Okay, let’s tackle this. So Rick Harris has 15+ years of experience in IT, which is a broad field with many roles. Project management experience typically commands higher rates, but software development rates can vary. Location is the Greater Chicago Area, which is a major hub for tech and finance. According to national averages, IT project managers can earn $100–$150 per hour, while software developers can earn $75–$125 per hour. Considering his experience and location, I estimate Rick could charge around $125 per hour, which is slightly below the average but still competitive.