information technology talent.

Independent Consulting Solutions chief operating officer Robert Salmon said he believes there are only 15 Bermudians who have the correct technical qualifications on the Island.

The information technology sector is expanding rapidly and the squeeze is on by firms like his to get more Bermudians on board what could be an even more lucrative career as the demand goes up.

The current estimated size of the Bermuda market at about $150 million worth of business a year will be boosted dramatically if electronic commerce takes off here, Mr. Salmon said.

A person looking at a career in information technology will need to get an technical industry certification like the Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer one. Getting a computer science degree isn't enough, he said.

A person who's industry certified can expect to earn between $55,000 and $65,000 a year.

Search on for local high-tech topguns "After five years, if they are good -- they can easily make a six figure salary,'' he said.

A technical certification can take anywhere from six to 18 months to complete.

Some technications eventually get two and even three certifications.

"To be a top gun you need two or three,'' Mr. Salmon said. He was speaking at the launch of the Independent Consulting marketing and public relations department Friday at Waterloo House. The firm has two Bermudians in the new department and two in the information technology section.

The company has hired five new staff to staff the new operation and the company offices at Mill Street have been refurbished.