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Teachers, Educators, Counselors – Access Discover IT Educator Resources Here

Students – Upload Your Discover IT Visualizer Here

Discover IT

March 4, 2024 – March 13, 2024

Discover IT is a classroom activity designed to introduce students to Information Technology Careers.  Students work individually to create a Discover IT Visualizer, which is a representation of their understanding of IT careers.  The activity is designed for all levels of high school students with or without experience in IT/Tech programs and generally takes one or two class periods to complete.  Teachers/educators will be provided with lesson plans and online resources to facilitate the Discover IT activity in their classroom.  Students completing a Discover IT visualizer will have the opportunity to submit their completed visualizer to win their class a prize.  Three visualizers will be selected by a panel of judges and those student’s classes will be awarded a class prize.

The window to start the Discover IT classroom activity is Monday, March 4, 2024 and runs through Wednesday, March 13th, 2024.  A virtual awards ceremony will be held on Friday, March 15, 2024.

Teachers/educators/counselors interested in having their students participate in Discover IT can start here – Tech Talent Portal Educator Registration

Scroll down to start discovering IT!

Why should I Discover IT?

We’ve compiled resources and information for students and educators to Discover IT so that they can…

  • Be aware of all the opportunities that IT careers can provide
  • Find IT careers that interest them
  • Understand the education and experience necessary to be successful in IT
  • Prepare for a successful career in Information Technology

Discovering IT careers is like opening the door to a world full of exciting possibilities. It’s like finding a treasure map that leads you to your dream job – you just need to explore and discover where it takes you!

What’s the difference between Information Technology and Computer Science?

Information Technology is about using computers to help people and businesses in practical ways. Computer Science is about the science and theory of computing.

  • Information Technology (IT) is more about using computers to help people and businesses with their everyday tasks. Information Technology involves setting up and managing computer systems, making sure the systems work well, and keeping them safe and secure.
  • Computer Science is like learning the secrets of how computers work, creating new programs and solving big problems with them. It’s about understanding the theory behind computing and making cool things happen with code.

Is an Information Technology career right for me?

It is always a good idea to figure out if your interests, passions and personality are a good fit for a career in IT.  IT is a diverse field with roles and functional areas that align with many different types of personalities and aptitudes.

To get started, consider the following entry points based on what you like to do:

What I like to do Computer Hardware Programmable Devices Business Management & Financial Control Analytics Website & User Interfaces Software Languages & Coding
Work with computer hardware and devices
Interested in cool devices such as drones, weather sensors, or self-driving vehicles
Try new technologies and see if they work
Learn about business processes and find ways to improve them
Investigate data and find hidden facts & trends
Crack codes, play games, or solve mysteries
Math & Analysis
Artistic, creative, graphical
Learn new languages
Use IT to treat and cure patients

How do I succeed in an IT Career?

Power Skills and Lifelong Learning

  • Depending on the job, you need to understand the type and level of skills and competencies, knowledge, education, and experience that is required not only to enter but to succeed and thrive.
  • While technical skills will vary from job to job, the kind of skills that are foundational across all IT jobs—most jobs actually—known as “power skills” or “soft skills” and are often those that lead to career success and advancement.

IMPORTANCE OF LIFELONG LEARNING

  • IT is a rapidly evolving field with new technologies emerging all the time, leading to limitless opportunities.
  • If you choose a career in information technology, you should expect to encounter change on a regular basis. All employers agree that the most successful IT workers are those who commit to lifelong learning. This means that today’s successful IT professionals continually upgrade their skills to keep pace with change.

What are IT Functional Areas?

