Unit 3 - Careers in Computing.pptx

CHAPTER 3: CAREERS IN COMPUTING Prepared by: John Cairo Minerva, WVSU Faculty  Course Overview: Overview Skills Needed to Succeed Software Development IT Infrastructure in IT IT Support Soft Skills Data Management...

CHAPTER 3: CAREERS IN COMPUTING Prepared by: John Cairo Minerva, WVSU Faculty  Course Overview: Overview Skills Needed to Succeed Software Development IT Infrastructure in IT IT Support Soft Skills Data Management Organizational and Project Cybersecurity Management Skills Computer Forensics Basic Computer Skills Internet Infrastructure Familiarity with Office Tools Research and Web Skills Development Wi-Fi Access Careers Supporting IT Collaboration Skills  Learning Objectives: 1. Explored various career paths within the computing industry. 2. Identified essential skills required for success in computing careers. 3. Developed an understanding of the role of soft skills in the workplace. 4. Evaluated personal interests and strengths to identify potential career paths. The quality, relevance, and impact of the products and services output by the technology sector can only be improved by having the people who are building them be demographically representative of the people who are using them. —Tracy Chou, software engineer at Pinterest  I. Overview Information technology now offers a range of attractive career options for workers with a wide variety of interests, skill levels, and career ambitions.  Software Development Software developers are the builders of the IT world, writing code and fixing errors in code (called debugging) to either create components for other software developers or applications for end users. There is a wide range of software developer roles, from simple to complex. Their roles vary from simple tasks like creating expense reports to complex ones like automating robots for drug development. Roles in Software Development  Software Development Application development: these developers create user-facing applications that interact with people, take their input, generate reports, and help them make decisions. You can specialize as a front-end developer (creating user interfaces) or a back-end developer (linking apps to databases), or do both to expand job opportunities. Careers in Applications Development  1. Software Developer / Engineer Software developers create software to meet user needs by employing diagrams and models, writing code, and ensuring overall functionality. These professionals design, build, and implement computer programs and applications. https://www.computerscience.org/careers/software-developer/  2. Mobile App Developer Mobile app developers specialize in creating software for smartphones and tablets. They stay updated on the latest mobile technologies and prioritize optimization for performance, battery life, network usage, and memory management. Due to the variety of mobile devices, they must be skilled in handling device fragmentation and work closely with designers to deliver the best possible user experience. https://www.toptal.com/app/job-description Pokémon Go is a 2016 augmented reality mobile game, part of the Pokémon franchise, developed and published by Niantic in collaboration with Nintendo and The Pokémon Company for iOS and Android devices. https://www.valuecolleges.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/pokemon-pokemon-app-mobile-trends-smartphone.jpeg  3. Web Developer Web developers create and maintain websites, focusing on both the visual design and technical aspects. They ensure websites are visually appealing, perform well, and can handle the expected traffic. Web developers work with various website types, each with specific requirements. For example, gaming websites need to handle advanced graphics, while e-commerce sites require payment processing and inventory management. They tailor website design and applications to meet these specific needs. https://au.hudson.com/employers/recruitment/technology-it/web-developer-job-description/  4. Full Stack Developer A Full Stack Developer, or Full Stack Software Engineer, is a Computer Programmer who uses coding to operate on both front- and back-end systems. Their main duties include creating user interactions on various websites and platforms, writing code optimized for mobile and developing databases and services for functionality. https://www.indeed.com/recruitment/job-description/full-stack-developer  https:// www.indeed.com/ recruitment/job- description/full-stack- developer Full Stack Development encompasses a wide range of technologies, covering front-end, back-end, databases, DevOps practices, and mobile app development. Each area requires familiarity with several specialized tools.  5. UI / UX Designer UI/UX designers are responsible for the design and implementation of all the experiences a user has when interacting with a digital tool, such as a website. The UI/UX designer will work closely with our marketing team and designers to ensure seamless web/mobile design and the successful implementation of UI/UX best practices and principles across all our digital platforms. https://www.betterteam.com/ui-ux-designer-job-description  5. UI / UX Designer UX refers to the overall experience a user has when interacting with a product or service. It encompasses factors such as usability, accessibility, and overall satisfaction. In the image, elements like the clear navigation, intuitive layout, and easy-to-use buttons contribute to a positive UX. UI is the visual representation of a product or service. It includes