If you're a bit of a computer wizard and love nothing better than getting to grips with the latest desk top applications and internet browsers, then maybe you should consider a career in IT or even becoming an IT Trainer. If you like working with people and enjoy explaining difficult concepts to others, then this job could be extremely rewarding and satisfying.
What exactly is an IT Trainer? Basically IT Trainers create and deliver training programmes in information and computer technology. As well as their training skills they are well versed in one of two areas:
- IT Professional skills which covers technical training such as C#, applications such as SAP, process skills (i.e. project management) and various other specifics of IT such as anti virus packages and firewalls.
- User skills - this covers desktop applications such as Microsoft Office, internet browsers and a company's in house application.
In essence IT trainers are teachers and tend to work in colleges or training departments of large companies. In addition many software solution companies and training companies offer a training facility as part of an after sales programme.
What does an IT Trainer do? Typical activities would include the following:
- Analyse a client's training needs - Carry out assessments to ascertain the extra skills that people need to bring them up to speed with a desirable level - Design training programmes to meet those needs - Prepare learning aids, such as manuals, handouts and exercises - Deliver the training programmes in both a formal (class room ) environment and an informal (floor walk) environment - Evaluate the effectiveness of both the training programme and the learning outcome - Monitor the training programmes.
Skills and Knowledge
It goes without saying that an up to date knowledge of software packages and IT systems is required. A person should also be a good communicator and have great motivational skills. In addition time management is important as well as excellent presentation skills. They also need to have a confident manner about them.
It is also an advantage to hold a driving license and have a car to travel to off site training locations. Many IT trainer jobs involve a lot of travel and sometimes companies require staff training to done out of office hours or at weekends.
How do I get into it?
The Formal Way
You can obtain a degree in computing, business management or human resources which are all quite relevant to the profession. However, even with a degree it won't guarantee you a job. Overall, companies are looking for personal qualities and skills, such as good interpersonal skills and an aptitude for IT.
Pre entry experience is essential in either computers or training and a knowledge of a range of computing software will definitely hold you in good stead. Qualifications such as The European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL) are beneficial as is any experience of working with people. If you're intending to enter technical IT training then technical qualifications and experience are key.
The informal way It is possible to become an IT Trainer without a degree but you will need to have extensive knowledge under your belt such as a portfolio of freelance work and testimonials of projects that you have done for other people using a variety of software packages.
Salary
As a graduate trainee you could expect to earn anywhere in the region of £15,000 - £23,000 depending on the location and the size of the employer. Senior or management levels can earn around £40,000 in the regions and £49,000 in London.
Hopefully this has given you an insight into the skills and knowledge required to become an IT Trainer. IT Trainers work in a vast array of work environments which can open up several doors for career development. This can take the form of moving up to a senior post, responsible for a team of trainers or setting yourself up as a freelancer or even establishing your own training company.
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