Personality, Gender and Careers in Information Technology

The downturn in information technology enrollment numbers in colleges and universities has spurred a stream of research focusing on identifying factors that inhibit students’ interest in information technology. Most of these studies measure individuals’ perceptions and beliefs. We argue that the profession is composed of multiple occupations and those occupations have different characteristics concerning the work performed, the opportunities available, and the people who are employed in those occupations. We investigate the relationship between personality and the intent of students to pursue careers in the information technology field. Last, we examine if there is a gender personality profile for students who decide to pursue careers in information technology. Our findings can be used by researchers and practitioners to better describe to students the specific opportunities and career paths available within the IT profession.