Reopening in Frederick: Key Industries to Watch
As Maryland prepares to enter the beginning of the reopening process, most of us recognize that the world of work will look very different for many companies, workers, and occupations. With the expectation that businesses will reopen and rehire once it’s safe to do so, many face continued disruption to operations. Businesses, especially those that are public-facing, are re-working processes and worksites to accommodate “new normal” social distancing and safety protocols. Work may not return to “normal” anytime soon, if ever, and the reality is that many people may need to seek work in other industries.
Even with this rapid and substantial peak in unemployment due to the shutdown from COVID-19, some industries have not just sustained, but have continued to hire and have actually grown during this time. As the economy begins to recover from the coronavirus pandemic, these businesses need skilled workers more than ever. Those industries that have helped our communities manage through these uncertain times will continue to be critical in putting the economy back together moving forward.
Frederick County benefits from having a diversity of strong industries that are positioned well to support economic recovery. If this situation has encouraged you to consider new career goals, you might be interested to learn more about the industries that have stayed resilient through this crisis. Whether you want to be a part of the solution to develop vaccines and medicines to address public health issues like coronavirus, are inspired by the demonstration of commitment from healthcare workers, or see your role as helping to make and/or deliver the supplies necessary for essential functions and workers; opportunities exist for you to grow your career.
Businesses in these four leading industries in Frederick will look for talent to meet the workforce needs necessary to rebuild the economy. Take a look at our Local Landscape page for more information about each of these industries, including the labor market needs, potential career pathways, and wages.
BioHealth companies are working hard to develop testing, vaccines, and treatments to manage this and many other public health threats. Work in this growing industry is dedicated to the research and development of products and therapies designed to meet critical needs in local communities. With a wide range of opportunities from academic research to the development and manufacturing of life-saving medications, a career in the BioHealth industry offers exciting and meaningful work, along with opportunities for substantial wage and career growth!
Sub-sectors include: Biomedical Devices, Biotechnology, Personalized Medicine, Pharmaceuticals, Research & Development, and more.
Healthcare and Social Assistance
From direct care in an intensive care unit to running lab tests and taking x-rays, our healthcare community has been on the front lines caring for people impacted by COVID-19. Occupations in health care such as RNs, CNAs, and Medical Assistants as well as Medical Laboratory Technicians and indirect care staff at all levels will continue to be in demand. Healthcare and Social Assistance is the third-largest industry in Frederick County, offering services that address all aspects of the public's general health and welfare.
Sub-sectors include: Behavioral Health, Diagnostic Imaging, Health and Wellness, Hospitals, Nursing and Long-term Care Facilities, Medical Laboratories, and Social Services.
“Businesses in these four leading industries in Frederick will look for talent to meet the workforce needs necessary to rebuild the economy. ”
These businesses transform materials into new products. Many manufacturers have switched their operations to meet the demand for supplies used in the fight against COVID-19. Manufacturing companies in our region and across the United States have stepped up to the challenge to produce things like face shields, gowns, testing supplies, ventilators, air purification devices and supplies, sanitization supplies, particulate filters, and other protective equipment needed by essential workers. Local manufacturers seek individuals who are adaptable, dependable, and detail-oriented. Mechanical aptitude, analytical thinking, and the ability to apply logic to solve challenges are also key for anyone considering a career in manufacturing.
Sub-sectors include: Manufacturing of Food and Beverages; Computers and Electronics; Machinery; Pharmaceuticals; Paper; Wood Products and more
Transportation, Warehousing and Logistics
Perhaps never before have we celebrated our tractor-trailer operators, warehouse associates, and delivery drivers more than during this national emergency. Managing stock shortages and supply chain disruptions, workers in this industry have been unsung heroes keeping grocery stores full, keeping up with an explosion of e-commerce deliveries, and ensuring that front-line workers have necessary supplies. Transportation, warehousing, and logistics consistently ranks as a strong industry in Frederick County. This industry is focused on moving and storing goods and transporting people. It is estimated that for every person, 63 tons of freight is shipped in the US each year. The need for skilled workers in this industry makes this a solid career pathway that offers stability and growth potential.
Sub-sectors include: Air, Pipeline, Rail, Truck, Transit & Ground Passenger, Water, and Scenic & Sightseeing Transportation