IT Functional Areas

  • An Information Technology (IT) functional area is like a specific job category within the field of IT. Think of it as a piece of a big puzzle that makes up the world of technology and computers. Each functional area has its own special focus and tasks that contribute to making sure technology works smoothly for businesses and organizations.
  • For example, one functional area might be all about designing and creating websites or mobile apps. Another functional area could be responsible for keeping computer networks secure from cyber threats. There’s also a functional area that deals with managing and storing large amounts of data, like organizing information in a digital library.
  • So, each functional area in IT is like a team of experts who work on specific tasks to keep technology running, protected, and useful for different purposes.
Computing & Network Operations
Engineer, implement and keep operating the computing, communications and data management hardware and software that supports the enterprise
Cybersecurity
Design, implement, and operate tools and processes that protect data, software, and hardware assets across the enterprise from theft, damage, and corruption
Data Management
Gather, store, manage and analyze a wide range of data in all formats from a wide range of sources to help the enterprise operate effectively, efficiently, and smarter
IT Leadership & Management
Lead teams and entire IT organizations; evangelizing innovation, relevance and quality of IT
Software Design & Engineering
Design, code, assemble the software that computing, and communications equipment uses to perform, manage, monitor and evaluate business or organization processes
Solution Strategy - Design & Delivery
Design, build, and/or acquire IT solutions to enable efficient and effective processes in support of the business or organization

What are IT Roles?

An Information Technology (IT) role is like a specific job or position that someone can have within the world of technology and computers. Think of it as a particular job title that describes what someone does to help with all things related to technology. Here are a few examples of IT Roles within each functional area.

Computing and Network Operations

CISSP, Microsoft, CISM, CISA, CRISC
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities.
Head of Infrastructure / Operations
Leads the team of people who design, implement and operate the computing, data storage and communications equipment and make it available to the enterprise.
COMPTIA ITF+, A+ ITIL Foundation Adding COMPTIA Sec+ and CISCO CCT a plus
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Help Desk Specialist / Jr. Systems Admin / Desktop Tech
A Help Desk Specialist assists end users resolve problems using applications and systems tools or escalate the problem to the right persons
COMPTIA ITF+, A+ ITIL Foundation , COMPTIA Network + COMPTIA Security + ITIL - Managing Professional, Microsoft - MTA, MSCA, MSCE, CISCO - CCNA PLUS COMPZTIA Linux + COMPTIA Server + ITIL - , Strategic Leader, Master CISCO - CCNP
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
IT Support Lead
An IT Support Lead is experienced in providing technical and systems support and both leads teams of Help Desk / Technical Support staff and provides direct user support as well
COMPTIA A+ COMPTIA Network + COMPTIRA Security + Microsoft - MTH, MSCA, MSCA, CISCO - CCT, CCNA, CCHE, COMPTIA Project +, COMPTIA Cloud Essentials, COMPTIA Linux+, COMPTIA Server +,, Redhat, VMWare, AWS, Google Cloud, IBM, PLUS COMPTIA Cloud +
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Network Engineer / Architect
Computer network architects design and build data communication networks, including local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and Intranets.
COMPTIA A+ COMPTIA Network + COMPTIRA Security + Microsoft - MTH, MSCA, MSCA, CISCO - CCT, CCNA, CCHE, COMPTIA Project +, COMPTIA Cloud Essentials, COMPTIA Linux+, COMPTIA Server +,, Redhat, VMWare, AWS, Google Cloud, IBM,
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Network / Systems Administrator
Systems administrators keep a company’s IT systems running by installing and upgrading systems as needed and making sure the hardware and systems are operating as expected.
COMPTIA A+ COMPTIA Network + COMPTIRA Security + Microsoft - MTH, MSCA, MSCA, CISCO - CCT, CCNA, CCHE,
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Network Support Specialist
Network support specialists analyze, troubleshoot, evaluate, and fix computer network problems.
COMPTIA A+ COMPTIA Network + COMPTIRA Security + Microsoft - MTH, MSCA, MSCA, CISCO - CCT, CCNA, CCHE, COMPTIA Project +, COMPTIA Cloud Essentials, COMPTIA Linux+, COMPTIA Server +,, Redhat, VMWare, AWS, Google Cloud, IBM, PLUS COMPTIA Cloud +
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Systems Engineer / Architect
A systems engineer defines the standards and methods to assure successful operation and integrity of the systems that support the enterprise.
COMPTIA ITF+, A+ ITIL Foundation , COMPTIA Network + COMPTIA Security + PLUS ITIL - Managing Professional, CISCO - CCNA Microsoft - MTA, MSCA, MSCE
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Technical Support Specialist
A Technical Support Specialist provides technical assistance to computer users in person, via telephone, or electronically.
COMPTIA A+ COMPTIA Network + COMPTIRA Security + Microsoft - MTH, MSCA, MSCA, CISCO - CCT, CCNA, CCHE, COMPTIA Project +, COMPTIA Cloud Essentials, COMPTIA Linux+, COMPTIA Server +,, Redhat, VMWare, AWS, Google Cloud, IBM, PLUS COMPTIA Cloud +
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Telecommunications Engineering Specialists
Design or configure wired, wireless, and satellite communications systems for voice, video, and data services. Supervise installation, service, and maintenance.
COMPTIA A+, Network +, Security +, C, Python, C+, HTML, JavaScript Plus - graphic design
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Web Administrator
Web administrators design, develop, maintain and troubleshoot websites. Most importantly, they ensure a safe and efficient user experience.

