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geekhack Community => Off Topic => Topic started by: C5Allroad on Sun, 20 July 2014, 21:51:50

Title: Careers involving computers?
Post by: C5Allroad on Sun, 20 July 2014, 21:51:50
A few years ago I was like I want to learn how to code! I'll make so much money, but now I don't really wanna code, IT work? Manage servers? I don't know lol.
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: awong on Sun, 20 July 2014, 21:53:57
Hardware?
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: Hundrakia on Sun, 20 July 2014, 21:54:31
Coding is awesome, once you get really into it. But it's essentially art, and with art you need to understand your toolset before you can make your creations come to life. With that being said, there's always money to be made in troubleshooting and repairing computers.
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: C5Allroad on Sun, 20 July 2014, 21:57:10
Coding is awesome, once you get really into it. But it's essentially art, and with art you need to understand your toolset before you can make your creations come to life. With that being said, there's always money to be made in troubleshooting and repairing computers.
I don't also don't really know where to start?
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: hwood34 on Sun, 20 July 2014, 22:00:32
A degree in something involving management information systems would be helpful. Pretty solid pay too
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: Hundrakia on Sun, 20 July 2014, 22:06:46
That's the biggest hurdle I think for a lot of people. I've learned countless different things, from some amazing sources but nothing at all really clicked until I started working on little cheesy projects. "How would I do this?" --I researched, until I had it sorted out (and admittedly went a little nuts). If you haven't checked out the Scratch programming thing, it's a fairly intuitive way to see how programs generally work, and it's balls fun. scratch.mit.edu (http://scratch.mit.edu)
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: exitfire401 on Sun, 20 July 2014, 22:09:33
A degree in something involving management information systems would be helpful. Pretty solid pay too

IS is really the way to go. I'm terrible at Math, so that ruled out the IT track at my University for me. IS merges the business track with the IT track and is always going to have work for you. I can't recommend the program enough. (Note:ymmv)
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: dante on Sun, 20 July 2014, 22:11:09
Just remember: Office Space wasn't a movie - it was a documentary.
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: hwood34 on Sun, 20 July 2014, 22:11:14
A degree in something involving management information systems would be helpful. Pretty solid pay too

IS is really the way to go. I'm terrible at Math, so that ruled out the IT track at my University for me. IS merges the business track with the IT track and is always going to have work for you. I can't recommend the program enough. (Note:ymmv)
Yeah, after trig and calculus happened, I ruled out engineering, and am now set on something like this
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: C5Allroad on Sun, 20 July 2014, 22:47:05
I'll check out scratch.
Since I know there is a lot of math, I've been trying to get a little better at math, since the 3rd grade I haven't really understood any math.
It's all a little boggling to me.
It's hard for me to do mental math. Addition I can ok, but subtraction kinda is hard for me to picture in my head and actually solve it.
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: noisyturtle on Sun, 20 July 2014, 22:52:47
Coding sucks, that's why I am looking for a producer's job. Not much else for options unless you are an artist.
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: exitfire401 on Sun, 20 July 2014, 23:02:26
I'll check out scratch.
Since I know there is a lot of math, I've been trying to get a little better at math, since the 3rd grade I haven't really understood any math.
It's all a little boggling to me.
It's hard for me to do mental math. Addition I can ok, but subtraction kinda is hard for me to picture in my head and actually solve it.

I was fine up until Algebra. Math with letters makes absolutely no sense to me...for some reason though, I was really good at physics and chemistry. I think that's purely because I know why the numbers are going together. Practical math is a LOT easier for me than theoretical. My problem seems to be that I need to know WHY the numbers are going together, and my brain just will not wrap itself around the fact that at times, they just do.
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: C5Allroad on Sun, 20 July 2014, 23:10:03
I'll check out scratch.
Since I know there is a lot of math, I've been trying to get a little better at math, since the 3rd grade I haven't really understood any math.
It's all a little boggling to me.
It's hard for me to do mental math. Addition I can ok, but subtraction kinda is hard for me to picture in my head and actually solve it.

I was fine up until Algebra. Math with letters makes absolutely no sense to me...for some reason though, I was really good at physics and chemistry. I think that's purely because I know why the numbers are going together. Practical math is a LOT easier for me than theoretical. My problem seems to be that I need to know WHY the numbers are going together, and my brain just will not wrap itself around the fact that at times, they just do.
Almost failed algebra the 9th grade. Geometry was really easy. Kinda nervous about Algebra 2....
I'm more of a science kind of guy.
Marine science and Marine science II I aced, Bio I did fine in. AP environmental is easy so far in this summer project.
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: exitfire401 on Sun, 20 July 2014, 23:13:12
I'll check out scratch.
Since I know there is a lot of math, I've been trying to get a little better at math, since the 3rd grade I haven't really understood any math.
It's all a little boggling to me.
It's hard for me to do mental math. Addition I can ok, but subtraction kinda is hard for me to picture in my head and actually solve it.

I was fine up until Algebra. Math with letters makes absolutely no sense to me...for some reason though, I was really good at physics and chemistry. I think that's purely because I know why the numbers are going together. Practical math is a LOT easier for me than theoretical. My problem seems to be that I need to know WHY the numbers are going together, and my brain just will not wrap itself around the fact that at times, they just do.
Almost failed algebra the 9th grade. Geometry was really easy. Kinda nervous about Algebra 2....
I'm more of a science kind of guy.
Marine science and Marine science II I aced, Bio I did fine in. AP environmental is easy so far in this summer project.

I failed Algebra I and II in high school, but aced  geometry and all of my science classes. I found a way around the math credits I was missing with boat building. Now that was a fun class!
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: C5Allroad on Sun, 20 July 2014, 23:23:13
I'll check out scratch.
Since I know there is a lot of math, I've been trying to get a little better at math, since the 3rd grade I haven't really understood any math.
It's all a little boggling to me.
It's hard for me to do mental math. Addition I can ok, but subtraction kinda is hard for me to picture in my head and actually solve it.

