Updated January 2023

Thinking about starting a career in the fast-growing field of computer networking? Your first step is to understand what a network technician's job is all about.

Network technicians have one of the most important roles in IT. They install, optimize, maintain, and protect the computer networks that all kinds of businesses use for daily operations. Ultimately, the technician's job is to keep the network running smoothly, efficiently, and securely.

But what does that involve? If you take on this role, what exactly will you be doing each day?

Network technician responsibilities vary a bit from company to company. But no matter where you work, there are five main tasks you'll be expected to perform.

Let's go through them one by one. Find out if becoming a network technician is right for you and what to expect at work.

Updated December 2022

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 good employment growth for network technicians in nearly every area 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 2022

Cybersecurity is a hot field. We're seeing a massive skills gap in this industry with huge demand for trained professionals all over the world.

On any given day, there are thousands of unfilled cybersecurity jobs across Canada. The shortage of talent is making it easier for newcomers to land their first job - and giving salaries a good boost, too.

Hoping to ride this wave and break into the industry? One way to begin is by earning globally recognized cybersecurity certifications.

Certifications can make a big difference for beginners. In a survey by ESG and ISSA, 46 percent of cybersecurity pros said certifications were just as important as hands-on experience when it came to finding a job.

But there are so many options at so many skill levels. Which ones are best if you're just starting out?

In this post, we take you through 5 of the best cybersecurity certifications for beginners plus tips on how to prepare for exams.

Let's dive in.

Updated January 2023

Paralegals in Ontario have a unique opportunity to become licensed. Licensing allows them to represent clients independently in small claims court, tribunals, and specific criminal matters.

No other province gives paralegals such a broad scope of practice.

To get your licence, you need to complete an accredited paralegal studies program and pass an exam from the Law Society of Ontario. Accredited training options include paralegal certificates, diplomas, and bachelor's degree programs.

But how do you know which one to choose?

The key thing to note is that ALL accredited paralegal training programs prepare students for licensing. Any one of them can help you begin your career.

But there are important differences in how they do that.

In this post, we break down the main differences between a paralegal certificate, diploma, and degree. Find out how these credentials compare, and how you can select the learning path that's right for you.

Updated January 2023

Looking for a career in healthcare and think you'd make a good medical office administrator (MOA)?

Your most important first step is to find a good MOA course. You need effective, hands-on training in the computer software, clinical, and health office skills today's employers want.

The quality of your training will determine your ability to get hired after graduation. Obviously, you want to find the best possible course and make a smart investment. But there are so many MOA courses out there. How do you compare them? What key features should you look for? 

This post is here to help. We outline the most important traits of a top-quality MOA program. By the end, you'll know exactly what to notice and what questions to ask admissions.

Let's get started.

Updated December 2022

There's never been a better time to become an ethical hacker. Demand for IT security professionals who can root out security flaws and outwit cyber criminals just keeps growing.

Globally, it's estimated that cyber attacks cause $6 trillion in damage each year. By 2025, that figure could grow to $10.5 trillion.

Ethical hackers are a company's best defense against costly security breaches.

And they are paid very well for their skills. According to PayScale, the average salary for certified ethical hackers in Canada is $83,000.

So how can you launch a career in this field? What training and certifications do you need?

This post provides a clear roadmap. We outline the skills and credentials employers want in ethical hackers and training options for complete beginners.

Here's what you need to know.

Updated January 2023

Occupational health and safety (OHS) training focuses on keeping people safe on the job. Students learn how to conduct assessments and develop policies to make sure work environments are safe and healthy.

An increased focus on workplace safety means more employment opportunities are opening up in this field. A government report indicates employment growth in this sector in many parts of Canada.

So the job opportunities are out there. But if you're looking to take advantage of them, it's important to understand the different health and safety training options so you can choose the path that's best for you.

This post explains the similarities and differences between OHS degrees and diplomas. It also describes some key factors you should consider when making your choice.

Updated December 2022

Most people already know there is a global shortage of qualified cybersecurity professionals. We know this because every month brings new reports of massive cyber attacks at companies big and small.  

If powerful organizations like Microsoft, NASA, and Adobe can’t stay ahead of the hackers, we must be in serious trouble! 

The problem is lack of talent. Many IT security jobs sit vacant because employers can’t find candidates with the right skillset. Cyber threats are evolving so quickly, we simply aren’t producing enough experts to keep up with demand. 

This begs the question: what kinds of cybersecurity jobs are out there? What career paths can you pursue if you’re just starting out? 

In this post, we’re looking at some typical entry-level to mid-career job options. Compare job titles, responsibilities, and salaries for each role. Get a good overview of the industry and get your cybersecurity career started. 

Updated January 2023

The first thing to know about paralegals is that the job description varies depending on where you live—and whether you are licensed.  

In Ontario, paralegals can pass a licensing exam that allows them to represent clients independently (like a lawyer) for certain legal matters. Ontario is one of the few regions in Canada where paralegals have this option.

A licensed paralegal in Ontario can start their own private legal practice. They can represent clients in small claims court, traffic court, and tribunals, and for certain criminal matters. 

In other parts of Canada, paralegals do not have the option to obtain a licence and operate independently. Instead, their role is to support lawyers—as legal assistants or law clerks. 

Ontario paralegals have a choice. They can decide to get licensed and represent clients independently. Or they can become legal assistants (which does not require a licence).  It all depends on your career goals. 

In this post, we’ll walk you through the job descriptions of licensed paralegals and legal assistants, and the training required to get started in this field. 

Updated December 2022

If you're naturally interested in architecture, the building process, and creative design, you may be considering a career as a draftsperson for an architecture or design firm.

What exactly does an architectural draftsperson do? Where do they work and what kind of training do you need to get started in this field?

There's the university pathway, which could include an undergraduate degree in architecture or interior design. Or there's the college diploma route, which prepares students to serve as architectural technicians who assist architects, engineers, and designers on building projects.

In this post, we'll break down the typical responsibilities of an architectural draftsperson.

We'll also outline possible career paths after college -- and a few other things to know if you're considering training in this field.