Telecommunications is a fast-growing, versatile, and underrated industry that could benefit from an influx of young professionals and reach its full potential. In our current society, telecommunications systems play a part in nearly everyone’s lives. People are more connected than ever, and you can thank telecommunications advancements for this connectivity, including phone service, broadcasting platforms, and internet service at large.
While the telecommunications industry plays an essential role in our world, not many young professionals have considered a career in telecommunications. If young professionals can harness their ingrained knowledge of the internet and its power with one of several relevant bachelor’s degree options, they could supercharge the industry and help propel it to the massive growth potential that is reachable in the future. As you might guess, internet networks worldwide will only become more important as technological progress continues. Additionally, the telecommunications industry has opportunities to fit many job preferences: many jobs involve remote work, some include working out in the field with your hands, and others involve more creative problem-solving. Thus, there are jobs in the industry for nearly any individual! Regardless of what draws you to consider working in the telecommunications industry, listed below are 5 of the most applicable bachelor’s degrees for telecommunications.
1. Information Technology (IT):
Information Technology is a highly versatile degree; especially as remote work becomes more commonplace in the current job market. Nearly every industry needs IT professionals, and telecommunications is no different. In addition to their high-level technological skills, IT graduates can specifically use their expertise in the telecom industry as Data Scientists/Analysts or as Business Intelligence Analysts. Both positions deal with analyzing data, drawing conclusions, and recognizing patterns, making these positions great options for analytically and logically minded people.
2. Business and Management:
Like any industry, telecommunication is driven by sales, large-scale projects, and people maintaining these operations. These responsible individuals often come as Sales Representatives/Managers, Project Managers, and Operations Managers. Each of these positions is made accessible by a bachelor’s degree in business and management and would greatly serve those with leadership skills, good people skills, and good organizational skills such as time management and prioritization. While having quality employees at a company is essential, having a leader who can relate to and effectively lead and organize their teams is also crucial to a company’s success.
3. Engineering:
People don’t often consider how vital engineering is in telecommunications, but engineers are paramount to the industry's functioning. Projects could not be completed without engineers' impeccable planning, problem-solving, and design skills. Engineers in the telecommunications industry usually focus on Outside-plant or Inside-plant Engineering, with some gifted engineers being skilled in both and others more involved in Civil Engineering. Engineers in telecommunications could also focus on the bigger picture by taking on the role of a Network Planner. Regardless of which engineering path one might take, the telecommunications field lends itself well to detail-oriented, creative problem solvers with this option.
4. Computer Science:
As mentioned earlier, the telecommunications industry has a great need for computer specialists. Having a degree in computer science leads to many job possibilities, but the ones specific to telecom include IT specialists and software developers. Much like the versatility of an information technology degree, computer science majors are in high demand in the current job market and should only become more sought after in the future. IT Specialists help remote operations, and traditional, in-person operations stay connected without issues, which is a crucial foundation for completing any large-scale projects. Additionally, across nearly every industry, it’s basically impossible to run a successful business today without robust websites, databases, or internal programs, meaning software developers are also highly sought after and valued. This career path would be ideal for those who are skilled and interested in technology, are good at working in a team, and have strong problem-solving skills.
5. Geography/GIS:
While all these degrees lend themselves well to a career in telecommunications, one of the most useful but also the most under-appreciated is a degree in either Geography or Geographical Information Services (GIS). Telecommunications projects deal heavily with geography and geographic data. These projects often involve maps, geographical research when planning network designs, and surveying/plotting work. Specifically, geography and GIS degrees can be directly applied to the following careers: CAD Drafter, GIS Technician, GIS Specialist, and Fielder/Surveyor, making it one of the most versatile degrees for telecommunications. These positions would be ideal for those interested in geography and cartography, and the Fielder/Surveyor professions would be great for people who value traveling and working with their hands.
Hopefully, this list of the best degrees for telecommunications helps illustrate the wide range of career opportunities that can be found in the telecommunications industry for people with an array of skills and interests. This industry will only continue to grow, and as more young professionals enter the industry, their fresh perspectives and ambition, paired with the experience and industry knowledge of telecom veterans, will drive innovation and continue to connect everyone worldwide. If you are interested in pursuing a career in telecommunications, consider applying below to work at ATCO. We have many positions and are always looking for new talent!