INDEX. skills. where to start. training. work on PEI

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2 It s important to stay in touch with what s happening in information technology (IT) on Prince Edward Island. Every day new innovations increase the use of IT in our lives. Technology has enhanced our world at work, in our community and at home. The more we use new products and gadgets, the more the IT industry will provide us with improved versions to keep pace with consumer demand. Just think, in a few years, you may influence Canada and the world with one of your technological innovations. The world of IT is a world of exploding possibilities that almost defies definition. Change in the ways and means in which information is created, stored, shared and used, affects virtually every other industry in the economy. As the software developers and hardware manufacturers come up with even more products, they exponentially increase the possibilities of IT. The following booklet offers a sampling of some of the most common and most in demand IT occupations available on PEI. These occupations were selected after reviewing the results of a labour force study of the IT industry of PEI (A Study of Supply and Demand PEI Information Technology Labour Force, October 2008). Much of the information in the 13 occupational profiles highlighted comes from the PEI Job Futures website, the PEI Population Secretariat Career Profile Handbook, and from IT employers and stakeholders of PEI. This booklet highlights real career opportunities available here on Prince Edward Island! This booklet was produced by the IT Association of PEI (ITAP), a not-for-profit organization that strives to create a prepared, diverse and highly educated PEI IT industry and workforce. ITAP is a catalyst for change, pushing for innovations that will provide skills definitions, labour market intelligence, career awareness and professional development for IT industry, educators and governments. We forge partnerships that will help develop the quantity and quality of IT professionals needed to maintain and improve PEI s position as a leader in the global marketplace.

3 INDEX Computer and Information Systems Manager Computer Engineer Network Infrastructure Specialist Computer Programmer Database Administrator Graphic Designer Information Systems Business Analyst Interactive Media Developer Software Developer Technical Services Representative Quality Assurance Analyst Web Developer IT Project Manager Resources skills where to start training work on PEI

4 It is very gratifying to bring a team of talented IT and business professionals together to solve business problems and improve service delivery. Sheldon MacDonald, Veterans Affairs Canada Computer and Information Systems Managers plan, organize, direct, control, and evaluate the activities of organizations that analyze, design, develop, implement, operate, and administer computer and telecommunications software, networks, and information systems. Computer and Information Systems Managers meet with clients to discuss system requirements, specifications, costs and schedules. They also assemble and manage teams of information systems personnel. NOC#: 0213 $60,000 - $95,000 *approximate salary range 4

5 What makes a successful Computer & Information Systems Manager? Computer and Information Systems Managers are detail-oriented and logical thinkers. They can envision a client s needs and wants and transform ideas into a maintainable system. Computer and Information Systems Managers must enjoy consulting and working with others as well as working independently. How do I begin to train for this position? Computer and Information Systems Managers may hold either a bachelor s degree in computer science, mathematics, commerce or business administration or a college diploma in computer science. Where in PEI can I train to be a Computer & Information Systems Manager? Computer and Information Systems Managers may receive training from UPEI and Holland College. UPEI offers a bachelor of science degree in computer science as well as a bachelor of business administration with a minor in information technology. Holland College offers the two year Computer Information Systems (CIS) program. Where in PEI can I work as a Computer & Information Systems Manager? DeltaWare Systems, Bell Aliant, Cogsdale Corporation, CGI, Timeless Technologies, SwiftRadius IT Solutions, Other Ocean Interactive, Government of PEI, ScreenScape Networks. 5

6 Computer Engineering has grown significantly over the past 15 years due to increasing job requirements for engineers who can design and manage all forms of computer systems used in industry. Graduates have unlimited career opportunities in Canada and around the world and salaries are very competitive in comparison with other engineering streams. Robert Michael, Veterans Affairs Canada Computer Engineers research, plan, design, create, modify, evaluate, and integrate computer and telecommunications hardware, information,and communication system networks. They work closely with clients to analyze the clients requirements and design and develop system specifications. Computer Engineers supervise, inspect, and provide design support during the manufacturing, installation, and implementation of hardware. NOC#: 2147 $50,000 - $75,000 *approximate salary range 6

