Information and communication technology
What does it involve?
IT underpins every industry sector, from mining to manufacturing to agriculture, says Associate Professor Robin Doss, Deputy Head of Deakin’s School of Information Technology. ‘IT also presents a wide range of careers from the creative (animation, VR design) to the more technical (networking, application development, security) to the innovative and entrepreneurial. There are great opportunities across the IT industry be it in software engineering or cyber security or analytics,’ Assoc. Prof. Doss says. Seek’s research indicates that the Information and Communication Technology industry has grown by 7.3% since 2013.
One job opportunity in IT is as an IT architect, which involves designing IT systems and services for organisations. ‘At the enterprise level, they drive the infrastructure, software, data and technology alignment with business processes and consumer applications,’ Assoc. Prof. Doss says. IT managers are responsible for implementing and maintaining these systems for organisations. ‘Their role is critical in ensuring that there is no disruption to the business.’
What skills and interests do you need?
IT is best-suited to those who are inherently curious, have an innovative mindset and are open to change. ‘IT is a dynamic and fast-moving field with the technology landscape rapidly evolving,’ Assoc. Prof. Doss explains.
Developing strong technical skills is a must in IT. Assoc. Prof. Doss advises developing both ‘breadth and depth’: ‘A broad understanding of the IT landscape with strong technical skills in at least one IT specialist area and most importantly how IT aligns with business needs and strategies.’
Interpersonal communication skills and the ability to work in diverse team environments are also critical in IT.
What are the pros and cons?
IT is a dynamic and rapidly evolving, innovative industry with great entrepreneurial prospects.
‘IT is core to business/industry so there will always be demand for IT professionals,’ Assoc. Prof. Doss points out. In addition, since IT is a global industry, professionals are sought-after all over the world.
However, working in high-pressure environments can be a downside for IT professionals. ‘IT is now a business risk so there can be serious fallouts and consequences to mistakes,’ Assoc. Prof Doss explains.
Like the sound of working in IT? Check out Deakin’s range of IT courses.