Before You Take the Plunge

• Be aware that careers in computers and technology are constantly changing.
• Be prepared to retain and learn new information on a regular basis. Certifications are often an important part of training for technical careers.
• Obtain the certifications that are the most applicable to career goals and interests.
• Gain as much diverse technical experience as possible.
• Seek positions in computer labs, retail computer/ technology stores, or as technological support for any office or business.
• Learn about techology in additional areas such as audio/ visual or telecommunications.
• Become Familiar with the intergration and application of these areas to management information systems.
• Develop physical stamina and strength. Many networking professionals are involved with hands-on, physical activity during network installation and maintainence.
• Specialize in a specific area of business or industry such as medical office support or sound technology so as to become familiar with the applicable software and hardware.

System Development

Areas

• Analysis
• Design
• Support
• Database Administration
• Executive Administration

Employers

• Financial institutions
• Insurance companies
• Consulting firms
• Manufacturers
• Computer companies
• Telecommunications companies
• Retailers
• Healthcare organizations
• Hotels and restaurants
• Entertainment companies
• Educational institutions
• City, state and federal governments

Strategies

• Develop excellent interpersonal skills for effective communication with technical and non-technical colleagues.
• Gain programming experience and knowledge for increased opportunities
• Become an effective problem solver.
• Plan to continually educate self on new computer languages and technology.
• Obtain business experience through internships or part-time employment.
• Supplement program with courses in accounting, human resources, and procurement.

Network Technology

Areas

• Intranet Development
• Intranet Administration
• Hardware/ Software Design
• Support

Employers

Most areas of business and government:

• Financial institutions
• Insurance companies
• Consulting firms
• Manufacturers
• Computer companies
• Telecommunications companies
• Retailers
• Healthcare organizations
• Hotels and restaurants
• Entertainment companies
• Entertainment companies
• City, state and federal governments

Strategies

• Gain work experience in university computer labs.
• Develop communication skills and interest in helping others
• Gain knowledge in a variety of computer areas including minor programming, software and hardware.
• Plan to stay abreast of latest technology and software.
• Obtain applicable certifications such as Cisco and Microsoft.
• Develop relationships with small business owners for part-time or freelance network consulting opportunities
• Supplement program with courses in computer science.

Internet

Areas

• Programming
• Software Design
• Systems Analysis
• Hardware Production
• Website Design
• Website Development

Employers

• Network access points
• Internet service providers
• Hardware and software vendors
• Internet-related companies including:
  • Browsers
  • Search Engines
  • Website design services
• Organizations with complex, self-manage web site

Strategies

• Gain experience in web development or maintenance through part-time jobs or interships.
• Learn web development languages.
• Develop a flare for creativity.
• Learn to work effectively in a team by participating in group projects or student organizations
• Earn a graduate degree in technology or business for advanced opportunities in analysis, project management, and executive operations.

Non-Technical

Areas

• Customer Service
• Product Support
• Training
• Technical Writing
• Sales
• Marketing

Employers

• Software developers
• Technical service providers

Strategies

• Develop excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Display interest and ability in customer problem solving.
• Take technical writing courses to develop skills.
• Obtain general sales or customers service experience.

Education

Areas

• Various

Employers

• Proprietary (for profit) schools
• Community colleges
• Universities
• Corporations
• Non-profit orgaizations

Strategies

• Earn a graduate degree for post-secondary teaching opportunities.
• Develop a research specialty.Gain experience working with students through tutoring or assisting in computer labs.
• Obtain advanced certifications for training

Art/ Design

Areas

• Architecture
• Animation
• Print Publications
• Film
• Website
• Video Games
• Graphic Design

Employment

• Architecture Design Firms
• Animation Studios
• Film Studios
• Website Designers
• Video Game Studios
• Newspaper Publishers
• Magazine Publishers

Strategies

• Develop visual design vocabulary to communicate to colleagues and clients.
• Gain experience in digtial technology to expedite design and production.
• Obtain business experience through internships and work study programs.

Consulting

Area

• Various

Employers

• Consulting firms
• Self-employed

Strategies

• Develop exceptional analytical and interpersonal skills for community with clients.
• Obtain a strong technical knowledge of computers, a background in business management, and experience in systems analysis.
• Become familiar with various programming languages and operating systems.
• Earn applicable certifications.
• Demonstrate ability to self-motivate and work independently.