7 What makes a successful Computer Engineer? Computer Engineers have excellent problem solving, analytical, and math skills. They have strong technical, communication, and coordination skills. How do I begin to train for this position? Becoming a professional engineer begins by completing a bachelor s degree in an engineering discipline at an accredited university. Some jobs may also require a master s or doctoral degree. Upon graduation, the graduate must register with his/her provincial/territorial association. Those wanting to work in PEI must register with Engineers PEI. Once registered with the association, graduates become engineers-in-training and work under the supervision of a professional engineer for a minimum of four years in an acceptable job. After successful completion of this work experience, engineers-intraining are eligible to complete the professional practice exam. If the engineer-in-training passes the exam and his/her work experience is acceptable to the association s Engineering Qualifications Committee, he/she becomes a professional engineer. Computer Engineers require a bachelor s degree in computer engineering, electrical or electronics engineering. Where in PEI can I train to be a Computer Engineer? UPEI offers a 3-year diploma program leading to a degree at Dalhousie University in Halifax and the University of New Brunswick in Fredericton. Other Canadian and international universities also offer engineering degree programs. 7

8 This is a dynamic career - there s always something new and exciting going on. The technology is constantly changing and there are always opportunities to learn. Scott McGuigan, Atlantic Technology Centre Network Infrastructure Specialists establish, operate, maintain, and coordinate the use of local and wide area networks, mainframe networks, hardware, software, and related computer equipment. They may also research, test, evaluate, and make recommendations in the development and/or enhancement of complex PC and LAN/WAN Networks. NOC#: 2281 $45,000 - $70,000 *approximate salary range 8

9 What makes a successful Network Infrastructure Specialist? Network Infrastructure Specialists are creative problem solvers with effective communication and interpersonal skills. An ability to understand complex systems and mechanisms is also necessary. How do I begin to train for this position? Network Infrastructure Specialists complete post-secondary education in computer science, network administration, web technology or a related information technology field. Where in PEI can I train to be a Network Infrastructure Specialist? There are a number of educational institutions in PEI that offer related programs including The Academy of Learning and Holland College. Where in PEI can I work as a Network Infrastructure Specialist? DeltaWare Systems, UPEI, Bell Aliant, Government of PEI, Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), CGI, Cogsdale Corporation, Holland College, ScreenScape Networks, SwiftRadius IT Solutions, UPEI, Vision Quest Inc. 9

10 Computer Programming continues to be a field that has a wide range of different opportunities and companies that are doing many different types of things. I chose a career in computer science because I enjoy problem solving, working in a team based environment and developing new and innovative products. Computer science also gives you the ability to use your creativity as you develop new products and systems. Matthew Wicks, DeltaWare Systems Computer Programmers write, modify, integrate, and test computer code for microcomputer and mainframe software applications, data processing applications, operating systems-level software and communications software. They prepare reports, manuals, and other documentation on the status, operation, capabilities, and maintenance of software. NOC#: 2174 $40,000 - $70,000 *approximate salary range 10

11 What makes a successful Computer Programmer? Computer Programmers have excellent decision-making, problem-solving, and analytical skills. They have strong verbal and written communication skills. Computer Programmers have the ability to work independently as well as in a team. How do I begin to train for this position? Computer Programmers often have either a bachelor s degree in computer science or have completed a college program in computer science or a related field. Where in PEI can I train to be a Computer Programmer? UPEI offers a bachelor of science in computer science. Holland College offers a diploma in the Computer Information Systems (CIS) programming profile. Where in PEI can I work as a Computer Programmer? DeltaWare Systems, Timeless Technologies, Cogsdale Corporation, CGI, Bell Aliant, Government of PEI, Baseline Business Geographics, C-TEC, Discovery Garden, Engineering Technologies Canada, GeoNet Technologies Inc., Holland College, Justice Knowledge Network, ScreenScape Networks, Shared Solutions, SwiftRadius IT Solutions, TACS Software, UPEI, Vector Aerospace, Vision Quest Inc. 11

