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Showing posts with label Career. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Career. Show all posts

Computer Forensics and Computer Security Consulting as a Career?


The other day an acquaintance mentioned to me that he'd like to start a new business in the computer forensics trade, and make it his new life's work. Does that make sense? Well, sure it does, and just because everything is moving into the cloud, or so it is predicted doesn't necessarily mean that folks who are trying to hide something would dare to store stuff there. After all, it would be easily searchable by the authorities, or some NSA searching algorithm will find it.

Thus, those using computers to help them break the law are more likely to keep information close to the vest on encrypted CD ROMS, hard drives, thumb drives, etc - kind of like Osama bin Laden did. And then there is another aspect to the computer forensics business, and that is recovering lost data for businesses. Therefore, I explained to him that I agree that computer forensics, and consulting are a good business to be in - smart idea.

In fact, I have a friend who had a computer consulting business, and did quite well, but had challenges when he took on the wrong partner, and they both had different ideas on how to run the business, so they split it into two, hardware sales/computer repair and consulting/networks. Just be careful if you take on partners, was his advice. I'd say that advice would definitely go for the computer forensics sector as well.

And, speaking of computer forensics, I sure could have used him a few years ago, when my hard drive crashed, and I lost 4 eBooks I was working on, which like a dummy I hadn't backed up. That was terrible. And that same year I had my MS operating system screw up, and when I re-booted I lost a ton more, lots of import ideas, concepts, and half completed articles I was thinking on. People really need computer forensics, and data recovery, and Corporations really need to trace back how the hackers get in to provide safe data security too.

I'd say there is a ton of work to be done + potential contracts with law-enforcement I'd say, as well. Good be quite a lucrative business I'd say? Indeed, maybe my acquaintance is quite wise in his desire to start such a business, maybe that is a smart industry to get into, and with the right connections, it ought to be a very awesome business. Well, that's all for now, something to think on. If you have any more questions or comments on the computer forensics industry please shoot me an email.




Lance Winslow is a retired Founder of a Nationwide Franchise Chain, and now runs the Online Think Tank. Lance Winslow believes writing 23,777 articles by 7 PM on June 27, 2011 is going to be difficult because all the letters on his keyboard are now worn off now..




Career Opportunities With a Computer Science Degree


A career in computers is still a popular choice even in the current recessive economic times we are experiencing. With advances in computer technology and network communications leading to continuous developments, the requirement for trained professionals and skilled graduates is always in high demand. A computer science major is popular choice for students today as this field remains at the forefront of expanding technology. Students with a computer science degree will always be a hot

candidate in the job market.

Computer science involves the host of sub-divisions ranging from theory to development, programming to computing solutions. A computer science degree provides a foundation that prepares students to constantly adapt to new ideas and technologies. Computer scientists are required to design and create software, problem shoot as and when needs arise, process and store data, devise new and effective security methods and most exciting of all - develop new and innovative ways of using computers. Professionals in computer science have pushed the boundaries of science and technology to enter the fray of robotics and digital forensics - fields that had not even existed a few decades ago.

A computer science degree demands an aptitude for math and analytical thought. Students interested in a career in computer science should consider going for a BCS degree to qualify for jobs in this field. A good Bachelors degree in computer sciences will prepare students in implementing and designing software. Software development now entails new areas such as interface design, web development, and mobile computing. Once entrenched in the work force with enough practical work experience, a Masters degree in computer science can help improve job prospects and further your specialization in a particular field.

If your Bachelor of Computer Science degree pushes you towards a career in computer solutions, you would be applying all your theoretical knowledge towards solving computing issues and problems. This field would require a higher degree; even a Ph.D. and a research position in a developmental laboratory. If you choose to get into computer development, you have the option of getting into an entrepreneurial position and maybe even starting your own company that specializes in the same.

There are also a number of new careers that demand a CS degree such as web development, information technology, computing management, information security and database administration. Web development is the latest trend and almost every company today has a website. Web developers in turn create and maintain these sites using the latest technological know-how and marketing strategies. The communications industry has pushed the boundaries of information technology. Computer science graduates are now employed with mobile companies to develop faster and better ways of communicating. Many MBA graduates now also specialize in computers and programming. Employers are always on the lookout for those with multiple skills and training and career success is a given for these students. Database administrators are also in demand, as more and more companies require their services to effectively collect and interpret information that will help the company to strategize efforts and move forward. Another fast-growing prospect in this field is the subject of online security-predicted to play a strategic role in the future of computer technology. Information security comes into play with regard to online shopping, Internet banking and privacy management.

