
Did you know nearly 50% of working adults in the United States have considered a career change in the last two years? In today’s unpredictable job market, upskilling through training has become not just a luxury, but a necessity for those wanting to find a new direction. Whether you’re seeking a good job that fuels your passion or aiming to land a job with greater growth potential, training to change career might be the decisive step that sets you apart from the crowd. If you’re ready to unlock the potential of your life and career, read on to discover how dedicated career training can lead you to your full potential.
The landscape of work is changing faster than ever, prompting thousands of people to rethink their day job and consider a career change. Studies show that over one-third of professionals in the United States plan to pursue additional training for a new field within the next five years. This surge is fueled by both rapid technological advances and the desire for more meaningful, flexible work—from real estate to tech and beyond.
Take, for instance, Rachel Hartman, who, after years in administration, completed a change bootcamp and discovered her passion in digital marketing. Her story isn’t unique—thousands have used career training to find a career that better suits their skills and life goals. Training to change career is more than learning new skills; it’s about reigniting your purpose, expanding your network, and securing your future in a competitive work environment.
Discover the latest statistics on career change and the rising need for reskilling.
Highlight real-life success stories of professionals who used training to change career paths.
Undertaking career training as part of your journey to find a career that inspires you offers a host of valuable benefits. First, you’ll identify and develop career skills that are in high demand, making you marketable no matter what happens to your current role. You also gain confidence—every new skill mastered is a step forward in your career development and personal growth.
Moreover, those who pursue training to change career enjoy access to expanded professional networks, mentor connections, and a supportive group of people striving for similar goals. These connections often lead to insider insights, job referrals, and even lifelong friendships that help you excel in your chosen field.
A breakdown of the most vital takeaways for those considering a career change.
Expert tips on getting started with career training for a successful transition.
There’s never been a more opportune moment to invest in training to change career. As industries like tech, healthcare, and real estate rapidly evolve, companies urgently seek adaptable individuals with cutting-edge skills. COVID-19 has further accelerated demand for employees who can work from home and pivot into new roles quickly. For many, enrolling in a flexible training program has been the catalyst for leaving a day job behind and stepping into a better future.
Modern professionals no longer follow a single linear trajectory. Instead, they embrace change bootcamps and short-term courses to stay ahead of market volatility and reach their full potential. By acting now, you set yourself up to thrive despite market uncertainties, making sacrifices today for greater stability and success tomorrow.
Today’s work environment demands continuous learning as technologies and best practices outpace traditional education. According to new research, lifelong learners and those willing to reskill have better job satisfaction and more advancement opportunities. Continuous training to change career means you remain competitive, adaptable, and ready to land a job in emerging industries long before your peers.
Several sectors stand out for leading the way: the real estate market, technology, and healthcare all offer abundant development opportunities and structured programs for career changers. If you’re considering a move in the Des Moines area, these industries in particular are ripe for talent and innovation. Whether through industry certification programs or skill bootcamps, targeted training ensures you build the foundation for a fulfilling life in your chosen field.
Explore data on the shifting job market and the value of continuous learning.
Examine how real estate, tech, and healthcare are leading in retraining opportunities.
Finding your ideal career starts with self-reflection and continues with research, skill assessments, and practical experience. Training to change career is most effective when you tailor your search to match your interests, values, and lifestyle. Start by identifying the qualities you want in your next role—do you seek stability, creativity, higher earning potential, or the ability to make a difference?
Once you’ve clarified your goals, leverage online resources and career development tools to narrow down your choices. Shortlist industries that align with your unique blend of soft and technical skills. For those journeying through a career transition in the Des Moines area or anywhere in the U.S., career assessments and skill inventories are valuable in defining new possibilities.
Assessment tools, like personality and skills quizzes, offer invaluable insights into which roles naturally complement your strengths. Pair these with targeted training programs—such as coding bootcamps, digital marketing certificates, or real estate licensing courses—to gain real-world skills and increase your confidence.
Many adult learners start their journey from home, using online platforms to research course options and map out next moves. Organizing your progress with spreadsheets, goal sheets, or even a physical career planning document can keep you motivated and focused.
How assessment tools and career training courses empower you to find a career aligned with your skills.
Career coaching and mentorship are game-changers for anyone considering training to change career. Expert guidance helps clarify your path, overcome obstacles like imposter syndrome, and connect you with hidden job opportunities. A good mentor will help you maximize your strengths, avoid common pitfalls, and make introductions to key industry insiders along the way.
Coaches often recommend specific training programs, personalized development plans, and accountability check-ins to ensure that you stay on track. This type of expert support is especially valuable when doubts arise or when you reach a crossroads in your life and career journey.
The impact of expert guidance in shaping a rewarding career change journey.
A wide range of training programs awaits career changers, from short, intensive bootcamps to in-depth degree programs. The key is to choose an option that fits your budget, timeline, and preferred style of learning. Are you looking for a flexible, self-paced online course? Or do you thrive in an immersive, in-person environment with hands-on experience?