12 Being employed in IT and Database Administration provides me with an exciting and fast paced career. I find it to be very rewarding, working with cutting edge technology and in an environment in which I am constantly being challenged. Cory Bailey, Cogsdale Corporation Database Administrators create, develop, and administer data using database management software. They must determine the user s requirements then design, construct, modify, implement, and test database systems. Database Administrators research, develop, and document policies and procedures for network access, data access, network usage, backup and recovery. In some organizations, this occupation may be divided into two separate positions. NOC#: 2172 $50,000 - $80,000 *approximate salary range 12

13 What makes a successful Database Administrator? Database Administrator enjoy troubleshooting and solving technical and organizational challenges. They are self-motivated when working independently; however, database analysts must also enjoy working, cooperating, and consulting with others. Database Administrator are detail-oriented and analytical. How do I begin to train for this position? Database Administrator may hold either a bachelor s degree in computer science, mathematics, commerce or business administration or a college diploma in computer science. Computer programming skills are generally required. Where in PEI can I train to be a Database Administrator? Educational training for Database Administrator is available from both UPEI and Holland College. UPEI offers a bachelor of science degree in computer science as well as bachelor of business degree with a minor in information technology. Holland College offers the Computer Information Systems (CIS) program. Where in PEI can I work as a Database Administrator? DeltaWare Systems, Timeless Technologies, CGI, Government of PEI, VisionQuest Inc. 13

14 I can t imagine a more interesting job than Graphic Design. I come to work to communicate my ideas to the world with the sole purpose of causing a reaction...and I don t even have to wear a tie! Dale McKie, Revolution Media Graphic Designers conceptualize and produce graphic art and visual materials to communicate information through publications, advertisements, films, packaging, posters, signs, video games, websites, CD-ROMs, etc. Graphic Designers determine clients graphic needs, choose the bestsuited medium, and design the graphic elements. They also provide the client with accurate estimates of cost and time. NOC#: 5241 $25,000 - $50,000 *approximate salary range 14

15 What makes a successful Graphic Designer? Graphic Designers are creative and have the ability to visualize ideas. They must have strong artistic and drawing abilities. Graphic Designers constantly work with the pressure of deadlines so they must perform well under challenging time constraints. (They often work collaboratively and must have strong written and verbal communication skills.) How do I begin to train for this position? Most of a Graphic Designer s work is accomplished with computers therefore strong computer skills are essential, as are artistic and design skills. Where in PEI can I train to be a Graphic Designer? Holland College offers diploma programs in Graphic Design and Video Game Art & Animation. Where in PEI can I work as a Graphic Designer? Graphic Communications, Kwik Kopy Printing, Revolution Media, Fresh Media, Telos Productions, Other Ocean Interactive, Bight Interactive, Cellar Door Productions, Holland College, ScreenScape Networks, SwiftRadius IT Solutions, UPEI, Web Site Advantage Inc. 15

16 I enjoy being a Business Analyst because it s allowed me to gain valuable experience in both business systems and technology. It s exciting to be able to identify ways for an organization to use technology to solve business problems or create opportunities for future growth. Marilyn Campbell, Business Technology Consulting Information Systems Business Analysts design, develop and implement information systems. They identify and document client requirements and conduct research. Business Analysts also offer advice on information systems strategy, policy, management, and delivery. (Information systems are automated processes that collect, process, transmit, and disperse data and information within an organization and globally.) NOC#: 2171 $45,000 - $70,000 *approximate salary range 16

