Computer and information technology is one of today’s fastest growing career fields and is there is expected to be more than 667,600 new jobs in this field through 2030, according to the Department of Labor. Experts predict much of the future growth in IT will be driven by a greater emphasis on cloud computing, big data and cybersecurity.
If you’re looking for a career where you can learn, grow and help businesses find creative solutions to complex problems, then a career in information technology could be a good fit for you. Here are some of the fastest-growing jobs available:
1. Software Developer
Software developers are the creative minds behind the computer and smartphone technology we use for work, school, entertainment and everything in between. Companies rely on software developers to create new technology-driven solutions, as well as perform upgrades and maintenance on existing software.
Software developer has been ranked as the #2 Best Technology Job in America by U.S. News & World Report. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that employment for software engineers will grow by 22 percent between 2020 and 2030, adding as many as 409,500 new jobs.
A bachelor’s degree in software development can prepare you for entry-level roles in this field, such as junior applications developer. Learn more about what you need to do to become a software developer/engineer.
2. Computer Support Specialists
Technology provides the foundation for almost all business activities, so it’s essential to have computer support specialists on staff who can troubleshoot system and user errors. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports faster than average employment growth for computer support specialists. More than 72,000 jobs will be created between 2020 and 2030.
You can start your career as a computer support specialist by enrolling in an IT support certificate program. A diploma can prepare you for many entry-level roles in this field, although a bachelor’s degree in IT might be required for some positions.
3. Computer Systems Administrators
Computer systems administrators help manage the day-to-day operation and security of a company’s computer systems. This could include installing new hardware and software and making recommendations for updates to a company’s current systems. Employment for computer systems administrators is expected to grow by 5 percent through 2030, adding 18,800 new jobs.
Most employers require computer systems administrators to have a bachelor’s degree in information technology or a related concentration.
4. Cloud Systems Engineer
As more companies invest in cloud technology, demand for cloud systems engineers is expected to grow rapidly. According to a recent CIO article on technology hiring trends, most cloud systems engineers have a bachelor’s degree in technology and five or more years of experience as a system engineer. These professionals are highly specialized and can go on to work for major technology firms, such as Amazon Web Services, OpenStack or Microsoft.
5. Database Developer
Collecting and analyzing data can help organizations make strategic business decisions. Database developers create the systems and manage the servers that allow companies to sort and store their data securely.
Earning your bachelor’s degree in data analytics is a great way to position yourself for an entry-level role as a database administrator. Employment of database administrators is projected to grow by 8 percent from 2020 to 2030, adding more than 13,000 new jobs.
6. Security Analyst
Cybersecurity is a major point of concern for many organizations, especially those that deal with significant amounts of personal data, such as healthcare organizations, banks and financial services companies and government agencies. A data breach can have long-lasting, costly effects on an organization’s reputation.
As an information security analyst, you can help companies protect themselves from cybersecurity threats. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 33 percent employment growth for information security analysts through 2030, which equates to 47,100 new jobs.
A bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity can help prepare you for entry-level roles in this field, such as a computer security specialist or security technician.
7. IT Manager
Organizations need experienced IT leaders to advise and guide them as they expand their digital capabilities. IT managers help companies evaluate their technology needs and oversee the transition to new tools and systems.
U.S. News and World Report recently ranked IT manager as the #4 best technology job in 2022, and the 13th best job overall. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 11 percent employment growth, or about 52,700 new jobs, for IT managers through 2030.
A bachelor’s degree in technology management (IT) can help you get started in entry-level IT roles, such as junior positions in database development, website development, analysis or programming. With experience and additional education, you can advance to management roles or even executive positions such as IT Director or Chief Technology Officer.
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* Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics 2022 / Occupational Outlook Handbook 2022. BLS estimates do not represent entry-level wages and/or salaries. Multiple factors, including prior experience, age, geography market in which you want to work and degree field, will affect career outcomes and earnings. Herzing neither represents that its graduates will earn the average salaries calculated by BLS for a particular job nor guarantees that graduation from its program will result in a job, promotion, salary increase or other career growth.
