CAREER TOOLBOX

We all know what an impact the Internet and World Wide Web have had on the economy and our individual lives. Businesses, even families, now have their own sites. The job possibilities associated with the Internet industry are endless, and even in times of economic downturns many positions are stable. The field is challenging and changes with technology, which places great importance on staying current with education and training.

Steve O’Neil is the Web site Director of ACT in Iowa City, an independent, not-for-profit organization that provides more than a hundred assessment, research, information, and program management services in the broad areas of educational assessment and workforce development. Mr. O’Neil helps manage a Web site that serves several end users; high schools, colleges, professional associations, businesses, and government agencies. He says, "Finding a career that’s ‘right’ is a discovery process that begins and ends with education. Learn first what your interests really are; find what skills are needed to pursue those interests, then prepare through formal education."

Wendy DeCora is a Web Technician who works for Mr. O’Neil at ACT. She grew up in the central Iowa area and attended the University of Iowa. Wendy received her Bachelor of Arts degree and attained a double major; Computer Science and Communication and Media Production. By selecting two areas of study she was more marketable in the Web technology industry. "I knew that I had to have Computer Science to have a foundation in programming, but my true passion was film. By adding the second major I was able to combine what I needed to know to get into the industry with something creative I could enjoy."

Ms. DeCora knew that she was entering a very competitive industry and the more education she could obtain the greater the likelihood of getting a job she enjoyed. After graduation she applied for a different position with ACT. They told her about her current position, which better suited her skill set. "I wanted something that was neither hard core programming nor completely artistic and this position matched."

"What I like about my job most is I don’t have many repetitive tasks. I do a lot of troubleshooting; there is a lot of variety. New projects come up and I am always challenged and learning."

Ms. DeCora’s job is the perfect example of combining different interests in education and finding success in Iowa’s diverse job market. Just as her office walls show her artistic flair and love for movies, her desk is lined with programming books. She seems to have found the best of both worlds.

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