Final answer:
To compare the salaries of software and hardware technicians in Washington, we need to consider the demand and supply model, which suggests higher wages for skilled workers. The wage gap has increased since the 1970s, with college graduates now earning significantly more. Insightful career decisions should weigh job requirements and potential salaries in the context of these trends.
Step-by-step explanation:
When looking at the salaries of software and hardware technicians in Washington, it's essential to consider the implications of the demand and supply model. This model suggests that due to new computer and communications technologies, the pay for high-skill workers, such as software developers, is expected to increase, while that for lower-skill workers may decline. This reflects a broader trend across the U.S. economy, where wage inequality has been growing. Since the 1970s, a widening wage gap can be observed, significantly increasing since the 1980s. For instance, in 1980, college graduates were earning about 30% more than high school graduates with comparable job experience, while by 2014, they earned about 66% more.
For those aiming to work in Washington, the reality that wanting to work there is not sufficient for securing a good job is evident. The job market in Washington, like in other parts of the country, may offer higher salaries for positions that require higher levels of education and skill, mirroring national trends in wage inequality exacerbated by technological advancements. Consequently, one would need to carefully consider minimum job requirements and offered salaries for both software and hardware positions to make an informed decision about their career path in Washington.