Crumbling infrastructure, growing environmental concerns, burgeoning biotechnology developments, and large-scale retirements have been increasing demand for specialists in some fields of engineers and scientists in the Bay State.

Despite overall economic woes, most of these fields continue to grow, as needs for a cleaner environment, improved bridges and highways, and medical devices and services are urgent. Years of stagnant enrollment in some area engineering schools, along with neglect of an aging infrastructure, have led to dire shortages. .

There is also an increasing need for people to design and build energy-efficient structures using solar and geothermal energy and greener materials. In the life sciences, growth is evident, as some pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies continue to expand in the area, and salaries go up in keeping with demand.

For professional and career connections, check www.nspe.org, www.engineers.org, and www.sciencecareers.org.