How to Become a Computer Repair Professional
Computer repair professionals work in a variety of different settings. Where they work often depends upon the types of computers systems they are familiar with and know how to fix. Aside from personal computers, computer repair professionals may work on automated teller machines or other business-related computer systems. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the majority of professionals in this field made between $14.17 and $23.20 per hour, as of May 2008. The top professionals, however, made more than $28.41 per hour.
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Instructions
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Learn as much as you possibly can about the different types of computer operating systems, software and hardware components. You can get a head start on your career by taking this step rather than simply jumping into a formal training program. Familiarize yourself with the terminology and tools used by computer repair technicians.
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Complete a formal education program leading to either a diploma or degree in computer repair. Most programs in computer repair offer a career diploma or certificate. Some can even be taken entirely online, like those offered by Ashworth College or Penn Foster Career School. Associate degree programs will typically be offered in areas like electronics technology, but may not offer the specificity needed to embark upon a career in professional computer repair.
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Study and sign up for your certification exams. Certification indicates that you have achieved satisfactory knowledge in one area of computer hardware or software repair specific to a particular operating system or manufacturer. The primary certification in the industry is CompTIA's A+ certification.
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Take and pass your certification exams. CompTIA notes that two exams are required in order to be fully certified. The first exam, A+ Essentials, covers a broad area of knowledge that should be displayed by professionals with at least 500 hours of experience in the field. The exam covers technical knowledge of areas like networking and computer technology, but it also covers areas of professional practice. The second exam, the A+ Practical Application exam, is focused primarily on troubleshooting real computer problems by applying the knowledge you are tested over in the first exam.
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Apply for positions as a computer repair technician or begin your own computer repair business.
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References
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