Trained IT Professionals Needed

By Matt Krafty

                If you’re looking for a career with a future, a profession that continues to grow in importance every single year, then you should consider training for a job in the world of information technology.  IT jobs are always in demand, and according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, individuals in computer support fields can expect a 14 percent increase in career opportunities through 2018. (www.bls.gov) But how does one go about getting the training needed to compete for one of these cutting edge jobs?  Look no further than Ohio Business College for a school with a great track record of success preparing students for the careers of the future.

                Ohio Business College is at the forefront of the information technology industry, offering a variety of training programs in the field, including associate degree programs in Information Technology Computer Support, Information Technology Office Support, and Web Page Design, plus a diploma program, PC Support Specialist.   While each of these programs involves different coursework, and ultimately will open doors to different career choices, all of the programs prepare students to step into the world of information technology and compete for jobs.  The IT Computer Support and PC Support Specialist programs are offered at all 3 OBC locations (Columbus, Sandusky, and Sheffield Village), while IT Office Support and Web Page Design are only offered at the Sandusky and Sheffield Village locations.

                The first of the three IT associate degrees offered by Ohio Business College, Information Technology Computer Support, will equip graduates with the necessary skills to provide technical support and advice to users of hardware, software, and computer systems.  This curriculum Graduates of this program will develop the skills to design, install, and support an organization's local area network, wide area network, Internet or intranet system, as well as provide administration, maintenance and support of network servers.  With an IT Computer Support degree, graduates can work in a variety of office and business settings where they will provide technical support, design and maintain networks, and more.

               The second associate degree that OBC offers in the world of IT is the Information Technology Office Support degree.  This program of study will familiarize students with software skills such as database, spreadsheet, word processing and desktop publishing, in addition to an emphasis on office skills such as decision making and interpersonal communication, all of which are vital in the business world.  Information Technology Office Support majors also have an opportunity to gain experience working in their field through an externship, under the combined supervision and evaluation of both a local partner and Ohio Business College.  Students who complete this program will be prepared to utilize all of these skills to assist in the successful operation of an office or business.  A degree in Information Technology Office Support can open the door to many employment options, in virtually any office or business setting where computers are essential. 

                The third IT-related associate degree offered at Ohio Business College is Web Page Design.   There is a rising demand for skilled website designers as more and more businesses make the transition to internet-based information resources, communication, advertising, and e-commerce. Students in OBC’s web designer classes will learn how to utilize modern web design software and web programming to create tables, contact forms, hyperlinks, graphics, and more.  Graduates of the website development courses can search for entry-level employment opportunities as web designers, database administrators, web masters, desktop publishers, web programmers, and more.

               If an associate degree is not the route you are looking to take, perhaps a shorter term diploma program such as PC Support Specialist would be a better fit.  These computer technicians play a vital role in the business world, providing day-to-day support for networks, servers, systems hardware and software, and more.  Completion of this diploma program can help students position themselves for entry level careers as computer support specialists, systems administrators, or computer systems analysts.

               Depending on the program of study, students with information technology training and education will be well-prepared to obtain industry certifications such as A+ Certification, Network+ Certification, Server+ Certification, Security+ Certification and Microsoft Certified Application Specialist. In addition, upon graduation, OBC web design students will be prepared for CIW certifications, an important way to receive professional certification and enhance attractiveness to potential employers.  Obtaining these certifications is a great way for graduates to distinguish themselves to employers and demonstrate the knowledge and commitment necessary to succeed.

               If the idea of training for a career in information technology is appealing to you, contact OBC today.  Ohio Business College has been educating Ohioans since 1903 and offers associate degrees and diploma programs that will give students a head start filling the jobs of tomorrow.