What Is Communication Technology?
Careers in communication technology require the knowledge to operate, maintain, and upgrade communications equipment. Individuals within the computer technology field must have an understanding of wireless technologies, mechanical operations, computer applications, and problem solving. Explore the definition of communication technologies, the available jobs, and industry outlook below.
What is Communication Technology?
Communications technology, also known as information technology, refers to all equipment and programs that are used to process and communicate information. Professionals in the communication technology field specialize in the development, installation, and service of these hardware and software systems. Individuals who enter this field develop an understanding in the conceptions, production, evaluation, and distribution of communication technology devices.
Important Facts About Communication Technology
| Required Education | Bachelor's Degree | |
| Possible Careers | Computer programmer, information research scientist, database administrator | |
| Professional Certification | CCNT (Certified in Convergent Network Technologies) | |
| Work Environment | Office Setting | |
| Median Salary (2018) | $84,280 (computer programmers) | |
| Job Outlook (2016-2026) | -7% decline (computer programmers) |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
Education
Students in a communication technology degree, such as a Bachelor of Science in Information and Communications Technology (ICT), take classes that cover a variety of topics, including technology, business, and management. A hands-on approach is significant in any communication technology program because it gives students insight into the future of this industry. The curriculum includes classes in web production, enterprise technology, technical writing, and project management.
Skills and Abilities
Graduates entering the communication technology field need to develop engineering and computer science skills. The ability to communicate allows professionals to understand and explain problems that arise within this technology. Individuals also need to have skills in business, critical thinking, and as a strong knowledge of computer programming. Additionally, individuals must possess skills in troubleshooting and repairing defective communications technologies or malfunctions.
With constant developments to the technological landscape, professionals in this industry must also be able to adapt to and understand new innovations and advances.
Career Opportunities
Careers in communication technology can be found in most industries and are vital to the success of companies and organizations. Professionals need to be able to install networks catered to an organization's particular needs. Opportunities are available in communications management, technical support, retail or service, small business, or telecommunications.
Industry Outlook
Salaries and employment growth for careers in the communication technology industry can vary greatly among job titles.
Computer programmers, for example, earned a median salary of $84,280, as per 2018 BLS statistics. Unfortunately, the field is expected to experience a 7% decline between 2016 and 2026. However, those with at least a bachelor's degree and an understanding of a variety of programming languages might have a better chance for employment.
Computer and information research scientists earned a median salary of $118,370, and are set to experience a 19% increase in employment growth between 2016 and 2026, according to the BLS.
The BLS notes that database administrators also have a positive job outlook, expected to grow by 11% between 2016 and 2026. Individuals in this role earned a median salary of $90,070, as of 2018.
CCNT Certification
To increase their chances of employment, professionals in the communication technology field might pursue their CCNT (Certified in Convergent Network Technologies) certification. This demonstrates their high-level competence in data, audio, and video technologies, as outlined by Certification Partners.
To acquire certification, individuals can undertake the CCNT program established by Certification Partners and the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA). This culminates in an exam that touches on the core concepts and skills of the field, including basic telecommunications, broadband technologies, VoIP essentials, and basic data communications. Common job roles to pursue upon certification include network administrator, product manager, and technical sales and support engineer.