In very basic terms, technology is nothing
more than applied science; the creation of tools to assist us in
managing our environment. But the simplicity of the definition is little
indication of the complexity which technology can attain. This clear-cut
definition encompasses a spectrum of tools which range from simple
machines like pulleys, levers and fulcrums to supercomputers and the
Space Shuttle. Virtually every activity, product and aspect of modern
life is touched and shaped in some way by technology.
The most recent, far-reaching and influential development in technology
is the integration of computers and microprocessors into everyday life.
Electronics have revolutionized the way we learn, work and interact, not
to mention the ways we communicate, create and even commute. The high
tide of pervasive hi-tech shows no sign of diminishing or of slowing.
Quite the opposite: technology continues to move forward at an
ever-increasing pace. And as hi-tech becomes more and more widespread
(not to mention more and more complicated), there will be an
ever-increasing need for trained personnel to create, build, maintain
and upgrade the devices, software and systems that form the core of our
hi-tech society and world.
As a reflection of this pervasive influence of hi-tech, more and more
schools are offering an increasing number and range of courses and
degrees in hi-tech disciplines, including general studies such as
computer science and information technology, and such specialties as
telecommunications, multimedia, and technology management. According to
the U.S. Department of Labor, the hi-tech field contains one of the
fastest-growing job markets for qualified, degreed personnel.
Technology Degrees
Many hi-tech occupations can be entered into with as little training as
a certificate, and the field overall requires trained professionals at
all levels of education and training, up to the doctoral degree level.
As with any occupational field, the more advanced the degree, the wider
the range of possibilities that are open. According to the U.S. Census
Bureau, a college degree has the potential to nearly double one's annual
income, for instance.
An increasing number of professionals in the field of hi-tech are
earning their degrees online, as the freedom from geographical
restrictions and the flexibility of online courses allows this study to
be accomplished on a schedule convenient to employed individuals wishing
to forward or switch their careers.
Degree Programs and Careers in Technology
The pervasive nature of hi-tech means that there are a wide range of
available jobs, occupations and careers at every level of professional
development, to suit virtually any interest, from art to assembly, and
from theory and invention to hands-on hardware and hands-on-keyboard
software development.
Technology professionals have occupational opportunities in a wide
variety of working environments, including private industry, government
and academia, in virtually every corner of the world.
Overall demand for hi-tech professionals is expected to grow at least as
fast as the rest of the economy, and certain key labor categories and
skill sets will be in great demand.
Among the most popular careers in this field are:
Computer Engineering
Computer engineering is a wide-ranging discipline that applies math and
electrical engineering to the design and operation of computers,
microprocessors computer systems and embedded systems. It requires
knowledge of and background in electrical engineering, math, electronics
hardware, software and network interactions.
Computer Networking
Network administrators and engineers oversee the interconnection of
hi-tech equipment, enabling numerous disparate software applications and
technological devices to communicate with one another in a seamless
fashion. Knowledge and experience of a wide range of software packages,
operating systems and electronic devices is required to operate
successfully in these positions. Network security specialists provide
security for networks through the use of encryption, firewalls and other
techniques.
Computer Programming
Computer programmers write the code that directs computers to perform a
specific activity. Other functions include debugging and testing
applications. Computer programmers often act on requirements set forth
by a system analyst. A large percentage of programming jobs are devoted
to writing software for personal, home or office use. This field, along
with system design, is expected to provide the most job prospects for
programmers over the next decade.
Computer Science
Computer science is an umbrella term that can cover a variety of
functions of theory or practice and hardware or software. The computer
scientist might design software, for example, create more efficient
algorithms, or invent new ways of using or upgrading computer
technology.
Database
People in this position, mainly database administrators, are tasked with
managing a body of information stored electronically. This can include
such wide-ranging functions as designing, installing and maintaining
databases; backing up and recovering data; instituting security
procedures for access; and managing the physical storage devices.
Graphics & Multimedia
Positions such as this bridge the gulf between technology and art.
Computers can be applied to the realm of media, aiding in the design or
creation of numerous forms of imagery whether photographic, video or
graphic design.
Information Systems (IS)
The concentration of this discipline is on information rather than
technology. IS managers and professionals define requirements for and
manage the information systems of an institution, whether school,
business or other large organization. They support the operations of an
organization by providing technical solutions to business goals. They
bridge the gap between management and technology, and require an
understanding of both disciplines. (See also Information Security
Systems Manager).
Information Technology (IT)
The focus of this discipline is more on technology than on information.
IT professionals are hands-on support staff who install, connect,
maintain, service and upgrade computer software, systems, equipment and
infrastructure. They are troubleshooters who solve software and hardware
problems encountered by non-technical computer users, to ensure
smooth-running operations with a minimum of user or equipment downtime.
Software Engineering
Software engineers use principles of math, engineering and computer
science to develop software systems. As an occupation, the position can
encompass a wide range of responsibilities, from programmer to software
project manager. (See also Computer Software Engineer).
Technology Management
Technology management can cover a wide range of occupations, from IT
management, which is essentially hardware oriented, to IS management,
which is essentially information oriented, to more business oriented
management positions which require a deep knowledge of technology.
Telecommunications
Telecommunications is a blanket term for any transmission of data,
including voice (telephony), video, audio or information, using any
means, including conventional wire lines, wireless (wi-fi), fiber optics
or laser. Occupations in telecommunications can emphasize hardware,
software or both, and can range from developing, managing and upgrading
information networks to installing, testing and repairing equipment.
Web Design
Web designers combine art, images, design, business sense, and computer
science in order to create visually appealing, user-friendly Web sites.
Web Development
Professionals in the field of Web development create, test, and maintain
Web site applications, such as online shopping carts, search tools, and
secure online password systems. (See also Web Developer).
Financial Outlook for Careers in Technology
Despite the occasional slumps in the electronics and e-commerce
industries, overall, the rapid growth and expansion of hi-tech into
virtually every aspect of modern life shows no sign of slowing.
According to a study by the National Science Foundation, for example,
the world market for hi-tech products is growing faster than for any
other manufactured goods.
This continued and accelerating growth points to a job market with
excellent opportunities for the skilled, trained and degreed
professional, in terms of both job opportunities and higher
compensation. Data compiled by the National Science Foundation's 2003
National Survey of Recent College Graduates indicates that those holding
engineering and computer science degrees are more likely to be employed
full time after graduation than graduates in other fields, as well as
earning higher wages in their positions.