Cybersecurity

COMPTIA Network +, Security +, C, Python, C+ , COMPTIA CySA+, Project +, CISM, Pentest+, CEH,, ISACA,(SANS, GIAC), CISCO (CCT, CCNA, CCHE) PLUS COMPTIA CASP+ ISC2 CISSP OCSP and OSCE are the top certifications possible and very rigorous
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Chief Information Security Officer
The senior executive responsible for the strategies, policies, standards and management of security for IT software, hardware, and data across the enterprise
COMPTIA Network +, Security +, C, Python, C+
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Cybersecurity Analyst / Security Administrator
A cybersecurity analyst detects cyberthreats and then implements changes to protect an organizations computing hardware, software, and data
COMPTIA Network +, Security +, C, Python, C+ , COMPTIA CySA+, Project +, CISM, Pentest+, CEH,, ISACA,(SANS, GIAC), CISCO (CCT, CCNA, CCHE) (ISC)2 - CAP, ISACA - CSIM
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Cybersecurity Architect
A security architect creates complex security structures to make sure the company’s computer systems remain safe. It’s a senior-level position generally, leading a team of security experts. 
COMPTIA Network +, Security +, C, Python, C+ PLUS COMPTIA CySA+, Project +, CISM, Pentest+, CEH,, ISACA,(SANS, GIAC), CISCO (CCT, CCNA, CCHE)
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Cybersecurity Engineer
Cybersecurity engineers work to build and maintain a system that’s safe against cyberattacks. 
COMPTIA Network +, Security +, C, Python, C+ , COMPTIA CySA+, Project +, CISM, Pentest+, CEH,, ISACA,(SANS, GIAC), CISCO (CCT, CCNA, CCHE) PLUS COMPTIA CASP+ ISC2 CISSP
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Cybersecurity Manager
A Cybersecurity Manager is in charge of security systems, such as firewalls, data protection controls, patching, encryption, vulnerability scanning, penetration testing, and so on to assure proper deployment, configuration, and functioning of these systems.
COMPTIA Network +, Security +, C, Python, C+ PLUS COMPTIA CySA+, Project +, CISM, Pentest+, CEH,, ISACA,(SANS, GIAC), CISCO (CCT, CCNA, CCHE)
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Forensics Analyst
A Forensics Analyst generally determines how and where IT security breaches happened to inform designers how to avoid them in the first place
COMPTIA Network +, Security +, C, Python, C+
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Jr. Cybersecurity Analyst / Security Administrator
A junior cybersecurity analyst monitors computer networks and information to detect cyberthreats and may assist in implementing remediation measures.
COMPTIA Network +, Security +, C, Python, C+ PLUS COMPTIA CySA+, Project +, CISM, Pentest+, CEH,, ISACA,(SANS, GIAC), CISCO (CCT, CCNA, CCHE) (ISC)2 - CAP and ISACA - CISA
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Risk / Compliance Analyst aka Ethical Hacker
A Risk / Compliance Analyst (AkA Ethical Hacker) uses various techniques to breach IT networks and components to identify risks that need to be corrected
COMPTIA Network +, Security +, C, Python, C+ PLUS COMPTIA CySA+, Project +, CISM, Pentest+, CEH,, ISACA,(SANS, GIAC), CISCO (CCT, CCNA, CCHE)
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Sr. Cybersecurity Analyst
A senior cybersecurity analyst assesses and implements controls to protect computer hardware, software and data networks from cyberthreats..

