Career Field
Technical Communication is one of the most challenging and diverse fields today. Technical communicators work in almost every industry today such as software, networking, telecommunications, semiconductors, aerospace, science, medicine, government, the armed forces, and manufacturing. Their job roles have expanded from those of technical writers, editors and illustrators to include among others "content developers, documentation specialists, technical illustrators, instructional designers, academics, information architects, usability and human factors professionals, visual designers, Web designers and developers, and translators—anyone whose work makes technical information available to those who need it” (www.stc.org/about).
Students in the certificate program are exposed to the many opportunities in this diverse career field through class work and discussions, collaboration with other students, service-learning or client-based projects, and involvement in internships and professional organizations. The relationships fostered by involvement in the program can lead to industry contacts for student's future career options.
Although the program offers a foundation in necessary knowledge and skills, it does not address specific areas of interest such as environmental fields. As early as possible, students should identify their professional interests, which will help them focus their professional goals and develop basic knowledge of specific technical areas that can prepare them for specific fields. Therefore, students are encouraged to explore career options independently and to find professional organizations and information in specialty areas to better prepare for the job market.