17 What makes a successful Information Systems Business Analyst? Information Systems Business Analysts enjoy identifying, defining, and solving problems. They must be effective communicators and enjoy working with clients to determine, decipher, and resolve the needs of the clients. Business Analysts have the ability to make effective decisions while under pressure and strict deadlines. How do I begin to train for this position? Information Systems Business Analysts generally require a bachelor s degree or a college diploma in an information technology-related field. Where in PEI can I train to be an Information Systems Business Analyst? Information Systems Business Analysts may study at either UPEI or Holland College. UPEI s Department of Computer Science offers a bachelor s degree with a major in computer science while the Business Department offers a bachelor s degree with a minor in information technology. Holland College offers the Computer Information Systems (CIS) program. Where in PEI can I work as an Information Systems Business Analyst? DeltaWare Systems, Timeless Technologies, Vision Quest Inc., Government of PEI, CGI, Cogsdale Corporation, Discovery Garden, ScreenScape Networks, SwiftRadius IT Solutions, Justice Knowledge Network. 17

18 I really enjoy utilizing problem solving skills to combine cutting edge technologies in fun and innovative ways. Unlike many other fields, you can get a strong visual sense of progress and accomplishment when working on video games and interactive media. You can watch what you have built grow into a product that you want to show off and share with the rest of the world. Nigel Banks, Other Ocean Interactive Interactive Media Developers write, modify, integrate, and test computer code for Internet applications, computer-based training software, computer games, film, video, and other interactive multimedia. They also prepare reports and manuals on the status, operation, and maintenance of software. NOC#: 2174 $40,000 - $75,000 *approximate salary range 18

19 What makes a successful Interactive Media Developer? Interactive Media Developers should have strong analytical, creative, problem-solving, and decision-making skills and should enjoy working independently as well as in a team. How do I begin to train for this position? A bachelor s degree or college diploma in computer science (or another discipline with a significant programming component) is usually required for this occupation. Where in PEI can I train to be an Interactive Media Developer? UPEI offers a bachelor of science degree in computer science as well as a bachelor of business degree with a minor in information technology. Holland College offers the Computer Information Systems (CIS) and Video Game Art and Animation programs. Where in PEI can I work as an Interactive Media Developer? Bight Interactive, Sculpin QA, Other Ocean Interactive, Telos Productions, Cellar Door Productions. 19

20 A true Software Developer understands the development process, and is more involved than simply writing source code. A successful development team begins a project with a full understanding of the client s business needs; and with requirements firmly in hand they implement techniques that ensure quality implementation of the overall business solution. Christine Gui, SwiftRadius Software Developers research, design, evaluate, integrate, and maintain software applications, technical environments, operating systems, and telecommunications software. Software Developers also plan, design, and coordinate the development, installation, integration, and operation of computer-based systems. They assess, troubleshoot, document, upgrade and create maintenance procedures for operating systems and applications software. NOC#: 2173 $55,000 - $80,000 *approximate salary range 20

21 What makes a successful Software Developer? Software Developers must have strong technical troubleshooting skills and enjoy overcoming challenges through trial and error methods. They must be team players yet self-motivated when working in independent roles. Software Developers may lead and coordinate teams of information systems professionals thus may be required to work in a team-motivating role. How do I begin to train for this position? Software Developers have a bachelor s degree, often in computer science, computer systems engineering, mathematics or software engineering. They may also have completed a college program in computer science. Where in PEI can I train to be a Software Developer? UPEI offers a bachelor of science degree in computer science as well as bachelor of business degree with a minor in information technology. Holland College offers the Computer Information Systems (CIS) program. Where in PEI can I work as a Software Developer? Bight Interactive, Other Ocean Interactive, Telos Productions, DeltaWare Systems, Timeless Technologies, Sculpin QA, Cogsdale Corporation, CGI, Bell Aliant, Government of PEI, Baseline Business Geographics, Discovery Garden, ScreenScape Networks, Shared Solutions, SwiftRadius IT Solutions, The Competency Group. 21

22 Being employed within the IT field gives me an opportunity to be challenged on a day to day basis. It provides me with a career that is ever evolving with new experiences. Trista MacIsaac, Advantage Communications Technical Service Representatives assist clients with technical related problems as well as with technical-equipment training. They assist clients with a wide variety of hardware and software products throughout the user s setup, installation, configuration, and daily operations. Technical Service Representatives usually work in typical office environments; however, much of their work is done at the client s workstation or work site. Technical Support is often completed through a help-desk by phone and/or online remote access to assist clients. NOC#: 2282 $20,000 - $50,000 *approximate salary range 22

