This book explores high-skill and high-wage jobs available through two-year programs. It identifies 100 high-need occupational areas, and discusses "hot" programs and starting salaries for graduates of dental hygiene, manufacturing, process technology, telecommunications, physical therapy assisting, and registered nursing. Each career article provides a description of job duties; certification, licensing, and personal requirements; ways to enter the field after students complete their education; salary information; an employment outlook; and sources of additional information to contact to learn more about the career. The book also highlights the advantages of acquiring an associate degree in a growing number of high-demand areas; addresses the question of whether one should attend a two-year institution or not; and introduces some important considerations. The community college's unique and comprehensive mission, which has traditionally placed emphasis on flexibility and outreach, is particularly suited to a society in need of rapid, customized responses. For example, digital transmissions will soon be the norm for telecommunications--not only do modern offices require data communications systems, but cable companies are investing in fiber optics to offer digital TV, as well as quality phone service. Certification isn't required of fiber optics technicians, but may be available from local community colleges and training programs. (JA)