Technology-The Big Picture

• The computer systems design and related services industry is expected to experience rapid growth, adding 489,000 jobs between 2006 and 2016.

• Occupations in the computer systems design and related services industry require varying levels of education, but in 2006, about 75 percent of workers had college degrees.

• Computer specialists accounted for 54 percent of all employees in this industry in 2006.

11 fastest growing jobs in technology

(Employment in Thousands)

Occupation	Employment, 2006		Percent
			change,
	Number	Percent	2006-16
Network systems and data communications analysts	34	2.7	82.3
Computer software engineers, applications	159	12.4	62.0
Computer software engineers, systems software	93	7.3	48.5
Computer systems analysts	100	7.8	48.5
Network and computer systems administrators	46	3.6	48.5
Database administrators	16	1.3	48.1
Engineering technicians, except drafters	8	0.6	40.2
Computer and information scientists, research	7	0.5	35.0
Computer hardware engineers	15	1.2	35.0
Electrical and electronics engineers	7	0.6	35.0
Graphic Designers	7	0.6	35.0

There are so many jobs that are quickly growing in technology that I could not limit the list to 10. That is a great sign of job opportunity if you choose to go into this field!

Technology careers and education

So what careers are available if you do want to enter the technology field? I'm so glad you asked. Let's consult the expert, the Bureau of Labor, to find out the different career paths available.

Computer programmers

Although there are no universal educational requirements for computer programmers, workers in this occupation commonly hold a bachelor's degree. Some hold a degree in computer science, mathematics, or information systems. Others have taken special courses in computer programming to supplement their study in fields such as accounting, inventory control, or other areas of business. Because employers' needs are varied, a 2-year degree or certificate may be sufficient for some positions, so long as applicants possess the right technical skills. Some employers seek applicants with technical or professional certification.

Entry-level computer programmers usually start working with an experienced programmer to update existing code, generate lines of one portion of a larger program, or write relatively simple programs. They then advance to more difficult programming assignments, and may become project supervisors. With continued experience, they may move into management positions within their organizations. Many programmers who work closely with systems analysts advance to systems analyst positions.

Computer engineers and scientists

Most computer engineers and scientists have a bachelor's or higher degree and work experience. For computer and information scientists, a doctoral degree generally is required due to the highly technical nature of the work. Employers of some occupations, such as software engineers, may seek applicants with technical or professional certification.

Computer engineers and scientists who show leadership ability can become project managers or advance into management positions, such as manager of information systems or chief information officer.

Systems analyst, programmer-analyst, and database administrator

For systems analyst, programmer-analyst, and database administrator positions, many employers seek applicants who have a bachelor's degree in computer science, information science, or management information systems (MIS). Many of these workers hold an advanced degree in a technical field, and some hold a master's degree in business administration (MBA) with a concentration in information systems, and are specialists in their fields. An associate's degree or certificate generally is sufficient for some positions as network systems and data communication analysts positions, such as Webmaster, although more advanced positions might require a computer-related bachelor's degree. Government, academic institutions, and other employers increasingly are seeking workers with certifications in information security, reflecting the importance of keeping complex computer networks and vital electronic infrastructure safe from intruders.

Systems analysts generally begin with limited responsibilities. They may begin working with experienced analysts, or may deal only with small systems or one aspect of a system. As they gain further education or work experience, they may move into supervisory positions. Systems analysts who work with one type of system, or one aspect or application of a system, can become specialty consultants or move into management positions.

Computer Support Specialist

Persons interested in becoming a computer support specialist generally need an associate degree in a computer-related field, as well as significant hands-on experience with computers. They also must possess strong problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills, because troubleshooting and helping others are their main job functions. As technology continues to improve, computer support specialists must constantly strive to acquire new skills if they wish to remain competitive in the field. One way to achieve this is through technical or professional certification.

Computer support specialists may advance by developing expertise in an area that leads to other opportunities. For example, those responsible for network support may advance into network administration or network security positions.

Employment and salary outlook

The employment and salary outlook for the technology field is very bright. It is one of the top 10 industries for largest job growth and wage-and-salary employment is expected to grow 38%. This number may not mean much until you compare it to the 11% expected growth for the entire economy and then you see the technology field is still booming.

So there will be lots of jobs available but what will you be paid for your hard work? Due to the skills and education that are demanded of many technology professionals, they can require higher salaries than the national average. The median hourly earnings of the largest occupations are below.

Median hourly earnings of the largest occupations in computer systems design and related services, May 2006
Occupation	Computer systems design and related services	All industries
General and operations managers	$59.39	$40.97
Computer and information systems managers	52.47	48.84
Computer software engineers, systems software	40.70	41.04
Computer software engineers, applications	37.91	38.36
Computer systems analysts	34.46	33.54
Computer programmers	32.64	31.50
Network systems and data communications analysts	32.25	31.06
Network and computer systems administrators	32.06	29.87
Computer support specialists	20.44	19.94
Customer service representatives	14.41	13.62

Table courtesy of the Bureau of Labor and Statistics