Birmingham - Tech Academy - Career Paths

Career Paths

As computers have become a critical resource in modern-day business, there are many career paths for Diploma in Network Systems graduates. Most companies have multiple computers that must be linked through one or more networks, and knowledgeable technicians are required for setup, maintenance, and management of these networks and computers.

Potential career titles include:

• Cisco Specialist
• Cisco Networking Professional
• Cisco Security Specialist
• Computer Support Specialist
• Jr. Network Administrator
• Network Technician
• Network Consultant
• Network Administrator
• Systems Director
• Network Support Specialist

Examples of entry-level positions include:

• Computer Support Specialists - This group of IT professionals assists computer users with issues relating to hardware, software, systems and security. Also known as Technical Support Specialists and Help-Desk Technicians, they must have strong troubleshooting skills and should be comfortable working with people. Many entry-level employees start out as Computer Support Specialists and work with users to resolve issues. Promotion may occur within a few months, depending on the performance and attitude of the individual and the company's needs.
• Network and Computer Systems Administrators - Network Administrators are responsible for the structure and organization of an company's computers. Through the evaluation and analyzation of the company's networking needs, they design a framework that ensures the computers, software, and network all work properly together. These professionals must have advanced knowledge of local-area networks (LAN), wider-area networks (WAN), network systems, and internet and intranet systems. They may also be responsible for managing network security measures. Entry-level Network and Computer Systems Administrators typically perform routine maintenance and assist higher-level Network Administrators resolve smaller day-to-day issues to learn the organization's needs and existing structure.

Career Advancement

Advancement opportunities include senior-level positions that require decision-making on behalf of the organization's needs. Additional certifications or education may be required for certain positions.

Higher-level positions may be responsible for:

• Designing and implementing new strategies to increase network efficiency
• Overseeing a team or department of IT professionals
• Consulting for a variety of organizations to make recommendations based on their unique needs

Career information source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

• Projections Data
• Computer Support Specialists Employment Statistics
• Network and Computer Systems Administrators Employment Statistics