The number of transistors in an integrated chip will double every couple of years, predicted Gordon Moore, founder of Intel, in 1965. His prediction has held true ever since.
Computer chips keep getting more powerful and cheaper. They're driving the world's economic growth. And they've helped foster two of the fastest growing careers.
Between now and 2012, forecasts the US Department of Labor, job openings will increase rapidly for information technology managers and specialists in software engineering. Here are some key facts that could help you get started in either of those two areas.
Information Technology Managers
Because computers are critical in keeping an organization competitive, people who can plan and manage computer systems effectively are in high demand. A good degree in information technology is one of the best ways to prepare for this type of job.
What's the most promising specialty to pick within an IT degree? The Robert Half Technology group asked this question of more than 1,400 Chief Information Officers (CIOs). Their top choice: computer networking management.
"Computer networking expertise remains critical within IT departments as firms use their internal systems to share data companywide and power their business-critical applications," said Katherine Spencer Lee, executive director of Robert Half Technology. "A fundamental understanding of network management is also the basis for positions in growing areas such as information systems security, wireless communication, broadband, and voice over IP."
What's the Payoff?
Robert Half International reports that the average starting salaries in 2003 for high-level information technology managers ranged from $82,750 to $151,500. A 2003 survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers tracked the starting salary for those with an MBA, a technical undergraduate degree, and one year or less of experience at an average of $54,643. With a master's degree in management information systems/business data processing, the starting salary averaged $43,750.
Software Engineering
A network is merely a platform for an organization's mission-critical software applications. Applications like these are created and maintained by developers who most often began their career at a software engineering institute or by taking a computer sciences degree program.
With a degree in hand, how can you grow the fastest in your software engineering career?
"If you're interested in application design, a consultancy is a great way to go," says Rodd Halstead, a Group Manager in Engineering at Siebel Systems Inc. "When a large company needs a new application, they almost always outsource it to a consultancy. That's where you'll get broad experience."
A Rewarding Path
According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, starting salary offers for graduates with a bachelor's degree in computer engineering averaged $51,343 in 2003, and those with a master's degree averaged $64,200. Starting salary offers for graduates with a bachelor's degree in computer science averaged $47,109.
According to Robert Half International, starting salaries for developers in software engineering ranged from $64,250 to $97,000 in 2003.
As computer chips get smaller, faster, cheaper and more pervasive, the different choices within an information technology career don't seem to be losing their promise anytime soon.
Sources
- Moore's Law <http://www.intel.com/research/silicon/mooreslaw.htm>
- US Dept. of Labor Overview: Computer Software Engineer <http://bls.gov/oco/ocos267.htm>
- US Dept. of Labor Overview: Computer and Information Systems Manager <http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos258.htm>
- CIOs Recommend Networking as Starting Point for Successful IT Career <http://www.nwfusion.com/weblogs/careers/004765.html>
- Entry Level Hiring: IT consulting a ripe area for graduates <http://www.nwfusion.com/weblogs/careers/004872.html>
- Additional Technical Career Information <http://www.technicaldegrees.net/>
