An information technology (IT) trainee is generally a formally or informally apprenticed worker in computer-related area. Those interested in this position can receive training in multiple areas; examples include learning computer fundamentals like assembling hardware and developing software, maintaining a network and providing technical support to users, establishing and maintaining a company's online presence or website, or repairing and documenting software or systems. This large variety of IT-related jobs provides more options for those seeking to become an IT trainee than other, less broad-based careers. The most common way to become an IT trainee is by completing the necessary educational degrees and certification-related requirements. Once a job seeker has convinced an employer to hire her, she can turn her attention to fully mastering her trainee role and perhaps considering future career advancement.
Most paths to become an IT trainee begin with completion of an associate's degree or a bachelor's degree in the fields of computer science, information technology, or computer management systems. Depending upon the industry, however, some individuals can become an IT trainee with a bachelor's degree in a field related to the company's work, as long as sufficient computer science courses have been completed to constitute a minor or at least indicate competency in IT. There remain some limited opportunities to become an IT trainee without the minimum of an associate's degree, but competition can be fierce for these openings. Positions for individuals without any education beyond high school have become a thing of the past with the increasing institutionalization of the field and entry requirements. Larger companies and governmental agencies' often require a minimum of a bachelor's degree.
In addition to an employee's educational preparation, certification is extremely important. These qualifications serve to ensure adequate knowledge in an industry where hardware, software and operating systems change frequently. Multiple certifications in a variety of areas greatly enhance the chance of a prospective employee to become an IT trainee. Community colleges, technical schools, computer manufacturers and software publishers all offer various certifications attesting to an individual's competency. In some industries and for some positions, multiple certifications may be more valuable to an employee than a graduate degree in computer science.
Finally, an individual seeking to become an IT trainee should carefully review and, if necessary, revise her resume. In addition to formal educational and certification qualifications, all experience with all computer makes, operating systems and software applications should be included. The more experience a potential IT trainee can demonstrate, the greater her chances of landing the desired position.
