PROGRAMMER: A computer programtellsthe
processor what to do and how to do it (e. g. , where to find thedata and how
to process it). A programmer uses a programming languagesuch as COBOL,
Java, C++, or Visual Basic to code the specific instructionsfollowed
by the computer. She then runs the program to test it toensure that
it works as desired. When bugs (errors) are found, theprogram is
modifiedto debug it (remove the errors). Thus, programmersmust be
detail-oriented,logical thinkers. According to the U. S. Department
of Labor's OccupationalOutlook Handbook, "job prospects should be best
for college graduateswith knowledge of a variety of programming languages
and tools; those with less formal education or its equivalent in work experience
should face strong competition for programming jobs. " College classes
can prepare you for a careerin this area of the computerindustry.
For information about certifications,go to www. sun. com or www. iccp. org.

WEBMASTER: Webmasters (also calledweb
developers or web designers) design, create, post, and maintain webpages.
An in-depth understanding of HTML (HyperText Markup Language)is needed.
HTML consists of markups (tags) that determine the formatof the web page
along with the placement of text and graphics. Accordingto the U. S.
Department of Labor's Occupational Outlook Handbook, "The growthof the
Internet has generated a variety of occupations relating to design,development,
and maintenance of websites. " For your first class, youshould take
an introductory-level class about the Internet. However,if you already
possess a basic knowledge of the Internet, you might wantto proceed ahead
and take an HTML class, which will cover the basics of webpage construction
via HTML. You also might want to become a CertifiedInternet Webmaster
(CIW). For certification information, go to www. ciwcertified. com or
go to www. comptia. com.

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