I was fine up until Algebra. Math with letters makes absolutely no sense to me...for some reason though, I was really good at physics and chemistry. I think that's purely because I know why the numbers are going together. Practical math is a LOT easier for me than theoretical. My problem seems to be that I need to know WHY the numbers are going together, and my brain just will not wrap itself around the fact that at times, they just do.
Almost failed algebra the 9th grade. Geometry was really easy. Kinda nervous about Algebra 2....
I'm more of a science kind of guy.
Marine science and Marine science II I aced, Bio I did fine in. AP environmental is easy so far in this summer project.

I failed Algebra I and II in high school, but aced  geometry and all of my science classes. I found a way around the math credits I was missing with boat building. Now that was a fun class!
I don't have any type of building classes in my school lol...
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: tp4tissue on Sun, 20 July 2014, 23:25:04
Guys it's not ok to be bad at math..

That's like being bad at typing..

People used to get beat up in the real world for being physically weak..

That has changed.. you get beat up for being weak at MATH

(http://emoticoner.com/files/emoticons/onion-head/beaten-onion-head-emoticon.gif?1292862490)


Nearly every other developed country has students which speak math..

The only reason AMerica can hang in there is due to the large import of these guys..


Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: noisyturtle on Sun, 20 July 2014, 23:31:03
Guys it's not ok to be bad at math..

That's like being bad at typing..

People used to get beat up in the real world for being physically weak..

That has changed.. you get beat up for being weak at MATH

Show Image
(http://emoticoner.com/files/emoticons/onion-head/beaten-onion-head-emoticon.gif?1292862490)


This isn't China. My Tiger Mom isn't going to cut my hands off because I don't know calculus. Besides, if a person had any sort of business acumen and drive towards success they'd realized long ago we carry calculators around in our pockets. And for everything else there's H&R Block. Anything after algebra 1 is pointless unless you wanna be an engineer or mathematician, which to be frank, I'd rather push an ice pick into my brain stem. Many folks simply hate math, and that's fine because those who really dig it do so with an intensity that makes up for me not giving a ****.
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: C5Allroad on Sun, 20 July 2014, 23:37:15
Guys it's not ok to be bad at math..

That's like being bad at typing..

People used to get beat up in the real world for being physically weak..

That has changed.. you get beat up for being weak at MATH

Show Image
(http://emoticoner.com/files/emoticons/onion-head/beaten-onion-head-emoticon.gif?1292862490)



Nearly every other developed country has students which speak math..

The only reason AMerica can hang in there is due to the large import of these guys..
****. Better kick the bucket.

I just never understood math. I had tutors, went on a few youtube channels hoping it would help, I just never understood the concept of it.
I can't really do mental math, but games with an in game currency has kinda helped me lol
Like in planetside 2....
If I have 783 certification points and need 1,000 for a weapon, I sit here processing it for a bit, and then confuse the numbers for 271 instead of 217....
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: Hundrakia on Sun, 20 July 2014, 23:40:52
Haaahahaha my girlfriend works at H&R Block! She's a brain genius though, so whatevs. Udacity's College Algebra course goes from the very inane, almost too easy mathematics up to stuff that actually challenged me, after being out of school for ~8 years at the time. Check it out, it's fairly awesome.
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: tp4tissue on Sun, 20 July 2014, 23:45:47
Haaahahaha my girlfriend works at H&R Block! She's a brain genius though, so whatevs. Udacity's College Algebra course goes from the very inane, almost too easy mathematics up to stuff that actually challenged me, after being out of school for ~8 years at the time. Check it out, it's fairly awesome.

That is a good start..

Don't be discouraged if learning math starts slow..

The ONLY reason, some kids look like they seem natural at it in school, (asians)  is because their parents beat it into them...  LITERALLY...


and the started REAL EARLY....




but older people learn faster,  so if you start today, you can catch up, because it's not like they learned that much when they were little.
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: vivalarevolución on Mon, 21 July 2014, 10:32:38
Coding is awesome, once you get really into it. But it's essentially art, and with art you need to understand your toolset before you can make your creations come to life. With that being said, there's always money to be made in troubleshooting and repairing computers.


How is coding art?  I hear this a lot.

And Northwest Territories?  Really?
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: paicrai on Mon, 21 July 2014, 10:34:34
video games?
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: tp4tissue on Mon, 21 July 2014, 10:44:11
Coding is awesome, once you get really into it. But it's essentially art, and with art you need to understand your toolset before you can make your creations come to life. With that being said, there's always money to be made in troubleshooting and repairing computers.


How is coding art?  I hear this a lot.

And Northwest Territories?  Really?


"an Art"   is just a commonly used to describe the Epitome of Refinement..

It's no different than saying   I Love Ramen Noodles,  they're the best Evar..


Is ramen noodles really the best ever? no... probably not,  but for emphasis, I will say they are..


Same with coding..  or anything else people like to do..
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: inanis on Mon, 21 July 2014, 10:52:34
I'm not just bad at math, I'm downright horrible. Fractions befuddle me in a way that I can't even describe.  I went to college for Human Services (psychology). I had no business deciding a college major, and I never ended up getting my degree. I'm terrible with people. I have very little patience, and have been told I'm not all that great at being "nice". :rolleyes:

I work in IT professionally, and have for about the last 13 years.  I architect solutions, manage data centers, do some coding (wouldn't at all call myself proficient, but I get by with Google). I manage a good sized infrastructure, and I consider myself pretty good at what I do. Math isn't everything in IT. And there are lots of different roles in IT, that require lots of different skills. Heck, most of the technical people I work with loath to be part of IT because it is beneath their Awesome Hax0r Skillz.

My point is that being bad at one particular thing shouldn't stop someone from doing what they are interested in. I would say that creativity, along with work ethic and a genuine interest are far more important skills to have then being a math wiz. But don't get me wrong...being good at math would help, too.
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: C5Allroad on Mon, 21 July 2014, 23:16:00
Don't get me started on fractions...
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: rowdy on Mon, 21 July 2014, 23:20:42
Don't get me started on fractions...

Why?  Will you become fractious?

