Information Technology

If you enjoy working with technology and thinking critically to solve problems, a career in
Information Technology could be for you!

The field has a range of job types, so there is a place for many different skill sets and backgrounds.

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Emmy McKenzie, Shelter Insurance

Shelter Insurance is a local company offering a variety of Information Technology roles and a strong commitment to innovation and community support. Watch this video to learn more about the IT career field and discover opportunities at Shelter Insurance.

View Salary Ranges in Information Technology

Career Progression*

By gaining hands-on experience through internships or demonstrating your problem-solving skills and dedication, you have the potential to advance and lead in your IT career.

STARTING YOUR CAREER

Start with hands-on experience in support roles, troubleshooting, and customer service to learn the essentials of technology.

Salary range:
$32,400-$60,000

Possible Job Positions:
Help Desk / IT Support Technician
Desktop Support Specialist
Computer Repair Technician
Junior Web Developer
Network Support Technician
Data Entry / Database Assistant

ADVANCING IN YOUR CAREER

By building expertise, earning advanced certifications, and tackling complex projects, you can take on more responsibility and grow as a skilled IT professional.

Salary range:
$45,000-$95,000

Possible Job Positions:
Systems Administrator
Network Administrator
Cybersecurity Analyst
Software Developer / Programmer
Database Administrator (DBA)
Business Analyst (IT Focus)
Cloud Support Engineer

LEADING IN YOUR CAREER

With vision and management experience, you can lead teams and shape the future of technology.

Salary range:
$65,000-$130,000

Possible Job Positions:
IT Manager
Project Manager (IT)
Solutions Architect
Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)
Chief Technology Officer (CTO)
Director of IT / VP of IT

*Data Sources: Salary and progression information is based on input from HR staff at Columbia businesses, statistics from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, and local job market listings found on Indeed, Glassdoor, and ZipRecruiter.

What You Need to Succeed

Frequently asked questions about how to excel in an IT career

  • Yes! Many IT roles welcome entry-level candidates who are eager to learn. Hands-on training programs, internships, and certifications can help you get started even if you don’t have prior professional experience. Showing curiosity, problem-solving skills, and a willingness to learn often matters more than years of experience.

  • Education requirements vary depending on the role. Some positions may only require a high school diploma or equivalent, while others may prefer an associate or bachelor’s degree in IT, computer science, or a related field. Professional certifications—like CompTIA, Microsoft, or Cisco—can also demonstrate skills and may even substitute for formal education in certain cases.

  • Several factors can slow down hiring, including thorough background checks, multiple interview rounds, technical assessments, or waiting for management approval. Delays may also occur if the company is evaluating multiple candidates or adjusting internal priorities.

  • Some common factors include missing required skills or certifications, failing background checks, providing incomplete application materials, or lacking the communication and problem-solving skills that employers seek. In IT, practical experience and the ability to adapt to new technologies are highly valued.

Your Path to
Getting Started

Click a path number for more information.

Discover which career in Information Technology might be a good fit for you. Click to take the quiz!

View Local Employers — We recommend applying on company sites instead of sites such as Indeed.com

Apprenticeships, Certificates, and Colleges/Technical Schools that could be helpful for career progression

Career Testimonials

Name, CEO of _
Started in food services and did not have a high school diploma

Jack Slaughter, Owner, PC SatCom, Inc.
Pursuing a career in Information Technology has been both challenging and incredibly rewarding. I've always been fascinated by how technology solves everyday problems and connects people. What started as a hobby of tinkering with computers grew into a full career focused on helping others through tech solutions.

Rob Williams, Production Manager, Kraft-Heinz
Began as an Operator, progressed through mid-level roles, and advanced into supervisory and managerial leadership, ultimately serving as Production Manager.

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