A career in Information Technology (IT) is one of the better choices for women who have an interest in computers, networks and mobile devices. While it is not necessary to be a super-smart hacker as seen on TV, competence and continuing growth are the two main characteristics that mark a successful IT career.
IT Business Dress
Just how one dresses for success in IT depends on the shop and on the job. If the job requires crawling around computer rooms and data centers, sportswear may be appropriate. If the job entails working at a computer in a cubicle environment, business casual will likely fit. The idea is to blend into the environment while not sticking out as a fashion plate, club date or biker chick.
Competence First
Just about all IT shops respect competence first and everything else second. It matters not what gender, sexual orientation, skin shade, religion or political leanings one has. If the job is done right the first time and the systems keep on doing what they’re supposed to, respect will usually follow. This does not mean that office politics never play a role, but it does mean that most people simply don’t have the time to play games.
Long Tradition
The IT career path has a long tradition of accepting women. The computer language COBOL is most strongly associated with Grace Hopper (1906-1992). Barbara H. Liskov (1939 – ) won the Turing Award, considered the Nobel Prize for computing, in 2009. Women of all ages have been recognized as experts and leaders in the IT field.
When considering career paths, women should take a serious look at IT. The path isn’t for everyone, but the variety of possible jobs is very wide. Programming computers is one way in, but not the only way. Having a conversation with a knowledgeable career counselor is a good place to start.
