Expanding Careers in Tech
Technology is everywhere today. Not only are our personal lives growing increasingly dependent on tablets, smartphones, computers, and apps but our professional lives as well. Employment in computer and information technology occupations is growing at unprecedented rates. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) has projected the growth of half a million new jobs between 2021 and 2029.
As you start your new tech education or career and your search on VISTA+, it is helpful to understand the jobs out there that might interest you. The following job titles and descriptions can help you to figure out your interests.
Software Developer
Software developers are responsible for creating the applications or systems that run on our devices. They are the ‘inventors.’ The app you use to wake up in the morning or the game your child plays on your phone were both created by a software developer.
While software developers often write new code for new programs, or they also spend large chunks of time analyzing existing code for bugs or mistakes. They are both creative and incredibly analytical with a passion for problem-solving and diligence.
Software developers are valued by a range of industries, but many work within computer design systems, manufacturing, or for software publishers.
Web Designer
Web designers are responsible for developing and maintaining websites for clients and companies. They also solve issues that come up when websites experience problems. Because web designers deal with both the look of the website and its functionality, they must be both creative and technical.
A large part of a web designer’s job involves understanding the needs of the client and translating that into a tangible product that users can interface with. This requires meeting with clients, asking questions, and ensuring customer satisfaction.
There are a range of employment opportunities in the profession. Web designers can work individually, with a small team, or for a web development company. At the same time, a web designer may be a full-time employee, a part-time consultant, or a freelancer. The educational background for web developers is also vast. Opportunities exist for those with bachelor’s degrees, going through certificate programs, or with personal experience.
Computer Support Specialist
A computer support specialist is involved in helping computer users and organizations with their issues. They have a range of responsibilities including:
- Helping with log-in issues,
- Operating system malfunctions,
- Answering questions, and
- Providing step-by-step solutions for users seeking assistance.
The work schedule is as varied as a computer support specialist’s job responsibilities. While some work traditional 9 to 5 hours, others may work nights or weekends to provide support to users 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. As the result of both the pandemic and faster computer networks, many computer support specialists have begun to work from their homes improving the flexibility of their work schedules.
Many computer support specialists will find themselves within computer systems design and related services, telecommunications, finance and insurance, management of companies and enterprises, or data processing, hosting, and related services.
Data Scientist
Data scientists analyze and process data on behalf of companies and organizations. Usually, the data is rather large, gathered from smart devices, social media, or emails in structured or unstructured formats. Data scientists are experts who through computer science, statistics, and math find trends, manage the data, and produce an actional plan for their client.
A data scientist needs to be a good communicator and reporter driven by curiosity. The qualities of a data scientist and their broad job responsibilities mean that data scientists can be found in almost any industry.
Though data science is a relatively new profession it is constantly proving to be invaluable to companies trying to capture new trends or make more strategic business decisions.
The BLS has predicted overall growth for jobs in the tech sector in the next decade which is great for those looking for employment. The job descriptions above provide only a snapshot of the general responsibilities required in each position. Different companies or organizations may request a variety of different tasks of their employees. As you search VISTA+ make sure to read each job application and evaluate it against your own interests. You will be most successful in a job that makes you happy!
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