5 answers
Angel
Student
Rochester, Minnesota
2
Questions
Asked
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How long have you been in the IT pathway and what are some pros and cons of the profession?
What did you enjoy about the field in your years of experience and what did you dislike? And why did you dislike the topic
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5 answers
Sean Halliday
Software Developer
6
Answers
Coquitlam, British Columbia, Canada
Updated
Sean’s Answer
For over three decades, I've been immersed in the fascinating world of computer programming, taking on a variety of roles that have enriched my career. From spearheading the design and architecture of innovative products to managing talented programmers and crafting applications, I've relished every moment. The majority of my time has been devoted to programming, an endeavor I find immensely fulfilling.
Currently, I'm privileged to work for Electronic Arts, where I create in-house tools for game developers. The joy of making these tools lies in the fact that they empower artists to reach their maximum productivity. I'm also a puzzle enthusiast, and my job provides an endless supply of them. My mission is to continually refine these tools, making them more user-friendly and faster, which keeps me on my toes.
To conquer these challenges, I often draw upon the computer science theories I studied in school. The thrill of successfully applying these theories to real-world problems is incredibly rewarding. Another perk of my job is the amazing team I work with, a group of supportive individuals who make every day enjoyable.
While I can't speak for all programmers, I can confidently say that I've loved every minute of my 27-year journey with Electronic Arts. Over the years, I've seen colleagues venture out to explore new opportunities, only to return, a testament to the positive and nurturing environment we've cultivated here.
Currently, I'm privileged to work for Electronic Arts, where I create in-house tools for game developers. The joy of making these tools lies in the fact that they empower artists to reach their maximum productivity. I'm also a puzzle enthusiast, and my job provides an endless supply of them. My mission is to continually refine these tools, making them more user-friendly and faster, which keeps me on my toes.
To conquer these challenges, I often draw upon the computer science theories I studied in school. The thrill of successfully applying these theories to real-world problems is incredibly rewarding. Another perk of my job is the amazing team I work with, a group of supportive individuals who make every day enjoyable.
While I can't speak for all programmers, I can confidently say that I've loved every minute of my 27-year journey with Electronic Arts. Over the years, I've seen colleagues venture out to explore new opportunities, only to return, a testament to the positive and nurturing environment we've cultivated here.
Hagen Finley
Technical Sales DELL Alliances
43
Answers
Fort Collins, CO
Updated
Hagen’s Answer
Hello Angel,
Like Sean, I've had a similarly positive experience in my IT / Tech Sales career dating back to the mid-nineties. However, I should point out that, from my perspective, that career has run it's course. Back in the 90s there were high paying jobs related to hands on technical expertise in areas such as server administration, networking, DBAs etc.. Companies hired troupes of experts themselves, and IT vendors kept a deep bench of SMEs on the payroll. That is no longer true. While most IT departments want access to that type of expertise, few are willing or able to pay for it so most technical solutions are heavily weighted towards lower cost not "best in class" or customer service.
The advent of AI will likely exacerbate that trend as it's clear to me chatbots could answer 80% of the questions I address quiet well or even better.
Therefore, I believe a career in IT, while it might still have advantages over others. will become more mainstream, less prestigious with lower pay especially over the course of your 40-50 year career.
That doesn't mean there won't be great new high paying jobs in technology. A recent article in the WSJ pointed to jobs paying $200K to engineer prompts that work with Large Language Models (LLMs) such as OpenAI. Those kind of jobs are going to focus more on skills in math such as Calculus coupled with a base level of programming.
Evaluate what intrigues you about a career in IT and what pictures that conjures up in your mind and compare that with what I am saying.
Determine how much you "love math" - if you do - that's a great fit. If you don't you might be facing some strong headwinds.
There's no limit to the supply of videos and books on AI and Deep Learning out there. Listen to those and see if they get you excited or put you to sleep.
Nvidia has the best marketing / training videos on conferences and AI programming topics, many of which are free.
It's a time of rapid change and uncertainty. If it suits you, I don't think you can learn too much math. That will give you the most resiliency in the future job market(s).
Like Sean, I've had a similarly positive experience in my IT / Tech Sales career dating back to the mid-nineties. However, I should point out that, from my perspective, that career has run it's course. Back in the 90s there were high paying jobs related to hands on technical expertise in areas such as server administration, networking, DBAs etc.. Companies hired troupes of experts themselves, and IT vendors kept a deep bench of SMEs on the payroll. That is no longer true. While most IT departments want access to that type of expertise, few are willing or able to pay for it so most technical solutions are heavily weighted towards lower cost not "best in class" or customer service.
The advent of AI will likely exacerbate that trend as it's clear to me chatbots could answer 80% of the questions I address quiet well or even better.
Therefore, I believe a career in IT, while it might still have advantages over others. will become more mainstream, less prestigious with lower pay especially over the course of your 40-50 year career.
That doesn't mean there won't be great new high paying jobs in technology. A recent article in the WSJ pointed to jobs paying $200K to engineer prompts that work with Large Language Models (LLMs) such as OpenAI. Those kind of jobs are going to focus more on skills in math such as Calculus coupled with a base level of programming.
