My 3 Career Choices By Drake Thomas (6h Hour)

Information Technology Computer Programmer Mathematician Aerospace Engineer

Computer Programmer

DESCRPITION Convert project specifications and statements of problems and procedures to detailed logical flow charts for coding into computer language. Develop and write computer programs to store, locate, and retrieve specific documents, data, and information. May program web sites.

Skills Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.

Nature of work Computer programmers held about 343,700 jobs in They usually work in offices, most commonly in the computer systems design and related services industry. Programmers normally work alone, but sometimes work with other computer specialists on large projects. Because writing code can be done anywhere, many programmers telecommute.

Work Conditions They typically work in offices independently.

Education Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.

Job outlook Employment of computer programmers is projected to grow 8 percent from 2012 to 2022, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Computer programming can be done from anywhere in the world, so companies sometimes hire programmers in countries where wages are lower. This ongoing trend is projected to limit growth for computer programmers in the United States. However, some companies are bringing programming jobs back to the United States. In addition, companies with small information technology operations may outsource computer programming to low-cost areas within the United States. Many computer programmers work in computer system design and related services, an industry which is expected to grow as a result of an increasing demand for new computer software. This includes software offered over the Internet, which should lower costs for firms and allow for more customization for users. In addition, new applications will have to be developed for mobile technology and the healthcare industry. An increase in computer systems that are built into electronics and other non-computer products should result in some job growth for computer programmers and software developers.

Salary/earnings The median annual wage for computer programmers was $74,280 in May The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $42,850, and the top 10 percent earned more than $117,890.

Mathematician

Description Conduct research in fundamental mathematics or in application of mathematical techniques to science, management, and other fields. Solve or direct solutions to problems in various fields by mathematical methods.

Skills Mathematics - Using mathematics to solve problems. Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems. Complex Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.

Nature of work Mathematicians held about 3,500 jobs in Most mathematicians work for the federal government or for private scientific and engineering research and development companies.

Work conditions Mathematicians typically work in comfortable offices. They also may work on teams with engineers, scientists, and other professionals.

Education Most of these occupations require graduate school. For example, they may require a master's degree, and some require a Ph.D., M.D., or J.D. (law degree).

Job Outlook Employment of mathematicians is projected to grow 23 percent from 2012 to 2022, much faster than the average for all occupations. However, because it is a small occupation, the fast growth will result in only about 800 new jobs over the 10-year period. The amount of digitally stored data will increase over the next decade as more people and companies conduct business online and use social media, smartphones, and other mobile devices. As a result, businesses will increasingly need mathematicians to analyze the large amount of information and data collected. Analyses will help companies improve their business processes, design and develop new products, and even advertise products to potential customers. Mathematicians will also be needed to help information security analysts create data-security systems to protect the confidentiality and personal information of individuals.

Salary/Earnings The median annual wage for mathematicians was $101,360 in May The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $56,040, and the top 10 percent earned more than $152,950.

Aerospace Engineer

description Perform a variety of engineering work in designing, constructing, and testing aircraft, missiles, and spacecraft. May conduct basic and applied research to evaluate adaptability of materials and equipment to aircraft design and manufacture. May recommend improvements in testing equipment and techniques.

Skills Active Listening - Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times. Speaking - Talking to others to convey information effectively. Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems. Complex Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions. Quality Control Analysis - Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.

Nature of Work Aerospace engineers design aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles. In addition, they test prototypes to make sure that they function according to design.

Work conditions Aerospace engineers held about 83,000 jobs in They are employed in industries where workers design or build aircraft, missiles, systems for national defense, or spacecraft. Aerospace engineers work primarily for firms that engage in analysis and design, manufacturing, research and development, and for the federal government.

education Education - Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.

Job outlook Employment of aerospace engineers is projected to grow 7 percent from 2012 to 2022, slower than the average for all occupations. Some aerospace engineers work on projects that are related to national defense and thus require security clearances. This requirement will help to keep jobs in the United States. In addition, aircraft are being redesigned to cut down on noise pollution and to raise fuel efficiency, which will help spur demand for research and development. However, growth will be tempered because many of these engineers are employed in manufacturing industries that are projected to grow slowly or even decline. Most of the work of aerospace engineers involves national defense–related projects or the design of civilian aircraft. Research and development projects, such as those related to improving the safety, efficiency, and environmental soundness of aircraft, should create demand for workers in this occupation. Aerospace engineers who work on engines or propulsion will be needed as the emphasis in design and production shifts to rebuilding existing aircraft so that they are less noisy and more fuel efficient. In addition, as governments refocus their space efforts, new companies are emerging to provide access to space outside of standard space agencies. The efforts of these companies will include low-orbit and beyond- earth-orbit capabilities for human and robotic space travel.

Salary/Earnings $103,720 per year $49.87 per hour