Professionals in the technology field are having an increasingly difficult time finding jobs due to the tough economy.

Unemployed professionals like Fred Nading are learning how to sell their skills all over again.

"It's been a long time, yes, so this is all coming back into a new changed job market completely different than it was 17 years ago," Nading said.

Nading is trying to put 17 years of wireless engineering experience on the market but after three months has not had any luck.

"Significant competition right now, in all areas of technology," Nading said.

He's taking part in a program provided by Wake Tech at the Cary Employment Security Commission to learn how to re-vamp his resume and interview skills. Office Manager Becky Long said there's been an influx of people with experience in the technology field coming in looking for jobs.

"We're seeing more of the IT more of the individuals that have never been unemployed before," Long said.

She said it's difficult to find jobs.

"Very. It's not something they're used to having to deal with," Long said.

It's not something college students are used to, either. NC State sophomore Jennifer Gowen is watching and learning from her senior engineering classmates struggling to find jobs.

"I know I'll have to work harder than I would have had to if I was in school four years ago," Gowen said.

NC State, which is well respected for its engineering program, is holding an engineering career fair on Feb. 4 and 5. Brian Koehler, who is the coordinator of the First Year Engineering Program, said the fair is a good opportunity for job seekers since it attracts more than companies from across the country.

"We do still see companies hiring here at the engineering career fair but not as many as in the past, but it will soon I'm sure turn around as well," Koehler said.

Gowen said she and her classmates are trying to help each other out.

"We're trying to really pull together to get the jobs we need," Gowen said.