Balancing your current commitments—whether a family, a demanding day job, or community involvement—with career training is easier than ever with the rise of hybrid solutions. Explore fields that are expanding quickly and offer high employability, such as real estate, healthcare, technology, and project management.
Online programs offer unprecedented access to leading institutions and expert instructors, allowing you to complete coursework from anywhere—even during evening hours. In-person training and hybrid models provide opportunities for group collaboration and hands-on learning. Industry-specific solutions, like real estate licensing courses or medical coding bootcamps, provide the critical combination of flexibility and focus needed to succeed.
Consider a scenario where you can participate in online seminars, complete assignments in your spare time, and attend live sessions for immediate feedback. This blended approach is perfect for adults in the Des Moines area or remote workers who value both independence and community support.
Compare programs in real estate, tech, healthcare, and more.
For those seeking rapid entry into a new field, industry-focused certificates and bootcamps offer a streamlined route. Whether you’re drawn to real estate licensing, front-end development, or healthcare administration, these training courses provide practical skills and often include job placement support.
Popular options include tech bootcamps (coding, cybersecurity), digital marketing certifications, medical billing courses, and project management credentials. Choose a program that not only teaches the technical know-how, but also emphasizes adaptability, communication, and the ability to collaborate with diverse teams.
Detailed look at certification courses and bootcamps for a rapid transition.
Comparison of Top Career Training Programs |
|||||
Program |
Industry |
Format |
Duration |
Cost |
Job Outcomes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Real Estate Licensing |
Real Estate |
Hybrid/Online |
2-4 months |
$400-$2,000 |
Estate agent, broker, property manager |
Coding Bootcamp |
Technology |
Online/In-person |
3-6 months |
$5,000-$15,000 |
Web developer, software engineer |
Medical Billing Course |
Healthcare |
Online |
4-6 months |
$700-$2,500 |
Medical coder, health records technician |
Digital Marketing Certificate |
Marketing |
Online |
3-4 months |
$500-$2,500 |
Email marketer, social media manager |
Project Management Professional (PMP) |
Business |
Hybrid/Online |
4-6 months |
$1,000-$3,000 |
Project manager, team leader |
Possessing the right mix of hard and soft career skills can be the difference between simply landing a new job and building a lasting, rewarding career. Employers in the Des Moines area and nationwide now seek professionals who are not only technically qualified, but also adaptable, collaborative, and confident communicators.
During your training to change career, pursue industry-recognized certifications alongside skillsets like creative problem solving, resilience, and leadership. These are the same traits highlighted in success stories from people who transitioned into dynamic fields, such as real estate or IT.
Soft skills: Adaptability, communication, leadership
Technical certifications: Coding, digital marketing, real estate licenses, medical billing
"The only impossible journey is the one you never begin." – Tony Robbins
If you’re searching for a path with high potential, flexibility, and personal interaction, a career change into real estate could be your game-changer. The industry consistently attracts career changers—particularly from administration, education, and customer service roles—thanks to its scalability and earning opportunities.
With structured training, mentorship, and accessible licensing exams, real estate provides a supportive entry point for newcomers. Many find the transition rewarding, citing greater autonomy, work-life balance, and the satisfaction of helping others achieve major milestones.
Becoming a licensed real estate professional involves passing pre-licensing coursework, an official exam, and, in some states, additional specialty certifications such as property management or commercial transactions. Many programs offer hybrid models with self-paced online study and in-person coaching—ideal for those juggling a day job or family obligations.
Growth opportunities abound in the field, from residential sales to investment, appraisal, and real estate technology (proptech). Real estate stands out for providing continuous development opportunities, robust networking, and support to help you richly impact your community.
The path to becoming a licensed real estate professional and why it’s a top choice for many seeking a career change.
Mid-life and late-career professionals are leading a new wave of career change, proving there is no age limit to success. Consider Maryalene Laponsie, whose journey from the classroom to corporate training was sparked by a single online course. Her newly acquired skills not only reinvigorated her work environment, but also inspired younger colleagues to pursue professional development.
Others in the Moines area have transitioned from hospitality to healthcare, from retail to tech, and from small business to real estate with the help of targeted training programs. These success stories emphasize the power of curiosity, resilience, and ongoing learning in achieving a truly fulfilling life and career.
First-person case studies featuring mid-life and late-career professionals.
Changing careers is an exciting but often nerve-wracking prospect. Many face fears of imposter syndrome (“Am I really qualified?”), age-related concerns (“Is it too late for a career change?”), and financial anxieties over tuition and lost income. The truth is, most challenges are surmountable with the right planning and community support.
Addressing these doubts requires mindset shifts and practical solutions—research shows mature adults who complete career training often bring valuable perspectives and perform strongly in their new fields, especially when actively networking in their industry of choice.
How to deal with imposter syndrome, age-related barriers, and financial concerns when training to change career.
"It is never too late to be what you might have been." – George Eliot
A breakdown of popular course categories: tech, real estate, healthcare, project management, and more.
