IT Specialist Career Profiles

Within the information technology field, IT specialists help to ensure hardware and software work effectively. IT specialists also work to maintain networks, service hardware, and troubleshoot in order to solve problems. These professionals may work for private corporations or government entities. They are necessary in almost every field, from supermarkets and retail stores to hospitals and insurance companies. Some work for dedicated technology companies, while others focus on providing support and services with particular types of software and hardware.

IT specialists may focus on a particular area of information technology, such as network maintenance or computer hardware repair, and others provide a broad array of services. Some specialists work in the same office environment every day, while others travel to different locations on a regular basis to provide maintenance and troubleshooting. IT specialists can also teach courses to individuals and businesses about computer security or network use or choose to work exclusively behind the scenes.

As far as education and training goes, IT specialists may have formal education in computers and technology, but those with an understanding of computers and networks can often find positions or recruit their own clients for a consulting service. As with all computer and IT careers, special certifications are always a plus and sometimes a requirement for employers. The key to success is attention to detail and skill in setting up and maintaining computer systems and networks.

If you want to find out more about what IT specialists do and hear directly from professionals in the field, browse the career profiles below. Through one-on-one interviews with actual IT specialists, you provide you with the inside scoop on salaries, career paths, educational backgrounds, and more.