'I'd like to do something that has a positive impact on people's lives.'
Technology. Where would we be without it? It lets you get online and chat, watch movies, update your profile to let your friends know what's going on and helps you find information you need. Using Google, MSN chat and Wii are just some examples of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and Electronics working together.
Wherever you look you can probably spot ICT keeping things running, as well as making life easier and more fun. It's everywhere - in cars, at the checkout, in iPods. Whether it's used to find your way around town, to searching the solar system for other life, it's no surprise that it's one of the fastest growing industries in South Australia. That's a lot of amazing careers waiting to happen.
So where could your interests take you? As well as roles in HR, marketing and management, here are some that you may not be aware of:
Research
Fancy coming up with the next big gadget, or a novel way to improve life? Research is the foundation for ICT/Electronics, because it all comes down to creativity and solving problems. From a concept to designing an instrument panel for a plane, or the software for your mobile phone through to life-saving surgical technology. What goes on here can help people work better, more efficiently and solve their business and lifestyle needs.
Typical careers: computer scientists; computer science engineers; computer hardware engineers; electronic engineers; mechanical engineers.
Development
Are you the sort of person who enjoys making things happen? Development might be for you. The big ideas that make it through research are developed into fully-fledged prototypes of products and services, from computer programs through to robots, aircraft, cars, cameras or phones. It can take a lot of time, money and dedication to get things to working, but it's also very rewarding to bring a project to life.
Typical careers: electronic engineers; computer science engineers; mechatronic engineers; draft persons; design technicians; engineering technicians.
Application
Applying ICT and Electronics to specific situations and making sure specific products and services do the job they should requires significant skill and understanding of the opportunities and challenges involved. Some researchers and developers specialise in one area, or may perform fault-finding, test new systems or customise a program, product or service to suit a specific purpose.
Typical careers: mechanical engineers; defence systems engineers; biomedical engineers; telecommunications engineers; designers; marketers.
Management and Marketing
Not every technology job is in the lab. There are lots of important roles based in the offices around Adelaide. Without marketing, management and day-to-day support, none of the brilliant systems and products could make their way into the world. Keeping the business running smoothly and successfully is a big responsibility.
Typical careers: financial managers; accountants; business analysts; transport; logistics; clerical and administration; human resources; psychologists; information technology; computer technicians; lawyers.
Where can I get more information?
You can download some info
here, plus there are lots of companies working in the ICT/Electronics industry in South Australia. Why not find out more about them and their career opportunities:
Need some inspiration?
Check out the stories from
Peter O'Neill and
Dylan Pinkard.