You've seen the headlines. While no one would call the job market red hot, it is warming. Companies across most industries are starting to lift their heads and are considering new talent. While many businesses may be operating leaner, they are recruiting for skilled workers in many areas. Job candidates need to be focused on presenting their best selves for the right opportunities once they come along.

High tech mannequins bleed, cough, speak, cry and teach students, nurses and physicians every day in environments where mistakes aren't deadly. They are used in hospital and university simulation centers and they are increasingly becoming a part of the training and continuing education of health care professionals.

As the United States, one of the world's wealthiest countries, struggles with debt and a still-uncertain economy, Americans are closely watching the steps our leaders are taking to address long-term fiscal problems. The state of our nation's economy has also caused many individuals to re-examine their own personal finances and money management plans.

If you are a 21st century student, you may be facing concerns over the rising cost of a college degree and the prospect of future college debt. You may be wondering, can I achieve my education goals and still find a way to contain costs? Meanwhile, President Obama is calling for increased degree completion as an element of workforce development.

Job prospects in many industries have dwindled as the country still struggles with the lingering effects of the recession. But while the economy has undermined opportunity in many industries, it's also spurred growth in others. Job opportunities for accountants and auditors are expected to grow 22 percent between 2008 and 2018 at the national level, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).