NETWORKING KNOW-IT-ALLS

BECOMING A TITAN OF TECHNOLOGY

Knee-deep in the digital age, we’re all addicted to our phones and personal computers, but on a societal scale, the needs are far greater. Few businesses operate anymore without sophisticated technologies and networking systems that keep the wheels of commercewhirring – which means they need savvy workers who know how to manage and maintain the multi-faceted functions of information technology systems.

Fortunately, the Information Technology division at North Central Texas College has several programs committed to the cause, with certificates and associate degrees offered in Computer Information Technology, Computer Network Systems, Cyber Security, Database Management, Gaming Application Programming, and Web Development.

An Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Computer Information Systems & Technology prepares students for work in software design and network support positions. Students become familiar with basic computer programming principles and systems engineering, while getting hands-on technical experience through lab-work and internships.

With sufficient expertise in networking technology, students can pursue nationally-recognized certifications through CompTia, Cisco or Microsoft, and AAS graduates are often in a strong position to decide whether they’d rather enter the workforce or use the degree as a stepping stone toward a bachelor’s degree.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), typical jobs for computer network professionals come with titles like network technician, computer troubleshooter, data security specialist, systems administrator and technical support technician – with median salaries upwards of $60,000. The BLS notes that computer and information technologyjobs are projected to grow by 12 percent from 2018 to 2028 – much faster than the average for all occupations, and in May 2018, some specialties cited median salaries as high as $86,320 – considerably higher than the $38,640 figure for all occupations.

Projections are steady for those employed in roles like network and computer system administrators (eight percent over the next decade) and computer support specialists (12 percent during the same time frame). The average salary for the former is $58,443, and $52,160 for the latter.

Surprisingly, a four-year degree isn’t always required for success in various Information Technology fields.

For more information about Information Technology programs at NCTC, contact division chair Susan Svane at (940) 498-6292 or ssvane@nctc.edu.

NCTC Gaming/App instructor Michael McCoy with a student