The following are some of the reasons why computing is an attractive career:
1. Computing is everywhere.
Computers are part of everything we do, from the cars we drive to the movies we watch. They impact all areas of art, commerce, and science. All industries and governments need them, as do hospitals and research labs.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, despite the outsourcing of IT jobs, the computing field shows excellent potential for new jobs. In fact, outsourcing doesn’t have to be of great concern for computing professionals. According to a recent study, the software and services industry will generate 516,000 jobs in the next five years. Of that number, 272,000 will go offshore, and 244,000 will remain onshore.
2. Computing is growing.
According to the Information Technology Association of America, information technology is a more than $2.5 trillion global industry. The Internet and computers are as essential as eyeglasses and hearing aids and as common as telephones and TVs. Growing dependence on computers has created jobs and opportunities no one could have envisioned a few decades ago. Jobs for web designers and search-engine optimization experts are just a few of these opportunities.
3. Computing develops other skills.
Computing expertise enables one to solve complex and multi-dimensional problems in other areas as well. Computing skills help develop logic and sensitivity to a variety of concerns.
4. Computing helps society.
Computing enables one to create a positive difference in the world. Computing professionals have played pivotal roles in driving innovations in the sciences, engineering, business, entertainment, and education.
5. Computing careers are lucrative.
Computing professionals are among the highest-paid professionals in the industry today. According to a National Association of Colleges and Employers study in 2005, computer-engineering graduates with bachelor’s degrees earned average starting salaries of $52,464, and those with master’s degrees averaged $60,354. Additionally, one can expect performance-related bonuses, stock options, pensions, medical insurance, and three to four weeks of vacation each year.
6. Computing promotes creativity.
Top computing solutions engage high levels of creativity. Developing and implementing computing solutions supports creative work in many fields such as page layout and product design.
7. There are many computing opportunities.
The growth of the Internet has increased the number of job opportunities for computing professionals.
