Finding your place in the workforce.

After completing their bachelor degree in physics, students tend to go in one of two directions. Enrolling in a graduate studies program or entering the workforce. Nationwide, about 40{\%} of 2011-2012 graduates opted to enter the workforce. Of those entering the workforce, 30{\%} found employment in engineering, 24{\%} in computer or information systems, 13{\%} in other STEM related jobs, 3{\%} in Physics or Astronomy and 30{\%} in a non-STEM field. As the petrochemical industry is a key employer in our area we spoke to human resource managers at several local plants asking why an in-depth knowledge of physics is an important asset for someone looking to work in this industry. We found that although physics classes are important in the pursuit of an engineering degree, a physics degree itself has no recognized value in the petrochemical industry. However, there is a high need for quality instructors at both the high school and college levels. Combining data from several sources, including local employers and labor market information websites, we have found that the most common occupations for people with a BS in Physics are Natural Sciences Managers and Physics teachers, a small percentage work as Physicists.