Career Description
In the modern workplace, it is imperative that technology work both effectively and reliably. Computer and information systems managers play a vital role in the implementation of technology within their organizations. They do everything from helping to construct a business plan to overseeing network security to directing Internet operations. The Senior Vice President of Information Technology is an executive-level computer and information systems manager.
Computer and information systems managers plan, coordinate, and direct research and facilitate the computer-related activities of firms. They help determine both technical and business goals in consultation with top management and make detailed plans for the accomplishment of these goals. This requires a strong understanding of both technology and business practices.
Required Education
A bachelor's degree usually is required for management positions, although employers often prefer a graduate degree, especially an MBA with technology as a core component. This degree differs from a traditional MBA in that there is a heavy emphasis on information technology in addition to the standard business curriculum. This preparation is becoming important because more computer and information systems managers are making important technology decisions as well as business decisions for their organizations.
Future Outlook
Employment of computer and information systems managers is projected grow 18 percent from 2010 to 2020, about as fast as the average for all occupations.
Growth will be driven by organizations upgrading their information technology (IT) systems and switching to newer, faster, and more mobile networks. Consequently, more employees at all management levels will be needed to help in the transition.
Additional growth will likely result from the need to increase security in IT departments. More attention is being directed at cyber threats, a trend that is expected to increase over the next decade.
A number of jobs in this occupation is expected to be created in the healthcare industry, which is far behind in its use of information technology. This industry is expected to greatly increase IT use, resulting in job growth.
An increase in cloud computing may shift some IT services to computer systems design and related services firms, concentrating jobs in that industry.
A number of IT jobs are at risk of being sent to other countries with lower wages, dampening some employment growth. However, this risk may be reduced by a recent trend of firms moving jobs to lower cost regions of the United States instead of to other countries.
Prospects should be favorable for this occupation. Many companies note that it is difficult to find qualified applicants for positions.
Because innovation is fast paced in IT, opportunities should be best for those who have knowledge of the newest technology. *data compiled from the Occupational Outlook Handbook, U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statisics
