Explore Careers in Information Technology
IT offers expanding job opportunities across various education and experience levels. While a background in computer science or software engineering is a plus, many employers today prioritize hands-on experience, a strong portfolio, and solid technical skills over a college degree.
Global Impact
The U.S. accounts for 32% of the technology market worldwide, contributing over $1.7 trillion to the economy each year.
Job Flexibility
More so than perhaps any other industry, many IT jobs can be performed remotely, as long as a reliable internet connection is available.
Industry Trends
Almost 550,000 new IT jobs are expected in the coming years, with substantial growth in information security, software development, cloud computing, and data storage.
National & Regional Hubs
Established markets include San Francisco, Seattle, and Chicago. Emerging hubs are growing in Austin, Charlotte, Charleston, Fort Myers, and Madison.
WHO IS THIS FOR?
Software Developers & Engineers
Design, build, and maintain software applications, websites, and systems — from mobile apps to enterprise platforms.
Cybersecurity Professionals
Protect organizations from digital threats by monitoring systems, identifying vulnerabilities, and responding to security incidents.
IT Support & Infrastructure
Keep networks, hardware, and systems running — supporting end users, managing servers, and maintaining the technology organizations depend on.
Data & Cloud Professionals
Manage, analyze, and store data at scale — working across cloud platforms, databases, and data pipelines to drive informed decisions.
Considering a career in Information Technology?
Some points to keep in mind:
- Adaptability is essential. In this fast-evolving industry, staying ahead means continuously learning new software, coding languages, and tech tools. A commitment to lifelong learning is a core part of working in IT.
- Hands-on opportunities abound. While much of IT is computer-based, some roles involve hands-on work with hardware and equipment — there’s a path for both desk-based and more active work styles.
- Skills that matter. Attention to detail, flexibility, and teamwork are crucial skills that drive success in IT careers — alongside technical knowledge.
- A degree isn’t always required. Many employers today prioritize hands-on experience, certifications, and a strong portfolio over a traditional four-year degree — making IT one of the most accessible high-growth fields to break into.
Career Pathways
This is an extensive, but not exhaustive, list of career pathways you can pursue with a background in Information Technology:
- Software and application development
- Web development and design
- Cybersecurity and information security
- Network and systems administration
- Cloud computing and architecture
- Data science and analytics
- Database administration
- IT support and help desk
- Project and product management
- Artificial intelligence and machine learning
- DevOps and site reliability engineering
- IT consulting and solutions architecture
Employers
This is an extensive, but not exhaustive, list of employers who recruit and hire for roles in Information Technology:
- Technology companies and software firms
- Financial services and fintech companies
- Healthcare systems and health tech companies
- Government agencies and defense contractors
- Retail and e-commerce companies
- Telecommunications providers
- Consulting and managed services firms
- Startups and technology accelerators
- Colleges, universities, and research institutions
Career Navigation Strategies
Simulations & Internships:
- Check out simulations with these tech organizations through Forage
- Explore IT internships with these organizations
- Find an apprenticeship across a variety of tech sectors through apprenticeship.gov
Volunteering & Freelancing:
- Volunteer with local nonprofits that need tech support, with Women in Tech, or search for opportunities here
- Freelance to gain experience through Fiverr, Freelancer, or Upwork
More Opportunities:
- Discover hackathons, challenges, and company-specific apprenticeships in this guide
Frequently Asked Questions
IT opens doors to a dynamic range of creative and technical careers — from designing and building software, databases, and websites to ensuring information security and delivering technical support. If you enjoy problem-solving, working with technology, and continuously learning, IT is worth exploring. The field rewards curiosity and adaptability, and there are paths for both highly technical individuals and those who prefer roles that blend technology with communication, project management, or strategy.
IT is one of the broadest career fields available. Common paths include software and application development, web development, cybersecurity, network and systems administration, cloud computing, data science and analytics, database administration, IT support, project and product management, and artificial intelligence. Whether you prefer building things, securing systems, analyzing data, or supporting users, there’s a path in IT that fits.
Technical skills vary by role, but across the field, employers consistently look for problem-solving ability, attention to detail, adaptability, and a willingness to keep learning. Communication and teamwork matter more than people expect — many IT professionals collaborate closely with non-technical colleagues, clients, or stakeholders and need to translate complex concepts clearly. Depending on the path, you may also need proficiency in specific coding languages, platforms, security tools, or data systems.
Building a portfolio and getting hands-on experience early is key in IT. Some practical ways to get started:
- Earn entry-level certifications like CompTIA A+ to validate your knowledge
- Complete virtual simulations through Forage with real tech companies
- Pursue internships or apprenticeships through tech-focused organizations
- Freelance on platforms like Fiverr, Freelancer, or Upwork to build real-world project experience
- Volunteer with nonprofits that need tech support
- Participate in hackathons, coding challenges, or open-source projects to demonstrate your skills
The day-to-day experience varies widely depending on the role, but it often involves a mix of technical tasks, problem-solving, and collaboration. A typical day might start with reviewing and prioritizing support tickets, troubleshooting technical issues, or maintaining hardware and software systems to ensure smooth operations. IT professionals often spend part of their day coding or testing software, managing network security, or monitoring databases. Team meetings to discuss project updates or brainstorm solutions are also common. Flexibility is key — priorities can shift rapidly based on urgent tech needs or emerging issues.
Certifications are highly valued in IT and can often carry as much weight as a degree with many employers. Some widely recognized credentials include:
- CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+ — foundational certifications for IT support, networking, and security
- AWS, Google Cloud, or Microsoft Azure certifications — for cloud computing roles
- Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) / CISSP — for cybersecurity professionals
- Google Data Analytics or Microsoft Power BI — for data and analytics roles
- PMP or Scrum/Agile certifications — for project and product management in tech
Professional associations provide networking, certifications, and career development resources. Key organizations in IT include:
- CompTIA — offers widely recognized certifications and connects IT professionals across specialties
- ISACA — focused on IT governance, cybersecurity, and audit professionals
- (ISC)² — the leading organization for cybersecurity professionals, home of the CISSP credential
- ACM (Association for Computing Machinery) — for computing and software engineering professionals
- Women in Tech — a global community supporting women entering and advancing in the technology field
