Today, technology is at the core of almost every company in the world. 80% of companies use technology in some form for marketing, product fulfillment, personnel management or other operations — all to make the company a better, safer place to work.
This increase in technology has led to a parallel demand for IT Specialists — professionals who understand how to create, maintain and optimize computer systems for their employers. If you’re passionate about working with computers or you want to help companies of all sizes make better use of their computer systems, the role of an IT Specialist might be ideal for you.
How do I become an IT specialist?
Most aspiring IT professionals follow five steps to become an IT Specialist:
- Obtain IT-related education
- Combine your IT skills and experience
- Complete additional IT certifications
- Network across the IT industry
- Consider ongoing IT training
There are many ways to become an IT Specialist. We’ve outlined one of the easiest paths to IT success in more detail below.
1. Complete your initial IT education
Today, many IT Specialists choose to first obtain an IT degree in computer science or a related field. However, that’s hardly the only way to obtain the IT education you need. In fact, barely 50% of Americans view a college degree as vital for their careers. The rest have found a better way to learn — like an accelerated IT Bootcamp that teaches IT fundamentals in a matter of weeks.
No matter how you learn IT fundamentals, know that the best IT programs all have one thing in common: they help you achieve your career goals without draining your time, your energy or your bank account.
2. Combine your IT skills and experience
Both hard and soft skills are necessary for a successful career in Information Technology. While the field is very computer-heavy and technology-focused, soft skills still play a vital role.
Some of the most essential skills for IT Security Specialists include:
- Basic understanding of technical components (network routers, bandwidth, firewalls, network load balancers, etc.)
- Curiosity, creativity and the ability ability to consider options outside of the box
- Efficient management of operating systems, softwares, and networks
- Ability to design, develop and troubleshoot systems and softwares
- Customer service, internal and external communications
- Proficiency in select programming and scripting languages
Depending on which sector of the Information Technology industry you want to build your career in, it’s important to master these and other IT skills.
3. Gain additional IT certifications
Regardless of the education model you use, you’ll likely need to obtain at least one additional certifications. In the IT world, certifications are important for teaching specialized skills in cloud platforms, security protocols, data management and cybersecurity best practices.
While IT certifications are optional, many employers hiring for IT positions prefer candidates with one or more IT certifications on their resume. IT certifications can also cost a bit of money, and take time to complete. However, obtaining the right certification can heavily improve your odds to land an IT Specialist position. Certifications demonstrate your knowledge and your commitment to the IT landscape, particularly for companies who need experts on their team.
4. Network within the IT industry
Networking is one of the most powerful ways to build connections with other professionals in your field. You’ll meet peers and leaders alike, all people who can help you learn new skills and achieve an even more meaningful career in IT.
When you network, you create authentic relationships with others that can benefit both you and them. When you network correctly, both parties benefit from the partnership.
Successful networking results in several positive benefits. You can make new friends, find new mentors or employees you can mentor, even create opportunities to apply for, and fulfill, new IT careers.
5. Enroll in ongoing IT training
The IT landscape is a constantly-changing field. To stay on top of evolving IT trends, you’ll need to commit to ongoing IT training. While keeping your IT knowledge and skills up to date isn’t always easy, it’s made easier when you trust the right IT Bootcamp.
If you’re considering an IT bootcamp to refresh your skills, here are a few questions to ask:
- Is the bootcamp easy to access online?
- Does the bootcamp offer a combination of education, training and on-the-job experience?
- Does the bootcamp offer courses that teach the IT skills today’s employers need?
- Will the bootcamp accommodate my work and life schedule?
The best IT bootcamps provide many opportunities for you to learn new skills, meet new people and learn from the industry’’s best instructors.
Accelerate your IT career today
Pace equips aspiring professionals — and those going through a career change — with all of the education, training and additional resources they need to succeed in the IT field.
If you’re looking to start, or deepen, a career in IT, our IT Helpdesk Bootcamp is for you.
Connect with our Solutions team and we’ll help you create and fulfill a path to a rewarding IT Specialist career.