Hagen recommends the following next steps:
Jeff Sloan
Software engineer - firmware Retired
89
Answers
Round Rock, Texas
Updated
Jeff’s Answer
Hi Angel,
Great question! I began my computer career in 1979 so I have been around for many decades!
My favorite aspect of the jobs I held throughout my career was the challenges. I love to create a solution to a problem. Programming, and software engineering is slanted towards figuring out and implementing solutions. When I began my career, most programmers were left alone to develop their projects and rarely interacted with others. Occasionally, we would talk to the sales or marketing folks, customers and often our lead developers. Over the years, as software development matured, the teams and projects grew much larger. Interacting with others became a requirement. I truly enjoyed that aspect because I am a people person!
The cons in my opinion are the stress and intensity of the job. I worked long hours and under extreme stress at various points in my career. But, it was always rewarding!
Continue to ask questions like this to gain more of an insight into the field!
Great question! I began my computer career in 1979 so I have been around for many decades!
My favorite aspect of the jobs I held throughout my career was the challenges. I love to create a solution to a problem. Programming, and software engineering is slanted towards figuring out and implementing solutions. When I began my career, most programmers were left alone to develop their projects and rarely interacted with others. Occasionally, we would talk to the sales or marketing folks, customers and often our lead developers. Over the years, as software development matured, the teams and projects grew much larger. Interacting with others became a requirement. I truly enjoyed that aspect because I am a people person!
The cons in my opinion are the stress and intensity of the job. I worked long hours and under extreme stress at various points in my career. But, it was always rewarding!
Jeff recommends the following next steps:
Julien Erard
Software Engineer
2
Answers
Portland, Oregon
Updated
Julien’s Answer
I've spent approximately three decades immersed in the tech industry, gaining practical experience while concurrently pursuing my studies through several internships. I've found immense satisfaction in all my past roles, primarily deriving joy from creating tools that provide value to users. I have a keen interest in continuous learning, be it acquiring a new technical skill in programming or exploring diverse industries such as healthcare, insurance, or finance, each with its unique set of regulations and priorities.
Managing project timelines can indeed be challenging. Often, there's an urgent requirement to develop a product due to a pressing business need, like acquiring a new client who will only commit if we can deliver a specific product by month's end. This urgency might create an illusion of insufficient time to properly plan and execute the project. However, there's no need for excessive concern. Instead, it presents an opportunity to clarify to stakeholders the realistic timeline required to build the product, along with the necessary compromises.
Every company boasts a unique work environment and culture. It's crucial to identify a workplace where you feel at ease, and where the company's values align with your own.
Managing project timelines can indeed be challenging. Often, there's an urgent requirement to develop a product due to a pressing business need, like acquiring a new client who will only commit if we can deliver a specific product by month's end. This urgency might create an illusion of insufficient time to properly plan and execute the project. However, there's no need for excessive concern. Instead, it presents an opportunity to clarify to stakeholders the realistic timeline required to build the product, along with the necessary compromises.
Every company boasts a unique work environment and culture. It's crucial to identify a workplace where you feel at ease, and where the company's values align with your own.
Karen Dolphin
IT Manager
6
Answers
Portland, Oregon
Updated
Karen’s Answer
Hello Angel,
As someone who's been immersed in the IT world for a decade, I must say, it's an exhilarating ride. The landscape of IT is always shifting, always presenting fresh knowledge to absorb. It keeps the job lively and engaging. Plus, the thrill of cracking a tough problem is something I truly relish.
The beauty of IT is its vastness - it opens doors to a multitude of companies. Almost every business out there has some IT requirement, so you can pick and choose the industry that resonates with you. The job market is brimming with opportunities across diverse sectors, all with their unique set of intriguing problems to tackle.
In IT, learning never stops, and the range of roles to pick from is extensive. If you're someone who enjoys piecing together a puzzle and collaborating with fellow engineers to unearth the optimal solution, you'll find this job immensely satisfying.
But remember, IT isn't just about coding. There are many facets to consider.
While I wouldn't say I dislike anything about the IT industry, I do find the relentless pace of technological advancement a bit challenging. The field is always on the move, and keeping abreast of the latest trends and technologies can be demanding. It takes a considerable chunk of time and effort, and at times, can be a bit stressful.
As someone who's been immersed in the IT world for a decade, I must say, it's an exhilarating ride. The landscape of IT is always shifting, always presenting fresh knowledge to absorb. It keeps the job lively and engaging. Plus, the thrill of cracking a tough problem is something I truly relish.
The beauty of IT is its vastness - it opens doors to a multitude of companies. Almost every business out there has some IT requirement, so you can pick and choose the industry that resonates with you. The job market is brimming with opportunities across diverse sectors, all with their unique set of intriguing problems to tackle.
In IT, learning never stops, and the range of roles to pick from is extensive. If you're someone who enjoys piecing together a puzzle and collaborating with fellow engineers to unearth the optimal solution, you'll find this job immensely satisfying.
But remember, IT isn't just about coding. There are many facets to consider.
While I wouldn't say I dislike anything about the IT industry, I do find the relentless pace of technological advancement a bit challenging. The field is always on the move, and keeping abreast of the latest trends and technologies can be demanding. It takes a considerable chunk of time and effort, and at times, can be a bit stressful.