AboutGerry Magill Expertise I am a Software Architect employed by a large multi-national communications company providing VoIP and tradtional TDM communications to Enterprise customers.
Experience
Past/Present clients IBM, SBS, Siemens, KPMG, Bank Berlin, Commerzbank
Expert: Gerry Magill Date: 8/23/2007 Subject: IT advice
Question I am looking into pursuing either a Master's degree in a computer related field or working on certifications. Right now, I work as an IT Administrator for a civil engineering firm. I have been working here for the past 3 years. We are a small firm of about 20 people. I am the only IT guy here. In my job, I install and maintain software/hardware on user's machines, work on problems with computer equipment (pc's, plotters, printers, network, server) when they arise, and update the company's website. I have also become pretty familiar with networking equipment like switches and firewalls, and am somewhat familiar with Windows Server 2003. I also hook new employees up to the network and set up their pc. My bachelor's degree is in Communications, which I received in 2001. Since that time, I have worked as a Computer Aided Drafting technician in various firms and have helped with computer related issues in every job. I am 32 years old now. I would like to continue working in the IT field, since that is what I love to do. I would maybe like to get a job in either networking/systems administration/IT security. Would pursuing a degree be better for me at this point, or should I just pursue certifications? Right now I don't have a whole lot of time on my hands, as my wife works nights, and I watch my kid, who's 20 months. On top of that, she wants to have another kid starting next year. What would be better for me long term? I wished I had pursued a bachelor's in a computer related field, but will my degree hinder my opportunities for other jobs or more money? Thanks very much for your help.
Answer Hi Dave,
I would not pursue any formal higher education. Rather I would concentrate on taking courses in your own time related to networking. I can really recommend pursuing the Cisco certifications - even if you never work on Cisco's in the future it is a standard that is internationally recognized. You can also start with a more generic course which will explain the basics of networking which are the building blocks that the Cisco courses build upon. I recommend any of the CompTIA certifications:
in addition, there are specializations - taken after CCNA, in (for example) Network Security and Wireless LANs. Qualifications are portable, and you can continue your studies at any time and through any tech or evening college that offers them. Typically you do a series of self study workbooks and then you take the exams and some nearby institution that offers them multiple times per year to any one interested in taking them.
I hope this helps. I am convinced the work is worth it and that this is a great goal to follow for future job security.
I wish you luck - oh and don't forget to enjoy your family.
