Jeffrey Mosher and CEO of Capital Area Michigan Works! CAMW! Edythe Hatter-Williams have a conversation about how the technology industry is booming and is a very lucrative field. Not only that but the capital region is thriving, and hundreds of IT jobs are available in mid-Michigan. However, the IT industry faces challenges because not enough people are choosing to go into the field. There is a lack of both successes with strategic education programs and awareness of sector growth and employer demand. In order for the IT industry to continue to grow, it is essential that the industry work together to educate the community about the opportunity available.
The lack of jobs in mid-Michigan is just one of the myths about careers in IT Council that the Capital Area IT Council and CAMW! are working to debunk:
1. “Young people today already know technology.” Yes, youngsters often know how to operate an iPad or smartphone by the age of two. However, that is not the same as young adults and students knowing how to develop the apps, hardware, software and technology behind smart devices on which we all rely. While there are more end-users of technology products than ever, there aren’t enough developers and innovators developing the latest technology.
2. “IT jobs are short-lived” originated in the ‘dot-com’ era. In fact, 40% of web-based tech jobs didn’t survive past 2004. But that’s not the case with all IT jobs. While web development jobs are not as common, there is an overwhelming need for software developers, system administrators, hardware engineers and more to help fill this increasing demand.
3. “I need a Computer Science degree and three to five years of experience to break into the tech industry.” Companies are restructuring entry-level positions. Tech companies are looking for individuals who are passionate and interested in IT. They are willing to provide additional training to individuals who they think will be a good fit with their companies. As long individuals are curious and yearning to learn, a computer science degree is not necessary to break into this industry.
4. “You’ll learn everything you need to know in school.” Genuine interest and on-the-job experience is far more important than years of schooling. Technology is always evolving, and there is always something new to learn. IT professionals need to commit to lifelong learning to be successful – curiosity and problem solving are key components!
5. “You have to live in the Capital Area to have a good paying IT job.” The Capital Area IT Council consults with employers and regularly monitors the various job boards - and has found that there are consistently 500+ IT opening at any given time in the tri-county area. Often, there are upwards of 900 jobs available in the capital region. The IT industry permeates all other industries – meaning every industry, whether that be heath care, manufacturing, insurance, finance or education – relies on IT. Mid-Michigan is home to multiple national headquarters in varying industries that are on the hunt for IT talent, which means greater job security.
According to the Career Outlook 2020 for Lansing, the IT industry in greater Lansing isn’t slowing down anytime soon. Three IT occupations are listed as largest online vacancy postings. One IT occupation is listed as in-demand and requires only a high school diploma or GED. Four IT occupations are listed as in-demand and require a bachelor’s degree. It is essential for parents, educators and industry advocates to debunk these myths and encourage individuals to pursue careers in IT. Fortunately, additional training programs are available in the capital region.
Interested? Visit http://www.capitalareaitcouncil.com to learn more.
Visit www.camw.org to connect with Capital Area Michigan Works! Team for assistance with career exploration or staffing needs. Capital Area Michigan Works! offers services in Ingham, Clinton and Eaton counties at our Lansing, St. Johns and Charlotte American Job Centers.
