Even with the recent decline in technology stocks and the demise of some Internet companies, Information Technology (IT) remains one of the fastest growing fields today, according to the US Department of Labor.
Technology trade magazines such as Information Week and Computerworld have consistently reported (January through March issues respectively) that the economic downturn will probably not impede the number of high-tech projects – or the amount of employees needed to them get them done. However, many companies have indicated that the slowdown may delay previously planned hardware and software purchases. Additionally, while some companies report that they are not currently hiring, most are suggesting plans to increase outsourcing of many IT functions such as: applications development, quality assurance testing, site management and maintenance, Internet security, and tech support, to contractors providing these services. These outsourcing businesses will likely hire more professionals to accommodate this influx of business.
Employers are also concerned that there are not enough potential employees as demand for IT talent – particularly those skilled...