LOVE OF TINKERING AND CONSTANT RESEARCH CRUCIAL TO ROLE
EDUCATION
Many high schools offer school-based apprenticeships to help students get a head start in completing a Certificate III in IT through local TAFE or registered training organisations. Tech support workers often work in shifts and are expected to be on call. Inspecting, problem solving, tracking work, interpersonal and sales skills are all mandatory on an IT help desk. Work experience at an IT company is also beneficial for building skills and industry contacts.
MORE TRAINING
Many IT professionals never stop training. Further education is offered through TAFE or universities, including diploma or master courses. There are also area specific industry certifications such as Microsoft, CISCO and Oracle, depending on which area of IT workers are keen to specialise in. Some IT professionals may take the leap into business ownership and further qualifications in management could be helpful.
PAY SCALE
An IT service engineer earns an average salary of $66,000 per year. For the first five to 10 years in the position, salary can increase steeply. Specialised system experience could also boost paypackets.
WHO TO CONTACT
The Australian Information Industry Association or IT Professionals Association provide a source of information on networking and career and business advice: www.aiia.com.au or www.professionalsaustralia.org.au