Ahead of Curve: Simulation Developer

Simulation Developer. Whether for entertainment, training, education, or predicting the future, we enjoy and learn more if we're immersed in a subject. Governments use simulations to predict terrorist strategies. Scientists use them to predict how a synthesized molecule will work. Surgeons use them to learn a new technique without endangering patients. Corporations and, to a lesser extent, schools are moving from the instructor who attempts to keep people awake by telling anecdotes and jokes to immersive simulations of critical real-world situations. For example, Pitney Bowes had its managers trained using a simulation game called Executive Challenge, in which each team of managers was given a virtual company and presented with a series of challenges requiring effective management skills.

The use of simulations for training will continue to grow because of the wide availability of broadband and ever faster (for example, Sprint's 4G) mobile Internet access. That will enable you to receive, on your iPhone or BlackBerry, training filled with video scenarios in which you are the protagonist—all while you're actually lying on the beach in Hawaii.

Alas, the key skills required for a career in simulation development aren't trivial: Key is mathematical modeling as well as sophisticated computer programming.

Learn more: Computer Simulation.