Why Is Computer Support a Job of Tomorrow?
Technology has pervaded every aspect of modern life. It has largely replaced cash with credit cards that can draw funds electronically from bank accounts, replaced beepers with handheld mobile phones that can not only instantly connect callers, but also act as a tiny web browser and gaming system, and pushed globalization into overdrive through the World Wide Web. With personal computers as common in businesses as pots of break room coffee, the race is always on to push computer technology further. However, even the most technologically savvy individuals encounter issues with their computers from time to time. In these instances, computer support specialists are there to help users resolve those issues so that the user may continue using the computer without further interruption. As the number of households and businesses with computers increase, and technology becomes more and more advanced, computer support specialists will see a surge in demand. Employment opportunities for computer support specialists expect to grow 18 percent by 2016, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Computer support specialists make an average salary of $41,470 annually.
How much do computer support specialists make?
The median computer support specialist salary is around $42,400. The middle 50% earn between $32,800 and $54,700 with the highest 10% earning over $69,300 (1). Some computer support specialists may further their education to advance to systems administrators.
Computer support specialist careers are great for people who enjoy working with people and like to solve computer problems of any complexity. Candidates must enjoy interacting with customers and coworkers on a daily basis to address issues, answer questions and provide assistance. Click here to find your path to a career in computer support.
How Do You Get Ready?
There are many ways to become a computer support specialist. Having a college degree might make it easier to get jobs. Passing a certification test is another way to prepare for jobs. Computer companies and associations offer these tests. Experience working with computers is also important. Workers need to learn new computer skills throughout their careers. Students can start getting ready now by learning about computers in school, in the library, or on their own. Studying math is also important because it helps people learn to solve problems. Learning to read and speak well is useful, too.