Connie

2012 is practically upon us and we're all wondering: Where will the jobs be?

According to an MSNBC article, jobs in demand in 2012 will focus on health care, science and high-technology. "Employers will put a premium on skilled and semi-skilled workers, especially in computers, health care, science and technology. And there will be job openings aplenty in the trades as baby boomers retire," quotes the article.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 13 of the 20 fastest-growing occupations between 2008 and 2018 are related to health care. Home health aides, personal and home care aides, medical scientists and physician assistants near the top of the list.

Many healthcare jobs, such as home health aides and personal and home care aides, only require short-term on-the-job training, which means you don't necessarily need previous experience. If you're interested in working in health care, these entry-level jobs may be the perfect step to starting your career. And, both part-time and full time positions are available.

According to a Manpower survey, some of the hardest jobs to fill today are mechanics, technicians and truck drivers.

“Our country needs people who go to trade schools. We’re running out of people like machinists, mechanics and technicians because the people who are doing [those] jobs are retiring,” said Melanie Holmes, vice president of North American corporate affairs for Manpower.

On the positive, many of these hard to fill jobs do not require a college degree, making them more accessible to you, the job seeker.

Jobs are available in 2012 if you’re looking in the right industries. Keep these trends in mind and possibly expand your search to the industries as you continue your job hunt this upcoming year.