondered, “How do I become a cop?”

So what’s it Like to be a Cop? Many people who are interested in the field of criminal justice ask themselves this same question. But before you decide that you want to be a cop, you should become familiar with what the job is like. Most police offers, on a regular basis, are assigned to a specific area of their department or jurisdiction and work a set shift during the day or night. They receive calls and dispatch requests through a radio throughout the day, which they respond to by arriving on scene and dealing with various situations that can arise. A police officer must be ready to face anything that comes his or her way.

As you can imagine, becoming a cop is not something that can be done overnight and that takes years of education and training to accomplish. For starters, most police departments these days prefer to hire officers who have a Bachelor’s Degree is criminal justice, or a related field. This is not usually a concrete requirement, but it can be.

Educational requirements are just the beginning of the process, however. Candidates looking to become a cop must also go through many screening tests to ensure that they have what it takes to become a cop. For starters, many departments will require physical ability tests and psychological tests before even considering a candidate. This can include anything from passing a polygraph test with detailed questions about the candidate’s past, to having psychiatric evaluations done. Background checks are also run in detail, and it is difficult for anyone with a criminal record to become a cop.

Finally, once all of these requirements are met, a candidate must go through approximately six months of training in what is often referred to as “Academy.” This involves physical training, simulations or potential incidents a cop may get into, and other skills needed on the job.

For those who want to become a cop, they may also be wondering about the types of opportunities out there today and the pay involved. Most officers start out at close to $30,000 per year, though this varies depending on the specific department. Most officers receive promotions each year, and can eventually work their way up the ranks as well.

There will always be job opportunities out there for cops because all communities need some kind of police protection. However, in times of economic crises, some cities have cut their funding to police departments. Still, the prospects for finding a job as a police officer are high, so long as one is willing to go through the intense and rigorous training involved to work as a law enforcement officer. From there, one can enjoy a rewarding and exciting job protecting and serving the people of their community and gaining respect along the way.

Investing in an education is one of the best things that a person can do. If you are wondering, “How Do I Become a Carpenter,” here are some things you should know. Carpentry is a rewarding field, and professionals earn a good salary. Carpenters work for large commercial construction companies and local contractors.

What’s it like to become a carpenter?

Carpenters are one of the major players in the construction industry. Professionals are responsible for cutting, measuring and joining wood. They routinely build homes and commercial buildings. Carpenters construct and repair buildings and may work on structural or detail work. The career is demanding, but salaries are high. Plentiful opportunities exist for work, and commercial contractors routinely hire professional craftsmen. Professionals may work on large building projects. Some projects cost millions of dollars, and carpenters serve a vital role in the construction of local communities. Math and communication skills are an integral part of the job, and carpenters need to know how to read a tape measure.

Educational requirements

Trade schools are one of the primary training grounds for carpenters. Most construction companies require a modicum of education before a job is offered. For this reason, attending a local trade school, community college or Internet university is essential to become a carpenter. These schools teach the fundamentals of the trade. Most geographical areas have a set building code that is in place. This is used to create industry standards and ensure that buildings will last. Carpenters need to know local codes, and this is one of the first steps to become a carpenter. In addition to building codes, most contractors require carpenters to know about safety regulations. The career is a dangerous one, and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has a number of regulations in effect. It is imperative for most carpenters to learn the basic safety guidelines, and carpentry schools may allow students a chance to earn OSHA certification. The agency has a number of educational programs in effect to familiarize professionals with safe work habits. Carpenters also need to know how to add, subtract and perform mathematical problems. Reading blueprints is another essential carpentry skill that can be learned from a trade school or on the job.

Job Opportunities

Even though the housing industry has slowed, there are plenty of job opportunities for professional carpenters. Choosing to become a carpenter is a proactive career choice. Jobs are offered in the residential and commercial industry. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) keeps detailed records of wages and economic growth. The BLS reports that the average salary in 2010 was $39,530 per year. This is the national average, and many geographical areas pay higher wages. Carpenters can expect to earn more money in large cities, like New York or Los Angeles. The BLS also reports that the job outlook is expected to increase faster than the national average over the next decade. Demand is expected to increase by 20 percent, and this should keep salaries high and ensure adequate job openings. Apprenticeships and trade schools are great ways to land a job. Many construction companies offer on the job training, and carpenters may begin as laborers and work up.