Careers in Technology
Technology careers involve creating, maintaining, and securing the software, systems, and infrastructure that power modern life. From software developers writing code to systems administrators keeping servers running to cybersecurity analysts protecting against threats, this track builds and operates the digital layer of the economy.
At junior levels, you'll work on defined tasks within larger systems—writing features, fixing bugs, monitoring alerts, responding to tickets. You're learning how production systems actually work and building the judgment that comes from seeing things break. Mid-level roles involve owning larger components and making design decisions. Senior roles shape architecture, set technical direction, and mentor others.
The field evolves constantly. Technologies that are essential today may be obsolete in five years. Continuous learning isn't optional—it's survival. This can be exciting or exhausting depending on your orientation toward change.
People who thrive in technology enjoy building things and solving puzzles. They're comfortable with abstraction and can model complex systems mentally. They learn continuously and don't get attached to specific technologies. They can communicate technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
Tech is more meritocratic than most fields—demonstrated skills matter more than credentials. Computer science degrees help but aren't required. Bootcamps provide intensive training. Self-teaching through projects and open source is viable. Building a portfolio of work you can show matters. Internships provide entry points to traditional employers.
How technology employment and salaries have changed over time, and how pay varies by location.
How this track is changing
Median salaries range from ~$90K in mid-market metros to ~$152K 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.
Roles in technology from entry-level to executive, showing how careers progress.
The share of technology jobs in each industry, and what they typically pay.
IT consulting, software development firms, and tech services companies — building custom solutions and providing technical expertise to clients.
Fintech, banking systems, and financial technology infrastructure — some of the highest-paying tech roles with complex regulatory requirements.
Government IT, defense contractors, and public sector technology — stable roles with security clearance requirements and long project timelines.
IT staffing, managed services, and technical contracting — flexible arrangements providing tech talent to organizations with project-based needs.
Healthcare IT, electronic health records, and medical technology — combining technical skills with healthcare domain knowledge.
EdTech, university IT departments, and learning management systems — supporting educational technology and campus infrastructure.
Based on federal workforce data across technology occupations.
Tracks where technology skills transfer naturally.
Tracks that technology teams collaborate with most.
Map your path in Technology
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