With the world dominated by computers and multi-billion dollar companies relying on these machines to keep productivity high, it’s fair to say that an IT technician is a job with prospects. When a computer breaks down in an office, panic ensues and a technician is called to ensure everything is repaired as soon as possible. An IT technician has an array of responsibilities and is expected to be an expert on a host of different computer types. If you’re looking to become an IT technician, know that some of your responsibilities will include repair, server, network and infrastructure.
College
Studying to become an IT technician is a serious undertaking with several years of hard college courses facing you. The qualifications needed vary depending on what country you are from but an American IT technician is expected to pursue a computer science bachelor’s degree or its equivalent. This means a 10+2 requirement must be fulfilled first. A bachelor’s degree may take four or so years and then you need to pursue a Master’s Degree course in computer science as well. This is necessary because of the intense competition you will be facing in the marketplace. There are an estimated 65,000 qualified IT technicians worldwide but consider how many people are applying for a single IT job.
Certification
With this level of competition firmly in mind, a Master’s Degree is usually not enough. You also have to gain certificates in order to gain specialized computer knowledge. A professional certification is a qualification that lets an employer know that the holder of this piece of paper is qualified for that particular aspect of a job. Certification gives you an edge over the competition and is worth its weight in gold. Below is a list of qualifications you need in order to become a successful IT technician:
- Bachelor and Master of Science in Information Technology or computer science
- Microsoft Certified Systems Engineering (MCSE) course qualification
- A+ certification
- Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTia A+)
A CompTia A+ certification shows that you have the ability to install, configure and diagnose as well as having knowledge of preventative maintenance. It also shows that the holder of the qualification has proficiency when it comes to safety and environmental issues.
Certain companies use particular technologies such as Microsoft, Apple, Cisco and Dell. Having an MCSE qualification ensures that you are qualified to work with Microsoft Server Systems and Windows platforms. It’s possible to gain equivalent certifications with the aforementioned companies such as Apple.
Other Skills
When applying to become an IT technician, remember that you must also show a high level of skill when it comes to written and verbal communication. You must have the ability to explain complicated computer issues to customers in simple, jargon-free language. Also, as the world of computer technology changes so fast, you must be 100% up to date with all these changes as they may greatly affect your work. Technology that was in fashion one year ago may be completely obsolete today.
Becoming an IT technician is a tough task but leads to a rewarding career. Talented technicians are headhunted the world over and can earn an extremely high salary. If you love computers, this may well be the career for you.