Potential Positions Employment opportunities are available in medium to large businesses with computer networks, such as banks and other financial institutions, schools and universities, insurance companies, federal and state government, and other corporations. As smaller companies move to a client-server model, more opportunities for network specialists will soon become available. Potential positions include network technician, network specialist, network administrator, network security administrator, and LAN technician.
Employment Outlook The rapid expansion of the computer industry has generated a growing need for highly skilled workers to repair, network, and support these complex computer systems. Employment of computer network engineers is expected to increase much faster than average as technology becomes more sophisticated and organizations continue to adopt and integrate these technologies. This field requires networking specialists to continually learn new skills to keep pace with the rapidly changing industry. Within 9 months after graduation, the estimated employment rate for the Computer Network Technology program is 84%. The graduate starting median wage is $13.76 with a wage potential of $26.88.
*Graduate wages and placement obtained from SBCTC/WA unemployment files from 2004-05. Wage potential is based out of Whatcom County and obtained from LMEA. For further information, contact the Counseling & Career Center at 360-752-8450.
Typical Tasks Specific tasks that may be required of a network specialist or network administrator include:
Planning for and installing the hardware and software that comprise the network;
Installing and configuring a network server;
Installing and maintaining LAN;
Maintaining printers and other peripherals connected to the network;
Setting up user accounts and access;
Overseeing the daily performance of a company’s computer systems;
Developing and implementing an appropriate data backup plan;
Training staff to use the hardware and software that are part of the network and supporting users;
Troubleshooting problems and questions encountered by all staff members; and
Preparing computers for delivery to employees, loading them with the appropriate software and operating system.
This program typically starts in Fall, Winter and Spring Quarters
