Information Technology Career Outlook

A big chunk of the ARRA money is dedicated to health-care information-technology initiatives -- digitizing medical records so they're easier to transmit and share between doctors, hospitals and pharmacists. Computer-security experts who can help keep electronic medical records locked away from computer hackers and other unauthorized users will be in high demand as the health-care sector modernizes, says Laurence Shatkin, author of "Great Jobs in the President's Stimulus Plan."

Other specialists will be needed to train workers on how to keep the data safe. A brief certificate program may suffice to get you started in this field, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) says. "There's going to be a special role here of how to keep prying eyes away," Shatkin says.

Median annual salary: $78,376

In the technology field, lead applications developers -- professionals who manage software development teams and projects -- will see the greatest starting salary gains of any IT job classification in 2008. Base compensation for these individuals is expected to rise 7.6%, to between $80,250 and $108,000 annually.

Hot development skills include experience with .NET framework, C#, XML and Java Enterprise Edition, as well as the ability to interface with Microsoft SQL Server and Oracle database applications. In particular, companies seek skilled lead applications developers with the ability to understand and solve business problems.

"Technology jobs like computer systems analysts – who deal with organizing and presenting data like financial information – are hard to send overseas because their work is a collaborative process, Shatkin said. Networking can focus on different aspects of technology, like smart phones or the Internet, but the common thread is a need for people to set up and maintain the networks, along with developing products that use them."

"As the crunch deepens, businesses will be looking for consultants in IT management and support to help streamline services, hold the bottom line, and bolster operating efficiency. It's positive to consider that some 90 percent of all current IT employees are employed by non-technology businesses and organizations. Globalization increases the need for engineers and researchers with career expertise--as well as an ongoing need for entry-level support staff. "

"Want a career designing computer networks?

The folks at Cisco (nasdaq: CSCO - news - people ) want to hear from you. A new survey commissioned by the company shows there will be a shortage of 60,000 of these workers through 2011."

"Network administrators, No. 6 on the list, are responsible for the design and management of the physical and technical structure of company's communication tools--such as shared files, e-mail, teleconferencing and company Web sites. Demand is particularly high in emerging markets like India, China and the Middle East, which are these creating networks for the first time.

And, to remain competitive, North American and Western European companies are upgrading their networks. Don't have the right credentials? Many companies have teamed with community colleges and other outfits to offer relevant training."