I'm 23 years old and have been tinkering with computers for six years, from building desktops to cleaning laptops. I recently got a job as an IT technician, but most of my tasks are basic helpdesk duties like troubleshooting printers and fixing Windows and Outlook issues. However, I've been learning a lot from the experienced staff and have taken on responsibilities similar to a junior system administrator. We use Acronis EDR and Xcitium for managing company computers. I'm looking for advice on what skills I should focus on outside of work to help me progress beyond the junior level and move into senior positions. Any recommendations or guidance would be appreciated!
4 Answers
It sounds like you're in a great spot to grow! Start by learning about networking fundamentals like switches, access points, firewalls, and VPNs. Understanding how the infrastructure works is crucial for moving into more advanced roles. You might want to also get hands-on with configurations to deepen your knowledge.
Don't be discouraged, and embrace the challenges! Dive deep into learning the tools your workplace uses through free online courses. After you've got a solid grasp, consider pursuing certifications relevant to those tools. The key difference between support roles and sysadmin work is experience, and you can bridge that gap quickly if you’re motivated to learn.
So, it really comes down to gaining experience then?
To really pinpoint your next steps, think about what excites you. Are you more into hardware, software, networking, or cybersecurity? If you could land your dream job at your favorite company, what skills would you need? Figuring that out could help you chart your path forward. And if your current role isn't aligning with your career goals, exploring new job opportunities can be beneficial.
I used to love building PCs, but now the responsibility of managing IT for larger companies feels fulfilling. I just want to broaden my skill set now.
Record everything you learn along the way and make notes on how you’ve improved the company’s workflow or solved recurring issues. This documentation can be valuable when you’re ready to negotiate your next job or promotion. And if you don’t see growth potential in your current position, don’t hesitate to look for better opportunities.
I work with MikroTik for networking, so I've learned to troubleshoot basics. Do you have specific resources you recommend for networking?