the design of elements such as buttons, text fields, and icons. In the image, the UI elements are visually appealing and consistent, making the app easy to navigate and use. https://www.betterteam.com/ui-ux-designer-job-description  6. Database Developer A Database Developer, or Database Programmer, is responsible for creating, administering and troubleshooting computer databases that can process large amounts of information and keep it secure. Their duties include using code and web architecture to design data systems, analyze and maintain existing databases and implement new user features. https://www.betterteam.com/ui-ux-designer-job-description  7. Project Manager A project manager is a professional who leads a team through the project life cycle by planning, budgeting, scheduling and tracking a project plan. The project plan thoroughly explains how the project will be executed and includes a budget, timeline, schedule, roles and responsibilities among other things. https://www.projectmanager.com/blog/project-manager-job-description 6. Database Developer https://www.betterteam.com/ui-ux-designer-job-description  Software Development System software development: these developers build the core technologies used in servers to manage databases, email, and business transactions. They also take care of back-end processes like source-code control and network-related issues.  Software Development Mobile application development: these developers build applications for smartphones. This is an exciting field in which developers build applications optimized for small screens and powerful capabilities (e.g., cameras, payments) of smartphones and tablet computers. This field is growing every day as many potential applications are yet to be built.  SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT Embedded developers create software to manage non-PC devices like cars, dishwashers, refrigerators, and Wi-Fi routers. Embedded software is written specifically with a device in mind and controls the overall operation of the device. Embedded software is usually optimized for simple operation, immediate startup, and minimal maintenance. Users typically pay for the software as part of the cost of the product. These examples demonstrate the wide range of devices and systems that rely on embedded software to perform their functions effectively and efficiently. Embedded software is essential in modern technology, from automotive to consumer electronics and industrial automation.  Software Development Software is assisting human work in more and more areas, and the demand for software developers seems never-ending. Writing code and building applications is challenging, and most companies hire software developers who have an engineering or MIS (management information systems) background and know at least a few programming languages, so they can handle a variety of tasks.  IT Infrastructu re All large organizations buy, deploy, and maintain their IT infrastructure, which includes hardware, software, and networking components. All these organizations have an IT Infrastructure group to keep systems up and running and to minimize losses due to unexpected downtime. Some of the typical job roles supporting this field are systems administrators, user managers, network managers, and email administrators. Employees in these roles come from all academic backgrounds, including those with high school diplomas and associates degrees, and college degrees. Typically, industry certification in a specific technology helps with initial entry into the profession.  IT Infrastructu re IT infrastructure including data storage and cloud computing.  IT Support IT support groups provide technical support to resolve issues related to computers, phones, networks, printers, and other devices. Support groups communicate with end users and sometimes act as the interface between users and software developers. Typical job roles in this field are support staff, support engineers, business analysts, and support managers. Employees in these roles also come from all academic backgrounds. Many university students work as IT support staff in the beginning of their careers.  Data Management This group specializes in efficiently storing, structuring, and retrieving data. They design databases to ensure data is accurate and accessible for decision-making and strategic planning. Key roles include database administrators, data architects, modelers, and cloud specialists. With organizations increasingly relying on data for decisions, roles like data engineers and data scientists are emerging. Data management requires both general programming skills and specialized data handling expertise, often using SQL. Employees in this field typically have backgrounds in engineering or management information systems Careers in Data Management  1. Data Architect The data architect is responsible for visualizing and designing an organization's enterprise data management framework. This framework describes the processes used to plan, specify, enable, create, acquire, maintain, use, archive, retrieve, control, and purge data.  1. Data Architect https://www.scylladb.com/wp-content/uploads/data-architect-diagram.png  2. Data Analyst Data analysts provide great value to companies by interpreting various forms of data and presenting it in a useful and easy-to-understand manner. These professionals must be analytically skilled, and their job duties include collecting, interpreting and analyzing data and other analytics in a business setting.  