How to Become an IT Expert
The work of an information and technology expert encompasses all aspects of managing and monitoring computers, hardware, software, and networks within the parameters of an organization. Experts in information technology are referred to using various titles to include, an IT project manager, IT analyst, and a BIT (Business information technology) analyst. Areas of specialization for IT experts include network analysis, IT audits, website administration, security information assurance and system administration (Best College Review, n.p). IT experts are highly sought out by organizations and are among the most highly paid experts in organizations. IT job opportunities present individuals with opportunities for personal and professional growth. In an organizational setting, IT experts can work in various areas involving information technology, for example, they can assist in the help desk by addressing the problems being faced by end-users of company products. Regardless of the various areas IT experts work in, they are required to pose strong analytical skills and be familiar with various operating systems to include Microsoft Windows, Linux, and macOS. IT experts and specialists are required to be proficient in more than one programming language (Best College Review, n.p).
First Step: Getting the right Education (Degree)
A Bachelor’s Degree in a computer-related field is very relevant in being an IT expert. Various relevant majors in the field of computer-related courses include computer science, information systems, and software engineering. The first step towards being an IT expert is gaining a solid understanding of mathematical, scientific and engineering concepts related to IT (Best College Review, n.p). This understanding lays a firm foundation that helps the student understand broader concepts of IT to include, data structures, programming concepts, and languages, numerical analysis, and data management. Bachelor's degrees related to information technology take a maximum of four years to complete. Modules in these courses include information technology system analysis, risk assessment, information security and data networking, and computer networking.
To enhance competence in the field of Information technology, experts need to go the extra mile to acquire academic qualifications greater than a Bachelor’s degree. After acquiring a bachelors degree one can proceed and enroll in a Master’s program related to IT, these masters programs include; Masters of Information Technology and Master in Technology Management (Best College Review, n.p). Subsequently, after the successful completion of a master’s program, an IT specialist can enroll in a doctorate program that can help widen and broaden one’s knowledge in the field.
Second step: Gaining Experience
Institutions that offer Information technology-related courses avail sophisticated IT laboratories to their students, it is important to take advantage of these facilities to get hands-on experience with various programs and software that are taught in class. Before starting a career in information technology, it is advisable to get experience first. One should consider seeking and completing an internship program before finding employment. Entry-level IT experts find trouble in finding employment, therefore, gaining practical experience from internship programs is important and allows an individual to make professional contact with potential employers (Best College Review, n.p). Exposure from internship programs helps an individual polish their already acquired skills. It is recommendable to work for an IT consulting firm or a government institution. An IT expert should be aware of all the latest changes and development trends taking place in the field.
Third step: Specialize
The Information technology field is a diverse field and specialization is very much required, to completely be an expert in a specific field in information technology one needs to specialize in that certain field. One can choose to be an expert in areas to include mobile computing and data network (Best College Review, n.p). The key to specializing in a field is choosing something that one is interested in then building a career out of it by availing expertise and solutions needed in that field. Seeking certification from vendors to include Cisco, Oracle and Microsoft also increases credibility in the eyes of an employer.
Fourth Step: Network Widely
Networking means finding professional connections in the field of Information technology. This included putting your profile out there for people to recognize you as an IT expert. Without networking firms and organizations requiring IT, experts will not recognize you, it is through networking that one gains professional contact (Best College Review, n.p). Networking can be done through social media platforms to include Twitter, LinkedIn accounts, Facebook accounts and interactions in social gatherings.
Works Cited
Best College Review. “How Can I Become an Information Technology Expert?” n.d. Retrieved from; https://www.bestcollegereviews.org/faq/how-can-i-become-an-information- technology-expert/
