Love all things information technology? Careers in IT are gaining more and more popularity. In fact, information technology occupations are expected to grow by 12% between 2018 and 2028.
That’s a lot faster than the average for other career paths.
So what does an IT person do, anyway? A day in the life of an IT professional might surprise you. Keep reading to discover eight fascinating facts about your potential career in IT!
1. Team Support
When people hear the phrase “IT department,” they’re usually looking for technical support.
It’s more than that, though. As a member of the IT department, you strengthen the entire company from a technology standpoint.
The IT department supports every other team member throughout the company. You’re the go-to person for:
- Installing new software or hardware
- Repairing faulty hardware
- Troubleshooting software issues
- Training employees to use new software features
- Troubleshooting any other unexpected problems
Your knowledge ensures the rest of your team is able to keep running forward without delays.
You’re also responsible for creating emergency response plans. If a technical issue arises, your team will count on you for a solution. Your expertise is invaluable in ensuring the company’s overall efficiency.
Technical support isn’t the only aspect of a career in IT, though. So what does an IT person do besides that?
2. Cloud Computing
You’ve likely heard the phrase “it’s on the cloud” before. However, not every company is on the cloud yet.
Many information technology departments are currently working to move company data onto the cloud. This involves a lot more than purchasing online storage space and “drag and dropping” files.
The move to cloud computing requires an IT specialist to analyze a company’s long-term goals and needs.
Then, you’ll develop a plan, design, and implement the installation.
Every company has different needs. That means the cloud infrastructure is different for each organization as well.
Some companies require software within their cloud systems.
Others require different layers of data storage.
Cloud computing now allows companies to access programs from any location on any device. As a member of the IT department, it’s your job to make sure staff members can access this software without issues.
3. Security
You’re not just dealing with IT issues and storage space every day.
Unfortunately, the digital world is full of criminals. Hackers develop new ways to break into computer systems and networks constantly.
So what does an IT person do to prevent these cyberattacks?
As a member of the IT department, you’ll develop software to keep these hackers at bay. Hackers can steal personal information including names, home addresses, and credit card numbers. Without cybersecurity, your company and customers are vulnerable.
As a member of the IT team, you’re the first line of defense.
You’ll work with your team to create data encryption programs and firewalls. As hackers get smarter, you’ll need to as well. Working in cybersecurity will keep you on your toes and developing new, creative ways to detect and prevent security breaches.
4. Software
Some companies require specialized software, including phone apps, for both employees and customers.
Software programs run everything that happens on a computer. As a software developer, you’ll write the code for these programs.
Software development requires problem-solving and creativity. If you like solving puzzles, consider giving software development a try!
After a software developer writes code to create a program, the software engineer steps in.
As a software engineer, you’ll test the software before anyone else. You’ll use your knowledge of software codes and computer hardware to make sure the program is easy to use. That way, it works for the non-IT personnel throughout your company, too!
5. Your Salary
As of May 2016, IT professionals were earning a median annual salary of $82,860. Compare that to the median annual wage of $37,040 and you might consider a career change.
Your salary depends on your career path and specific IT occupation. Here are a few occupations you might decide to choose from:
- Computer and information research scientist
- Computer network architect
- Computer support specialist
- Computer systems analyst
- Information security analyst
- Software developer
- Software engineer
- Web developer
The world of information technology grows and changes every day. Who knows what new career opportunities might pop up with time.
6. Your Education
Your education can set you up for major success in your IT career path.
Most IT careers require at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science. A few positions, such as a web developer, might accept a two-year associate’s degree in a related field. More complicated positions, however, might require a master’s degree.
Before joining an information technology department, you might also choose to obtain a certification. Some of the most popular IT certifications include:
- Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification
- Comp TIA A+ Technician certification
- Network+ certification
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification
- Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) certification
Consider the career path you choose to follow to determine which certification you need.
7. The Industry
Today, every business needs an information technology specialist. The constant development in this field means new opportunities to expand your skillset.
From smartphones to home security systems, the IT world is advancing more every single day.
If you’re looking for a career where you can learn, grow, or become a pioneer in the industry, consider IT. IT companies throughout the world are helping other businesses eliminate technology issues and improve productivity.
As a member of an IT department, you can help pave the way for change.
8. Job Outlook
Organizations are purchasing sophisticated software and hardware to advance their operations. That equipment requires an IT specialist’s know-how for upkeep and ongoing maintenance.
Moving forward, companies will need IT experts for everything from cybersecurity to software development.
With the job outlook so high, you have peace of mind. Choosing a career in IT means you won’t have to struggle to search for job availability.
Getting Technical: What Does An IT Person Do?
If you’re still wondering “what does an IT person do?” it’s time to get your hands dirty! Consider a career in IT to experience a life of software development, cloud computing, and cybersecurity for yourself!
Explore the Technology section of the blog today for more IT info.