:))
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: C5Allroad on Mon, 21 July 2014, 23:28:01
-_- Lol....
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: Hundrakia on Mon, 21 July 2014, 23:32:55
Yeah bro Northwest Territories. It's a bustling hub of, wait for it, money.
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: iri on Tue, 22 July 2014, 06:47:44
software development is hands down best profession on this planet.

and it is an art and not a science. sure, there is some science applied to it, but nobody reads the books anyway.
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: osi on Tue, 22 July 2014, 07:11:33
software development is hands down best profession on this planet.

and it is an art and not a science. sure, there is some science applied to it, but nobody reads the books anyway.

Seconded this. Programmers get payed well while not necessarily having much experience.
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: vivalarevolución on Tue, 22 July 2014, 15:22:40
software development is hands down best profession on this planet.

and it is an art and not a science. sure, there is some science applied to it, but nobody reads the books anyway.

Why is it the best profession on the planet?
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: iri on Wed, 23 July 2014, 03:54:58
because i said so.
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: C5Allroad on Wed, 23 July 2014, 15:19:30
Just because you said so doesn't mean so.

Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: davkol on Wed, 23 July 2014, 15:21:23
lol at the comments about math. I hated math in high school. Guess what I study now? Theoretical computer science... and most of it is actually some sort of math in a way. It has more or less nothing to do with high school math though.

There are two kinds of work in IT. You can maintain or fix systems, test stuff, write documentation, code, work in consulting, do audits. Each of it can be done on hardware, software, systems/networking, security level. That's a ton of very different (mostly engineering) jobs. Or you can design systems or do science.

And one of the best things you can do... become proficient in computer stuff *and* some unrelated field, like pharmacy, geology, engineering, anything.
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: dorkvader on Wed, 23 July 2014, 16:08:51
A degree in something involving management information systems would be helpful. Pretty solid pay too

IS is really the way to go. I'm terrible at Math, so that ruled out the IT track at my University for me. IS merges the business track with the IT track and is always going to have work for you. I can't recommend the program enough. (Note:ymmv)
That was pretty much my most fav. job I've had. The pay was very solid at $11.76/hr.
---
I also enjoyed computer repair, and I got really good at it. I especially liked the aspect of diagnosing in it. I had to know the 5-7 vendors we supported really well. and it was a lot of fun. Sadly there's exactly no companies that need a person with these skills.
---
About art:

It's just most things: math / physics / keyboards / engineering. There is always an aesthetic aspect to it. I tend to focus on that aspect a lot, so it's easy for me to see it crop up everywhere.
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: C5Allroad on Wed, 23 July 2014, 16:10:43
A degree in something involving management information systems would be helpful. Pretty solid pay too

IS is really the way to go. I'm terrible at Math, so that ruled out the IT track at my University for me. IS merges the business track with the IT track and is always going to have work for you. I can't recommend the program enough. (Note:ymmv)
That was pretty much my most fav. job I've had. The pay was very solid at $11.76/hr.
---
I also enjoyed computer repair, and I got really good at it. I especially liked the aspect of diagnosing in it. I had to know the 5-7 vendors we supported really well. and it was a lot of fun. Sadly there's exactly no companies that need a person with these skills.
---
About art:

It's just most things: math / physics / keyboards / engineering. There is always an aesthetic aspect to it. I tend to focus on that aspect a lot, so it's easy for me to see it crop up everywhere.
Now that I think about it. Computer repair seems to be up my alley lol.
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: dorkvader on Wed, 23 July 2014, 18:51:17
Now that I think about it. Computer repair seems to be up my alley lol.
Yeah, t's great. I've repaired 4000 computers (conservative estimate) and most of the issues have been different. Even the same-repairs (apple iMac HDD recall) were fun. I spent some time figuring out how fast I could do it (with no mistakes) I got my time down to 9 HDD swaps an hour.

Diagnosing involves the brain, repair involes the hands, leaving your brain free to do more thinking. With some time, you can become extremely efficient.

Sadly, there's no want of it, so actually finding a job is usually with some mom&pop computer place. Doing repair work at an authorized service provider is hard to find.
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: C5Allroad on Wed, 23 July 2014, 18:55:14
Most people now just buy a new computer instead of repairing it. Or just have the warranty do the work.
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: PointyFox on Wed, 23 July 2014, 19:12:30
Most people now just buy a new computer instead of repairing it. Or just have the warranty do the work.

Actually it's the opposite.  People who couldn't repair computers are dying off and the job market is being flooded with kids who came out of the womb holding a smartphone and want to do things related to computers.
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: C5Allroad on Wed, 23 July 2014, 19:15:54
Most people now just buy a new computer instead of repairing it. Or just have the warranty do the work.

Actually it's the opposite.  People who couldn't repair computers are dying off and the job market is being flooded with kids who came out of the womb holding a smartphone and want to do things related to computers.
Doesn't mean all of em will know how to fix or build a PC.
It depends if they're in the Starbucks, uggs, twitter and need to have an iPhone group of people. I'm sure there are going to plenty of them who can build a PC and fix it. But also a lot who won't
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: tp4tissue on Wed, 23 July 2014, 19:50:36
Most people now just buy a new computer instead of repairing it. Or just have the warranty do the work.

Actually it's the opposite.  People who couldn't repair computers are dying off and the job market is being flooded with kids who came out of the womb holding a smartphone and want to do things related to computers.
Doesn't mean all of em will know how to fix or build a PC.
It depends if they're in the Starbucks, uggs, twitter and need to have an iPhone group of people. I'm sure there are going to plenty of them who can build a PC and fix it. But also a lot who won't

I'd say in a few years.. probably every (GUY) at least, will know how to fix a damn PC..


Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: C5Allroad on Wed, 23 July 2014, 19:51:57
Most people now just buy a new computer instead of repairing it. Or just have the warranty do the work.

Actually it's the opposite.  People who couldn't repair computers are dying off and the job market is being flooded with kids who came out of the womb holding a smartphone and want to do things related to computers.
Doesn't mean all of em will know how to fix or build a PC.
It depends if they're in the Starbucks, uggs, twitter and need to have an iPhone group of people. I'm sure there are going to plenty of them who can build a PC and fix it. But also a lot who won't

I'd say in a few years.. probably every (GUY) at least, will know how to fix a damn PC..
I can see that happening lol.
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: tp4tissue on Wed, 23 July 2014, 19:58:05
Most people now just buy a new computer instead of repairing it. Or just have the warranty do the work.

