Tech Topic Connection

 

IT Careers Connection to Fundamentals

Careers in information technology (IT) encompass a wide range of roles that directly apply the foundational knowledge of information technology. Professionals in these IT careers leverage the experience they’ve gained in hardware, software, networks, security, and other IT-related roles to support and enhance an organization's technology infrastructure. Prospective students must learn the basic foundation of information technology and any additional technical skills required for their future careers.

Concepts of IT

Information technology careers relate to every aspect of concepts of IT, computer science, and the history of computers. The first computers, built in the 1940s, had thousands of switches and occupied entire rooms (Vahid & Lysecky, 2019). In order to operate machinery this massive, there had to be people specially trained to run these machines. As the years have passed, professionals in IT careers have worked hard to improve and modernize technology to where we are today. All that starts with careers in information technology. Without skilled IT professionals filling these positions, we would likely still have entire rooms filled with thousands of switches. 

Major Hardware Components & Functions

Professionals in information technology need to have a solid understanding of the major hardware components and functions of a modern computer system. Most technical jobs in the IT field require the professional to select and configure hardware to meet specific requirements such as CPU, RAM, storage type and size, and others. Knowledge of the hardware also allows IT professionals to optimize system performance and troubleshoot when issues arise. As technology advances, organizations need to upgrade or replace their hardware components. A role that is critical to an organization is a network administrator, which installs, configures and manages computer infrastructure such as routers, switches, and cables (Network and Computer Systems Administrators, 2023).

Programming Language and Execution Methods

Many roles in IT often rely heavily on programming languages, such as software developers, web developers, database managers, data scientists, network programmers, cybersecurity, and AI and machine learning. According to Rabai et al. (2014), C, C++, and Java occupy the top places in the ranking of programming language use in the industry. Software developers write, test, and maintain code for the application systems. Web developers use programming languages to build and maintain websites and web applications. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, professionals can obtain a computer science degree, giving students the skills they need to learn computer language (Computer Programmers, 2023). Knowing programming languages and execution methods are fundamental tools used across various IT roles. 

Application Software

Application software plays a vital role in various careers within information technology. Software developers design, create, and maintain application software. System administrators are responsible for managing and maintaining IT infrastructure in which they install, configure, and maintain application software on servers. Network Administrators manage network-related applications such as firewalls, network monitoring tools, etc. Many roles in information technology require professionals to interact with, deploy, configure, maintain, and develop application software to support various organizational functions. 

Database and Database Management

Roles in IT frequently involve working with databases and utilizing database management concepts. Whether they are designing databases, querying specific information, ensuring data security, or using data for analysis and decision-making, a professional must understand database fundamentals to succeed. Database administrators apply fundamental database concepts like data modeling, indexing, and query optimization to create and maintain effective database systems. Another is data analysts rely on database management principles to query and manipulate data to ensure accurate data analysis. Whether designing databases, querying for specific information, ensuring data security, etc., understanding database fundamentals is crucial for success.

Network Architecture, Management, and Security

Network architecture, management, and security significantly influence many careers in information technology. Network administrators design, implement, and manage an organization's infrastructure. They ensure that the network operates efficiently and securely. Network architects design the framework of network infrastructures. Their decisions impact how data and services are delivered across an organization. Systems administrators manage the organization's IT infrastructure, including servers and networks. Professionals in these roles must have a strong foundation in these areas to effectively design, implement, and manage network infrastructures, which will ensure reliable and secure communication.

 

References

Computer Programmers : Occupational Outlook Handbook: : U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, September 6,). U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved Oct 1, 2023, from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-programmers.htm#tab-4

Latifa Ben Arfa Rabai, Barry Cohen, Ali Milli. (2014). Programming Language Use in US Academia and Industry.https://10.15388/infedu.2015.09

Network and Computer Systems Administrators : Occupational Outlook Handbook: : U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, September 6,). U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved Oct 1, 2023, from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/network-and-computer-systems-administrators.htm#tab-2

Vahid, F., & Lysecky, S. (2019). Computing technology for all. zyBooks.