A computer science degree will therefore prepare you for a challenging career in a variety of jobs. Armed with a solid educational background, the choices are then up to you to make depending on your aptitude and interests.




California College San Diego (CCSD) has trained graduates for new careers in high demand jobs since 1978. This California College, located in San Diego, offers Associate, Bachelor and Graduate degrees in healthcare, business, computer and graphic arts. CCSD also provides accelerated degrees with its FastFlex option. In-demand college degree programs offered by CCSD are strictly accredited to meet the accreditation standards set by U.S. Dept. of Ed.




Career in Computers


There are few areas left in our day-to-day life that are not touched by computers. From home appliances to consumer goods, industry to the government, computers are used everywhere. And as we speak, technology continues to be pushed to its limits and new advancements and skills are required to keep up with the pace. In lieu of the recent global economic crisis, many students fear that choosing a career in computers may not be the wisest decision. But, rest assured, there has been a steady growth in the industry irrespective, and still, an education in computers is sure to pay off in the long run.

Education has no other option but to keep up with scientific and engineering advances and the demand for highly trained individuals remains undeterred. Students interested in a career in computers need to be updated with the latest skills and certifications to truly succeed. You can opt for Computer Science degrees, Computer Technology and Networking Degrees or Computer Programming Degrees, if you're interested in pursuing a career in computers.

A degree in Computer Science will cover theory and programming along with the latest developments and computing solutions. A Computer Science degree creates the foundation for students to adapt to new technologies and new ideas. Keep in mind that most computer science degrees need some level of proficiency in math. There are several career paths one can choose after graduating with a CS degree. These include designing and implementing software or software development. This is a popular career option for many graduates as its reach involves interface design, web development, and newer areas such as mobile computing. You could be employed by organizations of all kinds, from government and industry to finance and healthcare.

Computer technology degrees prepare students to meet the computer technology needs of businesses, governments, administrations and other types of organizations. A computer technology graduate will be trained to impart hands-on expertise and integrate the needs and infrastructure of an organization and the people who use it. Installing, maintaining and customizing these applications is also the domain of such professionals.

Individuals with Computer Networking Degrees are the ones in charge of the networks that support an organization. This includes designing and maintaining Local Area Networks and Wide Area Networks. Computer networking professionals also work in developing and implementing the information security plan and disaster recovery plan for their organization. Computer networking will also provide you with skills required for jobs in computer programming, systems analyzing, and database administration, to name a few.

And finally, Computer Programming Degrees deal with the instructions and languages that computers use to operate. Computer programmers solve problems and develop and carry out tests within the system. The responsibilities of such individuals will depend on the business or industry in which they work. Software development programmers, for example, often work with other specialists in developing customized or general-use software. This could include games, financial management packages, and even programs used for training and educational purposes.

The field of computers is one of the fastest changing areas and to remain successful requires a constant commitment to educating yourself and updating your knowledge and skills. Practical experience, education, and training to stay in touch with the current technologies is the only way to make your mark in this dynamic career path.




California College San Diego (CCSD) has trained graduates for new careers in high demand jobs since 1978. It offers associate, bachelor and graduate degrees in healthcare, business management, accounting, business administration, computer networking, computer programming and computer science. California College San Diego has the longest running premier Respiratory Therapy program in San Diego and also provides accelerated college degree programs with its FastFlex courses. In-demand computer degree programs in Computer Technology and Networking, Computer Programming and Computer Science are accredited.




Hardware and Networking in India - How Do I Build My Career?


Hardware and Networking in India came into existence as a vocational education and is now trained as certified, diploma, engineering and master course. Do you know? Getting trained in courses one can be technician, technical and system administrator.

History

Generally Hardware and networking came into better existence when computers was invented by Charles Babbage. Hardware was the base of adding components, trouble shooting and assembling a computer in systemic way. Networking is a process were we can find two or more computers are connected with each other to share files and other major features.

