5 Industries Teachers Will Love

Teaching is arguably one of the most challenging careers out there. For some, it’s a life calling that lures them away from other industries. But what if you’re already a teacher who is looking for a career outside the classroom? Read on for some industries that are on the lookout for everything that educators have to offer.

1. Education consultant

This type of consulting often involves giving your expert advice to various schools and other educational institutions on things like school policies and procedures. According to Teacher Career Coach, some educational consultants also serve in an advisory position for textbook companies, government agencies, or non-profits. It’s a unique role that often combines teaching skills with a talent for administration. Whether you work for a consulting business or contract your professional development services directly to school districts, this type of work is best for those who have an analytical and organizational mind with a strong knack for planning.

2. Content creator

A content creator (or, similarly, curriculum writer), is in charge of researching and developing a full range of lessons for a complete grade or subject. This includes incorporating various materials and activities into the basic structure of the program and relies heavily on technical and organizational skills. This type of role does not have to strictly relate to the classroom, however, as government agencies and independent educational companies are also in need of this position. Technical writing and extremely strong organizational skills are helpful when pursuing this particular career path.

3. Customer success manager

This type of manager fosters relationships between the company and the client, ensuring a successful partnership in whatever endeavor they choose. Companies focusing on education can be a great fit for someone with a teaching background, since you already know the ins and outs of the school system—and are uniquely in tune to what teachers need. The skills you learned from years of deftly handling conflicts in the classroom, diplomatically straddling the demands of teachers and administrators, and advocating for your students’ needs will be put to good use as you finesse the relationship between company and client.

4. Writer and/or editor

From technical writing (where it’s helpful to know a lot about a very specific subject) to promotional copy (where a penchant for marketing is a bonus) to educational writing (where you can show off your general knowledge of just about everything), there are endless opportunities for a writing career that incorporates your “teacher smarts.” If you prefer marking through others’ copy instead of creating your own, look no further than a role as editor. Just like you read student essay after student essay, you would be responsible for reading over others’ content and marking it for grammar, spelling, relevancy, and clarity. If you’re looking to work in an office, the traditional routes of magazines or marketing firms might be the way you want to go. If you want to give working from home a try (or simply want to ease into the field to see if it’s right for you), looking for freelancing gigs might be a better fit.

5. Learning and development specialist

For those teachers who particularly enjoyed planning, creating, and improving courses—this one’s for you! Help teachers and administrators by not only designing the classes they need, but also by creating training instructions so those classes can be implemented smoothly. This is basically a behind-the-scenes role that assists those in the classroom by making their lessons run as effectively as possible.

While teaching is certainly a calling for many people, it’s important to know a background in teaching (or an education degree in general) does not mean you’re destined for the classroom. There are countless career paths out there that welcome those with the skills typically associated with a successful teacher. Take a look around and you will soon realize the possibilities are nearly limitless.