Actually it's the opposite.  People who couldn't repair computers are dying off and the job market is being flooded with kids who came out of the womb holding a smartphone and want to do things related to computers.
Doesn't mean all of em will know how to fix or build a PC.
It depends if they're in the Starbucks, uggs, twitter and need to have an iPhone group of people. I'm sure there are going to plenty of them who can build a PC and fix it. But also a lot who won't

I'd say in a few years.. probably every (GUY) at least, will know how to fix a damn PC..
I can see that happening lol.

the moment women learns how to Fix their PCs...  that will be the end of the traditional Marriage..
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: C5Allroad on Wed, 23 July 2014, 19:59:03
Most people now just buy a new computer instead of repairing it. Or just have the warranty do the work.

Actually it's the opposite.  People who couldn't repair computers are dying off and the job market is being flooded with kids who came out of the womb holding a smartphone and want to do things related to computers.
Doesn't mean all of em will know how to fix or build a PC.
It depends if they're in the Starbucks, uggs, twitter and need to have an iPhone group of people. I'm sure there are going to plenty of them who can build a PC and fix it. But also a lot who won't

I'd say in a few years.. probably every (GUY) at least, will know how to fix a damn PC..
I can see that happening lol.

the moment women learns how to Fix their PCs...  that will be the end of the traditional Marriage..
By then, would men know how to cook?
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: noisyturtle on Wed, 23 July 2014, 20:00:27
Most people now just buy a new computer instead of repairing it. Or just have the warranty do the work.

Actually it's the opposite.  People who couldn't repair computers are dying off and the job market is being flooded with kids who came out of the womb holding a smartphone and want to do things related to computers.
Doesn't mean all of em will know how to fix or build a PC.
It depends if they're in the Starbucks, uggs, twitter and need to have an iPhone group of people. I'm sure there are going to plenty of them who can build a PC and fix it. But also a lot who won't

I'd say in a few years.. probably every (GUY) at least, will know how to fix a damn PC..
I can see that happening lol.

the moment women learns how to Fix their PCs...  that will be the end of the traditional Marriage..
By then, would men know how to cook?

Weird how all the best known chefs in the world are men....
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: hwood34 on Wed, 23 July 2014, 20:00:35
Most people now just buy a new computer instead of repairing it. Or just have the warranty do the work.

Actually it's the opposite.  People who couldn't repair computers are dying off and the job market is being flooded with kids who came out of the womb holding a smartphone and want to do things related to computers.
Doesn't mean all of em will know how to fix or build a PC.
It depends if they're in the Starbucks, uggs, twitter and need to have an iPhone group of people. I'm sure there are going to plenty of them who can build a PC and fix it. But also a lot who won't

I'd say in a few years.. probably every (GUY) at least, will know how to fix a damn PC..
I can see that happening lol.

the moment women learns how to Fix their PCs...  that will be the end of the traditional Marriage..
By then, would men know how to cook?
lol beat the system, cook and pc wizard
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: HoffmanMyster on Wed, 23 July 2014, 20:38:25
Most people now just buy a new computer instead of repairing it. Or just have the warranty do the work.

Actually it's the opposite.  People who couldn't repair computers are dying off and the job market is being flooded with kids who came out of the womb holding a smartphone and want to do things related to computers.
Doesn't mean all of em will know how to fix or build a PC.
It depends if they're in the Starbucks, uggs, twitter and need to have an iPhone group of people. I'm sure there are going to plenty of them who can build a PC and fix it. But also a lot who won't

I'd say in a few years.. probably every (GUY) at least, will know how to fix a damn PC..
I can see that happening lol.

the moment women learns how to Fix their PCs...  that will be the end of the traditional Marriage..

And the beginning of happy marriages?   :))   In my experience, couples get annoyed when others ask questions that they think are silly.   :p
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: tp4tissue on Wed, 23 July 2014, 22:07:09
Most people now just buy a new computer instead of repairing it. Or just have the warranty do the work.

Actually it's the opposite.  People who couldn't repair computers are dying off and the job market is being flooded with kids who came out of the womb holding a smartphone and want to do things related to computers.
Doesn't mean all of em will know how to fix or build a PC.
It depends if they're in the Starbucks, uggs, twitter and need to have an iPhone group of people. I'm sure there are going to plenty of them who can build a PC and fix it. But also a lot who won't

I'd say in a few years.. probably every (GUY) at least, will know how to fix a damn PC..
I can see that happening lol.

the moment women learns how to Fix their PCs...  that will be the end of the traditional Marriage..
By then, would men know how to cook?

Weird how all the best known chefs in the world are men....

hahahahahhahaa...


Men are better at everything with the exception of having babies..

This HAS TO BE TRUE...

because nearly all women must devote a significant portion of their lives to child rearing...



It's not that women CAN"T be as good...  on average they just don't have the time..
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: C5Allroad on Wed, 23 July 2014, 22:08:41
Most people now just buy a new computer instead of repairing it. Or just have the warranty do the work.

Actually it's the opposite.  People who couldn't repair computers are dying off and the job market is being flooded with kids who came out of the womb holding a smartphone and want to do things related to computers.
Doesn't mean all of em will know how to fix or build a PC.
It depends if they're in the Starbucks, uggs, twitter and need to have an iPhone group of people. I'm sure there are going to plenty of them who can build a PC and fix it. But also a lot who won't

I'd say in a few years.. probably every (GUY) at least, will know how to fix a damn PC..
I can see that happening lol.

the moment women learns how to Fix their PCs...  that will be the end of the traditional Marriage..
By then, would men know how to cook?

Weird how all the best known chefs in the world are men....

hahahahahhahaa...


Men are better at everything with the exception of having babies..

This HAS TO BE TRUE...

because nearly all women must devote a significant portion of their lives to child rearing...



It's not that women CAN"T be as good...  on average they just don't have the time..
Can I bring into argument of salary?
There is one job that men don't make as much as women
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: HoffmanMyster on Wed, 23 July 2014, 22:10:32
Is it babysitting/nannying?
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: C5Allroad on Wed, 23 July 2014, 22:11:12
No. It rhymes with a vegetable.
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: tp4tissue on Wed, 23 July 2014, 22:12:05
Is it babysitting/nannying?

come on dudes.. do we really gotta discuss this..