Data Management

COMPTIA ITF+, SAS, Oracle, IBM, MS(MTA, MSCE, MSCA), See link for certifications that will accelerate advancement https://www.cio.com/article/3387378/11-business-intelligence-certifications-to-advance-your-bi-career.html#:~:text=Top%208%20business%20intelligence%20certifications%201%20Certified%20Business,Certified%3A%20Data%20Analyst%20Associate.%20...%20More%20items...%20
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Business Intelligence Analyst
A Business Intelligence Analyst sources data and prepares report and analyses for business users
CDMP, CCDO, CDGP, CIMP
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities.
Chief Data Officer
The senior executive responsible for the strategies, policies, standards and management of data across the enterprise
COMPTIA ITF+, SAS, Oracle, IBM, MS(MTA, MSCE, MSCA), Range of Data Science Certifications are available - see https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/data-science-certifications
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Data Scientist
A Data Scientist uses data to create models that can be used to predict results of one or more actions to help make decisions - often called using artifical intelligence
CCNA, CNNP, MSCE, MSCA, COMPTIA Network + Various database professional certifications and ETL certifications are available and accelerate progress - see https://www.edureka.co/data-warehousing-and-etl-certification-courses
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Data Warehouse Engineer
A data warehouse engineer models, designs and implements corporate data in an efficient manner to make transactional and historical data available for reporting and analytics
TOGAF, COMPTIA ITF+, SAS, Oracle, IBM, MS(MTA, MSCE, MSCA), -additional certifications in database design, ETL and data integration tools are a plus
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Database Architect
A Database Architect designs strategies and sets standards for enterprise databases, data warehouse systems, and multidimensional networks
COMPTIA ITF+, SAS, Oracle
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Database Analyst / Administrator
A database administrator manages all aspects of an organized database environment
BAC, ECBA/CCBA, CBAP, AAC, PBA, COMPTIA ITF+,
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Domain Specialist
A Domain Specialist brings funcitonal and data knowledge about one or more specific business processes to a team developing IT based solutions
CBIP, CAP, CISA,
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities
Head of Business Intelligence / Analytics
Leads the Data Analysis and Analytics team that provides information and insights to the enterprise
CDMP, CIP, CDGP, CISSP
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Head of Data Management
Leads the team of people who organize, store, manage, secure, and make available the enterprises data
CAP, CDS, Google Cloud, CMLS, CISSP, Microsoft Certified: Azure AI Engineer Associate
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Head of Data Science
Leads the Data Analysis and Analytics team that uses data, analytical, and data science tools to develop models that help predict results of decisions to most effectively operate the business
COMPTIA ITF+, SAS, Oracle, IBM, MS(MTA, MSCE, MSCA), See link for certifications that will accelerate advancement https://www.cio.com/article/3387378/11-business-intelligence-certifications-to-advance-your-bi-career.html#:~:text=Top%208%20business%20intelligence%20certifications%201%20Certified%20Business,Certified%3A%20Data%20Analyst%20Associate.%20...%20More%20items...%20
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Sr. / Business Intelligence & Data Analyst
A Senior Business Intelligence Analyst has several yeasr experience sourcing data and preparing complex reports and analyses for business users
COMPTIA ITF+, SAS, Oracle, IBM, MS(MTA, MSCE, MSCA), Range of Data Science Certifications are available - see https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/data-science-certifications
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Sr. Data Scientist
A Sr. Data Scientist uses data to create models that can be used to predict results of one or more actions to help make decisions - often called using artifical intelligence. A Senior Data Scientist has more experience with more complex data and models
CCNA, CNNP, SCE, MSCA, COMPTIA Network + Various database professional certifications and ETL certifications are available and accelerate progress - see https://www.edureka.co/data-warehousing-and-etl-certification-courses
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Sr. Data Warehouse Engineer
A senior data warehouse engineer has several years experience modeling, designing and implementing corporate data in an efficient manner to make transactional and historical data available for reporting and analytics
COMPTIA ITF+, SAS, Oracle, IBM, MS(MTA, MSCE, MSCA)
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Sr. Database Administrator
A database administrator manages all aspects of an organized database environment and a senior position has several years of experience and often manages a DBA team

