SECURING THE FUTURE WITH COMPUTER SYSTEMS TECHNOLOGY

(February 15, 2007) . . .Information Technology (IT) continues as a growing demand in the business world. Of the top thirty careers of 2008, six are related to the computer industry. ICTC is helping students meet the growing demand in the IT field. Computer Systems Technology (CST) is a program at ICTC devoted to teaching the skills and competencies for the IT world.

Computer Systems Technology is a great way to start your career or post-secondary education! With up to four available industry certifications, you can go straight into the work force. Expected salaries for IT careers are competitive and starting salaries may approach $40,000 depending on company size and region of the country.

CST has many success stories with students who have received multiple industry certifications. Some students continued their education while others went directly into the work force. The classroom at ICTC showcases the success stories with a “Wall of Fame” of past and current students and the achievements that Computer Systems Technology has provided.

Computer systems technology has a lot to offer students who choose to study the program. First-year students in CST study the A+ course, second-year students focus on the Network+ course, and third-year students advance to the Server+ and Security+ courses.

There is also a thought of starting a Microsoft course on Windows Vista, the newly released Microsoft operating system. This would give students the opportunity to Choose between elective classes their senior year. This proposed course will give students the opportunity for another industry certification.

The A+ program is designed to give students the necessary information for the A+ certification exam. Students study the computer basics--the hardware and software to become proficient as PC Repair Technicians.

Network+ is the class for second-year students. The Network+ course is focused on computer networking. Students learn cabling, Active Directory, binary code, building a network and running a network operating system, and more!

The Server+ course is taken the third year and is based on managing and operating a network and server. The students gain a deeper knowledge of networking, specialized server hardware and software, and learn what it takes to be a network administrator.

Security+ is also taken the third year. The course teaches security basics and network security, such as how to keep a network secure, and avoid the dangers that can be introduced to computers and networks through viruses, hackers, Trojans, and other malware.

Students enrolled at ICTC are able to earn up to four certifications. They can get their A+ certification as early as their first year of study. They can also get their Network+, Server+, and Security+ certification throughout the three years. All this before you’re out of high school!

Computers are prominent in every occupation today. Many offices have moved all of their files into computer systems and are constantly searching for trained Information Technology professionals to keep them secure. “Having the experience and certifications to back up your knowledge builds your portfolio, and can show employers that an education here at the ICTC helps you gain the confidence and skills needed for your future,” explains Joe Toy, a second-year 11 th grade Indiana student. There are numerous career opportunities in the IT field. Some careers that are directly related to the computer industry are: PC technician/PC Specialist, Cabling Technician, Field Technician, LAN/WAN Technician, Computer Analyst, Computer Designer/Engineer, Computer Programmer, Network Administrator, Computer/Network Security, Computer Forensics, Network Analyst.

Students enrolled in CST also get a chance to participate in a student internship with the school’s network administrator. It helps the students get accustomed to the work environment in a professional atmosphere.

This year the program area received twenty new lab computers. The class is using some new software this year, like Microsoft Virtual PC 2007 and Microsoft Virtual Server 2005. This software is designed to run multiple operating systems on a single computer, allowing students to learn about multiple operating system environments on one machine. Businesses are using virtual PCs and servers to reduce expenses, such as hardware, electricity, and air conditioning.

Students should be advised that this program is not strictly a three year program. Students can enter the program as a sophomore, junior, or senior. If you work hard and study you will be able to achieve great success in the future.

With hard work and dedication Computer systems Technology can be a great way to get started with your future. Students can also take the opportunity to dual enroll with Pennsylvania Highlands Community College. This allows the students to take classes at ICTC and receive college credit while doing it! Taking college level classes before you even graduate high school, and earning industry level certifications will only benefit you when seeking a job in the future.

And speaking of computers…it is getting more common to see an automotive technician use computer-based tools just as much as a wrench! An example is the new Star Mobile device that is a recent addition to ICTC’s Automotive Technology Program.

The Automotive Technology program at ICTC was awarded a Star Mobile device by the Chrysler Corporation. The Star Mobile is a vehicle interface tool used to examine virtually every part of the vehicle’s electrical network. The device works by connecting it directly into a port below the dash of vehicles (2005 and newer) and then sends data wirelessly to the host computer. From the host computer, the user can test many features of the vehicle (e.g. lights, wipers, horn, sunroof, heater, and more). The star mobile is the same device used in car dealerships. This device gives the student a competitive edge. Mr. Shuman, the automotive technology instructor stated, “I am happy to report during the three day training seminar, Chrysler awarded us the Star Mobile.” With it, he also stated, “we’re attempting to bring tomorrow’s technology into today’s classroom.”

For more information on the ICTC, click here.

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