IT workers, blue collar or professionals? (Score 1)

I see any IT workers who are in high pressure jobs, like the blackberry-toting indispensable server room troops who in numbers keep the corporations running. On the other hand there are the self taught keyboard cowboys who know how to do it right and quick to keep things safe (or create the danger) on the wild wild web.

The common thing here is Specialized Knowledge. Regardless of how it is learned, we need to keep up with it. A union just doesn't fit for those with this type of knowledge, professional organizations do.

Personally, i am discusted with the current state of IT workers. I cannot hire college grads with degrees in computer science, the programs don't prepare them. Certs from CompTIA never expire, I had an A+ certified tech not know what type of memory went into a desktop computer. MCSE, Cisco programs are rather proprietary, and don't prepare for multiple platforms well. The best thing time time in the field, but we've all seen managers that claim years of experience who are so out of touch that they cannot make an informed decision anymore. A voluntary professional organization with a system of continuing-ed is the best option to get the IT industry in ship shape.

With a group like this, workers in large shops can openly share their issues with others in the community, and change standard practice. IT managers can also effect corporate practices. IT is NOT a magic bullet as we all know, and many ave pointed out. The forgotten piece of the puzzle are the little guys --the zit faced beetle-driving geek squad guys, the neighborhood small businesses, and the niche computer consultants, security experts, and the highest sought after freelance assets. There will be a measuring stick to compare these guys to, and keep the corrupt ones out.