This is a major with two options that you can pursue depending on career interest: education or training. The Technology Teaching Option prepares you to teach Technology Education or Industrial Technology at the secondary level (junior high and high school) in Iowa as well as other places around the country. When you successfully complete this degree, you can receive an Iowa teacher license in Industrial Technology. The Technology Training Option prepares you to go into a Human Resource Development position in a business or industry that is focused on technology. In this capacity you will be involved in providing training and development for persons in the organization.

The goal of Technology Education programs in junior high and high schools is to provide students technological literacy for today’s world. Content includes communication technology, construction, manufacturing, power and energy, transportation, and in some cases, biotechnology. The program also includes exploration of careers associated with these broad areas.

Technological change occurs at an increasingly rapid pace, drives much of the change in society, and is an important element in global competitiveness. Given its importance, it is critical that everyone understand this increasingly technological world. Students need this understanding so they can make appropriate career choices and be citizens who will make good decisions regarding the technology that surrounds them, whether in the voting booth, work, or home. In short, Technology Education provides technological literacy, and this is a valuable “basic” for all students.

In today’s organization, people who understand and appreciate the company in which they are employed, and who are highly competent in their work, are a critical element in company success. This is especially true for those employees who have a major responsibility for technology in the organization. Technology trainers ensure that these employees have the skills and knowledge necessary to fully contribute their talents to the company and thus help ensure long-term company success. The technology trainer’s key role in developing human resources is valuable for most all companies.

Will I Get A Job?

There is a need for Technology Education teachers and Technology trainers nationwide, so students who do well in this program have little trouble finding jobs after graduation. Also, both options provide many of the necessary courses for those who wish to teach career and technical courses at community colleges as well as other two-year schools that have programs related to technology.

Write or call:
Coordinator, Technology Education and Training
Department of Industrial Technology
University of Northern Iowa
Cedar Falls, IA 50614-0178
Ph: 319-273-2561 Fax: 319-273-5818