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In the digital age, technology is a tool that has been used across a multitude of industries. New technologies are being developed daily, from healthcare to data analytics. Although it’s not an entirely new concept, tech management is one of the fastest-growing fields today, and for a good reason. With so much demand for skilled professionals in this niche, now is the perfect time to explore opportunities within tech management.
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What is Tech Management?
Technology management is the process of overseeing an organization’s use of technology. It touches on every part of an organization’s business operations and is the process of managing people, processes, and technology to create an optimal end-to-end experience. Tech management primarily focuses on the enterprise and how it uses technology, including hardware, software, and services, to drive business outcomes. As a manager, you’ll be responsible for a team of IT professionals and be directly accountable for their activities and performance. Tech management is a position that sits at the intersection between the business side of an organization and the technical side.
How to Become a Technology Manager
Becoming a technology manager is similar to many other management positions. You’ll be required to complete an undergraduate degree program before applying for and obtaining a job with an organization. The following can help you start on the path to becoming a technology manager:
Earn a BS/BA Degree- Depending on the organization you apply to and the work you do, many organizations require a bachelor’s degree. If you’re interested in a technology career, the most common degrees you’ll see are computer science, engineering, or information systems.
Specialize in a Field- Although you’ll likely be able to get a job with a general technology degree, you’ll have a better chance of obtaining a top position with a more specialized degree. Some popular technology fields include information and computer science, computer engineering, and software engineering.
Get on the Path as Soon as Possible- While you may not be able to obtain a leadership position right after graduation, having a few years of work experience under your belt can be an asset to any organization. Try to gain as much experience in a technology-related field as possible, even if it’s not in the same industry.
Why is Tech Management Important?
Tech management is essential for various reasons, including:
Grounding the organization in its strategic vision- The senior leaders of an organization are tasked with creating and executing a vision for the company’s future. The tech management team is responsible for making sure the goal is being realized and can identify gaps in execution.
Providing a great customer experience- Technology touches nearly every aspect of a person’s life, and an organization’s ability to create an exceptional customer experience is critical. The technology team is responsible for ensuring the technology and infrastructure are running smoothly and providing the best possible experience for customers.
Pros of Becoming a Technology Manager
There are many reasons why tech management is a great career choice, including:
1. Excellent Salary- According to data from Glassdoor, the average salary for a technology manager is $120,000 annually. Even in lower-paying regions, such as the Southeast and Midwest, technology managers earn around $90,000 per year.
2. Flexible Work Environment- Tech management teams are often required to work remotely. They may have the option of performing an alternative schedule (e.g., working from home two days a week). This can make balancing work and family life easier and more accessible for those with families and other obligations.
3. High Demand for Qualified Professionals- The demand for qualified technology professionals is rising rapidly, and there are limited opportunities for people with relevant experience. Technology managers have more opportunities to advance within the company and earn higher salaries than other professions.
Cons of Becoming a Technology Manager
There are also some downsides to this career path, including:
1. Long Hours- Technology managers often work many long hours and weekends to ensure projects are completed on time and to the highest quality standard. This is the nature of the job and may not be the best fit for everyone.
2. Risk of Burnout- Technology managers typically work long hours to meet project deadlines and provide the optimal customer experience, so they’re more prone to burnout. Finding ways to reduce stress and maintain a healthy work/life balance are critical to staying focused, healthy, and happy.
3. High-Pressure Environment- Tech management can be stressful, especially when managing deadlines and budgets. The technology team is expected to complete projects quickly and with high-quality results, which can add pressure to an already stressful job.
Conclusion
Although some of the cons are pretty obvious, they’re essential to keep in mind before deciding to pursue a career in tech management. Tech management may be the perfect fit if you’re an organized, analytical person who thrives under pressure and isn’t phased by long hours and weekends spent working.
