What is the future outlook for jobs as a Computer Network System Administrator?

future jobs
kmsca5 asked:

I’ve been thinking really hard to go to school this fall for Computer Network System Administrator. I was planning on completing an Associates degree for it. I just want to make sure by the time I complete the 2yr degree there will be a job available for Computer Network System Administrator. I am planning on taking the class at a community college. Thanks ahead of time!






3 Responses to 'What is the future outlook for jobs as a Computer Network System Administrator?'

  1. Liz - February 19th, 2010 at 12:20 am

    Yeah.
    There will be job.
    and that job will consist of:

    “… why am I getting so much SPAM?”
    “…Can you help me fix my printer?”
    “…why doesn’t it work when I type google.aol?”
    “…Hey I accidentally erased my file and then set fire to my hard drive… I need it back by 2:30…”
    “If you come over and fix my computer I make dinner for you…”
    “How Come I can’t find BestBuy.aol.yahoo in my outlook?”

    Make sure you define your boundaries and you will probably have some fun as an admin.
    Remember: The computers control the payroll, the admin controls the computers… any questions?

  2. onenutnick - February 20th, 2010 at 6:50 am

    Depends on where you live. A larger city will have more computer networking jobs. A smaller city, you may have to have a wider scope of skills, since you would have to support more than one business. Unlike other computer jobs like programing and level one tech support, Networking is not getting outsourced to other countries. Once you get your degree, I recommend getting as many certifications as you can. I would start with CompTIA Network +, A+ and Server +. Then move on to more specialized certs such as MCSE (they recently updated the test and it is called something else now). In a larger city where you would have to set your self apart from everyone else that is graduating in this field, you may want to look into more of a focused area, such as Terminal Services/Citrix, Security. In a smaller city, get a wide knowledge, because most small to medium businesses don’t hire IT people full time, so they will use you as a consultant as they need. You will most probably support several businesses.

    Not many companies will hire you out of school to be their Network Administrator. Look to spend a couple of years at helpdesk answering phone calls or reseting passwords. Then as you prove your self you will get more responsibilities.

    The two year associates route, is not bad, but certifications are needed to get your foot in the door. It’s a shame too since most IT people I have met from 2 year schools, know more about Network administration than the 4 year crew.
    Good luck to you.

  3. Larry A - February 20th, 2010 at 5:37 pm

    The learning really never stops. Expect to keep learning new skills if you want to stay relevant.

    So if you really are passionate with becoming an Systems Admin, then take your classes but be aware that you will be constantly learning. You will encounter steep learning curves.

    Today Virtualization is hot, yesterday it was client server.

    People with their MCSE got left behind by folks willing to learn Linux.

    It certainly does cost money to keep up, but usually you can get your employer to pay for future education expenses.


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