23 What makes a successful Technical Services Representative? Technical Service Representatives are empathic, flexible, and patient individuals that enjoy helping others during challenging situations. They enjoy the challenge of working with computers and employing trial and error to solve computer problems. Technical Service Representatives must communicate effectively and be able to verbally explain complex details in a simple and concise way. How do I begin to train for this position? Most Technical Service Representatives are required to have a university degree or college diploma as well as related information technology experience. Where in PEI can I train to be a Technical Services Representative? UPEI offers a bachelor of science in computer science. Holland College offers the Computer Information Systems (CIS) and Computer Networking Technology programs. The Academy of Learning offers programs in Computer Service Technician, Help Desk Support Analyst, and Network System Administrator. Where in PEI can I work as a Technical Services Representative? Combat Computers, Bell Aliant, Government of PEI, DeltaWare Systems, Holland College, UPEI, Vector Aerospace. 23

24 Quality Assurance gives you the opportunity to develop many skills that are easily transferable across other career possibilities. It is a flexible and evolving career in a growing industry, that is not limited to individuals with a technical background. Brynn Devine, Cogsdale Corporation Quality Assurance Analysts debug complex software or information system products through systematic testing to develop, apply and maintain quality standards. They also develop and execute complex test plans and perform analysis of results to ensure functionality and/or recommend corrective measures. They also work closely with software developers, designers, technical writers, and support teams to investigate and correct defects, as well completing logging, tracking, communication and resolution of issues. NOC#: 2171 $45,000 - $75,000 *approximate salary range 24

25 What makes a successful Quality Assurance Analyst? Quality Assurance Analysts must be detail and goal-oriented with a high level of organization and have excellent verbal and communication skills. They must have proficiency in web technologies, database platforms, or programming languages related to the software or information system development and implementation. How do I begin to train for this position? Quality Assurance Analysts may hold either a bachelor s degree in computer science, mathematics, commerce or business administration or a college diploma in computer science. Computer programming skills are generally required. Where in PEI can I train to be a Quality Assurance Analyst? Quality Assurance Analyst may receive training from UPEI and Holland College. UPEI offers a bachelor of science degree in computer science as well as a bachelor of business degree with a minor in information technology. Holland College offers the two year Computer Information Systems (CIS) program. Where in PEI can I work as a Quality Assurance Analyst? DeltaWare Systems, Bell Aliant, Cogsdale Corporation, CGI, Timeless Technologies, SwiftRadius IT Solutions, Bight Interactive, Sculpin QA, Telos, Other Ocean Interactive, Government of PEI, ScreenScape Networks. 25

26 The biggest benefit of being a Web Developer in the IT industry is the ability to be creative and yet still stay within a professional work environment. Mike Critchley, TechnoMedia Web Developers research, design, develop, and produce internet and intranet sites. Web Developers assess website requirements of clients, prepare mock-ups, determine hardware and software requirements then select and organize information to create the client s website. Web Developers use graphics,databases, animation, and other tools to aid in their development of websites. They may coordinate and manage multi-disciplinary teams to develop website graphics, animation, content, and interactivity. In some organizations, this occupation may be divided into two separate positions. NOC#: 2175 $30,000 - $70,000 *approximate salary range 26

27 What makes a successful Web Developer? Web Developers are creative and visionary. They enjoy working with clients and creating a finished product to meet the clients needs. Web Developers also have strong technical skills and enjoy the trial and error process associated with creating great websites. How do I begin to train for this position? Web Developers may have a bachelor s degree usually in computer science, communications or business or a college diploma in computer science, web design, business or graphic arts. Where in PEI can I train to be a Web Developer? UPEI, Holland College, and The Academy of Learning offer programs related to these occupations. Where in PEI can I work as a Web Developer? Bell Aliant, Graphic Communications Inc., Fresh Media, SwiftRadius IT Solutions, WebSite Advantage Inc., Revolution Media, Future Web Design. 27