Software Design & Engineering

COMPTIA ITF+, Google Cloud, , AWS, IBM, VMWare, Redhat, Oracle and industry certifications in JavaScript, C#, Python and others
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Jr. Back-End Software Developer
A junior Back-End developer writes simple software for business process management applications
COMPTIA ITF+, Google Cloud, , AWS, IBM, VMWare, Redhat, Oracle and industry certifications in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, C#, Python, among others
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Jr. Front-End Software Developer
A Junior Front-End developer writes simple software for websites, web applications and other user facing applications
Google Cloud, CFWD, Oracle Certified, W3Cx, CWAD, CNJD
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Jr. Full Stack Developer
A junior full-stack developer builds and tests simple programs that support both user facing and back end operational business functions
COMPTIA ITF+, Google Cloud,
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Jr. IoT Software Developer
A junior IoT developer writes simple software from specifications for IoT devices
COMPTIA ITF+, Google Cloud, , AWS, IBM, VMWare, Redhat, Oracle and industry certifications in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, C#, Python, among others
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Jr. Mobile Software Developer
A junior Mobile developer writes simple software from specifications for mobile devices
COMPTIA ITF+, Google Cloud, Preferred - AWS, IBM, VMWare, Redhat, Oracle and industry certifications in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, C#, Python, among others
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Lead Software Developer
A Lead Software Developer generally leads a team of software developers, often across different applications and devices
CAPM, CSM, PMP, PMI-ACP, MSCE, ITIL, COMPTIA Project +, among others
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Programming / Software Development Manager
A Programming / Software Development Manager leads a team of developers to assure the resulting software is completed on-time, on-budget, and with high-quality
APM (Entry Level - Associate in Project Management) , Certified Associate in Project Management(CAPM), , COMPTIA Project +, Add - Master Project Manager (MPM), Certified Project Director (CDP)
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Project Manager
A Project Manager is responsible for the overall planning, execution, and delivery of IT projects
COMPTIA ITF+, Google Cloud, , AWS, IBM, VMWare, Redhat, Oracle
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Software Quality Assurance Specialist / Software Tester
A Software Quality Assurance Specialist / Software Tester creates use case tests and then tests code to assure quality operation before implementation
COMPTIA ITF+, Google Cloud, , AWS, IBM, VMWare, Redhat, Oracle and industry certifications in JavaScript, C#, Python and others
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Sr. Back-End Software Developer
A senior Back-End developer writes complex software for business process management applications
COMPTIA ITF+, Google Cloud, , AWS, IBM, VMWare, Redhat, Oracle and industry certifications in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, C#, Python, among others
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Sr. Front-End Software Developer
A senior Front-End developer writes complex software for websites, web applications and other user facing applications
Google Cloud, CFWD, Oracle Certified, W3Cx, CWAD, CNJD
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Sr. Full Stack Developer
A senior full-stack developer builds and tests complex programs that support both user facing and back end operational business functions
COMPTIA ITF+, Google Cloud, Preferred - AWS, IBM, VMWare, Redhat, Oracle and industry certifications in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, C#, Python, among others
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Sr. IoT Software Developer
A senior IoT developer writes complex software from specifications for IoT devices
COMPTIA ITF+, Google Cloud, , AWS, IBM, VMWare, Redhat, Oracle and industry certifications in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, C#, Python, among others
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Sr. Mobile Software Developer
A senior Mobile developer writes complex software from specifications for mobile devices
There are a variety of credentials available to demonstrate proficiency in UI/UX tools, techniques and practices. Attention should be paid to the following areas to gain certification: Human-Computer Interaction Visualization Design Thinking Augmented / Virtual Reality HTML / CSS coding
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
User Experience Designer / Leader
A User Experience Designer/Leader designs the look and feel of user facing software applications to maximize utility and ease of use