The Growth

Computers have developed from 2000 to 2010, the major impact is that it has become a major need of human from a school child to a grown man. Since the computers have spread in rapid speed, percentage of the experts has also increased. The person who has a good knowledge is in a position to build his career in a better way, So learning hardware and networking is a better option in day today's life. The following are the details and important information related to this education:

Courses in Hardware and Networking

There are 5 different levels of certification: Entry, Associate, Professional, Expert and the Architect level. There are several courses, top courses are N+, Network Security, JCHNP, MNA, JCHNE, Cisco, Security+, Red Hat Certification, Diploma in Computer Hardware, Diploma in Networking, Certification in Hardware and Networking.

List of Hardware Networking Institutes

Jetking - Jetking, India's leading Hardware and Networking training institute, has trained over 4,00,000 students in its 125 centers spread across India.

IIHT - IIHT is amongst Asia's top IT training organizations. The goodwill is not only because IIHT provides skilled manpower in the areas of hardware, networking, database management, security and storage management, but also because the students are taught the latest technology advancements in the industry.

IIJT - IIJT was founded by a group of professionals whose excellence in computer-based training is worth to vouch for. A group, who has made it one of the largest training centres in India. The group has also achieved the unique distinction of placing more than 25,000 students in several leading companies.

DCC - DCC is one of the leading IT hubs of India today, in the last decade DCC has emerged as a company providing complete IT Hardware solutions to the entire Maharashtra region.

Future job roles in Hardware and Networking are:

System administrator
Network administrator
System Engineer
Technical Engineer or Computer Hardware Engineer
Network Engineer
Technical support
Help desk technician or Network support technician
IT technician
IT administrator
Field service technician

Those who have career aspects and top institutes to choose, it should not come as a surprise for students to make a career in Hardware and Networking.

Find Institutes, Courses and information regarding hardware and Networking and other educational information.




Social Media Publisher and Search Engine Optimizer. He has 2 years experience in writing researched articles of various topics, SEO web content and Blogging. He likes to share the knowledge by building his network in every field (mainly web) from a visitor to an web expert.




Start Your Future Career With A Good Computer Training


To almost all business industries, the computer system is the backbone for a lot of companies. In the world of IT or information technology, there are primarily two types of network providers: CISCO and Microsoft. Becoming a certified CISCO network associate or a certified Microsoft system associate will surely give you an edge over other IT experts today.

Having such certification means going through intensive computer training. In the United States, the DC area, computer training is one of their best places that offer high quality computer training. In fact computer training in North Virginia is highly recognized nationwide. CISCO and Microsoft certification are available through various computer training centers in North Virginia.

The above mentioned certification courses will surely upgrade anyone's skill and practice you for more complex and advanced computer training courses. Even if you have very little knowledge about advanced IT, rests assure that these training programs will help you get started. At the end of each course, you will learn how to configure systems, troubleshoot hardware, software even routers and switches. You will learn how install and uninstall various programs and even how to protect your computer system from the threat of unethical hacker by becoming a hacker yourself.

And since a lot of companies in the United States are dominating its presence in the internet, the work market for IT development and design is booming and is largely in demand, not just in the United States but in other parts of the world as well. Getting proper computer training in North Virginia will play a huge role in helping you become a certified IT expert.

Course offered by training centers in North Virginia includes A+, Network+, Security+, CCNA, CISSP, Cisco certification, and Microsoft certification. CEH, CHFI, and ESCA are ethical hacker courses that boomed in popularity in 2001. Demand for Certified Ethical Hackers is continuously soaring up, because a lot of companies have seen the negative effect of unsecured computer network to their business reputation. Large companies are willing to shed off large sum of money for high quality CEH, to work on their computer system's safety and security.

CEH courses are offered in computer training in North Virginia. In fact, this is where computer training in North Virginia dominates the other computer centers nationwide, for they can produce highly qualified CEH more than any other schools outside the state. And their student's achievements are highly recognized, giving credits to the school or training centers that they came from.

CompTIA A+ certification on the other hand has been around for many years now but because the world of technology is ever changing, the certification varies as well, but without changing the foundation of the certification tests. This tactic ensures that only those who have studied well or the right people with sufficient knowledge about both computer hardware and software and those who can build it, would get recognition. Like with everything else in this world, where you came from, serves as your future foundation. Getting computer training in North Virginia is a good foundation that you will surely benefit from, in the future.




Northernvirginiatraining.com is a website where you can get all information about the latest computer training in Northern Virginia. If you are looking for the best training center with advanced computer course then visit that northernvirginiatraining.com.




