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How do I Become an Information Technology Specialist?

Jill Gonzalez
Jill Gonzalez

To become an information technology specialist, you should plan to obtain a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field. There are some employers who are willing to train qualified candidates, however, so if you only have an associate's degree, you may still be able to find a good job in this area. As you look for jobs in this career field, you will likely find employers looking for a wide range of experience levels. Some may only require one to five years of relevant work experience, while others may require a work history of ten or more years.

For many of these positions, you are likely to need to have certifications that are related to the information technology (IT) profession. If you want to become an information technology specialist, you should plan to have at least one certification that falls within your field, though some employers seek applicants who have earned several IT certifications. Career counselors at your school, or other professionals who already work in this field, should be able to provide you with the proper guidance for choosing the certifications that best match your career goals.

It is important that information technology specialists have the ability to work as a functioning member of a team, for those occasions when they are assigned to work on group projects.
It is important that information technology specialists have the ability to work as a functioning member of a team, for those occasions when they are assigned to work on group projects.

Even though many computer professionals work primarily with computer hardware and software systems, it is generally considered to be essential for those who want to become an information technology specialist to have strong interpersonal skills. This means that you should have the ability to communicate with others in a clear and straightforward yet personable manner. This enables you to convey information clearly, so that everyone can understand you, which is particularly important when trying to explain technical matters to others.

Information technology (IT) specialists often train fellow employees to use their computers more efficiently.
Information technology (IT) specialists often train fellow employees to use their computers more efficiently.

In order to become an information technology specialist, you should also be able to work independently much of the time. It is equally important, however, that you also have the ability to work as a functioning member of a team, for those occasions when you might be assigned to work on group projects. Many IT professionals believe that having this type of flexibility in the workplace is essential for continued success on the job.

An IT specialist's job description can range from a hardware repair specialist to a business processing specialist.
An IT specialist's job description can range from a hardware repair specialist to a business processing specialist.

Some jobs may require you to participate in a rotating schedule, if you want to become an information technology specialist. This allows you to work a shift as part of a technical support team. Depending on your employer, you may answer phone calls from employees or customers — or you may have to respond to live chat or email questions — from people who are experiencing technical problems. If you are interested in performing this type of work, you may have a better chance of finding your first job opportunity as an information technology specialist.

Discussion Comments

Raynbow

@heavanet- Your point makes a lot of sense. On the other hand, young people who have natural abilities to work with computers would do great in this field.

I think that parents should make the most of their kids' fascination with technology and encourage them to think about information technology jobs for the future. It's never too early to begin planning for the college years!

Heavanet

The main thing that someone needs before deciding to become an information technology specialist is a love of computers. I have a friend who went into this field because he wasn't sure what he wanted to do as a career. After getting a degree and working in the field for several years, he is already burned out because he really never had a passion for technology in the first place.

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    • It is important that information technology specialists have the ability to work as a functioning member of a team, for those occasions when they are assigned to work on group projects.
      By: Michael Flippo
      It is important that information technology specialists have the ability to work as a functioning member of a team, for those occasions when they are assigned to work on group projects.
    • Information technology (IT) specialists often train fellow employees to use their computers more efficiently.
      By: diego cervo
      Information technology (IT) specialists often train fellow employees to use their computers more efficiently.
    • An IT specialist's job description can range from a hardware repair specialist to a business processing specialist.
      By: mickyso
      An IT specialist's job description can range from a hardware repair specialist to a business processing specialist.
    • Guidance counselors can help students find the right college program.
      By: Jeanette Dietl
      Guidance counselors can help students find the right college program.