Entry Level to Executive: Careers in Computer Information Systems
Computer Information Systems personnel manage the computer related activities of a company. Qualified staff is needed to oversee network security, run Internet operations, devise database and network systems that make workers more efficient and productive, develop products or services, aid project management, install hardware and software, and satisfy other information needs. Thus, there is a need for staff on all levels, from support to executive.
Entry level positions include: software developer, systems analyst, systems architect, systems integrator, systems programmer, systems administrator, programmer/analyst, and computer support specialist. With more experience and education, employees can work their way up to a management position. Examples are Management Information Systems (MIS) directors and Local Area Network (LAN) managers. MIS directors plan and organize the work of their support staff, oversee a company’s help desk, suggest equipment upgrades, and secure a company’s information. LAN managers make sure that the systems that connect an organization’s staff works properly. If your goal is to climb the corporate ladder in this capacity, you would be reaching for a Chief Technology Officer or Chief Information Officer position. Information executives strategize on how to use information and technology as a tool to cut costs and bring in revenues.
These days, Computer Information Systems personnel can be found in almost every industry, in every company in the country from the small family-owned business to the large corporation. However, geeks like to be around other geeks. According to the Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics, 23 percent of support staff and almost 90 percent of managers work in computer-related industries. Think Google, Yahoo!, Microsoft, or Intel. Other industries that employ a large percentage of computer information personnel include financial firms, insurance firms and government agencies, i.e. organizations that have a large amount of personal and valuable information that needs to be secured.
To find out more about a professional career in Computer Information Systems, click here.
