What is the fastest-growing occupation?

What is one of the hottest career fields today? Computer software engineering. Because information technology and computers have had such an impact on our everyday lives, there is a continuous need for qualified personnel to design and develop new computer software programs and systems to meet the changing needs of businesses and the general public.

The profession of computer software engineer can be broken down into two categories: computer applications software engineers and computer systems software engineers.

Computer applications software engineers design or modify common applications software or customized utility programs using a variety of computer languages. Although Cobol and Fortran were once the leading languages used in writing programs, they are becoming obsolete.

Today programmers more frequently use Java, C or C++, depending on the purpose of the program. Computer applications software engineers often create customized applications for specific industry use as well as design packaged systems for use by the general public. Most available positions require a bachelor's degree in software engineering or computer science.

Some computer systems software engineers are hired specifically by a company to manage their entire computer system. They determine technological need, monitor and maintain the system, project future growth requirements and provide on-going technical support. The primary duties of these engineers is to network the various computers or departments within a company and maintain client Web sites and intranets. Other computer software engineers work on a consulting basis, either independently or for a consulting firm. Consulting opportunities are expected to grow in the next 10 years as businesses need help upgrading and customizing their computer systems.

All computer software engineers need to have excellent people skills. They work closely with customers to determine their software needs and with coworkers in a team environment. Engineers may need to travel on a regular basis within the city or out of state to meet with various clients.

If you are a high school senior or college student thinking about a career in the computer field, you should consider a degree in computer science. If you would like a position in computer applications software, you should have an emphasis in software engineering.

Students leaning toward a position as a systems engineer should work toward a degree in computer science with an emphasis in information systems. It is also important to apply to an internship program to gain some on-the-job experience highly valued at the hiring level. Internships or co-op programs often lead to employment opportunities as students are evaluated by the employer during the program.

Although some employers feel that a certified training program is not sufficient for some positions, an alternative route to an engineering job is the computer training programs offered by Microsoft, Oracle and Novell, systems software vendors. These programs last about four weeks and culminate in certification after an exam. Programs such as these are not designed for the novice but for those who have studied on their own or who have gained knowledge in the field through experience.

Software engineering can be a very fulfilling and lucrative career. The average starting salary for those with bachelor's degrees in either applications or systems software engineering was $50,000 annually in 2002. For anyone looking for a career that will skyrocket, computer software engineering is the field to consider.