The transition from college to the real world is a daunting passage described as the end of freedom and livelihood by mentors and family members since I can’t remember, but who says it has to be? The Coulee Region offers a wide range of industries with opportunities targeted at young professionals. Here are the top five growing industries in the Coulee Region and how to find coordinating entry-level jobs at the beginning of your career.
1. Healthcare and Medical Services
This is a vital and widespread industry in the Coulee Community. As a center for comprehensive healthcare, the Coulee Region is known for its large medical facilities including Gunderson Health System, Mayo Clinic Health System, and Vernon Memorial Hospital, among others.
Here are some ongoing entry-level job opportunities within the Coulee Region for young healthcare professionals looking to establish their careers:
- Medical Receptionist
- Medical Assistant
- Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
- Pharmacy Technician
- Phlebotomist
- Medical Scribe
- Health Unit Coordinator
Browse for available healthcare and medical service positions in the Coulee Region now!
2. Technology and Software Development
The tech industry is growing in the Coulee Region and so are the job opportunities. Young tech professionals should be excited about the endless opportunities with large and small companies within this region of the Midwest. Companies with a large tech presence in the region include Trane Technologies, Logistics Health Incorporated, Kwik Trip, and Fastenal. Other types of companies that have substantial technology divisions that are worth looking into include local banks, hospitals, colleges, packaging companies, and trash/recycling companies.
Here are some common entry-level jobs that can be found for young IT professionals in the Coulee Region:
- Junior Software Developer
- Quality Assurance (QA) Analyst
- Technical Support Specialist
- Help Support Desk
- Junior Web Developer
- Data Analyst
- Systems Administrator
Browse for available technology and software development positions in the Coulee Region now!
3. Education and Higher Learning
As an educational hub to multiple universities along with several public and private K-12 schools, the Coulee Region is in demand for young professionals in the education sector. Teaching opportunities range from a wide variety of ages and classroom environments. The La Crosse Public School District alone includes 23 schools, 6,632 students, and 547 teachers. The opportunities for classroom management make the Coulee Region a great place for young education professionals to start their careers.
Here are some entry-level jobs for young professionals pursuing a career in education in the Coulee Region:
- Teacher’s Aid/Assistant
- Substitute Teacher
- Classroom Assistant
- Early Childhood Educator
- Tutor
- Education Coordinator
Browse for available education and higher learning positions in the Coulee Region now!
4. Manufacturing and Engineering
The Coulee Region has a strong manufacturing sector, including industries such as machinery, automotive, and food processing. Young professionals with backgrounds or schooling in engineering, manufacturing, quality control, and supply chain management are certain to find career opportunities in this sector. Top manufacturing companies in the area include Trane Technologies, Kwik Trip, and PepsiCo.
Here are some common entry-level jobs in this sector for young professionals:
- Process Improvement Analyst
- Production Operator
- Warehouse Associate
- Process Engineer
- Maintenance Technician
- Quality Assurance Engineer
Browse for available manufacturing and engineering positions in the Coulee Region now!
5. Tourism and Hospitality
With its scenic landscape, riverside activities, and local staples, the Coulee Region attracts tourists year-round. This translates into exceptional job opportunities in hotels, restaurants, bars, event planning, and more! Luxury hotels in La Crosse like the Charmant and Radisson set the standard for hospitality in the area.
Here are some common entry-level jobs for young professionals pursuing a career in tourism and hospitality:
- Hotel Management
- Event Planner/Coordinator
- Food and Beverage Management
- Tour Guide
- Event Coordinator
- Hospitality Sales and Marketing
- Customer Service Representative
Browse for available tourism and hospitality positions in the Coulee Region now!
Networking
Jobs come and they go, but good opportunities are always waiting to happen. In addition to being in a great location, young professionals in the Coulee Region are surrounded by seasoned professionals that want to help. Everything starts small. As you make connections your network will grow and so will your opportunities.
If you’re looking for ways to build your network as a recent college graduate in La Crosse, check out The Young Professionals group. Available to a wide range of professionals aged 21 to 40 across multiple industries, it offers a great networking opportunity.
Reach out. Stay passionate. Put yourself out there.
Trust that your hard work will pay off and keep an open mind as opportunities present themselves. Good luck to all my fellow young professionals in the Coulee Region!
