Categories of computer careers

Traditionally, computer careers are divided into three areas: computer information systems, computer science, and computer engineering. These careers differ in the nature of the job, education required, and typical career path.

 

Computer Information Systems (CIS)

Careers in the computer information systems (CIS) field involve jobs in the information systems department of an organization. The focus is on designing computer systems that will control the organization's informa­tion, process its data, support its procedures, and then keep the systems working smoothly.

CIS professionals typically major in business with a speciality in computers, programming, and systems analysis. Generally, a bachelor's degree is expected; however, some entry-level positions may require only an associate's degree and some experience or aptitude for programming. The entry-level position, with a speciali­ty in CIS, is programmer. From programmer, three paths are often available: senior programmer and supervising programmer, systems analyst and pro­ject leader, and user liaison. The top management positions, such as chief information officer (CIO), are usually filled by CIS professionals within a company because they know the firm's business best.

 

Computer Science

Computer scientists develop systems software and personal productivity software. The focus is on the relationship of hardware and software, as well as on developing software that makes the best use of hardware while enabling users to accomplish their jobs. Traditionally, computer scientists developed operating systems, database management systems, language translators, and artificial intelligence programs. Today, there are also oppor­tunities in developing software packages that solve productivity problems. Opportunities are also available in developing software packages that increase productivity, such as word processing programs and communica­tions programs. Applications outside business, such as medical applications or special computer graphics, are more likely to be developed by computer scientists than by CIS specialists.

At most colleges and universities, computer science programs grew out of mathematics programs. The training is highly technical and usually involves several semesters of higher mathematics such as calculus, as well as training in several programming languages and theoretical topics such as programming language structure and artificial intelligence.

Careers in computer science are less likely to lead to management positions, but such careers have more levels of expertise than CIS careers. The oppor­tunities for promotion are in lead programmer, designer, or project leader in developing new systems. Senior computer scientists are highly paid, a fact that reflects the value of the special talent needed in this area.

 

Computer Engineering

A computer engineer designs new computers and peripheral hardware. CIS and computer science careers are software-oriented, whereas computer engineers are hardware-oriented. Like all engineers, computer engineers use programming, but software development is not the primary thrust of their jobs.

Engineering is divided into many areas of specialization. Computer engi­neering and electrical engineering are the two fields most pertinent to the computer industry. Computer engineers develop hardware systems, and electrical engineers specialize in designing electronic circuitry (including microprocessors). Project leader and design leader are typical promotion paths for computer engineers. In an engineering-oriented company, managers often rise from the engineering staff as well.

 

4. Divide the following qualifications between the categories listed above and prove your choice:

computer-control engineer; system engineer; engineer-programmer; mathematician system programmer.

 

5. Think and suggest ways in which computer professionals can keep up with constant innovations in the computer field.

 

6. Do you think people in computer-related careers differ somehow from the general population? If yes, in what way?

 

7. Read the following information to see how close your suggestions are.

 

A LIFETIME OF LEARNING

The biggest challenge to anyone in a computer-ori­ented career is to keep up with the rapid advancement of technology. Studies of personalities in vari­ous professions have found that people in comput­er-related careers are noticeably different from the general population. These people are more interest­ed in learning new things than in having more responsibilities. Having this interest is an advantage because there is always something new to learn in computers.

Using an on-line information service is one way for users to learn about new advances in technology and associated career opportunities. Many on-line information services provide databases with career information. A growing number of people are using these databases.

The most common ways to keep up with the new technology are to take seminars, access on-line ser­vices, read computer periodicals, attend conferences, and shows, and join a professional association.

 

Seminars

Computer-related seminars, usually lasting from one day to one week, are widely available. Typically, they are presented by the developer of a new hardware or software product or by a company specializing in training in a new technology. Most companies recognize the value of sending their staff to these seminars.

More extensive training may be required. Many colleges, universities, and training institutes offer a series of courses leading to a certificate. One example is the Novell Certificate, which was designed by Novell (a network software company) and is licensed by Novell to institutions which show that their staffs have necessary training and equipment to train students in their software. Other software manufacturers offer certificate programs through institutions.

 

On-line Services

The Internet and other on-line services have information concerning the latest breakthroughs in technology. When you need to be up-to-the-minute, accessing on-line services is the easiest and fastest way to get the information you have to know.

 

Computer Magazines, Newspapers, and Journals

Many computer magazines, newspapers, and journals are published weekly, monthly, or quarterly. Some, such as ComputerWorld, cover the entire spec­trum of computer issues. Others, such as PCWorld, Datamation, and InfoSystems, are aimed at a specific part of the computer industry—for example, microcomputers, technology management, or office automation. Over a hundred of these periodicals are now in print. If you have a particu­lar area of interest, you can probably find a periodical that covers the newest and best happenings in that area.

 

Conferences and Shows

One way to keep in touch with your profes­sion is to attend conferences and trade shows.Trade shows are annual meetings in which computer product manufacturers, designers, and dealers showcase their prod­ucts. COMDEX, for example, is an annual event held in various locations around the world. With over 1,500 exhibitors and over 150,000 attendees at a COMDEX show, several companies "roll out" their newest products. Besides displays and brochures about various products, many workshops and product demonstra­tions are offered at COMDEX. Trade shows can serve as a crash course in what is hap­pening in the area of computer technology that interests you.

 

Professional Organizations

Joining one of the many professional associations can help you keep up with your area of interest, as well as provide valuable contacts for your career. Some associations have local chapters, and most offer publications, seminars, training, and conferences for members. Here are some of the most important organizations:

Association for Computing Machinery (ACM). Focusing on computer science, this organization features many special-interest groups (SIGs) in such areas as databases, artificial intelligence, micro­computers, and computer graphics.

Data Processing Management Association (DPMA). This is the premier organization for CIS personnel and managers.

Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE).This is the premier professional society for computer engineers.

 

Critical thinking

 

Answer the following questions:

 

1. What is the difference between a career in CIS and a career in computer science?

2. How does computer engineering differ from computer science?

3. How does the typical computer professional adjust to the constant change in the com­puter industry?

4. List some computer-related professional organizations and their areas of focus.

5. What are the negative effects that comput­ers are having on general employment?

6. What are three new career opportunities in the computer industry? What is the major focus of each of these?

7. List the most common ways for a computer professional to keep up with new tech­nology.

8. How do the educational requirements for the three traditional computer careers dif­fer? How are they similar?

9. What are the differences between the job of a telecommunications specialist and database administrator?