I'm down.. but... recently I've been thinking about keeping it more sfw..

because I've noticed some people here are plane vulgar... (for no reason)
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: HoffmanMyster on Wed, 23 July 2014, 22:12:23
No. It rhymes with a vegetable.

Table.  Waitress??
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: HoffmanMyster on Wed, 23 July 2014, 22:12:46
Is it babysitting/nannying?

come on dudes.. do we really gotta discuss this..

I'm down.. but... recently I've been thinking about keeping it more sfw..

because I've noticed some people here are plane vulgar... (for no reason)

Sorry, what?
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: C5Allroad on Wed, 23 July 2014, 22:13:18
No. It rhymes with a vegetable.

Table.  Waitress??
Its a yellow crop.
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: tp4tissue on Wed, 23 July 2014, 22:13:34
Is it babysitting/nannying?

come on dudes.. do we really gotta discuss this..

I'm down.. but... recently I've been thinking about keeping it more sfw..

because I've noticed some people here are plane vulgar... (for no reason)

Sorry, what?

/esc
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: HoffmanMyster on Wed, 23 July 2014, 22:14:57
LOL, I understand now.  xD  And I understand why tp4 wants to stop the conversation.  Bahaha.  I'm so smart.  I misunderstood your quoted statements, tp.
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: C5Allroad on Wed, 23 July 2014, 22:16:45
LOL, I understand now.  xD  And I understand why tp4 wants to stop the conversation.  Bahaha.  I'm so smart.  I misunderstood your quoted statements, tp.
😂
[Edit] I wonder what that looks likes on pc
[edit]
Oh nevermind.
It's a square...
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: vivalarevolución on Thu, 24 July 2014, 09:42:54
Most people now just buy a new computer instead of repairing it. Or just have the warranty do the work.

Actually it's the opposite.  People who couldn't repair computers are dying off and the job market is being flooded with kids who came out of the womb holding a smartphone and want to do things related to computers.
Doesn't mean all of em will know how to fix or build a PC.
It depends if they're in the Starbucks, uggs, twitter and need to have an iPhone group of people. I'm sure there are going to plenty of them who can build a PC and fix it. But also a lot who won't

Yea, using your hands to repair a PC is a totally different ballgame than doing computer related tasks.  Tinkering/repairing/etc. with your hands is a different skill set than fixing code on a computer interface, for example.  Consumer goods, especially electronics, are so disposable these days that repairing them is economically inefficient.  You are better off spending your money investing in a new product rather than sinking funds into the repair of a soon-to-be obsolete electronic device.

Most people my age these days age are more apt to just buy something new rather than learn how to repair.  I'm 27, and I like to tinker with every mechanical thing I own, including cars, bikes, keyboards, chainsaws, and whatever else is laying around.  I like to know how things are put together, how they work, how they can break, how they can be fixed.

But I don't know too many people personally, if any, that have the same sort of interest in just taking stuff apart and putting it back together.  With the influx of disposable consumer goods, out went the serial tinkerer.  People just throw their hands up and scream helplessness, not allowing themselves to learn how to take care of the things they own.

To fix something, you have to be willing to take the time to learn a few things, understand what you are working and screw up a few times before you get the hang of it.  Patience and concentration are paramount.  Attention spans are so short, and the ability to put something down and move on to something new is so easy, what is the point of learning how to fix anything?
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: Hundrakia on Thu, 24 July 2014, 10:51:02
Most people now just buy a new computer instead of repairing it. Or just have the warranty do the work.

Actually it's the opposite.  People who couldn't repair computers are dying off and the job market is being flooded with kids who came out of the womb holding a smartphone and want to do things related to computers.
Doesn't mean all of em will know how to fix or build a PC.
It depends if they're in the Starbucks, uggs, twitter and need to have an iPhone group of people. I'm sure there are going to plenty of them who can build a PC and fix it. But also a lot who won't

Yea, using your hands to repair a PC is a totally different ballgame than doing computer related tasks.  Tinkering/repairing/etc. with your hands is a different skill set than fixing code on a computer interface, for example.  Consumer goods, especially electronics, are so disposable these days that repairing them is economically inefficient.  You are better off spending your money investing in a new product rather than sinking funds into the repair of a soon-to-be obsolete electronic device.

Most people these days are more apt to just buy something new rather than learn how to repair.  I'm 27, and I like to tinker with every mechanical thing I own, including cars, bikes, keyboards, chainsaws, and whatever else is laying around.  I like to know how things are put together, how they work, how they can break, how they can be fixed.

But I don't know too many people personally, if any, that have the same sort of interest in just taking stuff apart and putting it back together.  With the influx of disposable consumer goods, out went the serial tinkerer.  People just throw their hands up and scream helplessness, not allowing themselves to learn how to take care of the things they own.

To fix something, you have to be willing to take the time to learn a few things, understand what you are working and screw up a few times before you get the hang of it.  Patience and concentration are paramount.  Attention spans are so short, and the ability to put something down and move on to something new is so easy, what is the point of learning how to fix anything?

AH! That is exactly correct man. I'm much of the same way.
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: HoffmanMyster on Thu, 24 July 2014, 10:53:14
Most people now just buy a new computer instead of repairing it. Or just have the warranty do the work.

Actually it's the opposite.  People who couldn't repair computers are dying off and the job market is being flooded with kids who came out of the womb holding a smartphone and want to do things related to computers.
Doesn't mean all of em will know how to fix or build a PC.
It depends if they're in the Starbucks, uggs, twitter and need to have an iPhone group of people. I'm sure there are going to plenty of them who can build a PC and fix it. But also a lot who won't

Yea, using your hands to repair a PC is a totally different ballgame than doing computer related tasks.  Tinkering/repairing/etc. with your hands is a different skill set than fixing code on a computer interface, for example.  Consumer goods, especially electronics, are so disposable these days that repairing them is economically inefficient.  You are better off spending your money investing in a new product rather than sinking funds into the repair of a soon-to-be obsolete electronic device.

