There used to be a time when technologically inclined people were seen as social outcasts whose interests in the science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields automatically labeled them as nerds or geeks. With the advent of the Information Age in the 20th century, societal views of people dedicated to STEM pursuits have radically changed and improved for the good of humanity. These days, being tech-savvy is a very desirable personality trait that is often equated as being smooth, hip and cool.
STEM education and information technology certifications are in high demand these days for various reasons, and one of these reasons happens to be the socioeconomic value that is currently associated with IT proficiency. Another reason is that professionals who hold information technology certifications tend to be more appreciated in the workplace, but there is a also a wider view of IT proficient people as suave individuals who can help us navigate the complexities of the modern world.
With the above in mind, here are five points that support the idea of being tech-savvy as the “new suave:”
Energy Efficiency and the Green Revolution
Homeowners concerned about energy consumption as it relates to their monthly expenses often turn to the most tech-savvy members in their household for solutions to lower their bills as well as their carbon footprint. Solar panel installations, rainwater catchment systems and smart appliances can greatly boost household energy efficiency while contributing to nature conservation and saving on utility bills.
Search Engine Advantage
Even though just about anyone these days can perform a Google search, not everyone will find exactly what they are looking for. On the other hand, people with information technology certifications tend to always locate what others are not able to find on their own; they are able to do this through a clever combination of Google search filters and commands or by performing Deep Web queries on specialized search engines such as Ice Rocket, the former Freebase project or the Google Knowledge Graph search API. Those who are familiar with database programming are also pretty good at figuring out the semantic analysis currently in use by the Google search algorithm; thereby, they can dig for those results hidden deep within the search engine result pages.
Overall Resourcefulness
For many people, being surrounded by technology and experience punctuated by invisible roadblocks. Having access to information and intuitive user interfaces cannot guarantee that everyone will understand all the gadgets and devices that rule modern life. Tech-savvy individuals are know to think and operate in ways that underscore their resourcefulness; for example, someone who understands Linux distributions will know how to make a rescue USB tool to boot into a Windows desktop or laptop that has stopped working.
Skill in the Dating Field
It is important to note that more women are seeking information technology certifications in an effort to pursue STEM careers; these are women whose lifestyle interests may include discussing the technology topics that are important to them. Old-fashioned dating conventions dictated that men who were handy with tools were more likely to appeal to certain women; these days, tech-savvy men are similarly appreciated for their potential to bring positive contributions to their partners, their families and societies.
Tech is Synonymous With Cool
While Silicon Valley may be the spiritual home of modern tech innovation, some of the most exciting tech startups are setting up shop in trendier cities such as Miami, Barcelona, Amsterdam, New York, Atlanta, and Paris. From video game design to mobile communications and from digital film to social media development, tech professionals are present in just about every facet of modern culture.
In the end, there is no question that being tech-savvy is the equivalent of being a modern smooth operator, and this explains the burgeoning interest in STEM education.