3 Information Technology Careers on the Rise for 2013

Information Technology (IT) is on the rise and has matured in a manner that has led to both job growth, and career opportunities in unforeseen avenues. IT manages to integrate into almost every aspect of both the private and public sector. As a result, there are several areas of information technology that are quickly rising.

Cyber Security

With an increase in cyber-crime such as fraud, hardware hijacking, and identity theft, a career in cyber security is proving to become very promising for the future. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, safeguards for data management have a high priority in the current work

environment. Cyber security falls in line with careers associated with network and computer systems administration. As a result, the skills gained in cyber security and cyber-crime programs will be beneficial in other areas of information-technology. The average salary for careers in Cyber Security is between $65,000 -$80,000.

Project Management

Project management, by its own nature, is not necessarily an IT field. It is, however, a growing field on the rise with very high demand in the information-technology field. According to the Project Management Institute, there are several aspects of project management that point to strong trends in IT PMP benefits.

Firstly, despite the economic conditions, organizations will continue to see the benefit of success metrics for project management in risk management and portfolio management within the company.

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Additionally, the use of project management methods (such as agile and extreme) is becoming increasingly used with technology firms.

There is a significant growth in upward mobility, and IT project managers can expect growth in terms of their expertise working with teams and designing collaborative documentation, systems and software development, and creating a flow in the company to determine the feasibility for projects. The average pay for IT Project Managers is between $80,000-$104,000.

Mobile & Web Applications Development

Mobile & Web Development is evolving into an exclusive partnership, in terms of design. Micro-sourcing and modest outfits are creating a boom of the cottage industry sort in terms of application software for consumers. This has also prompted medium to large size business to investigate advanced technology.

According to the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, applications have come a long way in terms of their importance and practicality in for businesses and consumers. The "custom software" business adds new positions daily; as new phones are developed, the increase in demand for knowledgeable IT professionals grows. Some of the top skills needed for application development include:

• iOS-related skills

• Android

• C, C++

• Basic Java, HTML, & CSS

• Server languages (PHP, ASP.NET, Ruby)

Web and Application Development is no longer limited to the computer or cell phone. Wireless technology found in LCD and Plasma televisions and even newer vehicles have apps embedded in the core of their development. The average pay rate for this field range from $50,000 to over $100,000 a year, depending on whether the position is freelance in nature or employed with a company.

The most important aspect of the rise in the job market for IT professionals is the interdependence of skill sets that span across careers. Information Technology is not going anywhere and has had a healthy boost in activity in the current market. Most employers are dependent on data security, knowledge management, a Network+ certification, and an emphasis on good design. As a result, IT Professionals can be ensured a bright future ahead.

Tanya Statman

About the Guest Author:

Tanya Statman is a tech and career blogger.