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It’s hard to think of anything that doesn’t involve digital tech these days. IT and Communication professionals are high in demand; and the best will find it easy to find a superfast connection to the top employers offering great opportunities. A career in this sector is one that matters in a world that is going digital.
IT is a booming sector – it’s everywhere, from apps, websites, smart phones and TVs to even fridges connected to WIFI. In our modern world, organisations of all shapes and sizes rely on experts to boot up, share files and stay connected in a world that is able to change, well, in a flash. There’s a world of amazing opportunities to browse – from a typical 9-to-5 deskside support role, database developers and even website designers. Or rather, it could be cyber-security or creating cutting edge communications systems is more your thing.
This dynamic and ever-changing industry demands recruits who enjoy a fast-paced environment. At the rate that tech evolves, it’s hard not to imagine a career where you won’t be working on the next big thing – whether that’s AI or cloud networks, the world really is your oyster.
If you’re considering a career in IT, work experience will be your best friend due to the competitive spirit of the industry. Computers are everywhere, meaning you’ll have plenty of options when choosing an area in which to gain experience. Some companies may offer summer internships to students of all different academic levels, or even a year in industry; however, these can be competitive. Work experience in the IT industry will show employers that you’re serious about a career in the sector and improve your soft skills, as well as your technical ones, which are crucial for an IT role.
If you struggle to find a placement, it’s a good idea to show your own initiative and create your own opportunities. You could always set up your own IT project or learn a new programming language in order to have experiences to draw upon that will impress employers. There are even websites out there that allow you to sign up and link you to others that need IT solutions, whether that’s creating an entire website to developing a mobile app.
Unsure about what a work placement could involve? You should’ve asked!
An apprenticeship in the IT industry will give you the practical experience and qualifications that you’ll need in this ever-evolving sector and help you progress within your career. Apprenticeships are available from small businesses to large corporations in a variety of sectors, not just those where IT is at the core of the business. They are also open to those who wish to study straight from school, all the way up to a degree apprenticeship.
You’ll be able to spend time training on the job, whilst spending 20% of your week learning the theoretical background necessary to your role and working towards your qualification. Not only will you be earning a salary, but you’ll also be working alongside experienced colleagues who can aid you in your search for your perfect career. Here are some potential apprenticeships in the IT industry:
Want to know what apprenticeships are all about? We have you covered!
At university, you’ll get the run down on all the theoretical information you’ll need behind the IT industry which will be highly important once you graduate. You’ll also have the chance to choose your modules and specialise your learning to the topics that interest you the most (and may be useful in your career once you graduate). Most universities now offer their students a chance to undergo a year in industry. Not only will this give you the chance to put all the knowledge and skills you’ve gathered over your degree into practice, but it will also give you the much-needed work experience that will make you stand out to employers in the industry. Here are some possible IT related degrees:
Want to find out what University could offer you? We have your back!
There’s a huge variety on offer if you’re looking for graduate roles in the IT industry – whatever you’re passionate about, you can be sure that there is something out there for you. You could choose to enter a job straight away after graduating, but a popular option offered by many employers is the chance to undergo a graduate scheme with the company. You could be trained for a specific role, or you may also have an option to rotate around different functions in the company. This is an opportunity and will give you a broader understanding of how the employer works and also give you the chance to test out different roles.
Want to know what graduate jobs are all about? We can help!
The IT industry has plenty of options rather than traditional qualifications. Understanding the principles behind it matters a lot more to some employers than any professional accreditation. This means that many people teach themselves these matters at home and then are approached by employers or reach out to them themselves to find employment. However, if you wish to gain a qualification related to the IT industry, contact your local training providers to see what courses they run and how you can enter the sector through this route.
At BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, we’re on a mission to support the people working in the IT industry and our future tech workforce. We work with key partners and a global membership community to improve IT education, influence ethical practice, share expertise, raise professional standards and support career progression.
Our purpose is rooted in our Royal Charter: “To promote and advance the education and practice of computing for the benefit of the public”. Our vision is for everyone in society to benefit from good IT; they need a profession that will champion and deliver access to the right technology, knowledge and skills required for all of us to be resilient and thrive in our digital world.
We help make IT good for society through the incredible work and support of our members, volunteers, young people, staff, partners and like-minded organisations who share our vision.
As your industry body and will support you into your first step into the workplace and throughout your career, providing valuable insights, support and guidance along the way.
Featured Employer
Do you want to join a meaningful company that values inclusivity and empowerment? Schneider Electric are recruiting for both apprentice and graduate positions in a range of areas so no matter your interest and skillset, if you’re looking for a role within an award-winning sustainability company, apply today to Schneider Electric.
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