Like the sign said in then-Governor Bill Clinton’s War Room during his 1992 presidential campaign, “It’s the economy, stupid!” The current global financial news has everyone brushing up their resumes and trying to figure where the best recession-proof jobs are coming from.

College-bound students and workers in mid-career are facing an employment scenario that has alarm bells ringing – but before you panic, take a look at the bigger picture. According to a recent article in USA TODAY, there is a growing trend of students and returning students to job training programs at community colleges and trade schools. These programs offer diplomas and certifications in a wide variety of career paths that are showing real staying power and actual growth in a tight economy. Furthermore, these schools are far more affordable than other college options and financing is available for qualified students.

And these schools offer more than a budget-conscious option. Community colleges and trade schools often have more flexible classroom schedules that make accommodations for students who work full-time or have family commitments. In addition, a growing number of these schools have developed distance learning programs that make attending class just a matter of booting up your computer. But don’t get the wrong idea; these schools don’t skimp on the quality of education. Graduates from these programs are finding good jobs that have real growth potential.

There is a wide range of excellent training options available through these trade schools, community colleges and on-line education programs. Whether you are a recent high school graduate or a seasoned member of the workforce looking to change careers, check out the information available on websites like Top-Colleges. You’ll find valuable advice on both traditional and on-line courses in career areas with real growth possibilities, like nursing, medical technology, and business administration.

For potential students with an interest in environmental issues, vocational and trade schools offer training and certification in a variety of ‘green’ professions, including solar energy technology. A large portion of the economic stimulus package is specifically earmarked to repair and restore our infrastructure. As a result, there is a spike in enrollment in classes teaching welding, plumbing, and other construction trades.

So don’t let those headlines get you down, there is light at the end of that employment tunnel. Take a look at some of the areas where job experts are predicting real growth and then find the training program that works for you. There are jobs to be had if you have the right credentials – now get busy!