Most people these days are more apt to just buy something new rather than learn how to repair.  I'm 27, and I like to tinker with every mechanical thing I own, including cars, bikes, keyboards, chainsaws, and whatever else is laying around.  I like to know how things are put together, how they work, how they can break, how they can be fixed.

But I don't know too many people personally, if any, that have the same sort of interest in just taking stuff apart and putting it back together.  With the influx of disposable consumer goods, out went the serial tinkerer.  People just throw their hands up and scream helplessness, not allowing themselves to learn how to take care of the things they own.

To fix something, you have to be willing to take the time to learn a few things, understand what you are working and screw up a few times before you get the hang of it.  Patience and concentration are paramount.  Attention spans are so short, and the ability to put something down and move on to something new is so easy, what is the point of learning how to fix anything?

AH! That is exactly correct man. I'm much of the same way.

I find that this is one defining characteristic of many GHers.  Tinkering and a drive to learn are what drive us to this type of hobby, IMO.  :)
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: dorkvader on Thu, 24 July 2014, 11:14:24
Most people now just buy a new computer instead of repairing it. Or just have the warranty do the work.

Actually it's the opposite.  People who couldn't repair computers are dying off and the job market is being flooded with kids who came out of the womb holding a smartphone and want to do things related to computers.
Doesn't mean all of em will know how to fix or build a PC.
It depends if they're in the Starbucks, uggs, twitter and need to have an iPhone group of people. I'm sure there are going to plenty of them who can build a PC and fix it. But also a lot who won't

Yea, using your hands to repair a PC is a totally different ballgame than doing computer related tasks.  Tinkering/repairing/etc. with your hands is a different skill set than fixing code on a computer interface, for example.  Consumer goods, especially electronics, are so disposable these days that repairing them is economically inefficient.  You are better off spending your money investing in a new product rather than sinking funds into the repair of a soon-to-be obsolete electronic device.

Most people these days are more apt to just buy something new rather than learn how to repair.  I'm 27, and I like to tinker with every mechanical thing I own, including cars, bikes, keyboards, chainsaws, and whatever else is laying around.  I like to know how things are put together, how they work, how they can break, how they can be fixed.

But I don't know too many people personally, if any, that have the same sort of interest in just taking stuff apart and putting it back together.  With the influx of disposable consumer goods, out went the serial tinkerer.  People just throw their hands up and scream helplessness, not allowing themselves to learn how to take care of the things they own.

To fix something, you have to be willing to take the time to learn a few things, understand what you are working and screw up a few times before you get the hang of it.  Patience and concentration are paramount.  Attention spans are so short, and the ability to put something down and move on to something new is so easy, what is the point of learning how to fix anything?

That's why I was focusing on the diagnosing. Anyone can turn a screwdriver, and it's a more mechanical skill, but the diagnosing: that's what it's all about.

That said, I agree strongly! Goods are more disposable than repairable nowadays. I don't remember a time when it was otherwise, but I have some vintage electronics that includes a full BOM and PCB images so you can etch a new one and repopulate it should anything fail.

I think more expensive items (notebooks, tablets, phones) there will always be a market for repair, especially under warranty.

Now, why have we gone to a more disposable mindset? Partly it's because of the rapid pace of improvements and increases. Why pay to fix your consumer laptop if it's outdated by the end of the year? With new advancements coming out all the time, it doesn't make sense to maintain old equipment.

That doesn't apply to everything though. It's sad that they have gone this way, but most test equipment should be repaired. There's nothing my DMM does that 10-year old DMM's don't, they can last quite some time. I would like to see an increase of repairability especially in some market.

The other reason I think we have gone this way is because a disposable item is cheaper. Why would a consumer pay more for something that does the same (but is repairable). Why not just replace it when it's broken, that's much easier.

I think Hoffmanmyster put ti well: tinkering and a drive to learn. It's not a mindset that's too common, sadly.
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: damorgue on Thu, 24 July 2014, 11:17:36
Most people now just buy a new computer instead of repairing it. Or just have the warranty do the work.

Actually it's the opposite.  People who couldn't repair computers are dying off and the job market is being flooded with kids who came out of the womb holding a smartphone and want to do things related to computers.
Doesn't mean all of em will know how to fix or build a PC.
It depends if they're in the Starbucks, uggs, twitter and need to have an iPhone group of people. I'm sure there are going to plenty of them who can build a PC and fix it. But also a lot who won't

Yea, using your hands to repair a PC is a totally different ballgame than doing computer related tasks.  Tinkering/repairing/etc. with your hands is a different skill set than fixing code on a computer interface, for example.  Consumer goods, especially electronics, are so disposable these days that repairing them is economically inefficient.  You are better off spending your money investing in a new product rather than sinking funds into the repair of a soon-to-be obsolete electronic device.

Most people these days are more apt to just buy something new rather than learn how to repair.  I'm 27, and I like to tinker with every mechanical thing I own, including cars, bikes, keyboards, chainsaws, and whatever else is laying around.  I like to know how things are put together, how they work, how they can break, how they can be fixed.

But I don't know too many people personally, if any, that have the same sort of interest in just taking stuff apart and putting it back together.  With the influx of disposable consumer goods, out went the serial tinkerer.  People just throw their hands up and scream helplessness, not allowing themselves to learn how to take care of the things they own.

To fix something, you have to be willing to take the time to learn a few things, understand what you are working and screw up a few times before you get the hang of it.  Patience and concentration are paramount.  Attention spans are so short, and the ability to put something down and move on to something new is so easy, what is the point of learning how to fix anything?

AH! That is exactly correct man. I'm much of the same way.

I find that this is one defining characteristic of many GHers.  Tinkering and a drive to learn are what drive us to this type of hobby, IMO.  :)

I am the same, and this is why I became an industrial design engineer as it turns out the type of inventor I wanted to be when I was a kid doesn't really exist and that was the closest thing to it. If the profession you want doesn't exist, create it. Start with the closest one and make decisions based on getting yourself your dream job.

I will give one word of warning though. A lot of my hobbies and work are the same. People told me that would be great, working with something you enjoy doing. There is however a risk that you will grow tired of it. Diversity might be good, and pursuing a career different enough from your hobby could be advisable.

