Technology Education Resources

The need for computer-related occupations will increase in the upcoming years due to the quick development of computer technology and the demand for new computer applications. Therefore, it is not surprising that seven out of the thirty fastest, and two out the thirty largest, growing occupations in the economy are computer-related. Technology professionals are to be found in virtually every industry now that computers have become a staple in daily business and life.

Computer technology related specialties include programmers, software engineers, systems analysts, support specialists, network and database administrators, and computer scientists. Programmers write the instructions that enable computers to perform their functions; they tell the machine what to do, how to do it, and what equipment to use to accomplish a task. Software engineers design, develop, test, and evaluate the software and systems that allow computer applications to be performed. Computer support specialists give technical support, assistance, and advice to computer users. Network administrators design and support various network systems, formulate and implement security, and provide onsite support for software users; they ensure that all the components are connected and working properly. Systems analysts take on general computer problems and harness technology to help their employers attain the maximum beneficial results from the conjunction of processes, personnel, and equipment. Database administrators determine ways to organize and store data; they ensure that the system performs well and may design and activate security measures. Computer scientists are essentially theoretical researchers who tackle complex problems concerning the innovation and practical application of technology.

The need for computer specialists is expected to grow 35.8-percent between 2002 and 2012, an increase of over one million new jobs. Computer programmers held close to 499,000 jobs in 2002; by 2012, the occupation is expected to grow by 14.6-percent. Software engineers will enjoy one of the largest and most rapid growth spurts of all occupations through 2012, increasing 45.5-percent from about 675,000 jobs in 2002. Both network administrators and computer support specialists will be among the fastest growing occupations between 2002 and 2012, increasing between 30-percent and 40-percent from a combined job total of 758,000. Systems analysts, database administrators, and computer scientists are also anticipated to be some of the fastest growing jobs through 2012, increasing from 979,000 positions in 2002 to over 1.2 million jobs in 2012. Systems analysts also will be part of one of the biggest growth spurts among all occupations over the same time period.

Source: 2002-2012 Occupational Employment Outlook compiled by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics

• Computer Programmers - $60,290
• Software Engineers - $70,900
• Computer Support Specialists - $39,100
• Network Administrators - $54,810
• Computer Systems Analysts - $62,890
• Database Administrators - $55,480
• Computer Scientists - $77,760