In addition to being computer-savvy, you’ll also need to have good problem-solving and customer service skills.

For instance, if the job listing includes something like, “Use tools to analyze and resolve technical problems,” you might mention that at your last job, you successfully helped your boss troubleshoot the printer network.

If going to college full-time isn’t an option for you right now, consider signing up for an accredited online degree program. These typically cover the same material as you’d learn in a classroom setting, but you have the flexibility to learn on your own time. As you’re working on your degree, especially focus on courses that teach in-demand skills like Python, HTML, Flack, Asana, and Salesforce. [5] X Expert Source Jonathan SoormaghenCareer Coach Expert Interview. 7 October 2020.

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA): Cisco’s IT certification shows that you’re able to install and maintain networking hardware, including access and security. CompTIA A+: This shows you can perform maintenance on PCs, laptops, mobile devices, networks, and other hardware. Microsoft 365 Certified: Modern Desktop Administrator Association: This Windows-based certification shows employers that you can perform basic administrative and maintenance duties on PCs and Windows laptops.

Although you’ll do a lot of work with machines, you’ll need to communicate with the people you work with, so good people skills are a pretty important part of this career, as well.

Exactly what you’ll do will depend on your particular area of expertise. For instance, if you concentrate on getting certified in networking, you might work as a Network Systems Administrator, Computer Network Architect, or Information Security Analyst. If you focus more on coding, you might work as a Computer Programmer, Software Developer, or Web Designer. If you want to work on the cutting-edge of technology, you might pursue a Master’s degree and work as a Computer & Information Research Scientist.

Even lower-paying IT jobs are still higher than the average for all occupations, which is currently around $42,000.

Health-related IT careers are also a quickly-growing field![13] X Research source