Technical problems usually don’t have a one-size-fits-all solution and that’s especially true for businesses and organizations with large scale software systems. It’s the job of solutions architects to understand user or functionality issues and resolve them by researching, designing and managing the implementation of solutions. Their work ensures that organizations are able to maximize efficiency and achieve their goals.
From traffic lights, to banking, to school work — most aspects of our daily lives rely upon functional software programs. It’s the job of a software quality assurance engineer to ensure that programs operate exactly as intended. They are involved in all aspects of the process – planning, developing and assessing progress. They closely monitor the development phase, conducting multiple testing phases to ensure program performance meets quality specifications and functions as expected.
Just like a theater set designer does for stage production, systems software developers work behind-the-scenes, designing the operating software that enables daily technology production – computers, phones, tablets, routers and more – to work; basically anything that has a chip in it requires a systems software developer to make it operate. Applying the principles of computer science, mathematical analysis and engineering, these professionals research, design, develop and test operating system components, drivers and debuggers to ensure that the daily technology show always go on.
Application software developers are the creative minds behind the apps we use every day, and not just the ones on our smartphones. Word processors, games and even internet browsers are all examples of programs created by application software developers. These professionals analyze the needs of businesses and consumers, then leverage their skills in computer science and software engineering to design, test and develop applications that meet those needs.
Software engineering architects are visionaries and planners, ensuring organizations have a software infrastructure that supports their unique business needs. With an understanding of goals and functional needs, they research and design customized software solutions, oversee development and implementation and ensure on-going functionality. With an eye to the future, they ensure that software systems are able to evolve with changing trends and emerging technologies.
Are you a natural leader who loves technology? Do you thrive helping others reach their goals? If you answered yes to both, you might want to consider a position as a scrum master. They ensure that the daily projects related to software development are completed efficiently and effectively. They work with all areas of a company to create a seamless collaboration with the software development team. They remove obstacles that might delay the team’s goals and help the team align their work to the company objectives.
Are you a great collaborator, coach and communicator? Then you might want to consider being an IT project manager. They are multi-taskers who oversee technology projects from start to finish. They ensure that large-scale projects run smoothly, working cross-functionally to ensure that technologies and supporting tasks are implemented on time, budget and meet goals.
Do you love brands? Are you a creative? Graphic designers create a company’s visual identity using a variety of design mediums. From logos to websites, they confer and consult with their client or team to develop a list of assets needed to perform daily operations. If you’re a collaborative, detail-oriented person, graphic design could be the career for you.
Cybercriminals steal and extort businesses, governments and private individuals out of $600 billion yearly—nearly one percent of the global GDP. As this figure increases, so does the demand for information security analysts. Tasked with preventing security breaches, these professionals are the gatekeepers of computer systems. They develop security plans that fit the needs of a business or organization, and then monitor and respond to potential threats.
When organizations are faced with mission critical IT projects—information technology architects serve as their captain. They are both visionary leaders and tech gurus, shaping information systems around the unique needs and challenges of organizations, testing and modifying their plans as needed. IT architects are leaders and communicators, providing oversight and guidance to achieve system goals.
From plane engines to big data precision agriculture, every large operating system needs an expert “mechanic.” IT configurators work to understand an organization’s goals, identify “gaps” in current software functionality and then implement solutions by configuring and optimizing software programs. They may oversee and manage the configuration of new and existing software, evaluate program versions and ensure that ongoing functionality is consistently improved.
In a world increasingly reliant on technology, IT specialists are in demand at rapid speed. These professionals focus on an organization’s specific needs – whether that be network analysis, system administration, security or web administration. IT specialists are problem solvers who handle issues and complications as they arise and work diligently to prevent them. No matter which hat they wear, IT specialists are analytical thinkers who keep systems running and productivity high.
Studies show that online users only take 50 milliseconds to decide whether they will remain or leave a website. Web designers guide businesses on how to create sites that capitalize on that snap decision. Armed with a combination of graphic design and technical skills, web designers create relevant, functional and engaging online experiences that represent an organization’s brand image and engage its target audience.
Every time a student searches the web, a nurse updates patient records or a farmer checks the weather forecast, they generate data. Data curators use their deep understanding of data applications to help businesses, organizations and IT professionals establish common goals and utilize this data to accomplish them. With more sophisticated ways to leverage the huge amounts of information we create, data curators help us become more efficient, informed and productive.
Consulted your GPS the last time you took a trip? Geospatial analytic scientists use this technology daily to develop advanced methods and products that interpret environmental data like moisture, terrain features and climatic conditions to automate farming processes. This emerging technological approach is the future of modern farming.
The best websites are like sports cars – combining beautiful design with power under the hood. Most of the time, the mechanics who build the engine aren’t the same ones who craft the exterior, but in the world of web development, that’s exactly what full stack developers do. These experts are highly skilled in both front-end and back-end web development – designing the visible parts of websites while simultaneously constructing the behind-the-scenes infrastructure.
Have you ever wondered how Netflix knows what shows “you might also like…”? That’s the work of a data scientist! They transform large amounts of unruly data so that useful information can be extracted. They’re responsible for cleaning data to remove inaccuracies and transforming it so that patterns and valuable insights can be obtained. The resulting information can be used to detect consumer or market trends, patterns and behaviors that will assist agbioscience companies in producing the best consumer products.
Computer users generate massive amounts of highly useful data, but less than one percent is ever analyzed and used. All this information has the potential to revolutionize the way we live our daily lives. It’s up to data processors to source, certify and formulate this data—enabling companies and organizations to harness its power and move innovation forward. With a high attention to detail and focus on communication—data processors are an integral part of any team.
