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The use of technology has grown in leaps and bounds over the past 20 years, and it is not slowing down any time soon. As more businesses become more dependent on technology, the need for skilled computer and network technicians grows. This challenging field offers the opportunity to work with your hands, solving problems that are necessary to keep important information secure. The great news is you can begin an entry-level position in this field in as few as ten months with training through Florida Career College’s Computer and Network Technician Training Program.
What Does a Computer and Network Technician Do?
The duties of a computer and network technician, sometimes called a network technician, may vary from one organization to another. Depending on the organization’s size, a technician may have a long list of duties or be asked to do one thing very well.
In the simplest terms, a computer technician is responsible for maintaining and repairing an organization’s computer network.
A technician may install or upgrade electronic cabling, computers, software, or hardware. They monitor the network’s day-to-day use, ensuring it is functioning correctly and that all equipment and updates are current.
Technicians also communicate potential issues to employees within the organization and provide tips to keep company data and networks secure. They may also step in to troubleshoot issues when they arise. Technicians require excellent communication skills to understand issues being brought to them and walk employees or clients through how to fix those problems.
Depending on the organization’s structure, a computer and network technician may be a part of the IT department or may be supervised by an IT Technician.
What Are the Duties of Computer and Network Technicians?
A computer and network technician may be responsible for:
- Offering technical support by phone, chat, or email to fix computer issues as they come up
- Installing software and performing software updates
- Ensuring software is properly installed and launched
- Maintaining property data security throughout the network
- Teaching employees how to use the network and ensure security
- Assisting with keeping equipment up to date and functioning at the highest level
What Skills Do You Need to Become a Computer and Network Technician?
Computer and Network Technicians are the experts on the technical equipment, computer software, and security networks within an organization. Doing this job requires in-depth knowledge of the technology and the equipment, but it also requires excellent communication skills to help others in the company use the equipment well and keep information secure.
Technical skills needed include:
- Ability to install operating systems, software, and network components
- Ability to assess issues with PCs, laptops, software, and hardware
- Ability to design, install and maintain network cabling
- Ability to troubleshoot issues with computers and network equipment
Interpersonal skills include:
Excellent Communication Skills.
Technicians are often called on to help employees who do not have technical knowledge. Strong communication skills are needed to understand the client’s issue, even when they are not using the correct terminology, and to be able to walk them through how to solve the problem. You should also carefully document issues and the solutions in notes to refer back to in the future.
Eager to Learn.
Technology is changing quickly, so it’s important for computer technicians to stay up to date on the latest technology that could benefit the organization or business. It’s up to you to suggest these new tools to management to keep the business running smoothly.
Team Player.
In a large company, an entry-level technician may be working with an entire team of IT professionals, but even if you are working in a smaller office with a small IT team, you need to have the ability to work with all the company’s leadership and employees to address issues and keep things running well.
Multi-Tasking.
Computer and network technicians may address employees’ concerns, install new equipment, and perform maintenance simultaneously. It’s important to feel comfortable juggling and prioritizing tasks as needed.
Problem-Solving.
Above all, Computer and Network Technicians are problem solvers. You never know what issues you may run into while installing or maintaining technology, but it is the technician’s job to look at the issue closely and find a solution to move forward.
Where Do Computer Network Technicians Work?
Computer and Network Technicians typically work in an office environment, maintaining and installing equipment for an organization. They may spend long periods of time working on a computer at a desk and talking over the phone.
Due to the important nature of the work Computer and Network Technicians do, they may be required to work in the evening and on weekends, or whenever problems arise but depending on the issue, they may be able to address it from home.
As more businesses become more dependent on technology, the opportunities for computer and network technicians are growing. Computer and network technicians are needed in large organizations like government offices, hospitals, financial firms, and corporations, but they may also be needed in non-profit organizations, schools, and small businesses. In addition, some computer technicians work as freelancers, helping multiple businesses set up and maintain their computer and system networks.
Do You Need a College Degree to Become a Computer and Network Technician?
You do NOT need a college degree to become an entry-level computer and network technician, but most employers like to see that you have some official training and certificates to prove your skills and knowledge.
The quickest way to get the training you need to qualify for an entry-level position is by completing a computer and network technician program through a trade or vocational school. It is essential that the program you choose is one that will help prepare you to take a certification exam. Several different certifications are available, but these will help set you apart and prove your knowledge to potential hiring managers.
Florida Career College’s Computer and Network Technician Program will prepare you to take several certification exams, including:
CompTIA A+. The Computing Technology Industry Association provides independent or vendor-neutral certifications, proving a technician’s ability to work with many different devices and systems. This certification proves a technician’s ability to troubleshoot a variety of IT issues.
