The A+ Certification
The A+ Certification program offers one of the best possible credentials an entry-level computer technician can carry. It means that individual is an expert in desktop systems, is qualified to troubleshoot and repair most issues and, depending on their area of specialization, is qualified to deal with most end-user issues. It is a very economical certification to obtain, the study required is not too intensive for individuals with some experience in IT and the benefits are great. In 2005, a poll of A+ certified individuals found their average salaries to be around $30,000, a solid middle-class wage for anyone, especially considering that this is the first certification that most people obtain and, thus, many of those so certified are quite young.
The A+ certification does not connote expertise in only a particular vendor's products. At the entry-level stage of most people's careers, where this certification is most often earned, flexibility is key. If one is looking to get their foot into the door for a career in the world of IT, having this certification offers a distinct edge.
The A+ certification is designed by the CompTIA Corporation. The certification comes in three specializations: IT Technician; Depot Technician; and Remote Support Technician.
The IT technician is the broadest form of the certification and requires passing two tests. Individuals with this certification are qualified to work as field techs, in repair shops, as support technicians and as managers at lower levels of IT. For those who are looking to work up to another, higher-level certification, this is the best place to start.
A Depot Technician certification denotes an individual who is an expert in repairing and maintaining computers and would be well-suited to working at any business that provides repair services. These technicians are experts at troubleshooting and repairing most hardware and software. This certification is excellent for people who love to get "under the hood" of computers and enjoy problem solving and service at the machine level.
For those who like to offer services with a more human touch, the Remote Support Technician certification is excellent. This certification means that the holder is not only an expert at troubleshooting hardware and software problems over the phone, but that they are well-trained to deal with customers, have an excellent "bedside" manner and know how to help minimize a customer's frustration and maximize their client's feelings of satisfaction with their help desk experience.
These certifications are excellent for anyone, from students who want something more than a low-paying part-time job to help them work their way through college to individuals who want a skills upgrade. This certification is even good for contractors, as anyone who passes the tests is certainly qualified to help with most individual computer problems faced by end-users. The "soft skills" related to customer-service are particularly useful in helping technical-minded individuals bridge the gap between servicing the machine and attending the needs of their customers. This certification is so inexpensive that not getting it makes little sense.