Computer Support Specialists - Are You Interested in a Technical Support Career?


Computer support specialists are responsible for providing assistance to customers and users who are having technical difficulties with their computers, such as a crashed hard drive or a forgotten password. Technical support specialists may also provide services in running a network on a day to day basis for a corporation.

Technical support specialists may run diagnostic programs in order to solve computer problems, and they will repair hardware and reinstall software. Other support specialists may write training manuals and train individuals how to use hardware and software.

Network systems administrators are responsible for installing systems over a local area network, frequently working for small businesses, large companies, and governmental organizations. These professionals will also evaluate the network requirements of a company and analyze this information in order to set up a secure broadband network that will operate efficiently. Network systems administrators will also take into account the future needs of a company and plan to add capacity to a computer network.

Computer security specialists are responsible for managing the information security and protecting a network from cyber attacks. Most systems specialists will work about 40 hours a week although they may have to work extra hours in order to provide customer support, especially if they are self-employed. It is becoming increasingly common for computer support specialists to work from remote locations.

Network systems certification is usually sufficient in order to become a support specialist, however, most individuals had at least a bachelor's degree in computer systems. Skills that these professionals should have include an ability to solve problems and to communicate effectively in order to solve any computing and network problems that their clients may have.

Computer support employment should grow steadily over the next 10 years, with employment growth estimates being twice the rate of growth of the average for American professions. Over the next decade, these jobs are expected to grow in number by 155,000, with most of this expansion occurring in computer systems administration.

In 2006, the median 50th percentile of systems administrators made between $48,500 and $79,000, while computer support specialists made between $32,000 and $53,600 annually.




For more information concerning Computer Support Specialists, visit Killer Careers, for extra info about Network Systems Jobs.




Secure Yourself In The Growing Career Of Computer Network Security


We have all heard stories on the news about email viruses wreaking havoc on computer systems. To keep computer systems in top performance you will need to know the risks, and what you can do to protect yourself from viruses and computer hackers.

Our world today practically relies on the computers and the Internet. A massive attack on of a computer virus could wipe out communications, air traffic control, hospitals and credit cards. Specialists with training in computer and network security are needed to help us protect this information by preventing, detecting, and responding to attacks.

As Security risks are becoming greater, qualified people are needed to keep computer networks secure. You can learn to defend computer networks against scams, fraud, espionage and more when you earn a degree in computer network security.

This course of study will teach students how to install, maintain, and monitor existing security software for both the private and public sectors. Students will be able to build computer security programs, fix existing programs, install security software, and be able to recognize when an intruder is attempting to hack into a computer network.

Jobs in network security cover many different areas. Here are some jobs in Computer Network Security:

· Database administrators work with database management systems software and determine ways to organize and store data. They identify user requirements, set up computer databases, and test and coordinate modifications to the computer database systems. They basically manage and protect a company's data.

· Computer Systems Analysts solve computer problems and apply computer technology to meet the individual needs of an organization. Systems analysts may plan and develop new computer systems or devise ways to apply existing systems' resources to additional operations. Computer systems analysts use the computer's technical abilities to meet the needs of a particular type of industry or company.

· Network Administrators and Computer System Administrators oversee network security as part of their jobs. They also design, install, and support an organization's local-area network (LAN), wide-area network (WAN), network segment, Internet, or intranet system. They also provide day-to-day onsite administrative support for software users in a variety of work environments.

· Computer Security Specialists are employed for the sole purpose of working on computer security for a company. These specialists plan and implement computer security for an organization. They may also train others in computer security, install computer security systems, and monitor networks for breaches in security. They may even be called upon to respond to cyber attacks, and even collect data and evidence to be used in prosecuting perpetrators.

These careers are expected to continue to grow according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Salaries in this industry range from $58,190 to $66,460.




Mary Hart in an in-house writer for Online-Degrees-Today.com and has been writing about Computer Science degrees since 2004. To learn more about how to earn your Degree in Network Security, click here.




A Career in Computers? Let Me Count the Ways


Computers aren't taking over our lives, they succeeded some time ago.  If you drive a car, use a telephone, warm up cold pizza in a microwave, watch TV, listen to music, buy a plane ticket or a movie ticket or for that matter anything else online, if you surf, text, or tweet you are using a computerized device.  This article is an attempt to categorize the major professions in the computer field, in an attempt to help people who are interested in finding a career therein.

