Information Technology

The Information Technology cluster is all about using computers and technology to solve problems and make life easier for everyone. This includes everything from fixing broken computers to creating the apps on your phone to protecting important information from hackers.

People in this field work in many different places. Some work in offices helping employees when their computers break. Others create video games or design websites. Some build the networks that let us use the internet. Others protect companies from cyber attacks or create the software that runs everything from your smartphone to NASA's rockets.

Why This Field Is Growing:

Every business needs computers and technology to operate
More people are working from home and need tech support
New devices like smart watches and virtual reality are being invented constantly
Cybersecurity threats mean companies need more protection
Artificial intelligence and robotics are creating entirely new types of jobs

Cool Technology in Information Technology:

Artificial intelligence that can write, draw, and even have conversations
Virtual reality headsets that let you walk around in digital worlds
Robots that can perform surgery or explore dangerous places
Quantum computers that can solve problems regular computers can't handle
3D printers that can create everything from toys to human organs
Smart home devices that respond to voice commands
Drones that can deliver packages or take photos
Blockchain technology that keeps digital money and data secure

In Virginia alone, this field employs over 300,000 people! Jobs in cybersecurity, software development, and data analysis are expected to grow 30% faster than most other careers in the coming years.

Technology

Technology Support Specialist

Software Developer

What They Do: Software developers are like digital architects who design and build the apps, games, and programs we use every day. They write code (a computer language) to tell computers exactly what to do.

Daily Tasks:

Write code in different programming languages, like Python or Java
Test software to find and fix bugs (problems in the code)
Meet with teams to plan new features for apps or programs
Update existing software to make it work better
Research new technologies and programming techniques
Work with designers to make software look good and easy to use
Document their work so other programmers can understand it

What's Cool About This Job: You get to create things that millions of people might use! You could build the next viral app or help create software that saves lives in hospitals.

Cybersecurity Specialist

What They Do: Cybersecurity specialists are like digital detectives and bodyguards who protect computers and information from hackers and cybercriminals. They're the heroes who keep our personal information safe online.

Daily Tasks:

Monitor computer networks for suspicious activity
Install security software to protect against viruses and hackers
Investigate cyber attacks and figure out how they happened
Teach employees how to stay safe online
Test company systems to find weaknesses before hackers do
Create plans for what to do if a cyber attack happens
Stay updated on new types of cyber threats

What's Cool About This Job: You get to be a real-life cyber hero protecting people from digital villains! Plus, it's like solving mysteries and playing detective every day.

Help Desk Technician

What They Do: Help desk technicians are like tech doctors who diagnose and fix computer problems. When someone's computer won't work or they can't access their email, help desk techs save the day!

Daily Tasks:

Answer phone calls and emails from people who need tech help
Walk people through solutions step-by-step over the phone
Fix broken computers, printers, and other equipment
Install new software and teach people how to use it
Keep track of common problems and their solutions
Set up new computers and accounts for employees
Work with other IT professionals to solve bigger problems

What's Cool About This Job: You get to be the person who saves people's day when technology breaks down. Every problem you solve helps someone get back to work or school!

Start in Middle School:

Take computer science and math classes
Join coding clubs or robotics teams
Learn basic programming languages like Scratch or Python
Try the Virginia Education Wizard career assessment

Continue in High School:

Join TSA (Technology Student Association) or a computer science club
Take computer science, networking, or cybersecurity CTE courses
Get part-time jobs fixing computers or teaching older adults about technology
Take dual enrollment classes in computer science or information technology
Participate in coding competitions and hackathons
Learn programming languages like Java, C++, or JavaScript
Get certifications in areas like Microsoft Office or basic networking
Job shadow IT professionals in different specialties
Volunteer to help with school technology or websites
Visit Virginia's technology programs at Virginia Tech or VCU
Build a computer or create a simple website

Technical Training (1-2 years):

Jobs: Help Desk Technicians, PC Support Specialists, Computer Repair Technicians
Average Salary: $45,000 - $56,000

Community College (2 years):

Jobs: Network Technicians, Web Developers, Database Administrators, IT Support Specialists
Average Salary: $65,000 - $80,000

Four-Year College:

Jobs: Software Developers, Cybersecurity Analysts, Systems Administrators, Data Scientists
Average Salary: $85,000 - $120,000

Advanced Degrees:

Jobs: Computer Research Scientists, IT Directors, Senior Software Engineers, Chief Information Officers
Average Salary: $120,000 - $200,000+

Try It Out!

Build a simple website using free online tools
Learn basic coding through free websites like Code.org or Scratch
Shadow IT professionals at local businesses or schools
Join your school's computer club or start one
Fix computers for family and friends
Take apart an old computer (with permission) to see how it works
Create a simple app or game
Help set up technology for school events
Learn about online safety and teach others

Fun Fact: Did you know that Virginia is home to many major technology companies? Amazon has its second headquarters in Northern Virginia. Virginia is also where the internet was first created - the very first email was sent from a computer in Virginia in 1971!