Selected Careers in IT
 Network Administrators
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Network Administrators Keeping an organization’s computer network operating and up-to-date is vital to every organization. That is exactly what a network administrator is responsible for. Any company or organization that uses multiple computers or software platforms needs a network admin to coordinate and connect the different systems. Retail stores, hospitals, private businesses…you name it, they couldn’t function without a network administrator. Average Annual Salary $86,000 |
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Computer Support Specialists Help desk technician, IT specialist, support specialist, help desk analyst, computer technician Computer Support specialists offer technical support to an organization’s customers or employees when they encounter tech difficulties. They help users solve problems, ask questions to troubleshoot and diagnose issues and provide feedback to team members about common tech problems that may need to be addressed. In some cases, they also perform hardware maintenance and provide training to employees. Average annual Salary $55,000 |
 Computer Support Specialists
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 Web Developers
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Web Developers Web Developers are the creative and technical minds behind websites, including each website’s design, functionality and performance. They work with customers or their organization’s leaders to determine the website’s needs, then write code to build the website to function in a way that meets those needs. Often they work with a team of graphic designers to incorporate design elements, such as graphics, audio and video. Depending on a web developer’s specialty, they may be responsible for keeping the website updated and secure, integrating graphics and applications or focusing on the overall technical structure of the site. Average annual salary $73,700 |
While all IT roles and positions require specific technical skills, there are additional valuable skillsets that are required in these fields.
- Analyzing and critical thinking: Individuals that fill these roles will need to explore and solve problems logically and consistently. Understanding how systems work together and the chain reaction one issue can have is crucial. Even if you don’t know the solution right away, critical thinking skills can help you get there.
- Time management: Tech pros juggle several projects, people and problems simultaneously. This means it’s essential to be organized in the present and looking ahead to prepare for what’s coming next.
- Interpersonal skills: every career requires an individual to work with a range of people, within all levels of an organization. You’ll need to help bridge the gap between diverse groups of people, which requires patience, understanding and strong communication skills.
- Curiosity and a love of learning: The IT field is never stagnant. New technologies can be challenging for even the most seasoned professional. This means in order to succeed you’ll need to have a passion for learning as you adapt to changing tech demands.