IT jobs: Why ‘geeks’ have the last laugh

By J&C Team

The IT industry is dynamic, fast-paced and growing all the time. The UK IT workforce stands at around 1.5 million (e-skills UK) making it a vital industry within the economy.

 

A career in IT can involve computer software or hardware development, information systems, website design, programming, computer game design and anything involving data management. Information technology is starting to spread further than the conventional computer and network technology, integrating with other technologies such as mobile phones, televisions, automobiles, and more.

 

With so many career paths available and an increase in demand for skilled IT professionals, it seems as though the computer geeks have never been so popular.Software and internet development is one of the fastest growing career paths there is. Due to the growing influence of technology and the internet on modern day business and social practice, jobs in software and internet development are in constant demand and the career areas develop as quickly as the technology does.

 

Advanced IT and programming skills are highly sought after in this sector, with calls for more focus on IT education in schools. Programming, web design, Microsoft Office, content management systems (CMS) and software such as InDesign and Photoshop are all extremely desirable skills to have in the current job market.

 

Recent data from IT employment firm CWJobs.co.uk suggests that the IT jobs market is bouncing back in certain areas, with vacancy levels now only 15% behind what they were in 2008, just before the recession. This means that there are more jobs available for IT professionals, providing better prospects and more options.

 

Not only are the jobs in IT in good supply but they also come with attractive salaries. IT and telecommunications directors were among the highest earning jobs of 2012, earning a median gross pay of £63,622 per annum according to The Telegraph. Whether it is a mobile app programmer, software developer or website designer – software and internet development is set to continue thriving in the future.

 

Entry into an IT profession might not necessarily require a university degree, as owning the necessary skills can outweigh the need for formal qualifications. That being said, studying IT, Computer Science or Software Engineering can improve your chances of employment, particularly with the larger employers. Apprenticeships in IT and telecommunications are other popular routes into IT careers, as an alternative to university study.

 

The most important thing to ensure is that you have the necessary programming and software skills, whether it means downloading a free trial and teaching yourself or taking an online course.

 

There’s never been a better time to be a computer geek, so turn your unique interests into a career!