6 December 2006

Future jobs revealed in new careers guide

A new careers guide released this week by Manukau City Council provides valuable insight into just how big the demand for skills is and where the most job opportunities in the Auckland region are likely to be over the next five years.

‘Planning Your Future: A Guide to Career Opportunities in the Auckland Region’ uses a unique population-based model to determine which jobs, and therefore what skills and experience, are likely to be most in demand.

Manukau City Council’s Manager Economic Development, Denise Fink says the information in the new guide is aimed at students deciding what to study, training providers planning courses that will result in graduates having the skills and knowledge needed by businesses, as well as business groups planning industry training.

“While there is a lot of discussion and research into skill shortages, we have not had access to such detailed information in the past,” Ms Fink says. “The model we have developed tells us that we can expect 110,000 new or replacement job opportunities across the Auckland region during the next five to six years. More importantly, it tells us in detail what industries and sectors these jobs will be in.

“Unemployment rates are low and many businesses are already struggling to find staff with the right skills and experience. Now, more than ever, there is a need for robust information about the job market that tells us just how big the opportunities in some areas are, and where people with certain qualifications and skill sets are going to be in highest demand.”

‘Planning your Future’ outlines expected job opportunities in more than 200 different occupations categorised in five groups: Management, Professionals, Technicians and Associate Professionals, Clerical and Administration, Sales and Services and Skilled Trade Workers.

The new careers guide is part of the council’s plan of action to ensure the city has a highly skilled and adaptable workforce that has the ability to meet the demands and challenges of an ever-changing job market.

Copies of the guide are available online at www.manukau.govt.nz or from the council’s call centre ph 262 5104 or email contactus@manukau.govt.nz. The online version includes links to more detailed information about each occupation listed.

ENDS

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