2. Data Analyst https://www.simplilearn.com/ice9/free_resources_article_thumb/Data_Analyst_Job_Description.jpg  3. Data Scientist A Data Scientist is a proficient specialist who applies mathematical, problem-solving, and coding skills to manage big data, extracting valuable insights. They design tailor-made solutions from this data, aiding organizations in achieving their unique objectives and goals.  3. Data Scientist https://cdn.sanity.io/images/oaglaatp/production/5054320a86ddaffb8c9fd9777db8bde51633275d-1200x800.png?w=1200&h=800&auto=format  4. Data Engineer A Data Engineer is a data professional who uses their expertise in data engineering and programming to build systems that collect, manage and convert raw data into usable information for business analysts. 4. Data Engineer https://www.altexsoft.com/media/2020/04/data-engineer-skills.jpg  Cybersecurity Cybersecurity experts keep organizations safe from hackers and malicious users by constantly monitoring threats and taking remedial action. They ensure that all computers and embedded devices in the organization are running the correct versions of software and that unauthorized users cannot access systems. As employees can and often do reveal company secrets and information accidentally, cybersecurity experts must also train employees in security best practices to always keep one step ahead of hackers.  Cybersecurity Cybersecurity roles include end-user training and network monitoring. Employees in these roles share many characteristics with employees in IT infrastructure. A critical difference is that employees in cybersecurity also need to be able to act under pressure when the organization faces an active cybersecurity threat.  Computer Forensics Computer forensics is the collection and preservation of evidence from computers for presentation in courts of law. This field is becoming increasingly important for cops and investigators because computers are used to plan many crimes, for example, to locate targets, plan escape routes and communicate with collaborators. Computer forensic experts recover deleted files and track digital information to figure out how a computer, network, or cell phone was used in a crime.  Computer Forensics With a few keystrokes, they can collect the required proof to connect a criminal to a crime. Most police departments hire cybersecurity experts, and many cops take college classes and upskill themselves to become computer forensics experts.  Careers in Cybersecurity  1. Information Security Analyst Information security analysts typically do the following: monitor their organization's networks for security breaches and investigate when one occurs. Use and maintain software, such as firewalls and data encryption programs, to protect sensitive information. Check for vulnerabilities in computer and network systems.  2. Penetration Tester Penetration testers are cybersecurity professionals who examine computer systems, networks, and applications for vulnerabilities and weaknesses that attackers might exploit. During penetration testing, various techniques are used to mimic real-world attacks and exploit vulnerabilities, such as social engineering, network scanning, and vulnerability scanning. A report is then provided to the organization’s IT and security teams with recommendations for addressing the vulnerabilities and improving security measures.  Internet Infrastructure The increase in the number of Internet users and embedded devices presents many challenges and opportunities. In 1980 the Internet barely existed and had only about 200 users.  Internet Infrastructure It is expected that there will be 30 billion devices and sensors capable of talking to each other and accomplishing tasks automatically. This network of Internet-connected devices is called the Internet of Things (IoT). IoT will require a reliable Internet connection and hardware to remain alert and functioning. This vast network will also require IoT infrastructure technologists, who are expected to be in high demand. These employees are also expected to share many characteristics with cybersecurity and IT infrastructure employees.  Research and Development As computing and networking become increasingly integrated with human life, research and development will be needed to make IT simpler to use, economical to own, secure to operate, and efficient in using resources. All this will require research and development in all areas related to IT, including hardware, software, algorithms, development practices, and user interactivity. While the number of jobs in R&D is not likely to be large, they will be significant drivers of IT growth and can be exciting places to work for people who enjoy exploration and experimentation.  Careers Supporting IT Other than the specific job roles listed above, most organizations also have other roles in IT including business analysts, user-interface designers, architects, engineering managers, quality assurance engineers, testers, and many other roles supporting the core team of developers. All these are great career options.  Careers Supporting IT Even if you do not have any interest in IT and do not wish to work in an IT company, you will need some level of familiarity with technology in any job in the modern age. For example, teachers are expected to know how to use email to communicate with parents, schedule meetings using online calendars, store data about students in Excel, share teaching materials using Google Cloud, and use web conferencing technologies to help students.  