There are still opportunities. The impact that e-technology has had on the IT or other industries (e.g., Healthcare, Pharmaceutical, Financial Services, Media, Electronic Components, Insurance, Telecommunications, and Manufacturing) and Academia (Colleges/Universities), has created and expanded businesses and business opportunities. Some of the many positions in data processing, information systems, or Information technology (IT) are listed below. Typical positions are listed.
Traditional Positions:
- Programmer
- Programmer/DBA
- Programmer/ Analyst
- Sr. Programmer
- Business Analyst
- System Analyst
- System Programmer
- Sr. System Programmer
- Data Administrator
- Network Specialist
- System Administrator
- Network Administrator
- Developer
- Sr. Network Engineer
- Platform Engineer/Specialist
- Security Specialist (limited)
- Desktop Specialist
- PC Technician
- OS Engineer
- PC Support Specialist
- HelpDesk Specialist
- Computer Operator
- Sr. Operator
- Shift Supervisor Data Center
- Management (e.g., Software/System Development Manager, * Program and Project Manager, Technical Director, Information Officer (CIO), Security Manager).
* Note: Within the commercial IT industry some individuals seem to think that program and project management have only been around for about a little more than a decade and that the Big 5/6 covered all industries, but that is not true. For many decades, program and project management best practices existed within the DOD, aerospace, and the construction industries.
Some Positions created by E-Technology:
- Strategist
- Digital Strategist
- Industry Specialist (e.g., Healthcare, Financial, Telecommunications, etc.)
- Business Analyst/Systems Analyst
- Information Architect
- Project Coordinator
- Client/Server Developer/Programmer.
- Internet/Intranet/Extranet Administrator
- Database Developer/Programmer
- Java/C++/Visual Basic Developer
- XML Coder/Programmer
- Security Specialist
- QA/Tester
- Internetworking/Infrastructure/Platform Specialist
- Executive Producer
- Creative Director
- Web Developer/Architect
- Web Developer
- Webmaster
- Web Designer
- HTML coder (and XML)
- Copy Writer/Editor
- Management (e.g., Creative Director, Chief Technical Officer (CTO), Security Director/Manager
Notice that non-technical positions and other disciplines are identified as well as technical. Many businesses and higher education institutions provide training, education, and certification testing for many of these positions. Several organizations where you can receive training and education are listed below.
- Colleges/Universities
- Technical Schools (and technical institutions)
- Training Centers
- Technical companies\’ training centers
- Employer\’s internal Training programs and universities
- Computer Based Training (CBT)
- Sylvan and ProMetrics Testing Centers
Although some studies and organizations differ or disagree about reported statistics, it is obvious that there is a lack of qualified and skilled IT professionals to fill the available positions within many industries. The one significant problem: Many companies that were having financial difficulties eliminated training and other professional development benefits. Receiving outside training can be an expensive endeavor, but in many cases one that is required with its complementing certifications. However, don\’t be misguided, most companies still want to see a combination of experience, education/training, and certifications with emphasis now on \”Soft\” skills and if you \”fit\” within the company\’s and client\’s culture.
We also have to introduce Information Technology (IT) to kids at an early age while stressing other skills (soft skills) required in the field such as business, communications, interpersonal, etc. There are initiatives in all states by businesses and other professional organizations to recruit, retain, and educate individuals including professionals and students (high school and college) within the community. We must also provide real opportunities and access for individuals to receive/obtain funds for education and training (scholarships, loans, other programs, free in school, K-12). Education and training has to start early emphasizing not just technical requirements but communications skills, English/speech, business (operations/financial/management), interpersonal skills, and study/research skills as well. Just as important to the employer now is communication skills – verbal and written, People skills – relating to and managing, interpersonal skills – relating in groups, teams (a diverse background of users, clients, and co-workers).
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