Computer science.  This course of study is the most pervasive in the field because it covers a lot of ground.  You'll probably want a bachelor's degree or be working towards one when you go looking for work associated with computer science.  It covers the creation of new technology that may be applied to hardware of all types.  It also encompasses software in the sense that computer scientists work at improving on or developing new software languages.  Computer science is both application of theory to new projects and knowledge to the task of solving existing problems.

Database administration is the management of information stored on computers.  People who work in this field may be information systems specialists or engineers, IT specialists, and information system developers.  Many specialize in software programs or language such as SQL, Oracle or Sybase. 

An important subcategory in this field is information security.  People who make careers in this field often take courses and become certified for specific languages or products such those mentioned above along with languages such as Java, C++ and Microsoft products.  They will also usually obtain an associate's or bachelor's degree in information systems or a related title.

Network analysts, network systems specialists, network developers, network architects and data communications specialists all focus on the networks of computer stations that share a database.  They design networks, scale them, work on security solutions for them, install them, and enlarge them. 

They work on in-house local area networks all the way up to multinational systems.  For this particular professional area most professionals hold a bachelor's or master's degree in management information systems (MIS), in information science, in IT development or sometimes, an MBA with concentration in information systems.

Software engineers design and build software programs.  They work with computer programmers who often write the code meant to accomplish what the engineer is trying to do.  Some specialize on computer systems software, others on applications software.  Degree choices include a bachelor's in computer information systems, computer science or software engineering.

Computer systems administrators or network administrators are responsible for keeping the system operating properly and for overseeing changes such as expansion or a change in software.  Often they are in charge of information security as well, or they may turn to a computer security specialist.  Computer support specialists are the repair and replace experts that manage problems with hardware and often with software as well.

This is but a small sampling.  If you are interested in obtaining the education for one of these fast-growing occupations, consult a curriculum specialist at one of the colleges or talk to a faculty member in the field if you can catch up to one.  You can also call a local computer consulting firm and find a cooperative professional;  those firms that install and repair systems have a good perch from which to survey the field.




Bob Hartzell writes about careers for GetDegrees.com. On the website, you'll find comprehensive resources for technology degrees as well as information on educational opportunities for hundreds of other professions.




Insight on Making a Career As a Cyber Security Professional


The information technology revolution has changed the way many corporations and governments operate. In recent times many businesses and nations have rapidly shifted the control of essential processes in manufacturing, banking, and communications to networked computers. Every business process has become online and almost every industry is turning out to be more techno oriented. Nevertheless, with the increase in the development of online technology the ratio of scams and cyber security has also increased radically.

These days every big or small organization including government are spending big amount on security to protect their trade secrets, financial data, and some sensitive or critical data. Today all sensitive information or database is regularly stored on a computer. In fact, the recent research from the nonprofit U.S. Cyber Consequences Unit indicates that the destruction from a single wave of cyber attacks on critical infrastructure could exceed $700 billion, which might be equivalent to 50 major hurricanes hitting the U.S. soil at once. Ultimately, there is a need for an information infrastructure safety. As a result cyber security is one of the few solutions that have gained high preference and meet the demands of present scenario.

Cyber security involves protecting the information by preventing, detecting, and responding to attacks. The professionals involved in this profession not just protect systems but data in networks that are connected to the internet. They create security policy for an organization and perform ethical hacking into a company's network and find security loopholes that need to be rectified. Over the past few years many companies in the United States are recruiting them in large numbers to maintain a proper network as well as online security. So, if you are looking forward making a career in cyber security, there are many colleges and universities that offer cyber security distance learning programs.

These distance learning courses and programs not just give you an idea but an in-depth study in IT Infrastructure Security. During this distance learning program, you get exposed to most important facets of computer security, including cyber-law, cyber-terrorism, viral activity, compliance issues along with hardening the operating system. With a distance learning degree in cyber security, you get hold of the knowledge to be on the front lines and safeguard the crucial organization infrastructures from cyber crimes and virus attacks.

The course even prepares you for security management of LAN and WAN environments, including national informational infrastructure. In addition to this, it is also one of the few courses that provide a well-built foundation in cryptography, intrusion detection, and firewall devices. Once you complete this distance learning program, you will be able to install, maintain and monitor existing security software for both private and public companies.

