As few as two decades ago, some business leaders dismissed the Internet as a distraction for geeks and nerds. Even Microsoft failed to predict the scope with which the World Wide Web and other connected technologies would change the landscape for global communications and commerce. Thanks to scrappy innovators and a few waves of college graduates who learned how to adapt e-mail and Web sites to the needs of business, technology training has become essential to our modern lives.
Ten years ago, the vast majority of I.T. professionals worked for large technology or consulting firms. Today, its not surprising to find small doctors' offices with dedicated network engineers and database managers. As many traditional businesses reshape themselves to compete with growing companies from abroad, savvy professionals have discovered how to leverage technology training into profitable and enjoyable careers that dont necessarily require a condo in Silicon Valley.
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Computer Networking
Computer networking systems connect voice, video, and data between users. Computer networking professionals design, test and evaluate systems such as local area networks LANs, wide area networks, corporate intranets and other data communications systems. Company networks can vary from a simple connection between two terminals in the same building to globally distributed networks, voice mail, and e-mail systems within a multi-national organization.
Government research suggests that computer networking professionals with recent industry certifications can often earn over $60,000 per year. Although the first wave of computer networking jobs centered on the technology sector itself, todays network technicians can find meaningful work in a variety of companies across the nation. In-house networking professionals maintain servers and connections among small groups of users. Meanwhile, networking consultants help companies manage costs by dropping in for new user setup sessions, routine maintenance and emergency troubleshooting.
Database Management
Few businesses in todays global economy can function without accessing some kind of database at least once each week. From small businesses that ship goods via courier services to service companies with automated customer relationship management systems, databases have become essential to trade. Along those lines, database managers help their employers maintain the integrity of company information while assuring growth and scalability.
Most companies rely on a handful of tested database platforms, including:
- Microsoft Access
- MySQL
- Oracle
- PostgreSQL
While the similarities of most commercial database platforms are close enough for professionals to move from project to project, certifications ensure that clients and employers can verify the skills of prospective database managers. Although some database managers can learn how to care for data without touching a systems structure, professionals with advanced certifications earn salaries of $64,000 or more by adjusting and improving database performance over time.
E-Commerce Design and Service
A few years ago, most businesses considered it a luxury to have a Web site, let alone a functional e-commerce platform. Today, the most effective companies use the Web to offer customer service as well as basic transactions. Some of the most popular e-commerce applications include:
- Customizing orders for finished goods.
- Scheduling appointments for doctors offices or other service professionals.
- Reserving tables at hot restaurants.
- Making or receiving online payments for outstanding invoices.
- Searching online catalogs or obscure goods, like service parts.
E-commerce specialists leverage their knowledge of programming, database management and marketing to help companies develop effective customer service platforms. Professionals seeking to enter this field often build on career experience by enrolling in technology courses. For instance, retail professionals with strong service and marketing skills can take classes in basic e-commerce management to understand the mechanics of hosting a store online. Likewise, programmers who earn degrees in business can help teams maximize revenue through effective marketing.
Degree Programs and Certifications Crucial to Technology Career Success
According to most hiring officers and career advisors, technology certification courses offer the most direct paths to I.T. jobs. Professionals with experience from other careers enjoy the best chances for success by combining their industry insight with exposure to the latest technology. Despite reports of technical careers shifting overseas, the on-site nature of networking jobs has resulted in a surge of positions that only Americans can fill. Likewise, the levels of security and personal trust necessary to manage databases and e-commerce projects offer a tangible advantage for U.S. citizens looking for work in America.
Ongoing professional development also plays a crucial role in an I.T. workers career. With technology advancing at such a rapid pace, I.T. professionals who understand the latest programming languages and networking protocols can often command premium salaries and consulting fees. Fortunately, many employers now bundle tuition reimbursement programs into their compensation packages. That way, employees can enjoy stronger job security while building seniority and other work privileges.