Solution Strategy, Design & Delivery

Certifications are not necessarily expected beyond the educational and experience requirements that provide a path to success though there are several certifications that can accelerate performance and career progress - see https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/business-analyst-certifications-for-beginners
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Business Systems Analyst
A Business Systems Analyst analyzes business processes and workflows to define and design better ways to operate and how information technology can enable those improvements
APM (Entry Level - Associate in Project Management) , Certified Associate in Project Management(CAPM), Certified Scrum Master (CSM), COMPTIA Project +, Add - Master Project Manager (MPM), Certified Project Director (CDP)
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
DevOps Lead / Project Manager / Scrum Master
Lead IT projects of various kinds leveraging traditional Projcet Management techniques, as well as newer agile, DevOps, Scrum techniques to deliver solutions and improvements on-time, on-budget and with expected results.
AWS Certified Solution Architect Axelos ITIL Master certification CISSP Information Systems Security Architecture Professional (CISSIP-ISSAP) Dell EMC Proven Professional Cloud architect training and certification EC Council Certified Network Defense Architect (CNDA) Google Professional Cloud Architect Professional Cloud Solutions Architect Certification Red Hat Certified Architect Salesforce Certified Technical Architect (CTA) The Open Group TOGAF 9 Certification The Open Group Certified Architect (Open CA) Virtualization Council Master Infrastructure Architect certification
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Enterprise Solution Architect
An Enterprise Solution Architect is generally responsible for identifying, evaluating and selecting a range of software, hardware and devices to meet both strategic and detailed business needs.
Certifications are not necessarily expected beyond the educational and experience requirements that provide a path to success though Certified Management Consultant (CMC), Project Management (PMP) certifications can be helpful. Most important are credentials with industry solutions such as SAP, Oracle, IBM, Salesforce, Infor, and others
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Solutions Consultant
A Solutions Consultant brings knowledge to IT strategy and development projects around business processes and available industry solutions from vendors and when to build new solutions
Certifications are not necessarily expected beyond the educational and experience requirements that provide a path to success though there are several certifications that can accelerate performance and career progress - see https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/business-analyst-certifications-for-beginners
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Sr. Business Systems Analyst
A Business Systems Analyst anlyzes business processes and workflows to define and design better ways to operate and how information technology can enable those improvements - A senior has more experience with more complex processes and solutions
Training specialists will be better prepared with various IT certifications such as COMPTIA ITF+, CAPM, PMP and COMPTIA CTT+ ;and other training certifications from sources such as Association for Training Development certifications
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
Training Specialist
A training specialist helps IT projects, staff and users learn how to use systems and tools

IT Leadership & Management

CGEIT, CITL., CISSP, CISM, CISA
Public and private 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities Bootcamps & technical Centers Certification entities such as COMPTIA, Microsoft, Google, ITIL
CIO/CTO/VP IT/Director IT
The most senior executive responsible for the strategies, policies, standards and management of all IT across the enterprise

What IT Jobs are in demand here in Northeast Ohio

Every company is a technology company, no matter what product or service it provides. The companies that embrace this fact are the ones that shape our world. (Source: Forbes Magazine)

IT Professionals are in Demand

There are lots of chances to get a job in the exciting and expanding world of Information Technology (IT). Because lots of people need tech skills, and businesses are relying more on technology, IT jobs pay really well and offer great chances to move up in your career. It’s a field with a lot of potential to earn good money and grow professionally!

Here are some stats to show how many jobs will be available and how the IT industry is going to grow.

  • In Northeast Ohio, From 2016 – 2019, the IT workforce grew 18% from approximately 39,500 to nearly 47,000 people.IT demand over the past 5 years averaged approximately 14,000 open positions, of which about 7,000 are for entry-level IT positions.
  • The tech industry continues to grow by leaps and bounds. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects an 11% growth rate from 2019 to 2029, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.*
  • The number of software developer jobs, currently at over 1.4 million, is expected to grow by 22%*
  • There are over 5,000 job postings for Software Developers each year. This represents 20% to 25% of all demand for IT professionals with median salaries from $57,000 to over $125,000, depending on the type of software being developed.
  • Software developer opportunities are expected to continue to grow in Northeast Ohio by 10% through 2024.