Today the demand for cyber security professionals has increased phenomenally in the United States. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the number of jobs in this field is also expected to grow very rapidly. Consequently, as an individual you must earn a degree in cyber security as it may equip or help you to manage and provide security effectively within the organization.




Want to become cyber security officer? Find some best cyber security distance leaning programs and top online universities in at DistanceLearningU.com. Choose the best online programs for you and start your career in cyber security now.




Effective Cyber Security Job Career Development: Small Federal Contractors


It is a fact that small businesses, not large businesses, create the overwhelming majority of jobs in this country and many analysts look to find out why this is true. This is particularly true in the world of Federal Contracting.

For technical expertise such as Cyber Security, no matter how hard the government tries, it has failed to recruit the required number of Cyber warriors. The government is just too slow and inefficient to respond to the rapidly changing needs of the marketplace. The resulting shortage of qualified workers must be filled by contractors - large and small.

It is a common myth that, when it comes to career development, large Federal Contractors, by virtue of their size only, guarantees stability and employee career development. This is not universally true and an examination of current federal contracting patterns show that small federal contractors that pursue defined strategies often offer better career paths and stability than their larger counterparts.

In these troubled days with restricted federal budgets, stability is now becoming a major career consideration and those companies that can provide stability based on continuous work flow will have an advantage.

Other important career considerations include compensation and benefits, growth opportunities and a professional work environment.

One factor is emerging in this distressed marketplace: Large size does not ensure employee career stability and often the reverse is true: large federal contractors with heavy overhead and administrative burdens are reducing payrolls at a rapid rate and the trend of moving employees to new jobs without the proper credentials have sacrificed performance on key programs.

Compensation and Benefit Packages Favor the Small Contractor:

It is a misconception that large federal contractors have the size and dominance that allows better compensation and benefit packages than small contractors. Recent salary and benefit surveys show that this is not true with small federal contractors offering greater compensation and benefits than large contractors.

For example, the chart below compares salaries in the Washington D.C. contracting district:

Average Salary of Jobs Matching Your Search (Source Indeed.com)

In USD as of Sep 20, 2010

"Fortune 50" in Herndon, VA 20170

$105,000

"Fortune 100" in Herndon, VA 20170

$85,000

"Fortune 500" in Herndon, VA 20170

$66,000

"Fortune 1000" in Herndon, VA 20170

$70,000

"Early Stage" in Herndon, VA 20170

$116,000

Average "Early Stage" salaries for job postings in Herndon, VA 20170 are 10.5-74% higher than average "Fortune 50, 100 or 500" salaries for job postings in Herndon, VA 20170. Large contractors do not pay more nor do they have the flexibility to stretch to meet the special needs of the most highly qualified candidates. Some smaller contractors however, do have the flexibility to close quickly and effectively.

As regards benefits, almost all contractors offer medical, paid time off, 401(k) matching (and a few offer direct payments as a bonus), health and disability and other fringe benefits. Many small contractors, because they tend to be more efficient in terms of less proportional overhead and general and administrative expenses, have richer co-payment and deductable plans.

Bench Strength is Not a Factor/Contingent Hiring is:

Large federal contractors in the past touted "bench strength" whereby individuals coming off of contract were kept on staff until new contract positions were secured. This added to the stability of the workforce because it tended to eliminate the anxiety of contract interruption but it increased overhead expense. With the cutting of defense budgets and the problem of excessive federal deficits, large contractors have focused on the profitability contribution of individual projects and have eliminated 'bench' placement expense from their overhead.

As an effective alternative to "bench strength" federal contracting teams (including small business partners) who win large proposals requires the ability to acquire key personnel on a contingent basis. Responding first to quick turnaround opportunities requires the ability to pull in pre-qualified candidates who already have knowledge and interest in the requirement.

It can be argued that small federal contractors, using modern tools of data management and social networking can more quickly identify and close on the best candidate for emerging jobs.

Focus on Growth for Employee Opportunities:

Small contractors are generally considered more innovative and agile in taking advantage of new technology or trends. Cyber security requirements are an example of this. Since cyber security is a rapidly changing and developing discipline in the federal marketplace, both large and small contractors are essentially starting at the same position. Furthermore, small contractors can evaluate and adopt new techniques and cyber security tools more rapidly than large contractors.

