Professional Knowledge and Abilities

Professional Knowledge and Abilities

The organization I chose to help me with developing professional knowledge and abilities is the Association of Information Technology Professionals (AITP). The reason I chose this organization is because, my educational goal is to obtain a Science in Information Technology Bachelor's degree.

I know once I graduate I will need to stay on top of ideas, developments, and new technology in my field of study (Carter, Bishop, & Kravtis, 2007). The Information Technology (IT) field is constantly evolving. To remain competitive it is vital that I have access to the resources that provide lifelong learning and keep me well informed of technology changes

(Association of Information Technology, 2006-2011).

The association started on December 26, 1951 and was the named the National Machine Accountants Association (NMAA). In 1962, members decided to go with a more progressive name, the Data Processing Management Association (DPMA), to reflect the changing industry (Association of Information Technology, 2006-2011). Finally, in 1996 and continuing today's members adopted the name Association of Information Technology Professionals

The AITP offer a number of different membership classes, Professional Members, Student Members, Student to Professional Members, and Enterprise Members. As I am a student, I will be applying for a Student Membership.

As a Student Member of this association I will have access to many benefits, which will further my professional knowledge and abilities. Following are few of the benefits I will receive once I become an active member: a resource base of people I can call, participation in seminars, workshops, and conferences, communication with industry leader's one-on-one, keeping current with emerging technologies, and developing my business skills (Association of Information Technology, 2006-2011).

Next, I will touch on how these benefits will lead to career success. By having access to a resource base and communicating with industry leaders will allow me to network with others in my field. By networking, I am gaining information as well as knowledge. Knowledge is power. Networking allows me to gain new ideas and perspectives. I will be developing my business skills because the more I network that better I will become and there will be more chances to grow. I will be improving my reputation and while doing so will gain support. Finally, networking leads to higher self-esteem. Acquiring higher self-esteem will make me happier and in turn will create a better position for myself.

By taking advantage of any seminars, workshops, or conferences available I will be furthering my education, and this in turn will keep me abreast of new technologies and keep me current in the IT field. Furthering my education will make me more