Information Technology Careers Thrive in Idaho

In May of 2006, the Idaho Commerce and Labor Department's Office of Science and Technology released its newest specialty license plate, featuring the state of Idaho outlined inside a light bulb. The caption, "Ideas. Innovations. Idaho." is the latest sign that there's no better place to earn an associate's degree in computer technology and networking.

According to figures released in late December, Idaho was the third-fastest-growing state in the country for the second year in a row. The reason: Idaho's unparalleled quality of life and commitment to technological innovation.

Idaho, Living With Technology
According to the Idaho Office of Science & Technology, Idaho is

#1 in the U.S. for patents per capita and manufacturing investment
#5 for its creation of new companies per capita
Among the top 10 for long-term employment growth, renewable energy, homeownership, and households with computers.

Technical Training Opens Doors
Today, 76 of every 1,000 private sector jobs in Idaho are in high-tech firms. Want in on this opportunity? Get started with an AOS in computer technology and networking.

An associate's degree in occupational science (AOS) prepares you to service computers and networks, and to work with customers to troubleshoot computer problems and improve computer literacy. Computer technology and networking courses provide technical training in operating system principles, telecommunications network design, wireless networks, Internet protocols, network security, and technology management.

Many people who earn AOS degrees in computer technology and networking go on to work as computer support specialists, providing customers with technical support and advice. According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for computer support specialists was $40,430 in 2004.

As plentiful as tech-support jobs are now, the BLS predicts faster-than-average industry growth through 2014. Prospects will be most favorable for those with technical training. An AOS in computer technology and networking is the perfect first step. And in Idaho, the place where tech jobs grow, your training could prove valuable indeed.

Sources
Bureau of Labor Statistics, "Computer support specialists and systems administrators"
Idaho Commerce & Labor
Idaho Office of Science & Technology

About the Author
Jessica Santina is a freelance writer with a background in media and marketing. She also teaches first-year writing courses at the University of Nevada, Reno.

[back to career and education articles]