OT: Most professions today are at least partly carried out at a computer, and the rest will follow in one way or another.
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: Lastpilot on Thu, 24 July 2014, 11:21:40
I enjoy looking through the Bureau of Labor Statistics from time to time when considering possible career options.

http://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/home.htm
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: SpAmRaY on Thu, 24 July 2014, 11:26:51
I enjoy looking through the Bureau of Labor Statistics from time to time when considering possible career options.

http://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/home.htm

Computer Network Architect just sounds cool.
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: damorgue on Thu, 24 July 2014, 11:29:43
Some more career advice:

I can't recommend smaller companies enough. They are awesome.

Here are the reasons:
-Your work matters a lot, and will have a fairly large and immediate effect. You get to see the things you make come alive.
-Diverse tasks, there aren't enough people to be put on one repetitive task.
-Usually means more responsibilities, more importance and larger paycheck.
-Smaller usually means newer company, less well-developed and more room for larger improvements and innovation. Older companies are more conservative in my experience

Edit: By small, I mean 30-300, ie not the large corporation type and not the tiny risky startup kind.
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: CPTBadAss on Thu, 24 July 2014, 11:38:25
I work in the aerospace industry as a mechanical engineer. I use the computer a lot just because of the nature of work. What better way to organize information than to have the computer help? Beats carrying 5 blueprints and 2 books around. I think davkol nailed it on the head. I know a bit about computers and my degree is in engineering. Knowing both really helps because you're not handicapped. A lot of people come into the field not realizing how much we rely on computers and they're at a disadvantage.

I've unfortunately never worked for a smaller company so I can't offer any advise to go with or against damorgue. I will say that:

If the profession you want doesn't exist, create it. Start with the closest one and make decisions based on getting yourself your dream job.

I totally agree with this. I've never let anyone tell me I couldn't do something at work and I've put myself in a lot of cool positions because of this. If you want it, make it happen.

I will give one word of warning though. A lot of my hobbies and work are the same. People told me that would be great, working with something you enjoy doing. There is however a risk that you will grow tired of it. Diversity might be good, and pursuing a career different enough from your hobby could be advisable.

I also agree with this. It's good to be diverse. It's also the same reason I ususally refuse to do CAD work even though I know a lot about it. I don't want to carry my work home with me.
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: vivalarevolución on Thu, 24 July 2014, 11:41:01
Most people now just buy a new computer instead of repairing it. Or just have the warranty do the work.

Actually it's the opposite.  People who couldn't repair computers are dying off and the job market is being flooded with kids who came out of the womb holding a smartphone and want to do things related to computers.
Doesn't mean all of em will know how to fix or build a PC.
It depends if they're in the Starbucks, uggs, twitter and need to have an iPhone group of people. I'm sure there are going to plenty of them who can build a PC and fix it. But also a lot who won't

Yea, using your hands to repair a PC is a totally different ballgame than doing computer related tasks.  Tinkering/repairing/etc. with your hands is a different skill set than fixing code on a computer interface, for example.  Consumer goods, especially electronics, are so disposable these days that repairing them is economically inefficient.  You are better off spending your money investing in a new product rather than sinking funds into the repair of a soon-to-be obsolete electronic device.

Most people these days are more apt to just buy something new rather than learn how to repair.  I'm 27, and I like to tinker with every mechanical thing I own, including cars, bikes, keyboards, chainsaws, and whatever else is laying around.  I like to know how things are put together, how they work, how they can break, how they can be fixed.

But I don't know too many people personally, if any, that have the same sort of interest in just taking stuff apart and putting it back together.  With the influx of disposable consumer goods, out went the serial tinkerer.  People just throw their hands up and scream helplessness, not allowing themselves to learn how to take care of the things they own.

To fix something, you have to be willing to take the time to learn a few things, understand what you are working and screw up a few times before you get the hang of it.  Patience and concentration are paramount.  Attention spans are so short, and the ability to put something down and move on to something new is so easy, what is the point of learning how to fix anything?

AH! That is exactly correct man. I'm much of the same way.

I find that this is one defining characteristic of many GHers.  Tinkering and a drive to learn are what drive us to this type of hobby, IMO.  :)


Yea, I intended to mention that aspect of GHers.  Probably my favorite part of this place!
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: CPTBadAss on Thu, 24 July 2014, 11:47:29
@prdlm2009, last year I took the coolest class at work. I was allowed to take apart and reassemble the major parts of engines found on Embrarer jets. The entire point of the class was to allow people to get their hands on parts and wrenches so they can *see* in person what the engine is like. Somehow I got stuck with a group of people from Finance who "didn't want to get too dirty". So two other guys and myself were taking this jet turbine engine apart and reassembling by ourselves while 5 other people watched us. It was awesome. I also managed to not break anything :D.

@hunterangel, if you like putting your hands on parts, working with your hands, and you're into modding keyboards, engineering might be right up your alley. I also didn't care for math too much but I suffered through it so I could continue doing really cool work.
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: paicrai on Thu, 24 July 2014, 11:51:58
music!

*shots implied discharged*
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: HoffmanMyster on Thu, 24 July 2014, 11:54:35
I will give one word of warning though. A lot of my hobbies and work are the same. People told me that would be great, working with something you enjoy doing. There is however a risk that you will grow tired of it. Diversity might be good, and pursuing a career different enough from your hobby could be advisable.

This is precisely why I decided to change majors from Electrical Engineering to Chemical Engineering (in addition to the fact that I discovered my love of chemistry after choosing EE).  I have always loved working with electronics and designing/modifying things.  I didn't want to get in a situation where I'd be doing the same thing at home as at work and get sick of it.  I am really happy with this decision, but at the same time I have crippled my hobby skills because I simply don't know a lot of the things that I would need to know to fully embrace my hobby.  So it's a double edged sword, in my experience.

Some more career advice:

I can't recommend smaller companies enough. They are awesome.

