Physical disabilities in IT

I have a bad back at age 30, and I'm afraid it will limit my mobility in the future. I am just starting my career now. I feel like I should be planning for my job security when I'm 40, 50, 60 and possibly in a wheelchair.

Are some areas of IT better than others for disabled people? Are information security, system admin and network engineer still possibilities if you are disabled? I'm worried that I have to pursue software development, which I've been ignoring as something I'd rather not do.

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Comments

Khaos1911

I would seriously hope someone or some company wouldn't discriminate against you because of your condition. I'm a firm believer that if you have the knowledge and experience, that's just one less computer chair they have to find laying aroundfor you.

Joking. Good luck with your search.

lsud00d

As long as you don't apply for jobs that require moving equipment (like a desktop technician, or working in certain roles in a data center) then you'll never be required to lift a finger your whole life.*

*Disclaimer: I cannot guarantee this so don't hold me to it

swild

We had a couple of people in our security department with disabilities, including one that is blind. I've worked with people with disabilities in nearly every specialisation in IT. The only thing you could really not expect to get a job doing is install tech. Go for whatever you want!

TomkoTech

I have CRPS of my left leg and 6 herniated/bulging discs in my back. Besides my passion for technology it is the reason I chose to pursue IT for a career. Yes there are positions that require heavy lifting and a lot of walking. But there are more than ample that don't. Just be mindful of what you are applying for and you should be fine.