Where to start in the IT industry?

[nirrtix]

I have been working on the A+ certification so far and already have a non-computer related degree (while I doubt that would help me find a job.) However I hear many negative things about the A+ certification in regards to its help in getting into the field. Most seem to imply that hardware technicians are a replaceable position is also poorly paid. I would like to know where to go after getting A+ certified (I know that it is debatable of it's worth, but I figure it will not hurt as a first step.)

 

[COLGeek]

The opportunities depend on the market you are in and whether re-locating is an option. You mentioned having a non-computer related degree. What degree do you have?

 

[corroded]

What part of IT do you want to work in? Desktop, Server, Network... (basic breakdown)

 

[nirrtix]

Well I am open to anything I can learn, right now my interests (and current skillset) is in computer repair (I know a lot about repair, but no certifications,) but I would like to expand on that as that alone I hear is a dead end, with a low pay cap (like $10 an hour.) I have looked for entry level jobs even in that area and some places want bachelors degrees etc.. As to my market I am in Houston, and no I am not wanting to move (which I know limits me some.)

 

[corroded]

lol.. I do PC setup and repair @ $135/hr home and flat $250/unit in office...

Look for a support job at a tech company. it's a foot in the door and will let you see more of where to go, while making up to $50K/yr

 

[USAFRet]

Consider volunteering with a non-profit or charity. To build up your resume, and learn a bit of the IT world.

 

[nirrtix]

I have considered what USAFRet has mentioned. Maybe I am just discouraged by some I hear. Right now I have put out my resume even though I have no experience and just the claim of the fact (with no evidence) that I have built my own wired network and have troubleshooted several computers several times (working on my fathers business machines as well as friends.) I figure I have nothing to lose. I also built, maintain, and tweak my own machine regularly.

I have looked for some entry level jobs, one place has contacted me, not sure if they were just messaging me to say they got the resume though. After all my resume has little on it other than sales jobs (not computer related) and claims of knowledge I cannot prove without relations to family. I do know some places want someone with a minimal level of experience, but passion for the work, that is definitely me.

The only other thing I have is a 2 year Associates of Social Science degree, but I doubt that means much in IT . I mostly did it to lock in the credits so the school could not take them away if I wanted to go for a 4 year degree.

Corroded as to where specifically I want to go I am hoping to go from hardware into networking (I have looked at Careerbuilder and the stuff some of these employers are asking for us to know is stuff I have never heard of before. It is kind of overwhelming.) Basically I am looking for jobs I can get through eventually experience (when I can attain it) and certifications. At this point that is part of the problem there is so much out there it is kind of overwhelming. Back in the late 1990's when I first attempted to get into this field it was much simpler, and much easier to get into. In many ways I regret not taking it more seriously then.

 

[USAFRet]

I have considered what USAFRet has mentioned. Maybe I am just discouraged by some I hear. Right now I have put out my resume even though I have no experience and just the claim of the fact (with no evidence) that I have built my own wired network and have troubleshooted several computers several times (working on my fathers business machines as well as friends.) I figure I have nothing to lose. I also built, maintain, and tweak my own machine regularly.

Any semi-rational 14 year old can do that.

 

[nirrtix]

true, these days at least way back when I learned it it was less common (late 1990s).

 

[corroded]

Like I said... Apply to any Tech Support jobs you find, walk into the businesses and ask to talk to the Support Manager.. If you really want it... Go for it.