Page 46 - Skills - 2024

CHOOSING A CAREER
In early 2024, the Westchester County Office of Economic Development, in partnership with the New York City Economic Development Corporation, announced
the launch of a Quantum Computing and Networking Technology Mobilization (QUANTM) consortium, made
up of more than 40 stakeholders from across the region, representing more than 25 organizations and institutions including Brookhaven National Labs, IBM, NYU, and Mount Vernon STEAM Academy. It’s meant to develop a strategy for quantum information science and technology job growth during its quarterly meetings.
“We didn’t realize how much quantum computing activity there is right here in our downstate area,” says Gibbons. “When we started to raise the idea of having a consortium, people just came out of the woodwork. They’re all working in quantum, but maybe didn’t necessarily know about each other. We’re bringing them all together to discuss how the county can be helpful, how we can break down barriers, and how we can establish goals.”
Some Key Westchester Employers
• IBM
• Hi-Tek Data
• Innovative Network Solutions
• Progressive Computing
• Westchester Technology Group
IBM, headquartered in Armonk, announced back in 2022 a $20 billion investment in computation manufacturing, including CHIP research and development, that continues to help the county grow in the industry.
And the county’s startup accelerator program, Element 46, is still going strong, too. It is a comprehensive training program for tech startups that focuses on businesses that have somewhat launched but need guidance.
“It’s one of our most hands-on ways of working in the tech sector, but all of our businesses need tech-focused employees,” says Gibbons.
For example, Regeneron, a life sciences company located in Tarrytown, will be adding 1,000 jobs over the next six years, including positions related to tech. Jobs in the industry that consistently have good outlook and pay include computer scientists, software developers and engineers, and data scientists. They each require bachelor’s degrees, but are forecast to see tremendous growth. Take data scientists — the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 35% growth in this profession between 2022 and 2032. The average annual earnings for these titles in Westchester
County range from $131,000 all the way to $221,000.
“They are well-paying jobs, and it really cuts across all of
our sectors,” says Gibbons. “Your skills are in high demand by many businesses, and any education or training you have is transferable for any company.”
Have You Considered These Other Careers?
While our focus sectors in this section are some of the fastest growing in Westchester, they aren’t the only ones hiring. Here’s a look at some other options to consider.
Financial Services
Did you know Mastercard’s global headquarters are located in Purchase, NY? Check for open positions by scanning the QR code. That’s not to mention the fact that occupations in
the business and financial
operations field are set to grow by 21.9% between 2020 and 2030, according to New York Department of Labor projections.
Government
You don’t have to be a politician to work in government!
Check humanresources. westchestergov.com/job- seekers to find out more about the jobs that are currently in demand and what it takes to
fill them. Or scan the QR code to watch a video on working for Westchester County.
Nonprofits
Do you want to work in a
job where you’re making a difffference? One way to do that is to join the nonprofit sector. Learn more about the many opportunities available by scanning the QR code.
Want to know which occupations are up and coming? The New York Department of Labor shares employment projections for the Hudson Valley and other regions of the state on its website.
44 2024 SKILLS What’s Hot. What’s Next. What’s Needed.