The best course for career change depends on your interests, goals, and market demand. Career training in fields like tech, real estate, and healthcare offer high employability and growth. Evaluate what energizes you, then choose the course that opens doors for your ideal career.
To switch careers at 40 with no experience, invest in specialized training to change career, leverage transferable skills from your previous roles, and actively network within your targeted industry. Bootcamps and certification courses make it possible to stand out, regardless of formal work history.
Roles in customer service, sales, real estate, and entry-level IT are among the easiest jobs to retrain for with short career training programs. These fields offer fast-track certifications and straightforward entry paths, so you can quickly land a good job and start building new experience.
Consider training to change career to fields like real estate, coaching, administration, or healthcare support, where practical experience and people skills—rather than a degree—are highly valued. Many late-career professionals thrive by leveraging their wisdom, reliability, and strong work ethic.
Do I need prior experience to start training to change career?
No, most career training programs are designed for beginners. You can start fresh, and many entry-level courses assume no prior expertise.
How long does career training take?
This varies by industry and outcome. Many bootcamps last 3-6 months, while professional certifications could be earned in as little as 2 months or as much as a year.
What resources are available to fund career training for adults?
Scholarships, employer tuition reimbursement, and government grants are available for adult learners. Some programs also offer payment plans or financing.
Are online career training programs respected by employers?
Yes, as online learning grows in popularity, employers increasingly value practical skills and recognized certificates, regardless of delivery method.
Training to change career is the single most effective way to create opportunities at every stage of life. Embrace the potential of a new path, today.
Training to change career will give the worker a great start in a new and exciting lifestyle. Courses tailored to suit the new field of work will enhance the chances of employment. Any training to change career will set the worker in good stead and make them more employable. The fact they have taken on the extra workload of doing courses and training will impress the prospective employer. This can help when compiling resumes and CVs.
When training to change career the choice of courses should be approached with the new field of work in mind. Keep the training to change career as close as possible to the skills necessary for the new choice of workplace.
If possible find courses that are industry based and form part of the basic training needed for the new career job. Find out about syllabus details and what jobs are going to be available after the course is complete. Where possible, if the exact career change job has not been decided on, take a course that may cover more than one field. Where indecision is a problem then added skills that cover more areas of work, will enhance the chances for employment in various sectors of the workforce.
Training to change career can give the worker an interest in fields of work they have not yet thought applied to their skill base. They could hone present skills and find scope for advancement in a field close to where they have been working. Sometimes a little training can lead to opportunity where none seemed possible.
Look at all training as working towards training to change career, then when the time arrives and a new career is on the horizon, the skills learned will prove to be a bonus. Consider previous training courses completed, as training to change career. From any training course there are advantages to be taken. Communication, proof of determination, attitude, advancement and achievement are all shown through the willingness to take courses while in the workplace. When moving from one career to another training to change career may seem like a sideways step, but when the resume looks right and the prospective employer can see the enthusiasm and dedication of the worker they know they are employing a worker who will benefit their company.
Training to change career is time well spent. Saving time and money and heartache in the long run by training before the need to change career is always worth while. The training can help with the present workplace, while preparing the worker for a new and more satisfying career. Job satisfaction is important, while promotion and better pay are also benefits of training, the ultimate goal is to find training to change career that will bring all three.
A teacher career change should not be a difficult task. With the skills and training of a teacher the worker should be able to find a multitude of openings that offer advancement or new and more diverse workplace environments.
A teacher career change may not involve leaving the field of teaching altogether. With a few tweaks to training courses the worker may find they have the skills and training needed to move into a new study of teaching. Maybe a teacher career change would mean a different age level or level of education. Making a teaching career change could give new life to old skills and enable outside interests to become everyday workplace skills.
Teacher career change resumes would list the previous places of work. With teaching skills under a worker’s belt the possibility of finding work would seem less risky since the ability to communicate and share information is so vital to so many fields of work. Moving into another sector of the workforce, away from teaching may not mean giving up teaching altogether. The need to share information between workers, to train new staff, to design training courses and to teach team members is fundamental to many new workplace environments.
The scope for advancement with a teacher career change begins when the worker decides to make the move away from their present position. They can choose the new field of work with the confidence that their skills will shine on their resume. The communication skills needed for holding a position teaching will ensure the teacher looking for a career change is seen as an asset to prospective employers. Coming from the teaching sector will be a bonus to any employer. Not only will the teacher have good communication skills, they will have team skills, have proven intelligence levels, administration skills organization skills and the ability to advance through training. Even being able to learn, to adapt skills to situations will enhance the job prospects for the teacher career change scenario.
A teacher career change could involve moving into an area of work that suits the worker’s interests. The teacher is in the unique position of being able to use their basic skill levels to enhance any job they apply for. From being a plumber to being a dancer, or CEO, the ability to teach and share information with other team members means they will add value to their fellow workers too.
A teacher career change may be brought about by the stress of face to face teaching, but the scope for finding a worthwhile, satisfying career away from the classroom is increasing all the time.
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