The technology industry is far more expansive than some might believe. It isn’t just about creating technology for your everyday needs — and it most definitely isn’t boring. If you’re someone who passionately believes in finding ways to make our world better, here are five fulfilling jobs in technology that should be on your radar.
There are many problems in our world that need to be fixed — climate change, racial and economic equality are just a few examples. People can choose to specialize in one of these areas and have a fulfilling job that works toward an important goal, finding innovative solutions to problems.
5 Fulfilling Jobs in Technology for People Who Want to be Game Changers
Problem: Climate Change
Climate change is easily one of the biggest issues the world is facing right now. Its effects are visible through the warming ocean, shrinking ice sheets, rising sea levels and so much more.
Scientists from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency have gathered data to better understand which human activities produce the most greenhouse gas emissions. According to their research, some of the economic sectors that have produced the most greenhouse gas emissions are transportation (28 percent) and electricity (27 percent).
To combat climate change, a dynamic approach is required. Some engineers and technicians will focus on creating technology that minimizes environmental impact and others will develop alternative energy solutions.
Job: Environmental Engineers
Environmental engineers have fulfilling jobs that concentrate on creating solutions to environmental problems. They may be studying ways to tackle specific issues like transportation emissions and ozone depletion. Some address broader, global issues such as safe drinking water or environmental sustainability.
Environmental engineers will typically obtain a bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering or another area in engineering. Some may choose to get a master’s degree as well.
As an environmental engineer, you get to be a leader who makes a difference in the world. You get to design devices that will address pertinent issues plaguing the world right now — whether it’s by creating an energy-efficient car or an air pollution control system.
Job: Environmental Engineering Technicians
Environmental engineering technicians will follow through with the plans developed by environmental engineers.
They may work on important tasks like cleaning up pollution, keeping up-to-date records of projects, and conducting pollution surveys. Environmental engineering technicians may also help environmental engineers during the design process of new devices.
Becoming an environmental engineering technician requires less experience and education than becoming an environmental engineer. They will usually only need an associate’s degree in engineering technology or natural science.
Part of what makes this job great is that you’re in the action. You may be cleaning up a polluted site or gathering data to be recorded and analyzed. You’re also one of the first to see physical improvements in the environment once projects are completed.
Job: Clean Energy Worker
Clean energy is an important job field that focuses on designing and building alternative energy solutions. As a clean energy worker, you may be creating a more efficient solar panel or setting up wind turbines.
If you want to become a clean energy worker, know that you would be part of a growing clean energy revolution, paving the way to a better future. President Joe Biden issued an executive order last month about the importance of clean energy jobs, noting that these jobs would serve as a pillar to the economic recovery and help guide the U.S. to becoming a net-zero economy by 2050.
Problem: Social and Economic Equality
It’s important to acknowledge that the technology industry lacks diversity. According to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), women, African Americans, and Latinx Americans lack representation in the technology industry, particularly when it comes to higher levels in an organization.
\”Standing still is not an option. Making progress in expanding opportunities in the high-tech industry is critical to strengthening our economy and reducing inequality in our communities. Expanding diversity and inclusion is critical to unlocking the full potential of tomorrow\’s economy,” says EEOC Chair Jenny R. Yang in the press release.
To help create change in the technology industry and promote a more diverse workforce, these individuals need to have opportunities to succeed. Nonprofit organizations can help in providing opportunities allowing these groups to succeed and feel supported.
Job: Nonprofit Education Worker
Nonprofit education workers from nonprofit organizations like Women Who Code and Code.org are working to create a more diverse technology industry.
As a nonprofit worker, you can help people at any stage of their tech career journey. You can help children who don’t have access to a computer science education by teaching them about computer programming languages and career opportunities. You can also help someone currently in the industry by providing leadership opportunities that can help them reach that next step in their career.
These careers are fulfilling jobs because you are able to serve as a guide and help individuals reach their goals. If you thrive on mentoring others, this position is ideal for you.
Problem: Solving Medical Issues And Illnesses
There are many medical issues that doctors and medical professionals do not know how to cure, as well as limitations to modern medicine. However, medical technology is opening new doors to what can be done.
For example, augmented reality has been a great way for surgeons to learn about their operations and virtual reality has been used to help treat phobias. By pursuing a career in biomedical engineering, you can define the future of medicine.
Job: Biomedical Engineer
Biomedical engineers use their knowledge of engineering and medicine to design technology that can resolve medical issues. They might design equipment that can create an artificial organ or work on software that helps diagnose a medical issue.
Since biomedical engineers are tackling very complex health topics, people who pursue biomedical engineering need to have a thorough understanding of many areas — chemistry, biology, algebra, and computer programming.
The great thing about tech jobs is that solutions are limitless. If you\’re a game-changer who is looking to make a difference in the world, there are many fulfilling jobs that can help make an impact on society. Don’t let generalizations about technology fool you — there’s more to it than you can even imagine.
If you\’re interested in any of these fulfilling jobs in technology, the first step is a solid foundation in full-stack software development and coding. Learn more about SCI\’s Software Development training program powered by WOZ.
Sophia Acevedo
Sophia Acevedo is a journalist based in Southern California. She is a 2020 graduate from California State University, Fullerton, and a proud Daily Titan alum.