IT Jobs posted 8/22 through 8/23 for Cleveland/Elyria area

Occupation Active Jobs
Computer User Support Specialist 2,913
Network & Computer Systems Administrators 1,329
Computer Systems Engineers/Architects 1,055
Computer Systems Analysts 761
Information Technology Project Managers 554
Information Security Analysts 357
Health Informatics Specialists 53
Geographic Information Systems Technologists and Technicians 37
Computer Programmers 32
Document Management Specialists 20
Computer Network Architects 17
Penetration Testers 11
Telecommunications Engineering Specialists 5
Web Administrators 5
Computer Network Support Specialists 4
Blockchain Engineers 4
Computer Occupations, All Other 2
Information Security Engineers 2
Digital Forensics Analysts 1

Will there be entry-level IT jobs in the future?

Yes, there is high demand for entry-level IT workers.  In many cases, you can start working in IT right out of high school.

  • Entry Level positions in NEO Represent 1/3 of all IT job postings
  • For positions that “prefer” 2-year degrees or High School diplomas with relevant credentials –   Nearly 1/2 represent entry-level opportunities including,
      • Computer Programmers​
      • Network and Computer Systems Administrators​
      • Computer Network Support Specialists​
      • Computer User Support Specialists​
      • Web Administrators​
      • UI/UX Designers
  • Source: TeamNEO Fall 2022

Do IT jobs pay well?

Yes, IT jobs provide great earning potential.  Starting salaries range from $38,000 to $83,000.

Occupation Mean Median Entry Level Experienced
Computer Network Architects $124,100 $125,200 $83,100 $144,700
Information Security Analysts $107,500 $107,000 $69,800 $126,300
Computer Systems Analysts $103,900 $104,100 $71,800 $119.900
Computer Occupations, All Other $102,200 $100,500 $62,600 $121,900
Network and Computer Systems Administrators $98,500 $93,600 $66,200 $114,700
Computer Programmers $88,200 $89,300 $52,700 $106,000
Computer Network Support Specialists $73,900 $68,100 $47,200 $87,300
Computer User Support Specialists $57,400 $53,100 $38,600 $66,700

And the more education and experience–the more you get paid!

Can I start my IT Career in High School?

Yes, there are lots of ways to get IT experience and credentials while you are still in high school.

  • Internships
      • Internships offer a chance to apply what you have been studying to a professional setting. Through an internship, you can learn how a company works, get your foot in the door, showcase your talent and gain inside experience that places you high on the candidate list. Many companies fill entry-level jobs with successful interns.
  • Pre-Apprenticeships

Certifications

CISCO

CompTIA

GIAC

Google Analytics

Google Certiifications

IBM

Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA)

International Information Security Certification Consortium (ISC)2

International Institute of Business Analysts

Microsoft

Oracle

Project Management Institute

RedHat

SANS

SAP

SAS

SPSS

The Open Group – TOGAF

udemy.com

VMWare

Can I start my IT Career after High School?

Yes, there are many ways to get credentials, experience and degrees to begin your IT career.

After High School

Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships allow you to earn a paycheck while you learn a skill or trade. During an apprenticeship, an expert worker will train you on-the-job. You will also participate in classroom instruction that pertains to your career. Once you complete the program, you will receive a nationally recognized certificate.

Co-ops

Co-ops (Cooperative Education) combine classroom coursework with full-time paid employment so you can gain relevant work experience. You will earn school credit at the end of a successful co-op, which will be part of your overall degree or certificate program. With a positive work experience, you can become a strong candidate for hire.

