From entire virtual communities like Second Life to various online demonstration videos, simulations are becoming the way of the world. Be it pilots using in-flight simulators to prepare for high-risk situations; landscape architects using video reproduction to help clients envision proposed ideas and plans; or medical students diagnosing and treating virtual patients without risking a real person's life, simulators are a new way for professionals in all industries to train, practice and prepare for exciting -- and potentially dangerous -- situations before they happen.



Industry umbrella: Computer software engineers

Job growth: 38 percent, based on industry projections