What are the Hottest IT Jobs for 2013?

Which career track should you pursue this year? Is the IT industry a great destination for career-shifters looking for greener pastures? 

Based on recent data released by CareerBuilder and Economic Modeling Specialists International (EMSI), 6 out of the 10 best jobs today are IT industry-related. Employed and self-employed individuals spread across 90 national and government employment resources were surveyed for the study—most of whom were raking in five to six-figure salaries annually. Listed below are the top six IT jobs in the United States based on employment statistics and outlook:

1. Applications and System Software Developers

The outlook for software developers is still going strong since 2010, with a 7 percent growth and 70, 872 people employed.

2. Computer Systems Analysts

26,937 analysts have been employed across the US since 2010, reflecting a five percent growth in employment rate.

3. Network and Computer Systems Administrators

18, 626 network and computer systems administrators have been employed since 2010, realizing a five percent growth in employment rate.

4. Information Security Analysts, Web Developers, Computer Network Architects

Just like the previous two positions, growth for these three professions has seen a five percent growth since 2010. 15,715 people have been employed under these job titles.

5. Computer Programmers

Job availability for this title has seen a three percent growth since 2010 with 11,540 jobs added.

6. Database Administrators

Hiring for database administrators have increased by seven percent since 2010, with 7,468 jobs added.

What is a CompTIA Network Certification and how do I earn it?

A CompTIA Network certification is an imperative requirement among network administrators, technicians, IT installers and help desk technicians. This type of certification equips the said professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge in networking technologies and trends, network configuration, and ensuring network safety.

According to the CompTIA official website, tech bigwigs like Dell, HP and Xerox require their specialists to be CompTIA network-certified. A CompTIA certification is also a requirement for technicians who’d like to join the Apple Consultants Network. It is also recognized by the U.S. Department of Defense as an essential IT certification. Currently, there are over 900,000 IT professionals who are CompTIA network-certified.

Getting certified couldn’t get any easier with CompTIA. It’s just a matter of choosing the entry-level or advanced certification, the accredited training center and the exam location you prefer.

Certification holders can update their CompTIA license by enrolling in a continuing education program for higher-level certifications such as those of Cisco, Microsoft and IBM.

How can an MOS course help boost my career?

¬Based on the results of the Microsoft Certification Program Satisfaction Study in April 2012, 91 percent of HR managers prefer candidates who have an MOS certification. Moreover, 64 percent of IT managers consider IT certifications of great importance in “validating the skills and job expertise” of applicants. This only goes to show how indispensable candidates with IT certifications are to the corporate world.

There are three main categories for the Microsoft Office Specialist certification based on concentration. These concentrations are Microsoft Office 2013, Microsoft Office 2010, and 2007 Microsoft Office System and Windows Vista.  

Passing the Microsoft certification exam entitles you to take part of the growing Microsoft Certified Community, giving you access to the privileges provided by the Microsoft Certification Program. These privileges include unlimited access to MCP member sites where one can download their certificates, and view tools and current news.