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How do I transition back into IT after leaving it for 3-4 years. I have BS/MS in Information Systems but I need to regain my knowledge level for current trends. What do you all suggest?

Veteran

Crystal Armstrong Manvel, TX

I spent 8 years managing military networks as a system administrator. I left the Army (retired) and was bored so I taught JROTC for three years. Now, I want to go back into it. I am considering medical IT but not sure how to go about it.

2 November 2017 6 replies Education & Training

Answers

Advisor

Jeffrey Jones Saint Simons Island, GA

Thank you for your service crystal. I earned a BS in MIS -way- back in the day, and you’re right... the knowledge-base completely changes every 2-3 Years. We’re forever chasing the tech wave. I got out of the surf and back to the beach. If you’re interested in using your transferable skills, without having to constantly re-learn the latest trend... if you’d rather focus on teaching/training and personal development, check out www.FreedomEffect.biz. Let us know how we may help.

Advisor

Merry Vickers Richardson, TX

Thank you for your service. There are several suggestions that most services and internet sites recommend, and they are right.

Give your resume a format change and lead with a summary that outlines your skills and qualifications. Share generalities from past positions to translate how it will be beneficial in new roles, like skills, duties, projects or management. Use clear civilian language to describe your career objectives, but highlight key wording from job descriptions and any accomplishments you have achieved. Keep the verbiage in present tense and have others read through it for feedback. If you can pursue any IT: volunteer opportunities, contract jobs, certifications or even CEU (Continuing Education Units) courses will show how interested you are and make recruiters take notice. This will aid you in finding an entry level position. Take advantage of in-house professional development and training programs available, which always shows you are willing to do and learn more.

I hope this helps you on this new journey and I wish you all the best.

Kindest regards,
Merry Vickers

Advisor

Darow Han Fullerton, CA

Hello Crystal,

Thank you for your service first and foremost.
In tech, especially networking, a lot can change in a couple years time. I've also been on hiatus from my tech career, and find it increasingly difficult to step away as tech has become central to so many businesses and our lives in general.

For networking, would suggest Network World (networkworld.com) to get up to speed on latest trends. Preparing for a cert such as Network+ or Cisco CCNA is excellent hands-on training for technical roles. For general IT, there are many sites including ComputerWorld, ars Technica and even Wired. LinkedIn is great, yes the prior advisor is correct Cyber-security is a fast-growing field though prior experience and skills are recommended.

Let me know if I can be of any further assistance (https://www.linkedin.com/in/darow)

Advisor

Patricia Merino Arlington, VA

Crystal, Google, You tube and LinkedIn groups will keep you on point on the latest lingo. Also, if you have TA or Scholarship funding check out some IT certificate courses at the local schools.

Veteran

Crystal Armstrong Manvel, TX

Thank you John.

Advisor

John Green Cary, NC

Cyber-security is hot right now. Pay for FTE is $200k base.

http://www.umuc.edu/academic-programs/cyber-security/index.cfm

Other positions are available. Check Robert Half salary guide to see which ones interest you.

https://www.roberthalf.com/salary-guide

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