by Scott Hayden

Created on: November 14, 2009   Last Updated: April 24, 2012

The number of unemployed people in the United States is the highest it has been in more than twenty-five years. The Federal Reserve has said the nation's unemployment will be elevated until well into 2011. These are unsettling facts of life. Despite all of this less than encouraging news, there are plenty of occupations that can weather any economic storm. These are a few of them.

Teachers

There will always be a strong demand for science and math teachers. Teaching English as a second language will be a safe bet since there are more immigrants coming to study and live in the U.S. every year. Adults who are going back to school are trying to keep up with the fast pace of change in their chosen careers, so the need for teachers will never decrease.

Nurses 

This is another profession facing massive shortages, mainly because of aging baby boomers and, ironically, advances in medicine. Patients with illnesses like cancer are living longer, but they will need long-term care.

Morticians

It's an uncomfortable subject and nobody wants to talk about it, but everyone dies sooner or later. Regardless of whether the economy is up or down, families will need assistance to plan funeral services for deceased loved ones.

Police Officers 

These men and women are employed by the government, which can provide great job security. Crime never goes away and a shaky economy will always fuel illegal activities. Petty offences like shoplifting are sure to rise, which means law enforcement officers will be busier than ever.

Sales Reps

Why are sales reps immune to recessionary layoffs? It's simple. These are the people companies depend on to keep business alive and to pull in new customers.

Accountants 

Recession or not, the bean counters have to keep a company's books in order. Tax work and preparing financial reports will have to be done by somebody.

Auto Mechanics

People aren't going buy new cars when there are no jobs to be found. They will repair the old ones.

Skilled Trades 

Carpenters, plumbers and electricians are the ones to call when something in the home breaks down.

Freelance Writers 

This is the greatest job of all! It's your business, so there's just no way that anyone can fire you. People are always hunting for information about finance, health, travel and more.

One of the best ways to protect yourself is to be flexible. Figure out how to use existing skills in industries not affected by the economic crisis. You can get the job you really want, wobbly economy or not.

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