Career Options

According to the National Alliance of Business, the information technology (IT) sector is facing a severe worker shortage with 425,000 positions in the industry likely going unfilled this year. Information technology includes all forms of technology used to create, store, exchange, and handle information as business data, voice conversations, multimedia presentations, and many other forms. Over the past 50 years, the industrial and service sectors of the economy have been directly affected by the IT industry. The "technology revolution" has reduced cost structures, increased quality, and improved responsiveness to customers. And while service and industry have gained increased revenue and quality of service, the IT labor market is at a high demand and a low supply. It is predicted by the Society of Information Management that the labor shortage will continue well into the millennium. Companies are increasing recruiting and retention programs for IT professionals and the market is perfect for new knowledge and new workers.

Job Outlook
According to economists at the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the fastest growing fields in the IT industry are:

1. Computer and Information Scientists and Researchers
2. Computer Programmers
3. Computer Software Engineers
4. Computer Support Specialists
5. Computer Systems Analysts
6. Database Administrators
7. Network and Computer Systems Administrators
8. Network Systems and Data Communications Analysts

By the year 2008, computer and data processing services are predicted to grow by 48 percent.
(Minnesota Department of Economic Services). Service and technology industries will do the majority of hiring in the state of Minnesota over the next six years. The average starting hourly salary in Minnesota for a person working in the computer and mathematical industries is $27.91.

Other positions emerging in the industry are customization consultants, knowledge workers, and professionals who work within companies to propose, implement, improve, and maintain IT-based technology solutions.

These individuals are found in the IS departments of business schools and computer science departments.

As you think about entering a certificate program and are interested in how it will fit with your career plans, please check the career planning resources to assist you in your career path.   Information interviews with people in the field are an excellent way to learn about more career opportunities and potential employment.