28 Project Management is a widely respected, knowledge-rich, mature, and fast-growing profession sought after by energetic, organized, motivated, results-oriented leaders who thrive at the challenge of building products and services on time, within a budget, while meeting or exceeding the needs and expectations of customers. Derek MacEwen, VisionQuest Inc. IT Project Managers are responsible for the overall coordination of systems development and implementation for major IT applications. They oversee projects from start to finish and must ensure that informatics projects deliver as intended, that the staffing requirements are effective, and that the project is completed on time and within the allotted budget. IT Project Managers are responsible for most of the decisions associated with their projects. NOC#: 0213 $60,000 - $90,000 *approximate salary range 28

29 What makes a successful IT Project Manager? IT Project Managers are able to make competent decisions, communicate effectively, and manage people under pressure. They pay close attention to detail and enjoy being in a leadership role. Often IT Project Managers are required to work overtime to complete projects on time. How do I begin to train for this position? IT Project Managers usually hold either a bachelor s degree or a college diploma in an IT related field. In some cases, IT Project Managers may have a bachelor s degree or diploma in an unrelated discipline but must have a significant amount of work experience in the IT industry. IT Project Managers often begin in junior IT Project Manager roles and may advance to more senior roles as they gain experience. Senior IT Project Managers may require experience in specific fields. Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification is available with successful completion of several courses, a significant amount of project management experience, and a passing grade in written exams. Where in PEI can I train to be an IT Project Manager? UPEI offers a bachelor of science degree in computer science as well as a bachelor of business degree with a minor in information technology. Holland College offers the Computer Information Systems (CIS) program and Computer Networking Technology Programs. Where in PEI can I work as an IT Project Manager? DeltaWare Systems, Vision Quest Inc., Bell Aliant, Government of PEI, Cogsdale Corporation, CGI, Holland College, Justice Knowledge Network, ScreenScape Networks, SwiftRadius IT Solutions, Timeless Technologies, UPEI, Vector Aerospace. 29

30 EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES University of Prince Edward Island - Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Computer Science - BSc in Computer Science with specialization in Video Gaming - Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) with a specialization in IT Holland College Diploma Programs in... - Computer Networking Technology - Computer Information Systems - Graphic Design - Video Game Art and Animation Academy of Learning Diploma Programs in... - Computer Service Technician - Help Desk Support Analyst - Network System Administrator PEI Population Secretariat - Career Profile Handbook * Salary compensation data was determined by the PEI IT Compensation Study (September 2010). Approximate Salary Ranges. Salaries can vary significantly from organization to organization. Salary data sources include ERI and LMI data (HRSDC publishes LMI data and job futures data). All salaries are rounded to a $5,000 incriment. 30

31 POTENTIAL EMPLOYERS (ITAP MEMBERS) Accreon AML Communications Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) Baseline Business Geographics Inc. Bulletproof Solutions Inc. Bell Aliant Cellar Door Productions CGI Inc. Cogsdale Corporation Combat Computers Inc. C-TEC Consulting Inc. DeltaWare Systems Discovery Garden Inc. Engineering Technologies Canada Ltd. Fresh Media Inc. Future Web Design GeoNet Technologies Inc. Government of PEI IT Shared Services Graphic Communications Inc. Holland College iwave Justice Knowledge Network Kwik Kopy Design and Print Shop Mermaid Enterprises Other Ocean Interactive purescm RadNet Resonance Development Inc. Revolution Media Sculpin QA ScreenScape Networks Shared Solutions Inc. SwiftRadius IT Solutions Telos Productions Inc. The Competency Group Thinking Big Timeless Group of Companies University of Prince Edward Island Vector Aerospace VisionQuest Inc. Vitrak Systems Inc. Web Site Advantage Inc. Worklinks * For full descriptions of these ITAP members go to 31

32 Innovation Technology Association of PEI This project is funded in whole or in part by the Canada/Prince Edward Island Labour Market Development Agreement.