Even with the recent decline in technology stocks and the demise of some Internet companies, Information Technology (IT) remains one of the fastest growing fields today, according to the US Department of Labor.
Technology trade magazines such as Information Week and Computerworld have consistently reported (January through March issues respectively) that the economic downturn will probably not impede the number of high-tech projects - or the amount of employees needed to them get them done. However, many companies have indicated that the slowdown may delay previously planned hardware and software purchases. Additionally, while some companies report that they are not currently hiring, most are suggesting plans to increase outsourcing of many IT functions such as: applications development, quality assurance testing, site management and maintenance, Internet security, and tech support, to contractors providing these services. These outsourcing businesses will likely hire more professionals to accommodate this influx of business.
Employers are also concerned that there are not enough potential employees as demand for IT talent - particularly those skilled in Internet, e-commerce and networking - continues to exceed supply. Some analysts are predicting that labor shortages will continue for the next decade. Also, it is estimated that by 2008, the US high-tech industry will have created an additional 5 million jobs, partially reflecting the Internet's appearance as a mainstream technology (SI Review, March/April 2001).
As the number of positions goes up, competition for these skilled workers will intensify. With a major drive to implement Web-enabled CRM programs and applications tied to data warehouses and customer tools, many companies are already seeking candidates with IT experience. These include developers and programmers with experience in Java, Java Servlets, Java Beans, Novell NetWare, Lotus Notes, Linux, Cisco, Adobe, JavaScript, XML, HTML, and DHTML.
With new web-based projects being encouraged by top management and project deadlines nearing, companies need to hire skilled workers. IT may be the most important factor for long-term career success