College Opportunities

Cleveland State University

2121 Euclid Avenue
Cleveland, OH 44115
Degrees:
2 yr 4 yr Certifications Doctorate Masters

Cuyahoga Community College

Metropolitan Campus

2900 Community College Ave.
Cleveland, OH 44115
Degrees:
2 yr Certifications

Cuyahoga Community College

Eastern Campus

4250 Richmond Road
Highland Hills, OH 44122
Degrees:
2 yr Certifications

Cuyahoga Community College

Western Campus

11000 W. Pleasant Valley Road
Parma, OH 44130
Degrees:
2 yr Certifications

Cuyahoga Community College

Westshore Campus

31001 Clemens Road
Westlake, OH 44115
Degrees:
2 yr Certifications

Lakeland Community College

7700 Clocktower Drive
Kirtland, OH 44094
Degrees:
2 yr Certifications

Lakewood University

2231 North Taylor Road
Cleveland Heights, OH 44112
Degrees:
2 yr 4 yr

Case Western Reserve University

10900 Euclid Ave.
Cleveland, OH 44106
Degrees:
4 yr Doctorate Masters

Baldwin Wallace University

275 Eastland Road
Berea, OH 44017
Degrees:
4 yr Masters

Notre Dame College

4545 College Road
South Euclid, OH 44121
Degrees:
4 yr Masters

Lorain County Community College

1005 N Abbe Road
Elyria, OH 44035
Degrees:
2 yr 4 yr Certifications

Lake Erie College

391 W Washington St
Painesville, OH 44077
Degrees:
4 yr

Bryant & Stratton College

Solon Campus

33001 Solon Road
Solon, OH 44139
Degrees:
2 yr 4 yr Certifications

Bryant & Stratton College

Parma Campus

12955 Snow Road
Parma, OH 44130
Degrees:
2 yr 4 yr Certifications

Kent State University

14111 Claridon-Troy Road
Burton, OH 44021
Degrees:
2 yr 4 yr Certifications

John Carroll University

1 John Carroll Boulevard
University Heights, OH 44118
Degrees:
4 yr

Military

U.S. Navy

U.S. Marine Corps

U.S. Coast Guard

U.S. Army

U.S. Air Force

Bootcamps

Urban City Codes 

Urban City Codes provides culturally focused community-based learning solutions that empower under-represented, under-resourced individuals, groups, and businesses to develop and be competitive in a technology-driven economy. 

3096 Mayfield Rd.
Cleveland Heights, OH 44118

We Can Code It 

We Can Code IT is committed to providing diverse students the most advanced software development instruction and job support leading you to a new career defined by you in software […]

5500 S Marginal Road
Cleveland, OH 44103

Tri-C Cleveland Codes 

Cleveland Codes is a full time, 16-week IT Fast Track Program. This fully immersive approach to learning, provides students with the skills necessary to pursue a career in web application […]

3409 Woodland Ave
Cleveland, OH 44115

Tech Elevator

Tech Elevator coding bootcamp students learn full-stack development through high-quality instruction, an industry-relevant curriculum, and career coaching that drives our top-ranked job placement results. 

7100 Euclid Ave #140
Cleveland, OH 44103

 

What are the IT Opportunities in Northeast Ohio?

  • Work, Earn and Live in NEO
    • While software development, network engineering, and computer user support roles continue to dominate demand for skills, IT is ever-changing and creating new roles. For example, over the past few years, Cybersecurity Specialists, Artificial Intelligence Engineers, and Data Scientists have become the top emerging IT careers in Northeast Ohio. Source: Team NEO Aligning Opportunities in Northeast Ohio Report
      • TEAM NEO/Talent Alliance

Who’s hiring IT in NEO?

Here are some of the companies in Northeast Ohio that regularly hire IT professionals

Companies

Windstream​

Westfield Insurance

University Hospitals​

Steris Corporation

Signet Jewelers

Sherwin Williams​

Rockwell Automation​

Quest Diagnostics​

Progressive​

Precision Systems Design​

PNC

Park Place Technologies

Nestle

MRI International​

Medical Mutual of Ohio​

Main Sail​

Lubrizol

Lincoln Electric​

Key Bank​

Joann

JM Smucker Company

Hyland Software

Goodyear

First Energy

Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland

Elevance Health​

Eaton Corporation

Deloitte

CTG​

Cognizant

Cleveland Clinic​

CGI​

Cerner​

Case Western Reserve University​

ASGN​

Applied Industrial Technologies

AmTrust Financial Services

American Greetings​

Akron Children’s Hospital

Accenture

Where can I research IT jobs?

Right here on our website

Where can I find an IT job, internship, or apprenticeship?

You can search for employment, internships and apprenticeship opportunities here.