When scientific knowledge is used to refine equipment or develop new devices with practical applications, companies and individuals may use the tech to perform tasks. Technology includes tools, machines, and computer systems.

Today, modern technology shapes how people communicate, receive medical treatment, pay bills, and shop. Technology has transformed several aspects of daily life, particularly over the last century. Those fascinated by tech can consider career opportunities that incorporate or involve technology. They can prepare for those careers by completing the programs explored here.

1. Mechanics can prepare for their career by completing an automotive and diesel technology program.

Completing 15 months of studies in an automotive and diesel technology program enables you to earn an associate’s degree that ensures you have the skills and knowledge needed to work in transportation technology. Courses include automotive electrical foundations, engine repair, advanced electrical systems, climate control, technical communications, and engine electronics. Today, computer systems are the backbone of vehicle operations, requiring mechanics to use computer systems to run diagnostics and identify mechanical issues when assessing and repairing vehicles.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that automotive service technicians and mechanics earned median annual incomes of $44,050 in 2020, while diesel service technicians and mechanics took home $50,200. Completing an automotive and diesel technology program includes diesel technology courses, enabling graduates to work on passenger or diesel-powered vehicles. While the BLS indicates automotive service technicians and mechanics will see a slight decline in job opportunities between 2019 and 2029, diesel service technicians and mechanics should see jobs increase by three percent.

2. Complete a certificate program to launch your carer as a network administrator.

Computer networks are part of multiple industries today. Network administrators, or network engineers, connect network hardware, enabling computer hardware to interact with other computers on the same system. Some computer network architects set up wide area networks (WANs) while others create local area networks (LANs). They may use physical computer hardware to link a couple of computers in a small office or use cloud technology to join computers in multiple locations.

Wondering how to become a network administrator? Although a bachelor’s degree in a discipline such as a computer science or computer engineering is often recommended, you can prepare for an entry-level network administrator role by completing a 24-week full-stack network engineer program. This program provides hands-on experience. Students acquire several certifications, including NexGenT’s full-stack networking associate (FSNA) and full-stack network professional (FSNP) certifications. Experienced system administrators mentor students, ensuring they’re ready for a future as a network administrator upon graduation.

The BLS reports that the 2020 median wage for computer network architects was $116,780. Opportunities for these information technology experts should increase by five percent between 2019 and 2029. Network and computer system administrators earned median incomes of $84,810 in May 2020, and their job prospects should increase by four percent between 2019 and 2029.

3. Earning a biotechnology degree enables you to pursue opportunities in the field of medical engineering.

Bioengineers create computer software for sophisticated medical equipment, conduct medical research, or produce drug therapies to treat medical conditions. Biomedical engineers are the masterminds behind artificial knee joints and rehabilitative equipment. Clinical engineers apply medical technology to enhance health care systems. Biotechnology programs include courses such as bioinformatics, where students learn how to use computers to analyze protein sequences.

The BLS reports that a bachelor’s degree in bioengineering or a similar discipline’s required to work in this field, and some positions may require applicants to have a master’s degree. Per the BLS, bioengineers and biomedical engineers earned median salaries of $92,620 as of May 2020. Between 2019 and 2029, the Bureau of Labor Statistics expects job prospects for these professionals will increase by five percent.

Technology continues to transform society. How people live, work, and communicate is affected by technological advancements. There are many career options for people fascinated by technology, including opportunities stemming from studying automotive and diesel technology, network engineering, and biotechnology.