Getting ready for the big-growth career options in ecommerce and computer security.

Separating Web fads from more enduring technology can challenge even the most savvy professional, especially when it comes to detecting the next great job opportunity. As the Web changes, the associated jobs inevitably morph with it. Any career move or training plan requires a degree of calculated risk because no one wants to gain expertise in a field that won't exist in six months. But it seems ecommerce and computer security offer exciting job prospects well into the next several years.

Technologies have begun to stabilize, promising a world of possibility for tech professionals. Skill sets related to ecommerce are currently center stage: Web application development, Web design, database management, and network management.

The law of supply and demand
Mike Frye, president of Signature Systems, a Naples, company that provides Internet solutions, says, "The term 'ecommerce' doesn't really apply anymore. I think of it as ebusiness, because it's about more than just a storefront."

Emphasising the rising need for qualified professionals in the field, DePaul University's School of Computer Science, Telecommunications, and Information Systems now offers master's degree programs in ecommerce. Susy Chan, associate professor of CTI and ecommerce program director, explains that ecommerce operates more efficiently and cost-effectively with an electronic supply chain than with the traditional one. DePaul developed the master's program after recognising the growing needs of the business and technology industry. "Ecommerce is growing at a faster pace than the consumer-based process, and people are not being trained quickly enough," Chan says.

The well-rounded techie
If attending grad school isn't feasible, there are other ways of building skills. Frye acknowledges a continuing need for knowledge in networking, Unix, and database management using SQL and Oracle. Security experts trained in physical security at the LAN level, and those familiar with an array of encryption products, will also be in demand.

Interestingly enough, both Frye and Chan say similar things about well-rounded expertise when speaking of the highly valued technology professionals in ecommerce. Frye emphasises that "good technical people also understand marketing," and he encourages techies to take a marketing class or two. Chan also recommends cross-training in business. She predicts techies armed with information on "business models as well as technology will have a bright future."

Helping the CIO sleep better at night
Whether you call it ecommerce or ebusiness, computer security is definitely not an afterthought – it's an important part of developing any online business, and remains just as important as the business develops.

Chris Wilson, vice president of engineering for e-Security Inc., a Rockville, Md.-based provider of security management, intrusion management and encryption solutions, understands the added attention given to the computer security industry. "With ecommerce now pushing to the forefront, security is pushed to the forefront with it. It's become an integral part of the technology in businesses," he says.

Wilson has first-hand knowledge of security opportunities. After getting a computer engineering degree, he started learning about security issues as part of a network management project, building his knowledge through self-study. He's now chief architect and lead developer of a suite of network security apps.

The door's wide open
While offering an overview of some of the primary positions he sees emerging in computer security, Wilson also suggests the backgrounds needed for these jobs. Security analysis encompasses the day-to-day maintenance of security systems, assisting with audits, and responding to security breaches. Wilson recommends a background in systems engineering or general networking.

For those interested in computer security programming, general software engineering knowledge provides a strong foundation. Of course, networking specialists already possess a solid base for computer security and can continue to build on that knowledge.

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