Technology Careers of the Future

4/19/2013
By Sheryl Livingstone

Table of Contents
Introduction1
Network System Administrator2
Network System Administrator Certification3
Computer Programmer4
Computer Programmer Certification5
Conclusion6

Introduction
This proposal will provide information for students who have good technical skills and wish to pursue a career in a technology related field. The results of the research conducted, will provide an insight into how students can turn their aptitude for computers into a Technical Career. As Technology continues to develop at a rapid pace in our society, the job market for individuals with these skills are expanding. The technology field has become full of opportunities that give professionals great earning potential.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Computer Technical Careers and information system management is one of the fastest growing occupations. The Information Technology and other technical careers are predicated to have the highest job growth. According to Dice, the unemployment rate for tech professionals remain at 3.5 percent compared to the national average of 7.7 percent. Additionally, the number of women working in technology related fields is growing. Technology related fields involve a variety of skills and careers including Project management, Network Security, Database Management and Network System Administrators. Two careers that I would recommend for someone interested in the Technology field are Network Security Specialist and Computer Programmer.
Network Systems Administrators

Network Systems Administrators also called Network and computer systems administrators work in a variety of settings. They are responsible to install, configure. Troubleshoot and maintain computer networks. Network Administrator also installs and maintains routers, switches, and firewall to ensure the availability and smooth running computer network. They perform all of these functions for both Local Area Networks (LAN) and Wide Area Networks (WAN).

In 2010, the median salary for a Network System Administrator was $69,160. Employment of network and computer systems administrators is expected to grow 28 percent from 2010 to 2020, faster than the average for all occupations. Network Administrators can work in a variety of fields including Healthcare, Finance, Manufacturing and Education. There is a high demand for computer personnel in many fields as companies grow and invest in technological advances.

Network system Administrator Certifications
The minimum requirement for a Network System Administrator is a Bachelors Degree in an Information Science field. However, some important skills for a Network Administrator are Analytical Skills, Computer Skills, and problem solving skills. Many employers also require Network Administrators to have specific certifications. These certifications proves the holder can perform the basic functions on the network such as network installation and preventative maintenance, implement security and troubleshoot problems. Some * CompTIA A+ - is an entry-level vendor neutral computer network certification. The exam is designed to certify individuals are competent in installing network technologies, installation and configuration, media and topologies, management, and network security. Many companies require A+ certification for IT service technician jobs. Professionals with an A+ certification can earn a mean yearly salary of $67,608. * Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) - the CCNA is a Cisco certification which covers fundamental administrative skills for Junior Network Administrators. Cisco provides high tech networking equipment internationally. Therefore, many employers want to verify that their network administrators are skilled enough to handle complex hardware setups involving Cisco products. The certification skills include WAN, IP and other protocols, wireless networking, and security. Median Salary for an Network Administrator holding a CCNA Certification is $79,536.
Computer programmer

Computer programming is giving the computer set by step instructions on what to do. Computer Programmers give computers instructions by writing code, debugging the computer, and testing the code to create software programs. Programmers may also develop and write computer programs to store, locate, and retrieve specific documents, data, and information or write instructions for computers to accomplish certain tasks. Most program designs are created by software developers. However, programmers often assist software developers by analyzing user needs and designing software solutions. While consulting with the software developer, Programmers may also be responsible for preparing graphs and analytical data which show the progress or problems of a computer program. This is important as it follows the working of a program and can be used to relay this information to other individuals within the company or the general public as a whole. Other responsibilities of a Programmer could include debugging computer programs so they can perform better and more efficiently.

Some devices that programmers work with include Personal computers, smart phones, GPS systems and factory robots. Programmers may also specialize in a particular type of software, such as server software, system software, office applications or wireless or Web applications.

An essential skill that a computer programmer should possess is the ability to work as a team member. Computer programmers should also possess good communication skills. Computer programmers have to be very detailed oriented, as they work with a multitude of information and codes for simple commands. Lastly, computer programmers should be well versed in various computer programs and methods. A computer programmer often has to convert code from one computer languages to another computer language. Therefore it is important that a programmer learn more than one computer language. Most programming is done with high-level programming languages. Some examples of high level programming are Java and C++. A well-rounded computer programmer is one whose daily job responsibilities will be fulfilled in a fast and efficient manner

As of 2010, the median salary for computer programmers was $71,380. Employment of computer programmers is expected to increase 12 percent from 2010 to 2020.

Computer Programmer Certifications
Many companies require a Bachelors of Science degree in Computer Programming, Software Development or other Information Technology Fields. However, some companies will accept a two year degree or various programming certifications. Many jobs will take someone with many years experience but may also require certifications or specialized training.

Most certifications for Computer Programming are specific to a computer language or product. Some common computer languages are COBOL, Java, Visual Basic or C++. Sun offers a Sun Certified Mobile Application Developer (SMAD) certification for J2ME developers. This certification is for entry level Java programmers. Oracle also offer Java programming certification. In addition, Microsoft offers a certification for a Certified Applications Developer if you want to work with Microsoft Visual Studio and .NET services.

Conclusion
Making a career choice takes is never easy. Career decisions require researching information about different careers. Career choices also involve analyzing your personality traits, skills, interests and preferences. If you are detailed oriented and good with computers a Computer Technical Career might be right for you. Because we live in a technology driven society, demand for individuals with Technical skills is high and growing. This demand is being driven by the increased need of technological advancements for businesses, government and other organizations. Everyone wants the latest technical designs. Additionally, more and more organizations have adopted mobile technologies. This also gives an increased need to more security when it comes to technical designs. Therefore, a job as a Network System Administrator or a Computer Programmer might be right for you. Both of these careers offer job stability as well as great salaries. In addition, both careers have a great forecast for growth in the future. With education and the right skills, students can turn their passion for computers into a successful technological future.

REFERENCE

1. http://www.devry.edu/degree-programs/college-engineering-information-sciences/network-and-communications-management-career-opportunities.jsp
2. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012-13 Edition, Network and Computer Systems Administrators, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/network-and-computer-systems-administrators.htm (visited April 17, 2013).
3. Tech Employment Snapshot - Q1 2013, http://www.itbusinessedge.com/slideshows/tech-employment-snapshot-q1-2013-03.html
4. Top Ten Best Certifications, http://www.techrepublic.com/blog/10things/the-10-best-it-certifications-2012/3138, (visited April 17, 2013).
5. Summary Report for Computer Programmers, http://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/15-1131.00?redir=15-1021.00
6. What is Computer Programming, http://www.bfoit.org/itp/Programming.html