I'm new to the sysadmin/IT field, having landed in this role by chance due to my comfort with technology, despite having a degree in history. I've realized that my knowledge comes mainly from Google and some past website tinkering, and I often find myself in over my head. As I take on more responsibilities—like managing AWS and research software—I feel I lack the foundational expertise to really support my team. My questions include whether I should seek formal classes at a community college, pursue free online courses, or continue learning through hands-on experience. What have others done to fill in knowledge gaps in their IT roles, especially without prior formal training?
5 Answers
I think pursuing certifications could really help you gain confidence and improve your resume. Even if they seem outdated in a few years, they show that you’re committed to your growth. Think about what interests you most—cloud services, systems management, etc., and maybe aim for certifications in those areas.
Try out some self-paced online courses too, like those on Udemy. They can provide structure without the commitment of formal education and allow you to learn at your own pace. Keep pushing yourself to tackle new tasks and Google is still a powerful tool to have in your kit!
Definitely consider community college classes; they can provide some structured learning and help you meet others in the field. However, remember that a lot of your growth will come from solving actual problems on the job. You should use every project as an opportunity to learn something new. Don't hesitate to reach out to forums and communities when you're stuck—it's all part of the journey!
Sounds like you're on the right track by recognizing what you need to improve! Honestly, learning by doing is one of the best methods—most of us have been there. I'd recommend starting with a homelab, where you can practice setting up different systems, networks, and maybe even play with some cloud services. You should also dive into online resources like blogs and tech podcasts to stay updated—this can really help bridge those knowledge gaps.
Honestly, as long as you're learning and finding answers, you're doing great! Don't let imposter syndrome get to you. Set up a project that excites you, even something in a field that's new to you. That's how you build expertise—by challenging yourself and experimenting with new tools.
Thanks for the advice! I’ll look into community college and hope it leads to some mentorship too.