The Dow Jones continues to shrink along with marketplace confidence while unemployment and foreclosure rates continue to rise to unprecedented levels. Fear, anxiety and frustration are sweeping across the country like a series of uncontrollable brush fires. You need to get a job fast — in a field that offers job security as well as opportunities for promotion and upward mobility. Rolling out pinpoints seven, in-demand high-tech careers like computer applications technician and information technology specialist that can lead you out of the professional malaise and direct you in a new, exciting career direction.
It’s possible to earn a certificate from an accredited community college and begin a new future with a steady income. Or you can apply the certificate towards an associate of applied science degree or continue your education for a bachelor’s or a master’s degree. The range of salaries for the following specialties reflects the cost of living differences between smaller markets and mega metropolises like New York, Chicago and Los Angeles.
1. Computer applications specialist: Program imbues students with competency in office technology skills. Students will gain experience in personal computer hardware and software, transcription equipment, and office simulations. Salary range: small market, $51,000 and $68,000 in a larger market.
2. Database administrator: This position involves ensuring the soundness and integrity of the environmental aspects of a database. Salary range: approx. $58,000. Large market salary: approx. $79,000.
3. CISCO Special Certificate Program: The Cisco Specialist program provides instruction for students entering the computer-networking field. Salaries range from $58,000–79,000.
4. Computer-assisted Design Technology: Computer-assisted design, or CAD, is a field that utilizes specialized computer software to graphically communicate (or “draft”) ideas into technically precise drawings. Salaries range from $58,000–$79,000.
5. Geographic Information Systems Certificate: GIS is a computerized data base management system for capture, storage, retrieval, analysis and display of geographic information. Salary range: $51,000–$68,000.
6. Information Technology: Offered as both a certification program as well as associate of applied science degree, this course sets the groundwork in the fundamentals of information processing. Students receive training in processing of applications and functions. Salary range: $54,000–$72,000
photo by steed media service
7. Database Systems Administration Certificate: Provides proficiency in designing, using, implementing and managing traditional and nontraditional multiuser database systems and applications. Salary range: $46,000–$62,000
In the time it takes for the seasons to change, a prospective student can lay the foundation for entry to the information superhighway that dominates the world.
–terry shropshire
The aforementioned courses/certificates are offered at the following community colleges:
Atlanta Technical College
Cleveland Community College (also known as Tri-C)
Baltimore City Community College
Community College of Philadelphia
