The field of telecommunications is an extremely broad one, encompassing many different types of communication methods. These include telephone, wireless network, computer, and telemetry. Even communication through television and radio can count. With the ever-converging lines of the various technologies emerging, this field no longer focuses on the telephone alone as it once did. Because communication is possible through so many methods, the industry is constantly expanding, indicating that it is a rapidly growing field.
Industry In-Depth
The field of telecommunication comprises a vast array of products involving hardware, software, and various related services. Hardware allows worldwide communication through products like telephone handsets, fiber-optic transmission cables, and video broadcasting satellites. Software is what runs everything. It encompasses relaying satellite data to telephone switching equipment, reducing the background noise on cell phones that allow clear communication, sending or receiving e-mails, and more. Services are things such as provision of internet access, running phone system control switches, and configuring private networks for business.
Convergence Issues
As technology advances and products become more innovative, determining in which industry to categorize companies is becoming problematic. Do cell phones with the capability to take digital photos, process email, surf the internet, handle global positioning system (GPS) technology and download and stream videos fall under the category of telecommunication, consumer electronics or computer hardware? Can they be considered all of the above?
This convergence of industries in communication is leading to companies quickly working to compete in creating new and innovative products that appeal to consumers in the marketplace. This competition requires talent in the areas of hardware and software development, as well as in the provision of services. In particular, the wireless sector is expected to continue its growth trajectory. Consumers have come to expect faster networks and increased speed in their wireless devices. Consolidation and acquisitions involved among network service providers are a regular occurrence, demonstrating the mad dash to profit within this growing field.
Telecommunications Careers
Because there are so many facets to this industry, there is also a need for a variety of careers in order to create, maintain, and service the products consumers crave to help them stay connected. Engineers of different specializations are highly employed within the field of telecommunication. Field engineers are responsible for installing customer equipment, while network engineers, electrical engineers, and systems engineers work on the technical end behind the scenes. Product managers with an understanding of technology are employed to work with end-users in order to help them obtain the product that fits their needs. These professionals then work to develop that product.
Salespeople are needed in this sector, as in most others, in order to bring the newest technology to eager customers. Often, sales professionals work on a base salary with the opportunity to earn a commission. Customer support staff and technical support staff help to answer billing or other account-related questions, address dissatisfaction, and assist with technical problems. A growing position within this industry is that of public or government relations representative. These pros work to improve relations between government officials, press representatives, and other key stakeholders within the ever-changing realm of telecommunication regulations.
It’s apparent that the field of telecommunications is, indeed, growing, and there are plenty of opportunities for finding rewarding careers within the field.
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