Information Technology Industry

Summary

The video script features professionals from diverse IT fields discussing the transformative impact of technology. Michelle, a Senior Software Developer, highlights IT's role in information management and innovation. Juan's exceptional brilliance exemplifies the talent in the field. Kiawa, a GIS technician, enjoys the 'secret agent' aspect of her job, while Sandy K. Simon, Director of Strategy, discusses the Smart Grid's infusion of technology into energy systems. Manny, an IT support specialist, emphasizes the fast-paced nature of IT. Brian Robbins, Studio Head at Fuel Games, shares the excitement of game development. Calvin Pohawpatchoko, a PhD candidate, stresses the importance of technology for future job opportunities. Brad Feld, a venture capitalist, points out the demand for IT skills. The script underscores the dynamic, rewarding, and flexible nature of IT careers.

Takeaways

• 💡 IT is about gathering, storing, and sharing information innovatively.
• 🌐 The impact of IT and computers is widespread, affecting nearly every aspect of modern life.
• 👩‍💻 Michelle, a Senior Software Developer, emphasizes the collaborative and creative environment at EffectiveUI.
• 📱 EffectiveUI specializes in creating custom software for various platforms, including the internet and mobile applications.
• 🧠 Juan is highlighted as an exceptionally brilliant individual with the potential to excel in the tech universe.
• 👨‍⚕️ An iPhone application for doctors to monitor patients' vitals was a project that showcases the practical applications of IT.
• 🌟 The excitement in the office stems from playing with the latest technology and creating enjoyable solutions.
• 🌍 Kiawa Lewis works with geographical information systems, hinting at the secretive and strategic nature of some IT jobs.
• 🔐 The importance of discretion in IT jobs is underscored, with some roles being likened to secret agents.
• 🔋 Sandy K. Simon discusses the Smart Grid, which integrates technology into the energy pathway from source to consumer.
• 🌐 The digital transformation of the world is creating a growing demand for technology-savvy professionals.
• 💼 Manny, an IT support specialist, manages a large number of computer systems, highlighting the scale and responsibility in IT roles.
• 🎮 Brian Robbins, Studio Head at Fuel Games, stresses the openness of the video game industry and the importance of creativity and vision.
• 🏡 Calvin Pohawpatchoko aims to use his skills to prepare the next generation, especially Native American kids, for the technologically advanced world.
• 🌱 Colorado's entrepreneurial ecosystem is thriving, particularly in software and internet businesses, according to Brad Feld.
• 💼 The demand for IT and software professionals far exceeds the supply, making it a stable and desirable field.
• 🚀 The transformation to a digital world is enabling new ways of interaction and flexibility for technologists.

Q & A

What does Michelle consider the essence of Information Technology?

Michelle sees IT as a means of getting information out, storing it, and sharing it with people in an innovative way that is meaningful and useful.

What type of software does EffectiveUI specialize in creating?

EffectiveUI specializes in creating custom software for various platforms, including the internet, mobile applications, and specifically for the iPhone.

What is the nature of the work environment at EffectiveUI according to Michelle?

The work environment at EffectiveUI is described as fantastic, with people excelling in different disciplines, creating a collaborative and brilliant team.

What was one of the iPhone applications that Michelle was involved in developing?

Michelle was involved in developing an iPhone application that allows doctors to monitor their patients' vital readings directly from their phones.

What is Kiawa Lewis's job title and what company does he work for?

Kiawa Lewis is a Geographical Information Systems Technician at TechniGraphicS.

How does Kiawa Lewis describe his job in terms of secrecy?

Kiawa Lewis describes his job as secretive, comparing himself to a secret agent, due to the sensitive nature of the information he works with.

What is the role of Sandy K. Simon at Excel Energy?

Sandy K. Simon is the Director of Strategy for Utility Innovations and Smart Grid at Excel Energy, focusing on the infusion of technology into all aspects of the energy pathway.

What does Manny do as an IT support specialist at Comcast?

As an IT support specialist, Manny is in charge of supporting 1,100 computer systems, troubleshooting and resolving any issues that arise.

What is the significance of the Smart Grid according to Sandy K. Simon?

The Smart Grid is significant as it represents the infusion of technology into all aspects of the energy pathway, from the fuel source to the end use in the customer's home.

