Today’s world is dominated by computers. Whether you are working in music, journalism, health science, business, education, manufacturing, public safety or science it is likely you will need Information Technology (IT) help. Within the IT career cluster there are four programs of study that help you gain experience and knowledge to work in IT. The four programs are listed below with a job example.
- Information Support & Services: Database Administrator
- Web and Digital Media: Web Developer
- Network Systems: Network System Administrator
- Programming & Software Development: Software Engineer
Numerical Tool and Process Control Programmer
- Job Description: Develop programs to control machining or processing of parts by automatic machine tools, equipment, or systems.
- Growth: 14%
- Wage: $45,692
- Openings: 150
- Education: Long-term on-the-job training. The majority of employees have at most a high school diploma or some college.
Security and Fire Alarm Systems Installer
- Job Description: Install, program, maintain, and repair security and fire alarm wiring and equipment.
- Growth: 33%
- Wage: $34,008
- Openings: 1,450
- Education: Postsecondary award. The majority of employees have at most a high school diploma and some college.
Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technician
- Job Description: Care for ill, injured, convalescent, or disabled persons in hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, private homes, group homes, and similar institutions. May work under the supervision of a registered nurse. Licensing required.
- Growth: 14%
- Wage: $54,584
- Openings: 2,200
- Education: Associates degree. The majority of employees have some college.
Computer Software Engineer, Applications
- Job Description: Develop, create, and modify general computer applications software or specialized utility programs. Analyze user needs and develop software solutions. Design software or customize software for client use with the aim of optimizing operational efficiency.
- Growth: 46%
- Wage: $89,289
- Openings: 14,300
- Education: Bachelor’s degree. Most employees a college degree or better.
Computer and Information Systems Manager
- Job Description: Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as electronic data processing, information systems, systems analysis, and computer programing.
- Growth: 22%
- Wage: $119,317
- Openings: 3,400
- Education: Bachelor’s degree and experience. Most employees have a college degree.
While only five occupations are highlighted here, students can find more information at America’s Career InfoNet, Competency Model Clearinghouse, Occupational Information Network, and the U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Outlook Handbook.