Guide to Computer Repair Employment

The computer repair industry is experiencing huge growth. In fact, demand has never been greater for people who know how to upgrade, fix or otherwise untangle the mess we sometimes find ourselves in when using PCs or other computer equipment.

If you've ever replaced a hard drive, upgraded an operating system or installed memory in a PC, you could be ready to embark on the road to a career in computer repair.

Of course, qualifying for computer repair jobs requires a few skills in addition to those you may have acquired when performing basic PC repair jobs on the kitchen table. But basic knowledge of what makes PCs tick is the first step toward your goal.

1. To become a player in the computer repair industry, you need a strong knowledge of computers.
2. Consider getting certification in computer repair through either night courses, vocational school or by obtaining an Associate Degree.
3. You need strong problem-solving, analytical and communications skills to succeed in a computer repair technician job.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Become certified as a computer repair technician

Take courses in computer repair offered by your local vocational school or college that can lead to certification in the computer repair industry.

I recommend: There are several schools that offer courses online or can tailor course time to your schedule. Schools such as ITT Tech, and DeVry University offer hands-on and online courses. Become certified for computer repair employment by CompTIA after taking their test.

Build your own PC

Assembling a computer from scratch equips you with the basic skills you need to perform PC repair jobs.

I recommend: There are several websites that walk you through every step in building your own computer ranging from video tutorials, such as the one on YouTube, to step-by-step instructions that can be found at  HardwareCentral, PCMechanic, and MySuperPC. These websites also provide links to parts suppliers.

Find a computer repair technician job

Tons of companies are desperate in their need for good computer repair technicians and offer internships and entry-level positions for anyone interested in a career in the computer repair industry.

I recommend: Launch your career in computer repair with a job at a help desk, or intern with a small company where you can get experience in repairing computers. Join Best Buy's Geek Squad or Circuit City's Firedog to gain practical, hands-on experience. 

Keep up with changes in the computer repair industry

Read and study material that covers the computer repair industry, and keep up with new techniques and trends in computer repair employment.

I recommend: Stay abreast of changes in the industry by subscribing to magazines and newsletters dedicated to the computer repair industry. Some of the more popular newsletters include Terry's Computer Tips  and Ken Rutkowski's KenRadio.com. Among the magazines to consider are Information Week and ComputerWorld.

Join computer repair organizations

Membership in local computer clubs or national organizations related to the computer repair industry can result in some valuable contacts as you advance in your career.

I recommend: Check for computer clubs or societies in your area. Also apply for membership in national organizations such as the IEEE Computer Society, the Association of Information Technology Professionals, or the Association for Computing Machinery. These clubs share valuable information on computer repair salary, computer repair job opportunities and more. Networking is a great way to get your foot in the door of a career in computer repair.

Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• Fix a friend or relative's computer. Not only can you gain hands-on experience, but you may also pick up a valuable reference.

The official source of Computer Repair Employment is
the Computer Repair Employment page at Business.com