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With the rapid growth and advancement in the field of computers
and information technology, the need for skilled computer repair
technicians is rising across all industries. From game
development companies to industrial corporations, computer
repair technicians are needed to troubleshoot computer systems,
manage database systems, and help with installation and setup of
a variety of programs and computer hardware. Technicians can work within a company or independently to
provide services; training at a computer repair school provides
essential skills and applications for a variety of rewarding
careers in the computer, tech, and information technology
industry.
Why Is Computer
Repair Training Important?
Computer repair training is an essential skill for those interested in working
with information systems, desktop support, and improving efficiency over a
network or organization. It provides advanced skills in
troubleshooting, repair, maintenance, and upgrading of many of today's leading
systems, applications, software programs and hardware. With the growth of new
technology in almost every industry, a computer repair technician can help train
and teach others on how to manage new operating systems, evaluate problems, and
provide solutions to everyday challenges. Training at a computer
repair school also affords students a chance to gain experience in building
computers and managing complex networks. This can be applied to a variety of
positions that require technicians to be up to date on desktop services,
computer diagnostic testing, and implementing new system upgrades.
Job Description
and Responsibilities of a Computer Repair Technician
A computer repair
technician is primarily involved with:
-
Troubleshooting networks and computer programs
- Installing
software and hardware
- Designing
and implementing a secure network
- Supporting
desktops and servers
- Managing a
range of databases
- Helping
with web development
- Developing
processes and procedures to train others
- Supporting
or leading a group of computer repair technicians through a project
- Learning
about different operating systems and platforms
- Becoming
proficient with MS Windows, Macintosh, and Linux operating systems
- Installing
peripherals and other hardware across a range of computers
What Do Computer
Repair Schools Offer?
Schools offer students a chance to complete intensive training
and in-depth study of each of the elements of computer maintenance, network
design, and performance. A school can provide real-life
simulations and hands-on training at each stage of study.
Computer repair course programs are concentrated on the following areas:
- Operating
systems
- Software
applications
- Network and
hardware maintenance
- Networking
- End-user
efficiency
- Programming
- Providing
support
- Evaluating
computer performance
- Computer
peripherals and process optimization
Many schools also allow students to complete courses for
certification. A Certificate in Computer Technical Support is just one
opportunity for students to earn professional recognition in the field. A
computer repair program may be taken at a formal school, or even
online with a PC and high speed internet connection. An online class allows students to work with web-based simulations to learn the concepts
and critical skills needed, and can still provide ample training.
What Types of
Computer Repair Programs Are Available?
Training programs allow students to learn essential skills in using
and optimizing computer devices, hardware programs, and evaluating performance.
These programs can train students to become bench technicians,
computer network developers, web administrators, and customer support
representatives. Computer repair programs are designed to include areas of study
such as:
- Computer
mechanics
- Computer
technology
- Electrical
repair
- Computer
installation
A computer repair
class is very interactive and encourages students to work with a variety of
materials and applications throughout the course. The course may
specialize in a particular program, operating system, or application to provide
in-depth training and knowledge. Students who attend a formal computer repair
school also have the benefit of working on lab simulations and making use of
creative applications of their skills.
Educational
Background and Requirements for Computer Repair Training
Students who excel in mathematics, physics, and science have a high chance of
success in a computer repair training career. Most employers prefer that
students have at least an associate degree in addition to formal training
through an internship or part-time job. This allows them to serve as technicians for a variety of industries, and certification in the field
is recommended. Many technical and vocational schools offer comprehensive
training programs and degrees, and a formal degree can
lead to a variety of attractive job opportunities at the corporate level.
Students who enhance their program and
curriculum with computer programming classes, web design and development, and
other related technology fields have higher chances of salary increases and job
opportunities in the long term.
Earning Potential
and Employment Prospects for Computer Repair Careers
Job
options and career opportunities for computer repair technicians look promising
as demand for highly trained professionals in the field is increasing with the
growth of new technologies, software programs, and electronic devices. As more
companies become technologically advanced, the need for well-trained professionals is a necessary outcome; companies look for
professionals who can teach and train others, as well as implement appropriate
processes and networks for technical support. A computer repair career is also
very flexible; a technician who branches out into related fields
and industries has a higher chance of growing in their position and enjoying a
rewarding career.
Job
growth is expected to grow faster than average, and the
average income for a computer repair technician was $40,430 in 2004. Related
careers include:
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