For those enamored with the planet of communications and cabling, the quantity of career options at your fingertips can be a tiny bit staggering at times. However, in this myriad of options, some believe that when a path has been chosen, there is only one method to achieve the necessary training. For network cabling technicians, at least, this couldn’t be further from the truth.
At the moment, there is no education requirement to become network cabling technician network cabling contractors. Although two year certifications are becoming more of the norm, some companies require simply a willingness to learn and to work. There are some companies that will hire interested employees, let them have in house training, and then send them out to utilize provided equipment. However, in these cases, you are generally just installing cable or terminating voice and data jacks. The hope is that you will discover more sophisticated technology on the task over time.
The most common way to break into the network cabling field is by way of a certification program from the college or vocational school. This may generally take anywhere from 1-4 semesters and will give you a basic knowledge of telecommunications in addition to practical teaching with fiber-optics and copper-based networks. Most, but not absolutely all, programs require a senior school diploma and students are expected to stay adequate shape to dig trenches and lift heavy cables. This program isn’t recommended to those who find themselves claustrophobic or afraid of heights, as both these situations arise in the field.
To get jobs a step above people that have a network cabling certification, you have to obtain an associate’s degree in computer science or information technology. These programs are two year’s in length and focus not merely on practical training, but on design and maintenance as well. You will discover ways to repair damaged cables and just how to terminate a point underground. You is likewise able to design and build operational networking systems. To use you have to be a senior school graduate.
Above and beyond the associate’s level, for anyone interested in managerial or administrative positions, you will find bachelor’s and master’s degrees for sale in information technology. These are standard college programs and require all the typical university requirements. For all of these options, most of the popular schools only offer classes online. Which can be great for time management and those that live not even close to a university. However, online learning can be difficult, so look to technical institutes for classroom-based programs.
After you have received your training and education, the next step is simply to obtain a job. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics states that job options in the telecommunications field are expected to improve within the next two years. They also report the median salary for a network cabling technician to be around $51,000 a year. So if you’d prefer to be making some cash and starting in your career, decide on an exercise program, and get started.