Career Change

KMDavenport

Hello all. I am currently a NCCER Boilermaker working in the chemical plants and industrial refineries. I average $60k-$70k but only work between six to eight months out of the year due to working for contractors. Due to being layed off for two weeks to two months between jobs I'm constantly playing catch up. So I've been going to school at LIT in Beaumont for my degree. What certifications would y'all recommend for someone with minimal experience in this field? I'm not looking to start at the same wages but I would like to start around $40k.

stryder144

First, what degree are you going for? Second, do any of the classes line up with certifications that may be of use (computer hardware courses might line up with the A+, networking courses will likely line up with the Network+ or CCNA: R&S), etc. The lower CompTIA trio gives a person a good foundation to build on. For the best bang-for-buck, I would recommend Security+ and a CCNA: R&S. Of course, it is possible you will hate networking or may love it. I recommend the CCNA as it is only minimally more expensive than the Network+ certification, if you pay full retail which many of us do not do.

KMDavenport

It is their networking and troubleshooting associates degree. I have my comptia it fundamentals and MTA as of now.

stryder144

In that case, I would get the Security+ and the CCNA: R&S. For access to good Security+ videos, check out Professor Messer. For the CCNA, Udemy often has low-cost videos by Chris Bryant. The associates with those two certs "should" open up a few doors for you. Leverage your understanding of the industry you left to find IT jobs.