Are you interested in working with computers and having a high-demand job? Becoming a computer technician is a great career to start if you have a passion for technology. This article will provide an overview of the occupation, including what education is required, what to expect in the labor market, and the advantages and disadvantages of working as a computer technician. Computer technicians provide a wide variety of services throughout their days and careers. Depending on where they work, the type of training and experience they have, and the area of expertise they choose to work, their exact roles may vary.
They may be responsible for installing updates to computer systems so that all computers work together in a company.
Certification
is extremely important in this field. Although certifications may not be legally required, they can be beneficial when looking for employment. Employees often view certifications as a demonstration of the technician's knowledge, skill, and commitment to their career.Cisco offers several certifications for computer technicians based on the level of technology training. Microsoft also offers several certifications for computer technicians, although their certifications are based more on computer software than computer hardware. Computer technicians are typically eligible for certifications once they have completed training and gained work experience. In most cases, the individual must have experience to advance to the next level of certification. The amount and type of education required to work as a certified technician depends on the type of work the person wants to do, as well as the level of training they want to obtain.
Some technicians earn bachelor's degrees, while others begin their careers after earning associate degrees or completing certification programs. An aspiring technician may also choose to complete specific courses depending on their area of interest. However, employers tend to prefer hiring computer technicians with more training. A number of training programs can be found at technical schools, community colleges, and universities. Associate degree programs take about two years to complete, and bachelor's degree programs typically last four years. In a typical associate degree program, the student will complete both general education courses and computer-related courses.
Most programs also require the student to complete an internship to obtain practical training on computers and computer systems. Depending on the program, the student is usually prepared to take certain certification exams once the training has been completed. With the increase in the use of distance education, many schools offer online training programs which are generally offered as hybrid programs. These allow students to complete much of the course work remotely, but they must make the necessary arrangements to complete an internship or internship at a company in their area. While completing a training program is the first step to working as a professional technician, gaining work experience is equally important for prospective employers. Computer technicians are part of a growing field that is in demand and continues to grow.
The BLS also reports that IT service technicians working in computer system design companies could even see job growth of up to 49 percent. A graduate of a computer technician program can find work as a service technician or IT specialist. With additional training and experience, the person may find work as one of the following professionals: network administrator, system administrator, software engineer, hardware engineer or security analyst. One of the biggest advantages of working as a computer technician is that the longer a person works in this job, the more experience they will gain. With the addition of continuing education, work experience and obtaining additional certifications as they become available, the sky is the limit as to the types of career opportunities available to IT service technicians.
Advantages & Disadvantages
As with all professions and occupations, becoming and working as a computer technician has advantages and disadvantages. The best way to achieve a successful career as a computer technician is to get training and obtain as many certifications as possible. As technology continues to grow, so does the need for qualified and highly trained technicians.- Advantages:
- High demand job
- Opportunity for advancement
- Opportunity for continuing education
- Opportunity for certification
- Disadvantages:
- Low pay
- Must keep up with changing technology
- Must have knowledge in multiple areas
With proper training and certification, you can find employment in this field with good pay and job security.