What does Brad Feld identify as areas of focus for Colorado's innovation?

Brad Feld identifies new energy economy, aerospace, bio, and IT and software as areas of focus for Colorado's innovation.

How does the video script suggest the future of work in the technology sector?

The script suggests that the future of work in the technology sector is incredibly promising, with a growing demand for skilled workers and an increasing shift towards a digital world.

Outlines

00:00

💻 IT Innovation and Job Satisfaction

The first paragraph introduces the concept of Information Technology (IT) as a means of gathering, storing, and sharing information innovatively. It emphasizes the role of IT in creating meaningful presentations of data to users and its importance for current and future industries. Michelle, a Senior Software Developer at EffectiveUI, shares her perspective on the diverse and collaborative work environment that fosters creativity and innovation. She discusses a project involving an iPhone application for doctors to monitor patients, highlighting the practical applications of IT in healthcare. The paragraph also touches on the excitement of working with cutting-edge technology and the continuous learning process in IT, with a focus on user interfaces and the importance of data security and user experience.

05:05

🎮 Gaming, Entrepreneurship, and Digital Transformation

The second paragraph delves into the video game industry, with Brian Robbins, Studio Head for Fuel Games Denver, discussing his role in game development and the creative freedom it offers. He mentions his programming background and the team's work on the 'Vans Skate Pool Service' game for the iPhone. The paragraph also explores the broader implications of technology on society, with Calvin Pohawpatchoko, a PHD candidate, emphasizing the importance of technical skills for future job opportunities, especially for underrepresented groups like Native Americans. Brad Feld, Managing Director of Foundry Group, discusses Colorado's entrepreneurial ecosystem and the state's focus on innovation in energy, aerospace, and IT. The paragraph concludes with insights on the digital transformation of the world, the flexibility it offers to technologists, and the exciting prospects for the future of technology and its impact on work and lifestyle.

Keywords

💡Information Technology (IT)

Information Technology (IT) refers to the use of computers to store, retrieve, transmit, and manipulate data, often in the context of a business or other organization. In the video, IT is portrayed as a dynamic field that is central to modern life, with the ability to innovate and transform how information is accessed and utilized. The script mentions Michelle, a Senior Software Developer, who views IT as a tool for knowledge and craft, emphasizing its role in creating meaningful solutions and its impact on various aspects of society.

💡Innovation

Innovation is the process of translating an idea or invention into a good or service that creates value or for which customers will pay. In the context of the video, innovation is highlighted as a key aspect of IT, where professionals like Michelle are tasked with creating new and improved ways to manage and present information. The video suggests that IT professionals are at the forefront of innovation, constantly pushing boundaries to develop new technologies and applications.

💡Custom Software

Custom software is software that is specifically developed for some particular organization or other user. The video mentions EffectiveUI, a company that creates custom software for various platforms, including the internet and mobile applications. This keyword is significant as it illustrates the tailored nature of IT solutions, which are designed to meet the unique needs of different clients and industries.

💡Mobile Applications

Mobile applications, or apps, are software applications designed to run on mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. The video discusses an iPhone application for doctors to monitor their patients, showcasing how mobile applications can enhance professional workflows and provide便捷的 access to critical information. This keyword is indicative of the expanding role of IT in creating tools that are integrated into daily life and work.

💡Creative Thinking

Creative thinking involves the use of imagination to create new ideas, objects, or situations. In the video, the concept is tied to Michelle's background and her passion for innovation within IT. It suggests that the ability to think creatively is a valuable asset in the IT field, where problem-solving and the development of novel solutions are essential.

💡Geographical Information Systems (GIS)

Geographical Information Systems (GIS) is a framework for gathering, managing, and analyzing data related to positions on Earth. The video introduces Kiawa Lewis, a GIS technician, who works with technologies that help in understanding and visualizing geographic data. This keyword is relevant as it demonstrates the application of IT in specialized fields, contributing to the development of tools that aid in spatial analysis and decision-making.

💡Smart Grid

A Smart Grid is an electrical grid that uses digital technology to monitor and manage the transport of electricity from all generation sources to meet the varying electricity demands of end users. Sandy K. Simon from Excel Energy discusses the Smart Grid in the video, emphasizing the infusion of technology into energy management. This keyword is crucial as it represents the integration of IT into critical infrastructure, enhancing efficiency and sustainability.

