Needing advice

Norbie

Ok some of the guys at my job are kind of in the same situation I am...they have one or two certs and want more so they can advance to a better job somewhere else.

I feel like to get a job I need to have certifications and to able to get certifications I need the experience but I can't get the experience I want without having the right job to gain the experience.

Right now my formal job title is "IT Systems Specialist"...I basically install and troubleshoot computers, printers, scanners and programs throughout the various departments in my city government, the customers call our helpdesk and I can either remote to their computer or I go to their location.

I would like to get a job as some sort of network administrator.

Aside from earning certifications (I'm working on my 3rd) does anyone have an idea how to get hands on experience in the IT field outside of my job? I work 40 hours a week 8 AM - 5 PM. I would like to be able to gain experience but I only get so much with my job.

Does anyone have an idea how I can get more experience without disrupting the job I already have?

veritas_libertas

I work the same schedule. The best way may simply be for you to study the hardware / software on your own. What is your interest in Network Administration (The term is used loosely)? Is it Systems Administration or Network Administration? If it is Network Administration you could start learning Cisco hardware, and if it is Systems Administration you could run some virtual machines with 2003 or 2008 Windows Server.

ULWiz

Multiple ways you can get experience. VMware labs and getting some physical Cisco gear could give you some great experience. Unfortunately this wont relate to actual work experience but will put you a step ahead on studying for future certs. Most of the people here self study learn the technology and then apply it to their current job by showing upper management that they can handle a task outside their title range. That is how i would say alot of us get ahead.

Hope this helps in a way and best of luck to you.