Herzing Blog

Updated December 2023

Looking to break into the field of computer networking? Wise choice. The industry is growing fast and offers a broad range of job possibilities.

Networking professionals work in schools, hospitals, government agencies, IT services firms, banks, businesses, and more. Any organization big enough to use a computer network needs experts to mange, optimize, and protect it.

The Government of Canada Job Bank predicts moderate to good employment growth for network technicians in most areas of the country. So it's a good time to begin your career.

But how can you get into the field if you're a total beginner? What kind of training and skills do you need to get hired if you've never worked in computer networking before?

This post will guide you through the process. Follow these steps to land a computer networking job even if you have no prior IT experience.

Updated December 2023

Organizations in every industry rely on computer networks. Businesses, hospitals, schools, and government agencies (just to name a few) use networking technology to share information and resources every single day.

Computer networks are systems connected by cables (wired) or wi-fi (wireless). Networks are built using hardware and software and in different configurations depending on the needs of the users.

This includes both LANs (local area networks) and WANs (wide area networks). 

When an organization uses a computer network, they also require someone to maintain, protect, update, and troubleshoot it. That’s where network administrators come in. 

In this post, we’ll explore the main skills and responsibilities of a network administrator. Find out exactly what a network administrator does and the skills you'll need to get hired.

Updated December 2023

Today's network technicians have a lot on their plates, from security issues and optimization to Internet of Things (IoT) challenges and new cloud technology.

Never have our computer networks been more complex—and never have they faced so many threats.

But on the plus side, all of that complexity is creating high demand for skilled network technicians. There are so many opportunities out there for well-trained technicians and administrators.

And if you plan on becoming a network technician in Canada, you're perfectly positioned to take advantage of this trend. The Government of Canada Job Bank has awarded network technician three or four (out of a possible five) stars for job outlook in most parts of the country.

So what does it take to break into this industry, and land the best jobs in network administration? What skills should newcomers be focusing on during training and continuing to improve throughout their careers?

Let's take a look at seven essential networking skills every employer will look for in new recruits.

These are the fundamentals (and a few advanced skills) you'll need to get hired—and stay hired— as a network technician.

Updated July 2023

This is an excellent time to start a career in IT and tech. These industries are on the rise in Canada, with steady employment growth across the country. Whether you’re starting from scratch or skilling up with new certifications, there are many training options (and career paths) to choose from. 

Are you thinking of becoming a network technician or network administrator? This path offers a good foundation in computer hardware and software, network security and optimization, installation, and maintenance. 

But what is involved in starting a network technician career? What should you know about training, certifications, and getting your foot in the door? 

Updated July 2023

As a freshly hired computer network administrator or technician, your top goal is to ensure the network you’re responsible for is secure, optimized, and free from disruptions. 

For businesses, a well-oiled network means improved productivity, increased profit, and more satisfied customers. And with so many daily processes and transactions relying heavily on high-performing networks, talented administrators are in very high demand. 

David Thibodeau on graduation day at Herzing College (computer networking technology program)

You really never know where life will take you. Most people switch jobs several times before settling into the right position. Others head back to school later in life to learn a completely new set of skills—and end up in a career they never imagined.

David Thibodeau is a perfect case in point. He started a career in computer technology 10 years ago, gave it up to work in construction—and then found himself back at Herzing last year, studying tech all over again!

Updated December 2024

Choosing a career is very exciting...but it can also be incredibly stressful. There's the cost of training, the investment of time and hard work, and worries about actually finding a job.

This is a high-stakes decision for many people, whether you're fresh out of high school or looking for a new direction. No one wants to end up in a career they're not suited for in a field where nobody's hiring.

It's all about finding that perfect balance: an occupation that matches your interests and natural skills and has healthy employment growth and demand.

Are you facing this dilemma? Wondering if you should become a network technician, but not totally sure it's the right move? You need more information. And that's exactly what we're delivering in this week's post.

These are eight things to consider before you take the leap and start an IT career in networking. By the end of this list, you'll have a much clearer idea of where you're headed and what steps to take next. Let's get started!

Have an interest in IT and considering pursuing a network administration career?

Still on the fence about earning a network admin diploma, and wondering about long-term job prospects in this field?  Or whether there are opportunities to advance, build new skills, or specialize?

You've come to the right place. In this post, we break down four of top reasons network administration is not just a safe career bet, but also an exciting, cutting-edge, well-paid field in which to work.