Stable Small Business Market:

By law, small businesses are required to receive 23% of federal contract dollars. This is not a guarantee however that all small business contractors will receive contracts and marketing experience and customer domain knowledge is required to obtain business.

Marketing experience is not limited to large businesses however and there are a number of successful small businesses owned and operated by experienced federal marketers. For a small business, marketing is the key to survival and successful small businesses make marketing and business development the first step to success.

Growth Oriented Management

It is an accepted fact that growth produces benefits, especially stable good paying jobs. Those that know how to grow companies are generally entrepreneurial and marketing oriented. There is a tendency for some entrepreneurs to repeat the model that proved successful in the past and create organic (non M&A) growth. Organic growth creates stability when the new business additions are within the culture of the small business.

Large companies on the other hand generally create growth through Merger and Acquisition activity and often the acquired company loses both its unique culture and existing jobs. The acquisition process can be a very destabilizing process when it comes to existing jobs.

When considering organic growth all aspects of the business are important. Core competencies must be aligned with areas and segments of the Federal Government that shows the best future growth. Presently the areas of greatest potential in government contracting are in two areas: Military Intelligence and Cyber security. In these areas however, a contractor must be prepared to nurture the employee base in order to remain competitive. This requires investment in effective training programs and a culture of recognizing individual performance.

Career Development: Conclusion

The Federal Contracting Industry offers significant opportunities for those interested in building an Information Technology/Cyber security career. There are many contracting companies that are active in the space but care must be taken to meet career objectives when selecting a job opportunity. There are many factors to consider and due diligence is required.

When considering a career move in the Federal Contracting Industry a number of factors should be considered when evaluating the potential employer:

These and other questions should be raised in the interview process by the candidate interested in building a rewarding and stable career. Consider growth oriented small businesses. They have a lot to offer.




Jon M. Stout is Chief Executive Officer of Aspiration Software LLC. Aspiration Software LLC is an Information Technology/Cyber Security services provider specializing focused on the Intelligence Community (IC). For more information about Intelligence Community Jobs and Cyber Security and Information Technology in the Intelligence Community go to http://aspirationsoftware.com




Insight on Making a Career As a Cyber Security Professional


The information technology revolution has changed the way many corporations and governments operate. In recent times many businesses and nations have rapidly shifted the control of essential processes in manufacturing, banking, and communications to networked computers. Every business process has become online and almost every industry is turning out to be more techno oriented. Nevertheless, with the increase in the development of online technology the ratio of scams and cyber security has also increased radically.

These days every big or small organization including government are spending big amount on security to protect their trade secrets, financial data, and some sensitive or critical data. Today all sensitive information or database is regularly stored on a computer. In fact, the recent research from the nonprofit U.S. Cyber Consequences Unit indicates that the destruction from a single wave of cyber attacks on critical infrastructure could exceed $700 billion, which might be equivalent to 50 major hurricanes hitting the U.S. soil at once. Ultimately, there is a need for an information infrastructure safety. As a result cyber security is one of the few solutions that have gained high preference and meet the demands of present scenario.

Cyber security involves protecting the information by preventing, detecting, and responding to attacks. The professionals involved in this profession not just protect systems but data in networks that are connected to the internet. They create security policy for an organization and perform ethical hacking into a company's network and find security loopholes that need to be rectified. Over the past few years many companies in the United States are recruiting them in large numbers to maintain a proper network as well as online security. So, if you are looking forward making a career in cyber security, there are many colleges and universities that offer cyber security distance learning programs.

These distance learning courses and programs not just give you an idea but an in-depth study in IT Infrastructure Security. During this distance learning program, you get exposed to most important facets of computer security, including cyber-law, cyber-terrorism, viral activity, compliance issues along with hardening the operating system. With a distance learning degree in cyber security, you get hold of the knowledge to be on the front lines and safeguard the crucial organization infrastructures from cyber crimes and virus attacks.

The course even prepares you for security management of LAN and WAN environments, including national informational infrastructure. In addition to this, it is also one of the few courses that provide a well-built foundation in cryptography, intrusion detection, and firewall devices. Once you complete this distance learning program, you will be able to install, maintain and monitor existing security software for both private and public companies.

Today the demand for cyber security professionals has increased phenomenally in the United States. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the number of jobs in this field is also expected to grow very rapidly. Consequently, as an individual you must earn a degree in cyber security as it may equip or help you to manage and provide security effectively within the organization.




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