Vendors like Cisco, Microsoft, Google, Oracle, and Salesforce offer additional certifications that you might consider earning to further your career in the future. With work experience, you can better determine which certifications will be most valuable to you.
No High School Diploma?
We Have Options!
What Are the Educational Requirements to Enroll in FCC’s Computer and Network Technician Program?
You can enroll in Florida Career College’s Computer and Network Technician Program today, with or without a high school diploma! Reach out today to learn more about how you can earn your high school diploma while you are earning your computer and network technician diploma.
If you already have your high school diploma, you are well on your way. Please bring a copy of your diploma or transcripts with you when you enroll.
Regardless of your education level, we can provide you with the training and knowledge you need to compete in the computer and network technician field. In less than a year, you can gain the skills you need to get started in an entry-level position.
How Long is the Computer and Network Technician Program?
The Computer and Network Technician Program at Florida Career College can be completed in as little as 10 months, placing you on track to begin a new career in the computer and networking fields. Each module or course takes about a month to complete and includes a mixture of online learning and hands-on experiences. This hands-on learning gives you the experience you need to get started in a new career in less than a year.
What Do You Learn in the Computer and Network Technician Program?
Florida Career College’s Computer and Network Technician Program will give you the hands-on experience you need to pursue a fulfilling, entry-level career in technology. The classes will introduce students to the tools, equipment, and software currently being used in the industry and teach students how to problem solve, repair, and maintain computer systems, software, and networks in an office setting. We’ll also teach students how to assess and enhance a business’s security protocols to protect the system and the network.
Courses include:
- Applications and Information Technology
- Windows Operating System
- Computer Support and Maintenance
- Networking Essentials
- Introduction to UNIX/LINUX
- Guide to A+ Software
- Administering Windows and Exchange Servers
- Guide to A+ Hardware
- Managing Users in a Network Environment
The program will prepare students for a career as computer support specialists, electrical technicians, or electronics technicians.
Should You Become a Computer and Network Technician?
If you are fascinated by computers and enjoy working with technology, a computer and network technician career will provide endless learning and growth opportunities. Some of the biggest benefits of becoming a computer and network technician are:
Career Opportunities.
Technology is advancing quickly, creating more and more opportunities for those who feel comfortable using it on a daily basis. As more businesses become more dependent on technology, they also become more dependent on professionals who can help them understand it.
Constant Challenges.
Computer and Network Technicians are great problem solvers. If you enjoy solving puzzles and finding solutions to help people, you’ll thrive in this career that is always testing your skills. Many companies have a small team set up to address these issues, making those employees highly valued.
Opportunities for Growth.
There are many certifications available in this field, and each can improve your value and worth. After gaining some experience, you may decide that you prefer working with one vendor over another or one system over another. You can choose to specialize in those areas and continue to grow in your field.
Some of the drawbacks of this career may include:
High Pressure.
There is nothing more frustrating than when technology doesn’t work. As a computer and network technician, it will be up to you to fix the issue, and sometimes you may be under pressure to find a solution quickly. This can be exciting for some people but overwhelming for others.
Odd Hours.
You never know when an issue may arise, and in this field, you may be called on in the evening or on weekends to try to troubleshoot a problem.
Learning Never Ends.
Technology is always developing, and it’s up to you to understand the latest advancements and bring them to the organization you work for. If this is a natural curiosity for you, you may be interested in the latest advancements.
What Should You Look for in a Computer and Network Technician Program?
If you decide to seek training to become a Computer and Network Technician through a vocational school and trade college, there are several things you should consider.
The most important aspect of a training program is whether the program you choose offers hands-on experience. This career requires a lot of hands-on work, so a good training program should provide opportunities to practice installing, updating, troubleshooting, and assessing equipment. In addition, you should become familiar with the different operating systems and computer networks, as well as different security networks and hardware terms.
As you tour different programs, you should also ask about the experience of the instructors, the class schedule, financial aid, and the support the program offers to help you find an entry-level position after graduation.
Consider Enrolling in Florida Career College’s Computer and Network Technician Program!
Florida Career College can provide you with the support and resources you need to get started as a Computer and Network Technician.
In addition to hands-on training, with real equipment and tools, and extensive knowledge of best practices and technical terminology, Florida Career College can provide you with all the support you need to succeed in school and your career.
Our Financial Aid team will walk you through the process of applying for financial aid, scholarships, and grants. Financial aid is available for those who qualify.
As you complete your program, tutoring and mentoring, open lab time is available to students who need extra support outside of class time.
As you near graduation, our Career Services Department will help you perfect your resume, practice your interviewing skills and find open positions in your area.
When you’re ready to begin a career you can be proud of, we are here to offer the support you need!
