Although the BLS anticipates very good employment outlook for most computer related occupations, the minimum qualifications of these occupations also increase over time. There is also a tremendous amount of pressure to out-source and off-shore jobs to save money (especially for for-profit corporations).
Anyone who want to succeed in a computer related occupation must have technical knowledge, a logical mind and a drive to learn continuously. Furthermore, it is important to move from occupation to occupation and move up the ladder. For example, a person starting out as a help desk personnel can transition to a developer after acquiring the necessary academic background. From a developer, the same person can transition to a systems analyist. A systems analyst can sometimes transition to management.
Except in certain environments, it will be difficult to sustain a career in computer related occupations until retirement without a genuine interest in the subject, a curiosity to continuously learn, a logical and analytical mind, and the ability to think innovatively.