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What's in IT for You?

By Lauren Stadler
Learning & Life Columnist
March 12, 2007

When there's a computer problem at home, does your family or roommate turn to you for help? When you're in front of the computer, does time fly by without you even noticing? If you can answer "yes" to either of these questions, consider getting paid for that kind of help. Join the lucrative information technology industry.

IT Job Descriptions

IT professionals draw upon their analytical thinking skills and technical expertise to design, develop, support, and manage computer-based information systems. IT specialists can perform a variety of tasks, including:

• Networking and maintaining network security
• Data management
• Database design
• Software design

IT professionals are the unsung heroes at large companies and organizations. They maintain the computers and networks that businesses rely on.

Be Prepared

Degrees in information technology, computer science, and computer engineering are extremely valuable, and earning specialized certifications is often necessary for certain niche jobs. In 2005, IT-certified professionals earned 29% more than non-certified professionals. If you're trying to land an entry-level IT position, having a degree or certification is a great way to get a foot in the door and demonstrate your passion and dedication to the profession.

Another Tech Boom?

The timing couldn't be better for prospective IT professionals, because the industry is one of the fastest-growing in the country. Between 2004 and 2014, the software publishing sector alone is expected to increase by 68%, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The incredible growth is largely due to advances in technology and the increasing importance of information security.

If advances in technology excite you, the IT sector may be a good fit for you. If you're a practical thinker and detail-oriented, there's bound to be a job in IT that can fit your personality.

Sources

• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, "Software Publishing"

About the Author
Lauren Stadler considers herself a fashionista and expert bargain finder. To support her heavy spending lifestyle, she works as a systems engineer in Washington D.C.

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