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I think Dick has a valid point, but, realistically, how many companies
are going to be willing to PAY for a person who understands ALL facets
of the technology they are writing about, AND can communicate the
information they know to others with absolutely NONE of the same
knowledge?
My current situation is that I don't have a communications degree, but I
do have a Bachelor of Arts with a major in English, minor in sociology ,
an Information Technology Specialist's designation, and have been
instructing computer applications for 2 years. Now I am an Applications
Trainer, and part of my job description is "needs assessment of
employees", and "documentation preparation" which basically means I have
to ask people what courses they need or want, write the manuals for
them, and then teach the application, Train the Trainer, and perform
support.
Does that mean that I am not a technical writer because I don't have a
degree, or does that make me a professional tech writer because I take
more pride in my work than a diploma?
Just a thought...
L.M. Comeau
IS Super-User/Trainer
Canadian Standards Association
178 Rexdale Blvd., Etobicoke, ON
lmcomeau -at- hotmail -dot- com OR
comeaul -at- csa -dot- ca
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