4 answers
Cartaleyiah
Student
Kingsland, Georgia
1
Question
Asked
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What should I be doing to gain experience in my field ?
I am trying to gain my CompTIA +A certification but I don’t know what else I should be doing. I want to gain a job within the government doing IT work I just don’t know where to start.
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4 answers
Steward "Tony" Pacheco
Minister, USMC Vet, John C. Maxwell Cert. Coach, Trainer, Speaker, Teacher, Straight Shooter
98
Answers
Kyle, Texas
Updated
Steward "Tony"’s Answer
Hi Cartaleyiah
Thats great that you are going to start at the bottom. I did the same at IBM and worked my way up to a systems engineer. It took 9 years, but it was an adventure indeed.
So my advice will be real world advice, like what a professional uncle would give you. First thing is to get rid of that term "I'm Trying" because it leaves you an excuse for quitting (but I tried?) There is only "Next Step" and though you are uncertain at this point, this step will open many different doors for you in technology.
You mentioned I.T., But you are starting in I.S. with CompTia which gets you into entry level desktop type of gigs. If you want to program, then study a programming language that is used by the government you seek to apply with would be advisable. Do the research first.
You must ask yourself why the government? Why not companies that are on the cutting edge of both IS & IT?
Do you have any skills already, if so, then volunteer your services for your resume experience i.e. schools, churches, etc.
Odd PC jobs locally also work adding to your experience as "ME INC" which looks great on resume when seeking the entry level route, even in government. Support positions are easy to get with CompTia and once in you can take advantage of any training offered to employees for use within the structure. That training can be IT/IS based.
There is no trying, just taking the next step. Do not overload yourself, because technology is a never-ending study, and you will be part of its amazing "change by change" scenarios.
If you need me just holla! I'm now a retired aerospace headhunter so I have time to share.
Thats great that you are going to start at the bottom. I did the same at IBM and worked my way up to a systems engineer. It took 9 years, but it was an adventure indeed.
So my advice will be real world advice, like what a professional uncle would give you. First thing is to get rid of that term "I'm Trying" because it leaves you an excuse for quitting (but I tried?) There is only "Next Step" and though you are uncertain at this point, this step will open many different doors for you in technology.
You mentioned I.T., But you are starting in I.S. with CompTia which gets you into entry level desktop type of gigs. If you want to program, then study a programming language that is used by the government you seek to apply with would be advisable. Do the research first.
You must ask yourself why the government? Why not companies that are on the cutting edge of both IS & IT?
Do you have any skills already, if so, then volunteer your services for your resume experience i.e. schools, churches, etc.
Odd PC jobs locally also work adding to your experience as "ME INC" which looks great on resume when seeking the entry level route, even in government. Support positions are easy to get with CompTia and once in you can take advantage of any training offered to employees for use within the structure. That training can be IT/IS based.
There is no trying, just taking the next step. Do not overload yourself, because technology is a never-ending study, and you will be part of its amazing "change by change" scenarios.
If you need me just holla! I'm now a retired aerospace headhunter so I have time to share.
Dean Gerke
Project manager
1
Answer
Omaha, Nebraska
Updated
Dean’s Answer
Hello Cartaleyiah!
Having been immersed in the world of government work for quite some time, I can wholeheartedly say I appreciate your aspiration and believe it's a commendable objective. Remember, it's perfectly okay to take initial strides in different sectors. As you hone and broaden your technical skills, I suggest seeking an opportunity to interact with genuine customers. Consider places like the Geek Squad at BestBuy, the support desk at an Apple store, or any electronics repair shop. These are excellent environments to gain practical experience. Coupling your technical prowess with customer service experience can significantly enhance your profile. This not only sets you apart as a candidate for future roles but also provides a glimpse into what everyday work might entail. You might even uncover a specific technology niche you're passionate about or realize the value of learning a new language. There's absolutely no downside to sampling the actual feel of the workplace.
Wishing you the best of luck!
Having been immersed in the world of government work for quite some time, I can wholeheartedly say I appreciate your aspiration and believe it's a commendable objective. Remember, it's perfectly okay to take initial strides in different sectors. As you hone and broaden your technical skills, I suggest seeking an opportunity to interact with genuine customers. Consider places like the Geek Squad at BestBuy, the support desk at an Apple store, or any electronics repair shop. These are excellent environments to gain practical experience. Coupling your technical prowess with customer service experience can significantly enhance your profile. This not only sets you apart as a candidate for future roles but also provides a glimpse into what everyday work might entail. You might even uncover a specific technology niche you're passionate about or realize the value of learning a new language. There's absolutely no downside to sampling the actual feel of the workplace.
Wishing you the best of luck!
Steward "Tony" Pacheco
Minister, USMC Vet, John C. Maxwell Cert. Coach, Trainer, Speaker, Teacher, Straight Shooter
98
Answers
Kyle, Texas
Updated
Steward "Tony"’s Answer
Hi Cartaleyiah
Thats great that you are going to start at the bottom. I did the same at IBM and worked my way up to a systems engineer. It 9 years but it was an adventure.
So my advice will be real world advice, like what a professional uncle would give you. First thing is to get rid of that term "I'm Trying" because it leaves you an excuse for quitting (but I tried?) There is only "Next Step" and though you are uncertain, this step will open many different doors for you in technology.
