Career in Information Technology
Information Technology is a very large field, one that has continued to expand over the years. The world now runs on technology. From individuals to businesses, everyone has a need for information technology. E-mails, internet and computers have made communication a lot easier. News travel faster and businesses are now conducted with much more ease. Information technology has helped to increase productivity and enhance communication in the modern world today. But when our computers crash, or our internet access goes down, we lose money, time and work cannot go on smoothly; life becomes difficult and this is where the Information Technology specialist comes in. IT professionals help us to maximize the use of our computers.
IT specialists are responsible for creating and maintaining software and hardware used to create and manage information. They write and develop computer programs such as spreadsheet and word processors; set up computer networks; maintain servers; design websites; diagnose and fix problems in computers; and even maintain databases required for information to service your clients. IT professionals are known by different names and titles depending on their area of specialization and skills. There are the network administrators, webmasters, engineers, as well as the graphic designers, and PC technicians. However, the ultimate goal of every IT professional is to ensure efficiency and free flow of information for computer users.
Becoming an IT professional
There's a wide range of jobs available in IT and because information technology is a highly technical field, you would need some level of training. However, a degree in computer science is not always necessary though it may be necessary for database developers and software engineers. Nonetheless, it is always advisable for people who are just entering the field to consider getting an education or IT certification.
Work experience and skills also matter to employers. Though your degree is in an unrelated field, you can still get a job if you can demonstrate great computer skills and expertise. Continuing education is also very important to succeed in the IT field. Technology becomes obsolete easily as there are daily changes in the industry. The field is evolving and changing constantly, these changes also bring about changes in skills required by employers. There are many ways to participate in continuing education such as taking certificate programs, registering for computer courses, and independent studies. The Internet, online forums and groups, as well as journals and periodicals are some of the ways to help you stay on top of changes in the industry.
Certifications
IT certifications are very valuable to employers and employees alike. Many employers use IT certifications as a prerequisite for hiring employees. According to a recent study, employees with network certifications receive a significantly higher pay than their counterparts. Some of the acronyms used by certified professionals include CCSE (Checkpoint Certified Security Expert), CCSA (Checkpoint Certified Security Administrator), CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional), or SCSE (Symantec Certified Security Engineer). Knowledge of technical fundamentals of computer science and programming languages such as Java, Microsoft.NET, and C++ are also very important for success in the field.
Salary/Earnings
Remuneration in the industry is quite impressive. Entry-level web developers may earn as much as RM39,677 a year, and with several years of experience an information technology program manager can earn an average of RM149,730 per year, or RM116,999 per year as a software developer. Many companies pay much more depending on skills and experience.
Information technology are a part of our daily lives, whether it's the operating systems on mobile phones, the computer networks that automate everyday financial transactions, or the realms of information sought and found on the Internet. So it should come as no surprise that careers in the IT field are expected to grow significantly in the next decade.
