Information Technology (IT) careers involve the design, development, support and management of hardware, software, multimedia and systems-integration services.
The IT industry is a dynamic working environment that has a revolutionary impact on the economy and global network. In addition to careers in the IT industry, IT careers are available in every sector of society. Information Technology (IT) is an area that is growing at a rapid rate and always changing with new developments.
While one might think of the typical IT worker as employed by a major software company or systems developer like the Microsoft Corporation, the reality is that nine out of ten IT workers are found in banks, insurance companies, manufacturing plants, hospitals, schools or other non-IT businesses.
Employees in Information Technology work with computer hardware, software, multimedia, and network systems. In this cluster, there are opportunities to design new computer equipment or computer games. Training people how to use computers or fix them is another choice in this cluster. There also are opportunities to manage whole networks that link workers in all parts of the world. Finally, with the use of interactive media there are career opportunities to design websites or advertisements for a variety of businesses.
IT education can be obtained in four-year colleges, technical colleges, two-year community colleges and institutes. Even in times when the economy requires downsizing, there is still a large market for people who have IT skills. High school courses should concentrate in business computer-information courses and computer-science courses. Students also should consider programming courses depending on the pathways they choose.
The information technology career cluster has four pathways:
Students who want to pursue careers in this cluster should investigate the following Cincinnati Public School:
Taft Information Technology School offers a rich varied educational program, where students receive individual attention in a team-based environment, and all students are moving toward a high level of success.
Students complete 10 hours of instruction in 17 areas of Information Technology. The program focuses on careers in networking, interactive media, computer repair and help-desk functions, as well as information and support services. The curriculum focuses on a wide range of information-technology skills, with access to cutting-edge technology.
Students have access to eight computer labs with state-of-the-art technology. The school offers a Community Computer Center both after school and weekends. Laptop Computers, wireless phones and Zoomtown Internet access are offered as rewards for students meeting grade requirements.
Real-world experience is provided through strong partnerships with Cincinnati Bell and other businesses. As a senior, students will have summer internship and scholarship opportunities with Cincinnati Bell.