Are you interested in starting a career in information technology (IT)? With the growing demand for professionals with IT skills, now may be the perfect time to explore your options.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in computer and information technology occupations is projected to surge nearly 12% from 2019-2029 – much faster than average for all occupations. This rapid growth results in the creation of over half a million new jobs.
Certifications are an integral part of any IT professional’s career. Whether you are a newcomer to the field or already established in an IT job, certifications can be beneficial for advancing your career and improving your overall skill set.
This article will discuss how to become a computer technician and review various certifications to help propel your IT career. We will cover topics such as which training is available, what courses may be required to earn them, and how they can benefit you in the long run.
Why do Certifications Matter for an IT Technician?
Certifications matter for an IT technician because they can help you establish yourself in the field. The proper credentials will:
- Prove your expertise and credibility
- Open doors to various positions in the IT industry
- Help you keep learning and stay up-to-date with a dynamic field
- Help you achieve higher salaries and job stability
- Show employers that you are committed to your career
Certifications show employers that you have the skills, knowledge, and qualifications necessary for the role, and a continued commitment to learning that will prepare you to advance more quickly in your new career.
Starting Strong with CompTIA Certifications
CompTIA is a renowned organization in the IT field, praised by employers for its wide range of certifications. Below are a few of the CompTIA certifications that can help you launch your career as a computer technician.
Comp TIA ITF+
The CompTIA ITF+ exam is ideal for IT beginners, covering foundational skills like PC hardware and operating systems. It’s a starting point that requires no prior experience or certifications.
Comp TIA A+
The CompTIA A+ exam is ideal for emerging IT professionals, certifying skills in hardware, mobile device configuration, security, and network troubleshooting. After completing ITF+, one can progress to the A+ training.
Comp TIA Network+
For emerging IT professionals, the CompTIA Network+ exam authenticates proficiency in business network management, device troubleshooting, and foundational security practices. Once A+ or ITF+ is achieved, or with hands-on network experience, one can pursue Network+ training.
You can propel your IT career to a higher level with the right certifications. To deepen your knowledge, consider investing in Microsoft certifications.
Elevate Your Skills with Microsoft Certifications
As a computer technician, IT server management is an essential skill to master. Employers increasingly require Microsoft certifications as evidence of technical proficiency and the ability to perform IT-related tasks in the workplace.
With a Microsoft certification, you can boost your profile and elevate your skills in various areas like those outlined below.
Microsoft 365
The Microsoft 365 Fundamentals exam covers Cloud Concepts focusing on Microsoft Azure, essential Microsoft 365 capabilities, zero-trust security principles, and pricing and licensing strategies.
Azure Fundamentals
If you’re a budding IT professional eyeing a career in cloud services, the Microsoft Azure Fundamentals exam assesses knowledge in networking, foundational cloud techniques, and database management via Azure’s established standards.
Microsoft Azure Administrator
Aiming for a career in cloud administration? The Microsoft Azure Administrator Associate exam tests skills in managing and monitoring Azure setups. With six months in cloud IT roles and some Azure exposure, you’re set for certification training.
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Harness the Cloud: Amazon AWS and Google Cloud
As the tech industry evolves, cloud platforms such as Amazon AWS and Google Cloud are becoming increasingly important. Knowing these cloud giants’ capabilities is essential to staying ahead of the curve and ensuring career success in the IT field.
- Amazon AWS: Serving organizations big and small, Amazon AWS stands out as a top-tier global cloud platform. When you dive into the depth of AWS capabilities, from Associate to Specialty, you’ll master cloud operations, database handling, security measures, and more.
- Google Cloud: Elevating the tech scene, this platform garners attention as top businesses across diverse industries adopt its capabilities. Master its intricacies, starting from the basics and progressing to the Google Cloud Associate Engineer certification, positioning you at the forefront of technological advancement.
If you want to pursue a career in cloud computing, Amazon AWS and Google Cloud are two great choices. Both offer comprehensive resources that can help launch your IT career.
Networking Excellence with Cisco Certifications
Cisco’s Networking Academy and CIAT provide the perfect way to explore the up-to-date world of technology. Their extensive course catalogue aligns with Cisco’s 2020 certifications, such as DevNet and CCNA.
The latter includes essential network fundamentals, IP connectivity, and automation updates from February 2020. CompTIA Network+ background combined with some hands-on experience? You’ll be an excellent fit for the CCNA certification program – the next logical step in your networking voyage!
Transform Data into Insights With Tableau
Tableau is one of the top visual analytics tools on the market, making it easier than ever to dive into data-driven problem-solving. Perfect for individuals and companies alike, this platform streamlines data exploration and accelerates insight discovery.
By earning a Tableau certification, you can sharpen your skills in data analysis and open up exciting opportunities in software engineering and data analytics.
Start Your Career as a Computer Technician at CIAT Today!
Aspiring IT professionals should be aware of the ever-growing need for tech-savvy workers and how certifications, from foundational credentials and beyond, can help jumpstart a career in this field.
It’s essential to be knowledgeable about these badges of expertise; there is no better place than the California Institute of Arts & Technology to do so. With no exam fees, unlimited exam attempts, and hands-on training through virtual labs, we won’t rest until you’re certified.
At CIAT, we offer various computer technician certification programs and degree programs, such as an Applied Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Information Systems – Cloud Track and an Associate of Applied Science in Computer Information Systems.
Get ready to embark on an exciting journey into the world of technology by speaking with an advisor at CIAT to craft a path that is tailored to you.
Take the first step.
Building a strong coding portfolio takes hard work and dedication. Whether you’re just starting in the field or advancing your career, learning how to create an education plan that aligns with your career goals saves you time and money. This also delivers the most significant return on your investment.
Career Planning
You’ve chosen an education plan with a goal in mind, and now you’re focused on making the most of your educational resources to ensure you’re setting yourself up for success in the job market. The most impactful recommendation we give to all new CIAT students in the tech field is not to wait until graduation to start their IT career planning. When you begin your career planning steps from day 1 of your program, you graduate career-ready and are more likely to find your first job quickly, with competitive salary ranges.
Let us help you achieve your career goals.
When landing your dream job, CIAT supports its students every step of the way – ensuring you graduate with more than just a degree. Our IT career services team focuses on both your professional and personal development to help prepare you for a career in web development, mobile app development, information technology, cybersecurity, networking, and more.
Get certified, earn your degree, and start your path to a new career with:
- Personalized career coaching
- Industry certification workshops
- Resume building
- LinkedIn profile optimization
- Mock interview practice
- Job placement support
- Dedicated job board
- Specialty career-building workshops
- Technology career fairs and employer “meet and greets”
- Work study and volunteer opportunities