Chief technology officers have a big impact nowadays in business. What do they do? They are in charge of the technology systems, and if you have the previous charisma, then this job is for you.
What is a CTO?
A Chief technology officer, in fact, is a manager of a company that is responsible for the needs and the problems. He is the supervisor of the short and long-term needs of the organization and makes investments to help it achieve its goals.
CTOs embody their learning to provide a company with the most modern solutions to increase their success.
What does a CTO do?
The first thing that a CTO does is to decide about all the technological needs of a company. These are the duties that a CTO follows.
- Summarizing and applying goals for the R&D department
- Evolving a strategy and using the technology internally for maximum results
- Secure that technology is being used efficiently
- Evaluate technology systems and apply new systems when necessary
- Develop and apply data protection
- Watch and assess IT budgets
- Interact technology strategies with employees and company members
- Applying IT projects that are for the use of enhancing customer experience
- Approving the new IT infrastructure and software
- Stay closely to technology and implement it into the organization
- Train employees and managers on expectations and technological implementations
The duties of a CTO may differ on companies. Some may work in information technology, some in computer-based industries, or in biotech.
Can you become a CTO?
This is what to do to become a CTO.
- Get a Bachelor’s degree.
This is the minimum to become a CTO. Computer science, data science, or digital media are fields that must be embodied in a Bachelor’s degree.
- Get a Master’s degree
It is the highest degree to become a CTO and it can prepare you for the position.
- Acquire on-the-job experience
5 or 10 years is the minimum experience you need to have before thinking about a CTO position.
- Apply for a promotion
If you think you are ready to go to the next level, you can search for a CTO position. EIther in your company or in other organizations.
CTO authentications
An extra certification within your field is something that will boost your career. The following certifications are.
CAPM (Certified Associate in Project Management)
With this certification, you can manage a team in your company. It needs you to pass a 150 question exam, and it’s valid for 5 years.
CGEIT (Certified in the Governance of Enterprise IT)
You can apply guidelines in the workplace. To qualify, you need to have five or more years of work experience. The certification test comprises 150 questions with multiple-choice answers
CISM (Certified Information Security Manager
This is a certification given by ISACA that confirms your ability to manage security programs. The exam is formed of 200 multiple-choice questions that include a wide range of related topics to security management. 5 or more years of experience to pass to take the exam.
CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional
You can work in the cybersecurity business. The CISSP declares that you can manage the modern programs related to cybersecurity. You must hold 5 or more years to qualify for the exam.
Soft skills needed in order to be a CTO
Leadership skills
A CTO supervises his/her team ensuring that everything runs smoothly. The job of a CTO includes assigning tasks, interacting with other teams, and implementing mentorship.
Communicating skills
A CTO should have excellent written and oral skills to shine at their job. They may communicate about the needs of a company and form reports, and provide feedback when required.
Decision-making skills
Crucial are the decisions of a CTO in a company. New technology may be bought or allocate sources in a way that is profitable. Sound decisions can affect the company as a whole.
Business skills
The CTO is the boss within the company so he has to be familiar with the way the business is running.
Organization skills
He should be able to organize when needed into the workplace.
