Computer Schools and Career Info

Individual Career Stories

Learn about a tech career from real computer professionals - education requirements, how they got the job, tips, likes, dislikes, requirements and more.

Examples of likes and dislikes from the reviews

Like

"solving problems for end users, which sometimes can seem impossible and helps them to complete their jobs."

Dislike

"Inability to prevent computer users from causing their own problems, many of whom cause themselves needless frustration because they do not follow basic best practices."

Career Overview

Advances in computer technologies throughout the years have resulted in computers becoming an integral part of our personal and work lives. Virtually all businesses utilize computers, with new technology constantly being developed to keep pace with changes in today’s workplace. As businesses require professionals who are trained in designing, adapting, implementing, and maintaining these technologies, there are numerous computer jobs and careers in a wide variety of fields today. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in computer-related careers is projected to grow much faster over the 2008-18 decade than the average for other occupations.

Education

The type of career an individual wishes to pursue determines the type and level of education needed. While some careers require an undergraduate or graduate degree in computer science or a related field, many careers may simply require certification or licensing from an accrediting body. In some cases, individuals may find that they can master computer languages through online tutorials, books, or classes.

Career Skills

Computer-related careers tend to attract individuals who have strong analytical and problem solving skills, as well as an aptitude in mathematics and science. Good candidates for these types of careers like to solve puzzles, are interested in inventing new technologies, and enjoy learning how computers can make a business work more efficiently. A common misperception is that a career in computing can be a solitary one, but more often than not, good communication skills are required as workers are constantly communicating with each other and with clients.

Career Options

There are many different kinds of careers in computers that an individual can pursue, allowing them to focus on jobs such as computer programming, designing hardware and software systems, networking, administering, fixing, and Web development.

The following are a few examples of computer careers choices:

• Computer Programmers write programs, or step-by-step instructions, that tell the computer what to do. A variety of programming languages exist, with many programmers being knowledgeable in more than one language to increase employment opportunities. Those interested in becoming a programmer should be analytical and very detail-oriented.
• Computer Software Engineers design, develop and test many types of computer software, including operating systems, business applications, and computer games. By applying the theories of computer science, they can ensure that software applications and systems are working properly.
• Help Desk Support refers to a wide range of technical support services to employees, either via telephone or in person, answering questions and troubleshooting computer network, hardware or software problems. Other duties in this field may include installing new software, performing computer repairs, and computer testing.
• Web Developers have many responsibilities involved in creating Web sites, from developing the database management system and Web applications, to designing the Web site and all of its graphics and features. Generally, Web Developers must stay apprised of the latest trends, and be innovative with new technologies.