Find out how to build a career in information technology (IT) and computers
Are you ready for an exciting career in the tech industry? Jobs in Information Technology (IT), cybersecurity and cloud services have been rapidly growing over the past decade and are expected to continue doing so in the years ahead. Now is the time to start on this great career path, and most tech job training programs require little to no experience!
Read on to learn more about this pathway and to view regional options for programs which offer high quality IT training.
Job training programs in the tech industry are usually organized as “boot camps”, 6-8 week tightly focused training sessions, which prepare you to take (and pass) a certification exam; or, as apprenticeships, which pair students with an employer partner in order to blend classroom learning with in-the-field experience. Most of these programs allow you to work remotely, but not all, and some programs will charge you tuition, while others will pay you to complete their training. So, do your homework and find the best fit for you.
Job training programs in tech, IT certifications and coding bootcamps often vary by city, state, and region, however, some are available nationally. Learn more about some available options:
Thinkful provides courses in software engineering, data science, data analytics, UX/UI design, technical project management, and digital marketing. They also offer a tuition refund if not hired within 6 months of graduating.
Examples of Career Pathways
Flatiron School provides programs in software engineering, data science, cybersecurity, and product design. Programs range from 15-week intensives to a flexible 60-week option. They will also support you to find a job in your field after graduation.
Examples of Career Pathways:
Per Scholas/IT and Tech Workforce Development offers training, tutoring, and certification for cybersecurity, Information Technology, Data Engineering, AWS Certification, and Cloud Practitioner. Ask about partnerships with Per Scholas employer partners that can make the program cost-free to students.
Examples of Career Pathways:
The Comp-U-Dopt IT Pathways Program is a rigorous, immersive learning experience that prepares you for the CompTIA A+ certification. The program targets opportunity youth and does not charge tuition. To register, click here.
Examples of Career Pathways:
TechReady Illinois offers the Software Development Apprenticeship Program in partnership with the Discovery Partners Institute (DPI). No experience needed, just a genuine interest to learn. As long as you are over 18 and a high school grad, you can apply. The program is free and pays a stipend to participants.
Examples of Career Pathways:
The Seneca Foundation offers a paid software development apprenticeship completed in 12 months! This virtual apprenticeship opportunity provides coding training and real-world experience. Applications will be accepted again starting in Spring 2023.
Examples of Career Pathways:
CCC has Basic and Advanced certification programs in Computer Information and Cybersecurity programs at Wright. These can be completed in as little as 6-12 months. This program does charge tuition, but you can use Financial Aid, if eligible, to pay for your classes.
Examples of Career Pathways:
Opportunity College’s Career Jumpstart Fellowship offers certification programs for Junior Web Developer, IT Support Specialist, and Junior Cloud Practitioner. There is no tuition for this program. Applications open in January.
Examples of Career Pathways:
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