You mention I.T., But you are starting in I.S. with CompTia which gets you into entry level desktop type of gigs. If you want to program, then study a programming language that is used by the government you seek to apply with. Do the research first.
You must ask why the government? Why not companies that are on the cutting edge of both IS & IT?
Do you have any skills already, then volunteer your services for resume experience.
Odd PC jobs locally also add to your experience as "ME INC" which looks great on resume when seeking the entry level route, even in government. Support positions are easy to get with CompTia and once in you can take advantage of any training offered to employees for use within the structure. That training can be IT/IS based.
There is no try, just taking the next step. Do not overload yourself, because technology is a never-ending study, and you will be part of its amazing change by change scenarios.
If you need my just holla! I'm retired so I have time.
Thats great that you are going to start at the bottom. I did the same at IBM and worked my way up to a systems engineer. It 9 years but it was an adventure.
So my advice will be real world advice, like what a professional uncle would give you. First thing is to get rid of that term "I'm Trying" because it leaves you an excuse for quitting (but I tried?) There is only "Next Step" and though you are uncertain, this step will open many different doors for you in technology.
You mention I.T., But you are starting in I.S. with CompTia which gets you into entry level desktop type of gigs. If you want to program, then study a programming language that is used by the government you seek to apply with. Do the research first.
You must ask why the government? Why not companies that are on the cutting edge of both IS & IT?
Do you have any skills already, then volunteer your services for resume experience.
Odd PC jobs locally also add to your experience as "ME INC" which looks great on resume when seeking the entry level route, even in government. Support positions are easy to get with CompTia and once in you can take advantage of any training offered to employees for use within the structure. That training can be IT/IS based.
There is no try, just taking the next step. Do not overload yourself, because technology is a never-ending study, and you will be part of its amazing change by change scenarios.
If you need my just holla! I'm retired so I have time.
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
391
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hello Cartaleyiah,
Gaining Experience and Targeting Government IT Jobs
Great choice on pursuing the CompTIA A+ certification! It's a solid starting point for an IT career. While studying for the exam, you're already gaining valuable knowledge.
To complement your studies and gain practical experience, consider the following:
Hands-on Practice: Build or repair computers for friends, family, or neighbors. This practical experience solidifies theoretical knowledge.
Online Labs: Many certification preparation courses offer online labs. Utilize them to practice troubleshooting and configuration tasks.
IT Support Roles: Look for entry-level IT support positions, even if they're part-time or volunteer. This provides real-world experience and networking opportunities.
Networking: Attend IT meetups, conferences, and webinars. Building relationships within the industry can lead to job opportunities and mentorship.
Targeting Government IT Jobs
Government IT jobs often have specific requirements, so research is key.
Identify Target Agencies: Determine which government agencies align with your interests (e.g., cybersecurity, network administration).
Understand Job Requirements: Analyze job descriptions to identify necessary skills and certifications.
Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume to highlight relevant experience and skills for each government position you apply for.
Networking Within Government: Attend government IT events or conferences to connect with potential employers and learn about job openings.
Leverage Government Resources: Explore government training programs or internships that can provide experience and connections.
Additional Tips
Online Learning Platforms: Utilize platforms like Udemy, Coursera, Alison, and LinkedIn Learning to expand your skill set beyond CompTIA A+. Consider certifications like Network+ or Security+.
Open Source Projects: Contribute to open-source projects to gain practical experience and showcase your skills.
Personal Projects: Build your own IT projects to demonstrate your abilities and problem-solving skills.
Do not forget, gaining experience takes time and effort. Be patient, persistent, and proactive in your job search.
Best wishes!
Gaining Experience and Targeting Government IT Jobs
Great choice on pursuing the CompTIA A+ certification! It's a solid starting point for an IT career. While studying for the exam, you're already gaining valuable knowledge.
To complement your studies and gain practical experience, consider the following:
Hands-on Practice: Build or repair computers for friends, family, or neighbors. This practical experience solidifies theoretical knowledge.
Online Labs: Many certification preparation courses offer online labs. Utilize them to practice troubleshooting and configuration tasks.
IT Support Roles: Look for entry-level IT support positions, even if they're part-time or volunteer. This provides real-world experience and networking opportunities.
Networking: Attend IT meetups, conferences, and webinars. Building relationships within the industry can lead to job opportunities and mentorship.
Targeting Government IT Jobs
Government IT jobs often have specific requirements, so research is key.
Identify Target Agencies: Determine which government agencies align with your interests (e.g., cybersecurity, network administration).
Understand Job Requirements: Analyze job descriptions to identify necessary skills and certifications.
Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume to highlight relevant experience and skills for each government position you apply for.
Networking Within Government: Attend government IT events or conferences to connect with potential employers and learn about job openings.
Leverage Government Resources: Explore government training programs or internships that can provide experience and connections.
Additional Tips
Online Learning Platforms: Utilize platforms like Udemy, Coursera, Alison, and LinkedIn Learning to expand your skill set beyond CompTIA A+. Consider certifications like Network+ or Security+.
Open Source Projects: Contribute to open-source projects to gain practical experience and showcase your skills.
Personal Projects: Build your own IT projects to demonstrate your abilities and problem-solving skills.
Do not forget, gaining experience takes time and effort. Be patient, persistent, and proactive in your job search.
Best wishes!