Computer and Information Technology (IT)

What is Information technology (IT) ?
Information technology (IT) is the use of computers to store, retrieve, transmit, and manipulate data or information. IT is typically used within the context of business operations as opposed to personal or entertainment technologies. IT is considered to be a subset of information and communications technology (ICT). An information technology system (IT system) is generally an information system, a communications system or, more specifically speaking, a computer system – including all hardware, software and peripheral equipment – operated by a group of users.

What are Information Technology (IT) Support Professionals?
An Information Technology (IT) Support Professional ensures the computing, communication, and networking systems of an organization are optimized to best serve the people within the organization. This includes managing, installing, maintaining, troubleshooting, and configuring office and computing equipment. They provide technical support and business tool usage advice and guidance to other employees, vendors and business customers for computers, computer systems, software systems and peripheral equipment. These individuals troubleshoot and solve routine technical service and equipment problems by analyzing, identifying and diagnosing errors using established process and procedures and document these events using database systems and track resolution of problems.

How do I become an Information Technology (IT) Support Professionals?
Employers are looking for people who have the attitudes and skills to be successful. The required training and education will depend on your potential employer. Some employers will require a 2-year associate's degree or a 4-bachelor's degree in computer science, information systems, information technology or computer engineering. However, a large portion of jobs in IT don’t require a four-year degree or even a two-year degree, and many IT job listings prove this. The job position listings may say “High School diploma or GED required", which means that many opportunities are available to High School graduates who want to start a career as soon as possible, and may not want ot pursue a college degree. Most tech positions simply require proof that a person can do the job, through certifications and prior experience. Hiring managers often consider potential job candidates who have Computer and IT Support Certifications even if they don’t have undergraduate degrees. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, a bachelor's degree in any field is sometimes acceptable for employers, as long as an applicant has the technical skills to work as an IT support specialist (www.bls.gov). Many employers offer on-the-job training to new hires.