Information technology (I.T.) is a quickly growing field, and professionals who have the career skills to both manage technology and people are most likely to have an advantage in the workforce. An I.T. manager is in a supervisory position and oversees both the projects needed to make computer systems work, and the professionals who work on these systems. If you have experience with computers and business, a next step to improve your skills might be to retrain through online I.T. manager training courses.
The Big Picture--Career Skills for I.T. Managers
I.T. managers see the big picture when it comes to technology systems. They oversee the computer programmers, system analysts, and all the other professionals who work on these systems. I.T. Managers understand software, hardware, and communicating with other I.T. professionals.
Careers in I.T. management should continue to flourish in an increasingly technologically-oriented economy. Computers are becoming essential to business so professionals who can make sure the technological aspects of a business run smoothly are more critical than ever. For some companies, when a server goes down, everything grinds to halt and time and money is lost.
Are you a logical, analytical thinker? Do you learn quickly and enjoy the changing world of computer technology? Are you good with people? To improve your skills and enter this field, consider retraining with campus-based classes or online I.T. manager training courses.
Education and Career Advice for Future I.T. Managers
An I.T. manager is expected to be a leader in a company or organization. To be effective in this role, consider training in both technology and management. A bachelor's is a minimum requirement for this field. Online I.T. management courses are one way to get the appropriate education in management, advanced technology subjects, and business that you need. Of course, work experience in both computers and management will always be a plus when entering this field.
Career Outlook
- Projected job growth during the 2012-2022 decade: 15 percent; faster than average
- Management specialty with strongest upside: Security
- Total number of computer and information systems managers employed in 2012: 332,700
- Projected number of IT managers by 2022: 383,600
- Computer managers working in the service-providing sector--computer systems design: 19 percent
- Current demand specializations for IT professionals: Web applications and Internet-based technologies
- Qualifying degrees for IT positions: Four-year degrees for entry level jobs, graduate business degree with a technology focus for management roles.
- Skills for top job opportunities: Technology, business, and communication skills
- Certifications required for ongoing employment: Hardware and software product-specific certifications as determined by employer.
- Median Annual Salary: In May 2013, the computer and information technology specialists earned a median annual salary of $132,570 with top 10% making more than $156,560.
- Top Paying States: California, New York, Delaware, New Jersey, Virginia.
- States with Highest Employment: California, New York, Texas, Virginia, Massachusetts
Sources:
Bureau of Labor Statistics, Computer and Information Systems Managers
Bureau of Labor Statistics, Computer and Information Systems Managers, May 2013 Wages