InsideTech

I am looking for a career in computers. I am interested in a carreer with programming or IT Networking but have no experience. I recently enrolled into school and start this September for a Bachelors in Computer Science. A degree will take me 4-6 years to obtain. Does anyone have recomendations on jobs that can break me into the industry to educated myself and to work in the industry that I am so interested in becoming part of.

With networking try to get A+ and or Network+ certified as soon as possible.  Once that happens even if you are not finished school look for job entry level or on a help desk.  Usually the requirements are the lowest.  Once you get your first gig hang on for about a year even if you only work part time.   One idea off the top my head is Cable Internet Help Desk.  You only have to know how to configure TCP/IP on most Windows and Apple machines. The other thing is setting up email address manually.  The pay is usually low but it gives you a stepping-stone.  The hours are usually very flexible.  Programming is a whole different story.  Mostly I would say just dumb luck is the biggest factor.  Try to focus on one language and learn it until you know it backwards and forwards and both inside and out.  Read, read, read, and practice, practice, practice.  Once you get your first gig you are on the way.  Look for internships at major companies and hold on for dear life.  Once you have a year under your belt start expanding your horizons.  Best of luck to you in either career!

KentES says ...

vanfoz and particiants,

I am in a similar situation, from a different angle.  I spent 25+ years in the business world, but most of it has been in the sales arena.  I have recently gained a second degree in technology and am looking to get back into the work force,  I have been in pursuit of an IT career change after 3 years without full-time work.  I have been on all of the job boards, have two companies searching for opportunities on my behalf and even put n the suit and passed out resumes.  How do I get an interview?   Very Frustrated!  Help?!

You didn't say what technology you are currently specializing in, so what follows may or may not be relevant.

Are you getting leverage from your extensive sales and business background?  One thing that is sorely lacking in most IT candidates is business experience.  If I were you I wouldn't turn my back on all that experience, but instead work with recruiters to see how and to whom it could be beneficial.

There are lots of IT candidates out there, but few who really understand the needs of business customers.  If you want to join a development shop, for example, your corporate customers will likely be sales, marketing, demand planners, supply chain managers, etc.  I think you should be able to get some mileage out of your former career.  Perhaps you have some firsthand experience with CRM, trade promotions management, POS data or other business applications.  Even if you don't, you may have an intimate knowledge of how they are used, and what the end user needs are.  Perhaps that would be valuable in combination withyour new technical skills.

Use everything you've got in your toolbox.  Just my two-cents-worth, adjusted for inflation.