The field of information technology (IT) has many career paths. Some people pursue bachelor’s or associate’s degrees in information technology, while others may choose coursework in design, business, web development, or programming. While many employers seek to hire candidates with relevant experience, internships and portfolios can also help secure employment. Database administrators, for example, use specialized software to store and organize data. They also diagnose complicated IT issues related to data infrastructure.
Careers in information technology have many benefits, including the chance for advancement and continuing education. Information technology technicians can begin as a Tier 1 help desk technician and progress to Tier 2 and Tier 3 as their experience grows. From there, they can specialize in network administration or cybersecurity, or choose one of a variety of other IT specialties. By specializing in an area of interest, IT technicians can advance to higher positions and earn higher salaries. The future is bright for these professionals.
Network and computer systems administrators oversee the security and reliability of an organization’s computer network. They also provide IT advice to users and train new employees. In addition, they apply new IT practices to hardware and software. A data quality manager is responsible for establishing data practices in an organization and managing IT projects to improve the quality of company information systems. Lastly, help desk technicians provide technical support for an organization’s staff, either in-house or remotely. They are expected to communicate clearly with users and provide them with the necessary information to use the system properly.
Education is another key factor in an IT career. While a bachelor’s degree isn’t necessary for many IT jobs, it is beneficial to complete an IT certification as a foundation for further learning. Many IT careers require some kind of postsecondary education, although many are technically challenging. A bachelor’s degree is recommended for the highest-paid positions. Some employers also require certification in specific fields. Regardless of your educational background, it is always good to keep in mind that the skills you learn in the field will transfer from one organization to another.
Software developers write code for websites and other infrastructures. They also test and maintain existing software. Often, software developers work for software companies, and they need to combine problem-solving skills and technical prowess. Experience is also an asset when pursuing a programming career. You may want to seek internships or work on your skills in a hands-on environment. For the most part, computer programmers earn $95,000 a year or more.
Another exciting area of information technology is IT security. As the field of technology continues to grow and evolve, IT security professionals are vital for a company’s overall security. They run security software, scan for anomalies, upgrade systems, and inform the company of potential threats. IT security jobs require effective problem-solving skills and strong communication skills. The salaries and career advancement opportunities are endless in this field. You may find that one of these IT career paths is right for you.
