Final answer:
A person of power in an information society is most likely to work in a field like software engineering, as these knowledge workers have the expertise in technology that drives today's knowledge-centric economy. Engineers use scientific and mathematical knowledge to create solutions, and those who adeptly manage and interpret information, such as technical writers, are also valued. With the IT field's growth, there's a push for increasing the number of women in tech through educational and recruitment initiatives.
Step-by-step explanation:
Someone who works primarily with information and develops or uses knowledge in the workplace is often referred to as a knowledge worker. In an information society where the economy is driven by knowledge rather than material goods, such individuals hold significant power. An occupation that a person of power is most likely to have in this type of society would be that of a software engineer, as opposed to, say, a coal miner. This is because software engineers are quintessential examples of knowledge workers, utilizing their expertise in technology to innovate and solve problems.
The role of engineers in general has always been to use scientific and mathematical knowledge to create solutions for practical issues, but in the context of an information society, their role becomes even more pivotal. Digital technology, much like the steam engine during the industrial revolution, serves as the backbone of this society, with figures such as Steve Jobs and Bill Gates being comparable to the industrial magnates of the past like John D. Rockefeller and Cornelius Vanderbilt.
In information societies, social classes are often divided by access to education and technical skills, as these are the tools necessary for success. Therefore, a strong base in information technology (IT) can lead to a broad range of career paths, from fixing computers to programming sophisticated software and managing networks. Interestingly, despite the burgeoning demand in the IT field, the number of women employed in technology is decreasing, a trend that can potentially be reversed through education and recruitment efforts starting at the middle school level and continuing through high school and college.
Whether it's in media, politics, or consumer research, the ability to analyze data and reach an informed conclusion is an essential skill for knowledge workers. This skill is no different from the proficiency required by a technical writer, who must articulate complex information succinctly and clearly. As society advances, the significance of being able to properly understand and interpret the plethora of information available, becomes more and more central to professional success in the information era.