It identifies occupations in the Bay Area with above average hiring demand, special skill requirements, good wages and high growth potential over the next three to five years. It also identifies occupations in the Bay Area that require Information Technology (IT) skills. There is currently a shortage of workers in IT occupations, and there are a number of different types of occupations that can appeal to individuals with very different skill sets and interest areas. Some of these occupations are in extremely high demand and pay excellent wages.

Other introductory pages of this Career Guide include:

• Why would you want to use this guide?
• How do you use this Career Guide?
• A Quick Look at These Emerging Occupations
• About the Sponsors
• How This Career Guide Was Developed

These "emerging occupations" are organized in nine "clusters" shown below. Within each cluster there are multiple emerging occupations—this Career Guide describes one or two, as ideal entry points for those seeking a promising new career. Others exist, and will continue to emerge over time, which are not covered here.