In the past, when businesses and organizations needed to store information, they’d build libraries and archives. Today, we have more information digitally available than ever before, and as the number of internet users and data continues to grow, data architects are in high demand. They create the blueprint for data infrastructure, designing, storing and organizing an organization’s data.
There is a cyber-attack approximately every 40 seconds, nearly all of which target personal identifying information like names, social security numbers, bank account information and passport numbers. Thankfully, cybersecurity engineers are working to keep sensitive and classified information safe from threats by designing, developing and implementing advanced network solutions. As these IT professionals outsmart would-be hackers, they protect the privacy of consumers and the reputations of businesses and organizations
Are you a problem solver and critical thinker? Computer systems analysts maybe a great fit for you. When an organization is ready to improve productivity and efficiency, they often look to a computer systems analyst. They use knowledge of both business and technology to recommend and implement computing solutions that may improve automation, address risk areas and faster processing.
Behind every website, application and piece of software is a computer programmer. All programs need operating instructions, and computer programmers write code that instructs them on what to do. When they aren’t writing code, computer programmers are typically busy maintaining existing programs, or diagnosing and fixing malfunctioning ones.
Computer network support specialists are tech gurus—understanding all the ins and outs of computer systems of all sizes; they focus on their connectivity and security to proactively prevent and fix issues with speed. These specialists are problem solvers—using analytical thinking and customer service skills to overcome any type of technical issue. Do you have a knack for computers and enjoy solving problems for others? A computer network support specialist just may be a great fit.
If computers and devices couldn’t share information—there would be no scrolling social media, buying last minute gifts on Amazon or collaborating remotely on a group project. Computers and devices use network systems to communicate and share information—much like how we do via social media platforms. Computer network architects are critical thinkers who understand business needs then plan and design computer systems to best meet these requirements. Their work enables us to use technology to the fullest potential every day.
Ever peeked inside a laptop or cell phone and wondered how it was created? It was likely the work of a computer hardware engineer. Using design methods, problem-solving and logic skills, computer hardware engineers build computer systems and their related components. From processors to memory devices, 3-D printers to self-driving combines, computer hardware engineers shape the future of computer technology.
Did you know that the first computer took 3 years to build and weighed over 50 tons?! Thanks to the work of computer and information research scientists, computers are now small enough to fit on your wrist, and process data 100,000 times faster. These scientists develop innovative ways to improve the efficiency and functionality of complex computing systems, enabling us to access information more quickly, store data more securely and automate tasks and processes. Their work advances agriculture, healthcare, business and education, helping make all aspects of life more productive.
If you’ve ever asked “Alexa, what’s the weather today?” then you’re familiar with the work of machine engineers. Machine engineers curate and program large data sets that ultimately function as the “brain” of artificial intelligence devices, allowing them to operate independently.
Cloud computing is a necessity in today’s business landscape, and cloud engineers are the experts in all things cloud-based. “Should I take storage from my computer to the cloud?” “Is my data information secure?” These are problems and questions that cloud engineers solve through managing, planning, building and monitoring cloud systems.
It is challenging to imagine our modern world without the world wide web, even though its launch was just 30 short years ago. Since then—we have seen rapid innovation, advancement and global unification unlike any other time in history. This underlying commitment to advancement and pushing past boundaries continues to drive the field of web programming and design today. This constantly evolving industry requires creative thinkers and leaders. Individuals who pursue this degree path will learn to plan, develop, evaluate, implement and maintain functional, secure and user-friendly websites.
This fast-moving, highly specialized field of study focuses on the underlying principles of programming and algorithms. Computer science students then learn how to apply these concepts to design software, systems and networks—while also understanding the ways humans need and want them to behave. Coursework may include programming, hardware and software design, network design, information processing and machine learning.
Artificial intelligence is a field of rapid growth, and intelligent systems engineering programs provide abundant opportunities to shape and impact this emerging technology. Students will learn to collect, interpret and apply data that informs artificial intelligence systems and can expect to gain hands-on experience developing and creating intelligent systems. Areas of concentration may include bioengineering, computer engineering, robotics, cyber systems and nanotechnology.
Information systems and infrastructure provide the technological foundation for our world to continue advancing. The information systems degree path prepares students to serve organizations of all sizes in their pursuit of growth and advancement through expertise in computer systems. Students pursuing this field of study will acquire knowledge and skills related to computer programming, communications, databases, business administration and network design and management.
With the human attention span ranging between only six and eight seconds, making an engaging visual impression is of critical importance to businesses. Graphic technology degrees provide the knowledge and skills and techniques needed to create memorable, impactful visuals. Studies will include design concepts and theories and application methods. Specializations in this field can include animation, spatial graphics, user experience, interactive multimedia development and digital marketing.
No matter the field concentration, how do scientists pursue technological advancements and solutions to complex societal problems? Massive amounts of data. Data science is a multi-faceted field–deriving actionable insights from large data sets—progressing knowledge and various applications forward. Students pursuing this degree path will develop both mathematical and technological skills that allow for data analyzation and visualization in virtually any field.
Do you have a knack for problem solving? You might be a perfect candidate for the cybersecurity degree path—a field of study that focuses on the protection of computers, computer systems and networks from criminal activity and interference. This in-demand field is crucial in protecting corporations and businesses from potential breaches and hackers. Students pursuing this degree will learn about a wide range of topics from data structures to privacy law and will ultimately be trained to investigate and protect digital assets.
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