It is a multi-million pound industry that affects so many aspects of our daily lives that without it, many of us feel lost. Fancy a job within this industry? Then keep on reading.

What is the Technology sector?

The Technology sector is mammoth. It is global, constantly evolving and one of the most lucrative industries to join. It incorporates everything from research and development, to the manufacturing and distribution of technological goods. Businesses involved in the creation of software, computers, products, services and everything to do with IT all fall under the technology umbrella. It is also the industry making science fiction come true, with concepts such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) all slowly moving forward into daily reality.

Businesses involved in the creation of software, computers, products, services and everything to do with IT all fall under the technology umbrella.

With such a broad remit, it’s no wonder the Technology sector is such a popular industry to join – and one where an unprecedented number of jobs are being created in never-before existing fields. It’s a sector constantly appearing in the news as investment in the industry continues to grow and flourish, despite what may be happening in the wider economy.

Job roles in the Technology sector

So exactly what jobs are available in the Technology sector? Most people may automatically think of scores of people sitting in a row typing away at computers. Of course, using computers is kind of a key part to most roles – it is technology, after all – but there is so much more than meets the eye…

IT Manager
- Heading up an IT team is no mean feat. This role involves working with internal managers from other departments and helping to plan, deliver and evaluate certain projects, as well as managing a team to help deliver said project. This involves being aware of the constantly evolving nature of IT and the tech sector, plus an ability to coordinate new updates or releases with other business managers, with the occasional need to get stuck in with the technical side as well.

Qualifications for a job in Technology

As detailed above, there are so many different roles available within the Technology sector, and some may not require a straight degree or qualification in technology. Many employers will consider people with a degree in a STEM subject (Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics), as well as IT and business.

Work experience in the Technology sector

There are many types of work experience that can be undertaken within the Technology sector. Most companies will offer either work shadowing, internships or placements. Depending on what skills you are looking to develop, it is best to research companies specialising in certain areas such as those listed above, and trying to gather some experience across them all.

On top of this, it is important to develop experience and skills by yourself – take part in hackathons, build your own website and experiment with different programmes and codes. Practice really does make perfect, and the more you expose yourself to such things, the better you’ll get.

Pros and Cons of the Technology sector

Pros	Cons
It’s a constantly evolving workplace that will keep even the most engaged professional on their toes with plenty to learn on a daily basis.	Our first pro is also our first con. Yes, tech is a constantly evolving workplace, meaning there’s always something new to learn - which can be exhausting.
The average graduate starting salary is pretty high - you could be earning around £30,000.	It’s a competitive environment, with lots of people vying for jobs in the sector.
There is the potential to work in a number of other industries and across different companies, bringing detailed technology knowledge cross-sector.	You can work long hours, particularly when deadlines are looming.