💡Entrepreneurial Ecosystem

An entrepreneurial ecosystem is a network of organizations, individuals, and resources that support the development and growth of new businesses. Brad Feld, Managing Director of Foundry Group, mentions Colorado's entrepreneurial ecosystem, particularly in software and internet businesses. This keyword is significant as it underscores the supportive environment that fosters innovation and economic growth in the IT sector.

💡Digital Transformation

Digital transformation refers to the process of using digital technologies to create new or modify existing business processes, culture, and customer experiences. The video touches on the ongoing transition from a non-digital to a digital world, highlighting the role of technologists in facilitating this change. This keyword is central to the video's theme, as it encapsulates the broader impact of IT on society and the opportunities it presents for remote work and flexible lifestyles.

💡User Interface (UI)

User Interface (UI) is the space where interactions between humans and machines occur, and the design of this space is critical for usability and user experience. The video features Manny, an IT support specialist, who expresses his interest in UI, including Windows and Macs. This keyword is relevant as it highlights the importance of designing interfaces that are not only functional but also engaging and accessible to users.

💡Video Game Industry

The video game industry involves the development, marketing, and sale of video games. Brian Robbins, Studio Head for Fuel Games Denver, discusses his role in game development, emphasizing the creative and technical aspects of the industry. This keyword is significant as it represents a specific application of IT, where technology intersects with entertainment and culture.

Highlights

IT is about getting, storing, and sharing information innovatively.

IT is a tool for knowledge and craft for today and tomorrow.

Everything is affected by IT and computers these days.

EffectiveUI creates custom software for the internet and mobile applications.

A diverse team with different disciplines creates a fantastic work environment.

Juan is exceptionally brilliant and could be king of this universe.

An iPhone application allows doctors to monitor patients' vitals.

Creative thinking is the primary background and passion of the speaker.

There's excitement in playing with the latest technology and creating enjoyable solutions.

Information technology keeps one constantly learning new things.

TechniGraphicS adds features and clarifications for clients.

Working in IT feels like being a secret agent due to the secretive nature of the work.

Smart Grid infuses technology into all aspects of the energy pathway.

The world is becoming more digital, increasing the need for technology backgrounds.

IT support is fast-paced, detail-oriented, and requires expertise.

Being well-compensated for a job one loves is a significant benefit.

Fuel Games Denver develops iPhone games, with a focus on innovation.

The video game industry is open and accepting of diverse talents.

Virtual worlds allow for the expression of unique visions and ideas.

Using technical skills to prepare and help the next generation, especially Native American kids.

Colorado has a strong entrepreneurial ecosystem, especially in software and internet businesses.

IT and software is a stable field due to high demand for skilled professionals.

Technology is a foundational skill that ensures employability.

Diversity in the tech industry brings different perspectives and problem-solving approaches.

The transition to a digital world is transforming how we interact and work.

Technologists often enjoy flexible work schedules and remote work options.

The speaker enjoys a fulfilling career with a balance between work and personal life.

The next 20 years in technology are expected to be even more exciting and transformative.

Transcripts

IT to me is...

getting information out, storing information,

sharing it with people.

IT is innovative.

Taking all the information that's out there

and pulling it together in a meaningful way and presenting it to the user.

IT is a tool for knowledge and craft for today and tomorrow.

The question is what is not effected by IT

and computers these days?

I’m Michelle, I’m a Senior Software Developer

at EffectiveUI in Denver, Colorado.

EffectiveUI creates custom software not only just for the internet,

but for mobile applications, or the iPhone.

People have very different disciplines in which they excel

and bringing that out all together makes for a really fantastic environment.

some of the people here are just brilliant.

Juan is very quiet.

Yeah.

He's exceptionally brilliant.

He's one of those people who could be king of this universe if he wanted to.

Cool.

One of the projects I was involved with was an iPhone application that allows

doctors to monitor their patients

so they could look through the vital readings right from their phone

My background is primarily in creative thinking

so that's kind of where my passion still lies,

I think there's an excitement for everybody in this office to be able to play around with

kind of the latest and greatest technology

and create solutions that they themselves would enjoy using.