Here are the reasons:
-Your work matters a lot, and will have a fairly large and immediate effect. You get to see the things you make come alive.
-Diverse tasks, there aren't enough people to be put on one repetitive task.
-Usually means more responsibilities, more importance and larger paycheck.
-Smaller usually means newer company, less well-developed and more room for larger improvements and innovation. Older companies are more conservative in my experience

I also agree with all of your points here, with a caution to be mindful of just how small the company is.  I've worked with a company that was 5 people, and my dad worked for a company that was 5 people.  The company ended up hitting a rough patch financially and he wasn't paid consistently for multiple months.  At the company I worked at, 3 of the employees did coding, with not much room for either horizontal or vertical movement within the company.  With such a tiny company, your options are pretty limited.

That said, at a more reasonably sized small company (my last job - 1500 or so people), it's much better and exactly what you described.  I had met the CEO as a co-op, I had many duties and responsibilities, and I was never bored.  I also knew basically everyone at the company, but not to the extent that I got sick of them.  It was a happy medium.

Then there is the advantage to a huge company, which is basically that they operate as multiple smaller companies.  If you want something totally new you just transfer to a new division, which works pretty well.

As always, YMMV, and I'm still fresh in the work force so my opinion may not be the most useful.  :)
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: davkol on Thu, 24 July 2014, 12:32:49
Also, startups. Listen to what Linus said about his work for Transmeta (at 45 minute mark)...
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: tp4tissue on Thu, 24 July 2014, 12:37:08
Most people now just buy a new computer instead of repairing it. Or just have the warranty do the work.

Actually it's the opposite.  People who couldn't repair computers are dying off and the job market is being flooded with kids who came out of the womb holding a smartphone and want to do things related to computers.
Doesn't mean all of em will know how to fix or build a PC.
It depends if they're in the Starbucks, uggs, twitter and need to have an iPhone group of people. I'm sure there are going to plenty of them who can build a PC and fix it. But also a lot who won't

Yea, using your hands to repair a PC is a totally different ballgame than doing computer related tasks.  Tinkering/repairing/etc. with your hands is a different skill set than fixing code on a computer interface, for example.  Consumer goods, especially electronics, are so disposable these days that repairing them is economically inefficient.  You are better off spending your money investing in a new product rather than sinking funds into the repair of a soon-to-be obsolete electronic device.

Most people my age these days age are more apt to just buy something new rather than learn how to repair.  I'm 27, and I like to tinker with every mechanical thing I own, including cars, bikes, keyboards, chainsaws, and whatever else is laying around.  I like to know how things are put together, how they work, how they can break, how they can be fixed.

But I don't know too many people personally, if any, that have the same sort of interest in just taking stuff apart and putting it back together.  With the influx of disposable consumer goods, out went the serial tinkerer.  People just throw their hands up and scream helplessness, not allowing themselves to learn how to take care of the things they own.

To fix something, you have to be willing to take the time to learn a few things, understand what you are working and screw up a few times before you get the hang of it.  Patience and concentration are paramount.  Attention spans are so short, and the ability to put something down and move on to something new is so easy, what is the point of learning how to fix anything?

This is not due to any reason other than the artificial devaluing of the Chinese currency...

Without that... EVERYTHING would be at least 3x - 4x the price..   You can bet everyone will be trying to fix their $500 vacuum cleaner.




Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: damorgue on Thu, 24 July 2014, 15:30:54
Some more career advice:

I can't recommend smaller companies enough. They are awesome.

Here are the reasons:
-Your work matters a lot, and will have a fairly large and immediate effect. You get to see the things you make come alive.
-Diverse tasks, there aren't enough people to be put on one repetitive task.
-Usually means more responsibilities, more importance and larger paycheck.
-Smaller usually means newer company, less well-developed and more room for larger improvements and innovation. Older companies are more conservative in my experience

I also agree with all of your points here, with a caution to be mindful of just how small the company is.  I've worked with a company that was 5 people, and my dad worked for a company that was 5 people.  The company ended up hitting a rough patch financially and he wasn't paid consistently for multiple months.  At the company I worked at, 3 of the employees did coding, with not much room for either horizontal or vertical movement within the company.  With such a tiny company, your options are pretty limited.

That said, at a more reasonably sized small company (my last job - 1500 or so people), it's much better and exactly what you described.  I had met the CEO as a co-op, I had many duties and responsibilities, and I was never bored.  I also knew basically everyone at the company, but not to the extent that I got sick of them.  It was a happy medium.

Then there is the advantage to a huge company, which is basically that they operate as multiple smaller companies.  If you want something totally new you just transfer to a new division, which works pretty well.

As always, YMMV, and I'm still fresh in the work force so my opinion may not be the most useful.  :)

I am curious as how people feel regarding company size. The size I meant was about 50-200 employees. I don't have a statistical sample, but my personal estimates have been that the 30-300 people range would be ideal. Smaller and there aren't enough resources or career paths; larger and you will be insignificant etc. What are other people's experiences on this?
Title: Re: Careers involving computers?
Post by: inanis on Thu, 24 July 2014, 15:50:17
 
Quote
I am curious as how people feel regarding company size. The size I meant was about 50-200 employees. I don't have a statistical sample, but my personal estimates have been that the 30-300 people range would be ideal. Smaller and there aren't enough resources or career paths; larger and you will be insignificant etc. What are other people's experiences on this?

 I am a firm believer that you get more opportunities in smaller companies. You get exposed to more technologies and you learn new things out of necessity. I've worked at very, very large companies where everyone there equates to a "button pusher".  They are highly skilled at one very specific thing. That is great, if that is all you care to do, but it doesn't expose you to much else, and it didn’t give me any kind of job satisfaction. I've also worked for smaller companies - between 300 - 500 employees, and that I found much more rewarding. Instead of doing one thing well, I can do a lot of things well, and I can have influence over my own area.
 
 There are plusses and minuses to each though. With bigger companies often come better benefits, they can be more flexible, and most of the time you get better pay (most, but not always). But you are just another cog in the system. In my experience with smaller companies, I knew almost everyone there. If you are good at your job, people respect that, they know who you are. So you become less of "That unfriendly techie" and more of a part of the overall team.
There is one major downside to the smaller company though...if they make or do anything worthwhile you will inevitably be bought out by a larger competitor, and that, in no uncertain terms, sucks.