Fastest-Growing Tech Careers In Nebraska’s Top Cities
Globalization has transformed how businesses implement and innovate with technology. With the emergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), cloud-based computing, automation, and blockchain in digital transformations, it’s no wonder tech careers are on the rise. With four of the largest tech companies headquartered in the United States (U.S.), there are numerous opportunities to work in the tech space.
As technology becomes the fastest growing industry, such opportunities are quickly becoming accessible in the Midwest. While not traditionally known for tech careers, states such as Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, and Nebraska are quickly becoming the go-to places for tech careers. Recognizing the emerging trends in technology jobs, Nebraska – The Cornhusker State has started investing in a massive digital and workforce transformation.
One such initiative in the state is the Nebraska Tech Collaborative (NTC). A 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization, the NTC is an Aksarben Workforce Initiative established to develop, attract, and retain tech talent and entrepreneurs in Nebraska. Another initiative is the Nebraska Career Clusters project. Sponsored by the Nebraska Department of Education, Nebraska Department of Labor, and Nebraska Department of Economic Development, this project provides virtual industry tours for students, parents, and job seekers to experience Nebraska-based industries from the comfort of their homes or classrooms.
These initiatives are a strong indicator of how the state views the future role of technology within the state. Let’s take a look at the fastest-growing tech careers in Nebraska ‘s top cities (Omaha, Lincoln, Grand Island, and Bellevue).
Web Developer
Web Developers, also known as Web Designers or Web Masters, are responsible for designing and constructing websites, turning clients’ visions into reality. They ensure the technical aspects such as layout, performance, capacity, security, and speed meet user expectations. Web Developers also test and develop interfaces and navigation menus for logical flow.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2021)
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2021)
Types of Web Developers & Skills
Back-End Web Developers
- Programming and scripting: Python, Ruby, or Perl
- Server architecture
- Database administration
- Data transformation
- Security
- Backup
- Codes or designs user interfaces
- Uses HTML, JavaScript, or CSS
- Frameworks: Bootstrap, AngularJS, ReactJS, Ember
- Implements responsive design
- Usability Testing
Full-Stack Developers
- Experts in front and back-end development
- Switches between the front and back-end development based on requirements
- Monitor development efforts and guide projects
- Understand business and user interface and functionality requirements
Project Managers oversee, monitor, and direct projects to meet client expectations. They assign resources and manage the budget, staffing, and schedule for designated products and services. Project Managers partner with key stakeholders to develop project requirements, objectives, and milestones, prevent scope creep, manage delays, and address risks to ensure project success.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2021)
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2021)
Work Skills:
- Adhere to project management guidelines and quality standards
- Coordinate teamwork activities
- Monitor incurred costs and reallocate team members to accommodate project work
- Produce budget estimates, progress reports, and cost reports
- Review and modify project plans and approve modifications as necessary
- Facilitate project meetings and submit deliverables to stakeholders
Operations Research Analysts
Operations Research Analysts collect and analyze data to solve problems using data mining, statistical analysis, and mathematical modeling. Applying technology, they evaluate quality data, develop detailed project plans, and troubleshoot various systems and applications issues. Operations Research Analysts help improve business operations, policies, and practices to optimize performance and save money.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2021)
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2021)
Work Skills:
- Working with various computer programs, systems, and applications
- Document operational activities
- Design, conduct, and evaluate experimental operational models
- Develop scientific or mathematical models
- Analyze project data to identify or resolve operational problems, determine requirements
- Determine methods for data analysis
Data Scientists combine computer science, statistics, and mathematics to deliver insights into large amounts of aggregate data. Through inferences, they develop hypotheses and analyze customer market trends. Data Scientists establish best practices for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data and identify analysis tools and advanced analytic technologies such as machine learning and predictive modeling tools to inform clients and stakeholders.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2021)
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2021)
Work Skills:
- Detect patterns, trends, and data relationships among variables
- Develop procedures to evaluate organizational activities
- Prepare visual representations of information for decision-making
- Analyze data and identify emerging trends, resolve operational problems, and connect information
- Apply sampling techniques for surveying or enumeration methods
- Use mathematical theories and approaches to propose solutions in various industries
Beyond a trend, technology drives almost every aspect of our lives and reaches across industries. Nebraska’s investments in technology programs and career development demonstrate the state’s dedication to securing in-demand tech careers for now and in years to come.
Digital Workshop Center provides a variety of live online certificate programs focused on technology careers. To learn more about information technology jobs in Nebraska, set up a time to speak with a Student Advisor and discover how a Business Administration, Data Science, Project Management, or Web Development certificate program can enhance your skills.