Technology & Information Careers
Technology and information employs nearly 15 million Americans at median pay about 58% above national average — among the highest-paying industries that doesn't require specific licenses. The compensation reflects genuine skill scarcity, but also an industry that's been growing faster than talent supply.
Jobs per 100K workforce — measures industry density
Technology and information draws people who want to build things that scale — there's satisfaction in solving technical problems, creating products millions might use, and working at the frontier of what's possible. Many find meaning in the intellectual challenge and the rapid pace of innovation.
The challenge can come from the constant evolution and pressure to stay current. Technologies change quickly, so continuous learning is required. Deadlines can be intense, especially around product launches. Remote and hybrid work is common, which offers flexibility but can blur work-life boundaries.
Technology varies enormously. Software development looks different from IT operations, data science, cybersecurity, or product management. Startups have different cultures than established tech companies or enterprise IT departments. Some roles are highly specialized; others require broad skills.
For people who thrive here, the rewards are substantial: strong compensation, intellectually engaging work, flexibility in how and where you work, and the satisfaction of building things that reach users. If you enjoy problem-solving, stay curious about new technologies, and want a field with strong demand, technology offers excellent opportunities.
Entry paths into tech are more varied than most industries claim — the "bootcamp to six figures" narrative is oversold, but alternative paths genuinely exist. Software development roles increasingly accept non-traditional backgrounds if you can demonstrate skill through projects, contributions, or assessments. IT support and operations roles often require only certifications.
The credential reality is evolving. Computer science degrees help, especially at larger companies with structured hiring. But the industry's skills-focus means experience and portfolio often matter more than paper credentials. Certifications (AWS, Google Cloud, security credentials) matter more for infrastructure and ops roles than for development.
Common roles in Technology & Information
A curated look at the roles that shape Technology & Information — from accessible ways in to senior destinations.
Median salaries range from ~$71K in mid-market metros to ~$105K in top-tier cities. But cost of living closes a lot of that gap — metros with lower regional price parities often offer the best purchasing power.
What the data says about this industry
Beyond salary and job counts — signals that shape the day-to-day experience of working in Technology & Information.
Small
<506%
Mid
50–2492%
Large
250+
Career tracks in Technology & Information
How jobs in this industry break down by function, and what they typically pay.
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Sectors within Technology & Information
Specialized segments of Technology & Information, each with distinct characteristics and career opportunities.
Common questions about Technology & Information careers
What kinds of roles exist in technology and information?
Two big families: technology roles — cloud and network engineers, game developers, site reliability engineers, designers, and QA — and information/media roles spanning journalism, broadcasting, publishing, and production. Telecom, software, streaming, and news organizations all live here.
How many people work in technology and information?
Federal data puts employment at roughly 2 million people. It is smaller by headcount than its cultural footprint suggests, since many tech workers are employed by companies in other industries.
What does technology and information typically pay?
Median pay is around $93,600 a year, one of the higher industry medians. Engineering roles tend to sit above it; media and production roles vary more widely.
Is turnover high in technology and information?
No — about 1.4% of workers quit in a typical month in 2024, lower than most industries. Roles tend to be career positions people hold onto.
What are common ways into technology and information?
On the tech side, QA testing and technical support are time-tested entry points that lead toward engineering. On the media side, people often start as videographers, content creators, or broadcast technicians and build toward producing, editing, or directing.
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Truest editorial: Industry narrative, sector context, career track mapping, working signals analysis.