Orthotic and Prosthetic Technicians

Employment for orthotic and prosthetic technicians is expected to grow by approximately 11 percent through 2028, according to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), which is much faster than average. Additionally, the American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists reports that orthotic and prosthetic technicians who receive formal training and certification have a very high employment rate. Additionally, the DOL says that "an aging baby-boomer population will create a need for medical appliance technicians because diabetes and cardiovascular disease, the two leading causes of limb loss, are more likely to occur as people age. The demand for orthotic devices, such as braces and orthopedic footwear, will increase because older people tend to need these supportive devices."