Business & Engineering
Information Sciences & Technology
Career Paths
Computers and technology have become so pervassive in our society that it is hard to imagine a career that doesn't make extensive use of computers. IST graduates will find themselves at the forefront of both new technologies and extraordinary career opportunites. While many career paths will entail working with computers and networks on a day to day basis, others will use their skills in IST to supplement occupations that are less technically oriented. There is no limit to the application of information technology skills in the workplace, and this lends itself to an endless variety of career paths. The few examples of career paths below, therefore, are just the beginning.
System administrator-Computers require regular maintainance such as security audits, new hard drives, operating system installation and new software installation. Additionally, user accounts must be maintained on systems, backups have to be completed, and network traffic has to be monitored for bottlenecks that might make the entire system unusable. System administrators are responsible for dozens to thousands of computers.
Technical project manager-Any project of significant size and scope requires careful planning that outlines tasks to be completed, required resources and appropriate timelines. Projects that are technical in nature require a thorough understanding technology and computers.
Information technology manager-While system administrators and technicians are responsible for the day to day technical tasks of maintaining computer systems and networks, those people have to be managed as well. Tasks must be assigned, needs identified, and employees hired and fired. Many of the jobs associated with technology are based not on the technology itself, but instead help others make better use of their time and resouces.
Software quality assurance-Programmers write code, but it's never perfect. Quality assurance people try to find and minimize the number of bugs in software. They design and implement software testing methodologies, search for and verify bugs, monitor emerging competitive technologies, validate software design and write reports on results.
Technical writer-Just because the software or a computer system works doesn't mean anyone knows how to use it. Technical writers work with programmers and software designers so they can explain to regular users how to new applications
Sales-Selling computer systems, networking equipment and software requires both a firm understanding of the technology and the ability to convey that understanding to customers.
Web site director- From sales to artistic design to technical managment, it takes many different skill sets to operate today's Internet oriented businesses. A website technical director would be responsible for dealing with technical problems, outlining new projects and thinking about how to best implement an organization's web presence.