II. Skills Needed in IT The skills needed to succeed in IT are quite like the skills needed to succeed in any modern high performing team or organization. A few basic computer skills and awareness of common tools are expected. We broadly divide the IT skills required in the modern workplace into these five categories: · Soft skills · Organizational and project management skills · Basic computer skills · Familiarity with office tools · Web and collaboration skills  Soft Skills Soft skills, including communication, empathy, time management, and respect, are essential for working effectively with others. While technical skills are crucial early in a career, soft skills become increasingly important as one progresses and takes on leadership roles, eventually surpassing technical expertise in importance. Mastery of soft skills, such as giving and receiving constructive feedback and managing emotions, leads to a positive and productive work environment and is valuable in all areas  Organizational and Project Management Skills Modern jobs require strong organizational and project management skills to handle complexity and shifting goals. Effective coordination with teams, vendors, and customers is key to problem-solving. Tasks include gathering requirements, breaking them down, and creating test cases. For example, building a gaming PC involves managing details like budget, CPU type, and storage. Tools like Excel help track tasks, timelines, and communication.  Basic Computer Skills On your first day at a modern workplace, you'll typically receive a computer for daily tasks. You should know how to use it, connect to the network, and manage software. Familiarity with peripherals like monitors and printers is essential, as well as organizing files and scheduling meetings. IT support is available for setup and technical help.  Familiarity With Office Tools Your office computer will most likely come equipped with some common office software like Microsoft Office, G Suite, and Outlook. You will use these tools to create documents, spreadsheets, and presentations, and to send and receive emails. Here’s a list of common office tools you should know how and when to use.  Familiarity With Office Tools Product Purpose Microsoft Word and Google Write letters and create invoices, documentation, and Docs job offers. Microsoft Excel and Google Store data in rows and columns to record sales, do Sheets calculations, summarize information, and create reports and invoices. PowerPoint and Google Slides Create presentations for colleagues, managers, and customers. Outlook and Gmail Send and receive emails and manage meetings.  Web Skills Most jobs will expect you to be proficient in using the web to do your daily tasks. For example, you may have to use Google Maps to find directions to the nearest warehouse or factory. You may have to log in to a client’s accounts tool to submit your invoices. The starting point for each of these skills is the ability to launch a browser, organize commonly used links as bookmarks, lo into websites, and follow instructions.  Web Skills There are many popular browsers such as Google, Safari, Microsoft Edge, and Firefox.  Wi-Fi Access A web browser is going to be of no use unless your computer is connected to the Internet. Users now generally connect to the Internet using wireless networks, commonly called Wi-Fi. Most libraries, schools, universities, and even coffee shops offer free Wi-Fi. Wi- Fi is a wireless network that allows phones, laptops, and desktops to connect wirelessly to the Internet. Most Wi-Fi networks are password protected and available only to patrons. At any new location, you should be able to talk to the staff and get the Wi-Fi name and password. You will then need to select the correct Wi-Fi name on your computer from a list of available Wi-Fi networks and enter the appropriate credentials to join the network. Clicking the icon brings up a list of available Wi-Fi networks. In this example, the red rectangle highlights the names of the available networks.  Wi-Fi Access Here are three Wi-Fi connection icons found on your computer and their meanings.  Collaboration Skills Most offices rely heavily on collaboration software for employees to connect with each other easily. Chat software like Microsoft Teams or Slack, and web conferencing tools like Zoom, Webex, and Google Hangouts are popular. You are probably already using variations of these in your personal life on personal mobile devices to send messages to and meet with friends. WhatsApp, Discord, and FaceTime are other popular chat/collaboration/web- conferencing tools.  Collaboration Skills In the post-Covid world, technology jobs have become more flexible, allowing for onsite, remote, or hybrid work. Onsite jobs require physical presence, while remote jobs involve virtual work with online meetings and communication through platforms like Teams or Slack. The shift to remote work, which began during the Covid lockdowns, is a new development, and it remains to be seen how it will impact employee productivity and whether remote workers may work longer hours due to the comfort of being at home.  CONCLUSION Students taking this class should consider a career in IT. If you are good academically, particularly in classes like math and science that require structured thinking, we believe you should consider careers in software or hardware development. You might like the work environment and find the work meaningful. Certainly, the jobs in this field offer good salaries and the number of jobs will continue to grow in the foreseeable future. End of Chapter