Things to know to prepare for that dream IT career

IF looking for a future-proof career with high job growth opportunities, look no further than Information Technology (IT).

With the constant evolution of technology and the world’s growing dependence on it, industries, organizations, and even global economies are expected to have a strong demand for highly competent IT professionals.

It is not just the tech industry that is hiring. Other sectors like finance, healthcare, e-commerce, and telecommunications are on the hunt for IT professionals who can innovate, sustain and advance their digital transformation efforts.

This clamor has led to a wide range of job opportunities for IT graduates. These include game and software development, cybersecurity, data analysis, network administration, cloud computing, artificial intelligence and machine learning.

IT professionals’ technical and agile skill sets also enable them to carve out career paths based on their strengths and preferences. Those inclined toward programming can specialize in game or software development, while specialists proficient in managing networks and infrastructure could pursue network administrator roles. At the same time, graduates interested in safeguarding digital systems might venture into cybersecurity.

But the question is, what are employers looking for in an IT professional? How can an IT graduate get hired?

Since the roles of IT specialists are crucial in organizations, employers have rigorous standards when choosing a candidate. One of the things they seek in potential hires is a combination of technical and soft skills.

While all applicants are expected to have a solid foundation in relevant programming languages, system administration, database management, and cybersecurity protocols, they should also have essential soft skills. These include effective communication

skills so they can relay even the most complex ideas, collaborative skills to work in teams, adaptability to evolving technologies, critical thinking, problem-solving, and zeal and willingness for continuous learning.

Aside from these, employers also look for particular character and personality traits during the hiring process. These include curiosity, which drives continuous learning and innovation, a strong work ethic, which is essential when handling mission-critical projects, and adaptability to dynamic environments.

“IT students should focus on mastering programming languages relevant to their chosen

domain, comprehending system architecture and design principles, gaining proficiency in database management techniques, understanding cybersecurity fundamentals, and honing problem-solving skills. Engaging in practical projects, internships, or co-op programs can provide valuable real-world experience and make them more attractive to potential employers,” Mapua School of Information Technology Dean Ariel Kelly Balan said.

Aspiring IT specialists who graduate from Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)-accredited computing programs like Mapua University have a distinct competitive advantage.

ABET is an international nonprofit, non-governmental organization that measures and certifies higher education programs in applied and natural science, computing, engineering, and engineering technology. It accredits programs that meet global standards and produce graduates who can enter the global workforce.

Balan explained that completing an ABET-accredited computing program significantly

increases career prospects. It makes graduates more employable because ABET ensures that the educational program they completed has met rigorous global standards and has a quality and relevant curriculum.

ABET provides a stamp of approval that employers recognize, enhancing graduates’ credibility and employability across international markets.

Mapuas computing courses, particularly its Computer Science (BS CS), Information Technology (BS IT), and Information Systems (BS IS) programs, are ABET-accredited. These courses apply a practical approach to learning, expose students to cutting-edge technologies through industry collaborations, and use curricula that foster a holistic understanding of IT concepts aligned with industries’ demands and requirements. They also empower students to explore and concentrate on specialized tracks like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, software engineering, or data science, and enterprise data management. For more information on Mapua’s computing

courses.

Visit https://www.mapua.edu.ph/ for more information.