Computer Technologists Explore the Field
Computer Technologists Explore the Field
Technology is the collective term for a number of processes, techniques, systems, or skills used in the development of products or services and/or in the achievement of specific objectives, including scientific research. Some sectors that are heavily involved in technology development are defense industry, information technology, medical industry, manufacturing, transportation, and business and economic development. Technological change is a process whereby technological developments are made to improve on existing systems and procedures in order to facilitate new applications and increased functionality. The scope of technology developments is enormous. There are many different areas of technological development which are influenced by society and culture, including computer science, engineering, electrical and software engineering, computer manufacturing, electrical and optical engineering, biomedical, computer science, applied physics, applied mathematics, applied science and business, cultural anthropology, geographic information systems, and human-computer interaction.
A qualified technologist can participate in several fields. The most common technologist careers are computer program designers, hardware engineers, computer systems administrators, networking technicians, software developers, and computer systems analysts. Some technologists also serve as consultants. These professionals may work for a single firm or act as representatives for many different companies. Technologists can obtain many employment opportunities through a combination of education, training and experience.
A Bachelor’s degree is required for positions in this field. The skills learned in college provide the foundation for working in this field. It is necessary to have a solid background in mathematics, science, and computer programs in order to become eligible for the position of technologist. Those who have prior experience in these areas but cannot pursue a bachelor’s degree are able to train for a career as a computer systems engineer. Others may choose to specialize in one area of computer science and technology and enter a number of different jobs in a number of different industries.
A master’s degree is required in order to become certified as a computer system engineer. These candidates must be able to design and troubleshoot computer systems that are used by other companies. They must also be skilled in computer language in order to become proficient program designers. These professionals may also choose to pursue graduate programs in computer science.
Program designers create and customize computer programs in order to achieve business objectives. They often contribute to the design of software products as well as testing and debugging of those programs. There are a variety of responsibilities associated with the position of program designer, including research, development and testing of new products, production and packaging, support and maintenance of existing programs. Software engineers create the code that allows computers to communicate with one another and with external devices such as printers, fax machines and phone lines.
These technologists earn an average salary of approximately $30 per hour. They can find employment in a variety of professional fields, including computer programs, databases, networks, networking, information technology, health care and finance. Many technologists choose to continue their education or obtain additional certifications to ensure they are prepared for new and increasing demands in their field. Many technologists choose to go on to pursue graduate degrees. In addition to pursuing higher education, many find employment in industry-related job agencies and consulting firms.