8 In-Demand Careers in IT

What do you think about when you hear the words “information technology?” Maybe it’s coding coding, computer building and other complicated, high-skill applications. While information technology (IT) includes those skills, it actually includes any use of computers or network systems to store, send and access information.

So, if you like using computers to solve problems, learning how computer systems work or helping others use their computer equipment, a career in IT might just be the perfect fit for you. Maybe it’s a direction you’re already considering. If so, you’re in luck. Careers in IT are booming and experts only anticipate the demand for these jobs to continue to grow in the coming years. Here’s a look at eight of the top IT career paths you could take.

Support/Help Desk Specialist

Support specialists are tasked with helping users identify and solve computer equipment issues and set up new devices. Every company that relies on computers to conduct business needs support specialists at some point, so there’s a tremendous number of job options available. It’s a great starter career for individuals entering tech who want to continue to learn more and develop their skills further.

IT Technician

An important aspect of IT is figuring out what went wrong with a program or device. Like support specialists, IT technicians examine and diagnose errors. However, IT technicians take this a step further by monitoring network and equipment functions through data collection and review. Additionally, they are often tasked with installing software updates, performing tests and training users on new programs or IT functions.

Network/Computer Systems Administrator

With so much of the workforce transitioning to a hybrid or remote working environment, companies heavily rely upon network and computer systems administrators to keep employees connected. From network troubleshooting and upgrades to user additions and user security, this personnel is responsible for many of a company’s core IT needs.

Information Security Analyst

In a world where businesses have to remain ever vigilant for security breaches, information security analysts are essential. These employees implement firewalls, install antivirus programs, create security training and develop other protective procedures to maintain network and system integrity. They may also be required to test out systems for potential weaknesses and document and address breach concerns.

Database Administrator

Most companies use some kind of server to collect and store their data. It’s up to database administrators to determine what kind of database server is necessary for the size and type of data being saved, create the database and ensure it functions properly. They also create backup databases and help companies recover misplaced or lost data.

Data Analyst

Although companies have more customer data at their disposal than ever before, this information is of no use if it can’t be read and understood. That’s where data analysts come in. Data analysts use programs and other technological tools to comb through mounds of data to determine new insights that can help companies make better-informed business decisions. As more businesses make analytics a priority in their marketing strategies, the need for data analysts will continue to grow.

Web Developer

In the digital age, a website is one of the most critical assets a company can have. Web developers work with businesses to build their websites and any applications that live within the site using coding language. They’ll meet with clients to assess needed web capabilities, create user-friendly layouts and monitor performance metrics.

Software Developer

Though they require more skills than other IT career paths, software developer positions are in high demand from employers in nearly every industry. From large corporations to small startups, businesses depend on these workers to build out computer programs and applications to address user needs. As those needs change or evolve, software developers reevaluate, propose and implement improvements to these systems.

IT Training Programs

IT training programs open up a whole new world of opportunities for entry-level workers looking to expand their skill set and professionals who want to take the next step in their careers. TechBuffalo partners with a number of local organizations that provide certified IT and cybersecurity course programs. Take a look to learn more about these programs and to see if you qualify.