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Information technology (IT) is a fast-evolving field that has changed the way that we live and work. As technology continues to develop, the world requires more specialists with better digital and computer skills. An IT qualification from TAFE International Western Australia (TIWA)(opens in a new tab) can offer you a wide range of exciting careers in some of the world’s biggest companies.
What is IT?
IT is the study of systems that process, store and send information. These days, this generally refers to computer systems and other digital information networks.
In a workplace, an IT professional may be responsible for a wide range of tasks, both digital and in-person. These can include:
- cyber security;
- computer programming;
- software programming;
- website development;
- coding;
- systems analysis;
- administering and safeguarding data; and
- troubleshooting workplace devices.
As you can see, workplaces can require a huge range of IT skills. This means that many IT professionals can specialise in a particular area of interest including web development, software development, network programming and cloud computing.
The IT Industry
The IT industry is one of the world’s fastest growing industries. In just three years, 33,000 new jobs(opens in a new tab) have been created in Australia’s IT industry. Globally, the industry is currently growing at an annual rate of six per cent(opens in a new tab). The International Data Corporation (IDC) even projects that the industry will exceed $5.3 trillion(opens in a new tab) in economic value this year.
- An Australian IT qualification can even open doors to an international career. The United States, Europe and China are all major players in the global IT industry. As an IT graduate, you could have the chance to work for some of the world’s biggest employers, including Google;
- Samsung;
- Apple;
- Microsoft;
- Intel;
- Amazon; or
- IBM.
Careers in IT
The IT industry is a diverse field that’s made up of many different careers. No matter your area of interest and skill, the wide range of pathways means there’s sure to be a great IT career for you. Let’s look through some of the most popular careers in IT, as well as the TIWA courses that can help you land them.
Programmer (network/software/cloud)
Programmers are responsible for creating, testing and maintaining the code for a workplace's programs and application systems. Programmers may specialise in network, computer, software or cloud programming. In a workplace, a programmer may be responsible for the following tasks.
- Researching and recommending strategies for network/software/cloud development
- Configuring hardware and software
- Using computer code to write programs
- Troubleshooting and repairing a business's network, software or cloud systems
Programmers are in demand in almost every field and can expect to earn an annual salary of around AUD$85,000(opens in a new tab). You can get your career in programming off to a strong start with the ICT50220 Diploma of Information Technology (Advanced Networking) course at TIWA.
Software developer
A software developer is responsible for designing and building computer software. Depending on your industry, you might be required to build an app, a computer program, or a network system. Software developers are also usually responsible for maintaining the software that they have developed. Software developers are also in high demand. They can expect an average salary of between AUD$90,000 to AUD$110,000(opens in a new tab).
You can start your journey to becoming a software developer with TIWA’s ICT50220 Diploma of Information Technology [Advanced Programming].
Back end web developer
A back end web developer specialises in the development of a website’s functions. This basically includes everything that a website user can’t see but is essential to a website’s operation including its data, security and other server-side functions. Web developers can expect to enjoy a 25% growth in available jobs over the next five years and an average salary of AUD$85,000(opens in a new tab).
An ICT50220 Diploma of Information Technology (Back End Web Development) with TIWA will give you the skills you need to launch your career in back end web development.
Website administrator
A website administrator, or webmaster, is someone who designs, builds and maintains websites. In a workplace, a website administrator might be responsible for the following tasks.
- Implementing website security systems
- Creating website backups
- Updating content
- Modifying programs
- Troubleshooting website issues
Website administrators can expect an average salary of AUD$85,400(opens in a new tab). You can start your career in website administration with TIWA’s ICT50220 Diploma of Information Technology [Front End Web Development].
If you’re interested in finding out more, you can contact TIWA for advice(opens in a new tab) on how to navigate your study and career journey.