Popular Technology Degrees
How Neutrons Can Get You a Job
February 6, 2007
by
Mary Hobson
Technology Schools Columnist
Neutron research sounds like the kind of pure scientific work that doesn't have much to do with your everyday life. But you'd be surprised to learn how it might affect you.
New Research Facility
For the first time in 30 years, a new neutron research facility has opened in the U.S. The Spallation Neutron Source (SNS) is being built in Oak Ridge, Tennessee by the Department of Energy to provide intense pulsed neutron beams for scientific research and industrial development.
Neutrons help scientists examine materials at atomic levels. This kind of research allows new materials to be understood and constructed at molecular and even atomic levels. This can help us build new products on that microscopic scale, for better and more effective use.
Typically, products being examined in this way will include metals and plastics for use in computing and other high-technology fields, and everyday products such as credit cards, CDs, windscreens, pesticides, and even satellite weather maps.
What Does This Mean for You?
This kind of research facility increases the need for skilled technicians, who can apply this knowledge to products all over the world. The U.S. needs to be at the forefront of this scientific research, to make sure that the U.S.economy maintains its lead in products of all kinds.
This lead will give you the opportunity to choose your career in information technology, science or product development at the level that you want to work. Technicians are in high demand in health information technology, in engineering and in computing. Technology jobs in these areas are going to increase because of the new products that we can develop.
Studying at a
technology school or vocational school will give you the qualifications you need to find your dream job in science or technology. Technology degrees give you the chance to build your career, allowing you to keep abreast of new developments in your field.
Investment in new technology and in research and development is essential to the U.S. economy. Your investment in
your education allows you to take advantage of the technical jobs created by this research--a good deal for everyone.
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About the Author
Mary Hobson is the Head of IT School at a Polytechnic in New Zealand. She also works as a freelance writer.