With information technology I mean, it constantly has me around computers

and I learn something new every single day.

My name is Kiawa Lewis.

I’m a geographical information systems technician at TechniGraphicS.

We’re adding features. So basically we’re just making this more of a clarification

for the person that we’re doing this for;

or the company or contractor who you’re doing it for.

just about everything that we do is secret

you gotta be careful about how you tell people what your job entails

or who you work for, and things like that.

I feel like some type of secret agent, you know what I’m saying?

I've been told by others that hear about my job that I probably have

the most fun job ever and I do. We test exciting new technologies

that exist in the marketplace or that are just now starting to be developed.

I’m Sandy K. Simon, I’m the director of strategy

for Utility Innovations and Smart Grid at Excel Energy here in Denver.

Smart Grid is really the infusion of technology

for all aspects of the energy pathway

so all the way from the fuel source to the end use into the customer's home.

so all the way from the fuel source to the end use into the customer's home.

As you continue to see our world become more digital

I think you'll see that need continue to grow for people that have

a technology background.

I really love working on computers.

I really like the user interface. I like Windows. I like Macs.

My name is Manny, I’m an IT support specialist

and I work at Comcast in Colorado.

I'm in charge of supporting eleven hundred computer systems

and so if there's a problem with their computer system

they contact me.

It's very fast paced, detail oriented, and you have to know what you're doing.

IT, this is Manny.

Because the last thing you want to do is bring a user down or lose their data.

I'm well compensated for what I do, and you know there's nothing like being paid

for doing something that you really love.

And then while I'm in the air, I can do swipes to actually perform different tricks.

I’m Brian Robbins, I’m the Studio Head for Fuel Games Denver.

We’re an iPhone game development studio here in Denver, Colorado.

As studio head, my job is to make sure that my team has games to be building.

my background is programming, I've spent about ten years programming

everything from Flash & Shockwave games to what we're doing now.

And in fact our latest game, “Vans Skate Pool Service” game for the iPhone.

I was actually helping out a lot with the programming there.

The best thing about the video game industry is that it's very open

and very accepting of a lot of different types of people.

The people that work out the best are people that are able to

see things that other people haven't seen, envision things that other people

haven't been able to envision before and express those in a digital form

or even on paper.

This is what virtual worlds allow you to do.

I wanted use my skills in a different way to, I guess really kind of prepare the next

generation, and to be able to help the kids, especially the Native American kids

and really kind of expose them to technology.

I’m Calvin Pohawpatchoko. I Belong to the Comanche Tribe

and a member of the Colhata Clan, and I am a PHD candidate

in the ATLAS program here at the University of Colorado in Boulder.

Those who don't have the technical skills will get left behind

and those that do have technical skills will end up having skills

that are needed to obtain the jobs for today.

Colorado has a fantastic entrepreneurial ecosystem

especially around software and internet type businesses.

My name is Brad Feld, I’m Managing Director of a venture capital firm

in Boulder called Foundry Group.

If you look at the specific areas that the state has really focused on in terms of

advancing innovation it's around new energy economy, it's around aerospace

it's around bio, and you're seeing an awful lot of activity around IT and software

as well. So I think all of those as places to be are incredibly exciting.

IT and software is a stable place to be partly because the demand for people

far outweighs the supply.

I think technology is kind of a foundational kind of thing to have in your tool box.

As long as you know computers you can have a job anywhere.

I think girls tend to think that it's still not as cool to be smart

but it is pretty cool to be smart, actually.

Women, minorities, they bring different perspectives to your team

and to how to solve problems.

It certainly is open. There's no barrier to keep you out.

We're in the midst of that transformation

from a non-digital world to a completely digital world

the ability to very seemlessly engage with people somewhere else in the world

radically changes your ability to interact with them.

The people that get to work from home more often

and be more flexible with their work schedule, are the technologists.

I can bring my dog to work. I can work from wherever I feel comfortable.

If I feel more comfortable working from home or if I want to work from

the beach in Antigua I can work from there as well.

I have a job where I go in and I enjoy it and I do it and I make great money doing it

and then I go home and ride one of my bikes.

The last 20 years of my life and my business career have been unbelievable

in terms of the change that I've seen. I think the next 20 years are going to be

even more unbelievable and exciting.