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Southeastern Health and Wellness Institute
Annual State of the Industry Letter

As we close another impactful year at Southeastern Health and Wellness Institute, I find myself deeply grateful for our students, graduates, faculty, and partners who continue to elevate the standards of health and wellness education. The industry we serve is not only growing — it is evolving, expanding, and gaining recognition as an essential component of modern healthcare and quality of life!

This annual letter is both a reflection on where we are today and a confident look toward the future. The outlook for health and wellness professionals between 2026 and 2030 is exceptionally strong, and the opportunities ahead for those entering these fields have never been more promising.

The State of the Health and Wellness Industry

The United States workforce is undergoing a significant shift. Healthcare and personal care occupations are projected to grow faster than the national average, driven by an aging population, increased focus on preventive care, and rising consumer demand for holistic wellness services. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), healthcare support roles are among the fastest-growing occupational groups nationwide.

What we are witnessing is more than job growth — it is a cultural transformation. Wellness is no longer viewed as a luxury. It is now understood as a necessity, woven into daily life, healthcare planning, and long-term vitality. This shift positions our graduates at the forefront of meaningful, stable, and purpose-driven careers.

Career Outlook and Workforce Demand (2026–2030)

While precise year-by-year projections are not always published for every specialty, existing federal and industry data clearly indicate strong demand extending well into the next decade.

Massage Therapy

Massage therapy continues to be one of the fastest-growing wellness professions. The BLS projects employment for massage therapists to grow approximately 15% through 2034, a rate much faster than the average for all occupations! This sustained growth reflects increased demand for pain management, stress reduction, injury rehabilitation, and integrative healthcare services. Massage therapists are increasingly employed in medical offices, wellness centers, sports facilities, and private practice settings.

Esthetics and Skincare Professionals

Esthetics remains one of the most dynamic segments of the wellness economy. Industry data suggests that esthetician employment is projected to grow by approximately 29% by 2030, driven by expanding interest in advanced skincare, anti-aging treatments, corrective services, and medical spa environments.

As skincare becomes more closely linked with dermatological health, estheticians trained in advanced modalities and clinical collaboration are uniquely positioned for success!

Cosmetology

Cosmetologists continue to experience steady demand, with projected job growth nearing 19% by 2030 according to industry-based employment trend analysis. Beauty services remain resilient even during economic shifts, as consumers consistently invest in personal appearance, self-care, and confidence-building services.

Clinical Medical Assistants with Cosmetic Laser Education

Medical assistants are a critical component of the healthcare workforce, and those with expanded skill sets — including cosmetic laser education and clinical esthetics training — are especially in demand! Healthcare support occupations are projected to grow faster than average through 2030, with medical assistants playing a central role in outpatient clinics, dermatology practices, plastic surgery offices, and medical spas.

This hybrid skill set bridges healthcare and aesthetics, making graduates exceptionally marketable in evolving clinical environments.

Phlebotomists

Phlebotomy remains a high-demand, entry-accessible healthcare career. Employment for phlebotomists has historically shown growth rates exceeding 20%, fueled by ongoing needs in hospitals, laboratories, blood donation centers, and outpatient clinics. As diagnostic testing increases nationwide, skilled phlebotomy professionals will continue to be essential!

Pharmacy Technicians

Pharmacy technicians are indispensable members of the healthcare team! Demand remains strong due to increased prescription use, an aging population, and expanded pharmacy services. Pharmacy technicians with strong technical knowledge and patient communication skills are well-positioned for employment in retail pharmacies, hospitals, long-term care facilities, and specialty pharmacies.

Nail Technicians

Nail technicians are part of the broader personal care services sector, which continues to grow as consumers prioritize grooming, wellness, and self-expression! While federal projections group nail technicians within personal care occupations, industry trends show steady demand supported by salon growth, entrepreneurship, and service diversification.

Trends Driving the Future of Wellness Careers

Several major trends are shaping the future of health and wellness professions:

Integration of Wellness and Healthcare

Massage therapy, esthetics, and cosmetic services are increasingly integrated into traditional healthcare models. Wellness professionals are now recognized as contributors to pain management, mental health support, rehabilitation, and preventive care.

Technology and Advanced Training

Advancements in skincare devices, laser technologies, and therapeutic equipment continue to expand the scope of practice for trained professionals. Education that emphasizes safety, science, and innovation provides graduates with a significant competitive advantage.

Preventive and Lifestyle-Based Care

Consumers are taking a proactive approach to their health. Wellness professionals are now seen as long-term partners in maintaining physical, emotional, and aesthetic well-being.

Why This Moment Matters

For students and graduates of Southeastern Health and Wellness Institute, this moment represents opportunity with purpose. These careers offer stability, flexibility, entrepreneurship, and the chance to make a real difference in people’s lives.

The data confirms what we see every day in our classrooms and clinics:

• Wellness careers are growing faster than average

• Healthcare support roles are essential and resilient

• Skilled, licensed professionals are in high demand

• Education quality directly impacts career longevity and success

Looking Ahead with Confidence

As we look toward 2026–2030, the future of health and wellness is bright. Our graduates are entering fields that are expanding, respected, and deeply meaningful. At Southeastern Health and Wellness Institute, we remain committed to excellence in education, innovation in curriculum, and preparing professionals who lead with skill, integrity, and compassion.

To our students, alumni, faculty, and community partners — thank you for being part of this journey. The future of wellness is in capable hands!

With gratitude and excitement for what lies ahead,

Courtney Sykes
Founder 
Southeastern Health and Wellness Institute