Computer Repair Training in the Technology Age

By Stanley Rubenti
Career Colleges Columnist

According to Moore's Law, the processing power of computers doubles approximately every 18 months. As manufacturing becomes cheaper and more efficient, their affordability also increases. For the most part, this is true. The 1951 UNIVAC I could perform just under 2000 operations per second, and cost a whopping $750,000. This and other clunkers required frequent repairs and constant maintenance. As computers become more reliable, more affordable, and more accessible, what will the role of computer repair technicians be? Is receiving training in this field a waste of time?

Why Computer Technician Training Is In Demand

Despite the implications of Moore's Law, those with computer repair training will likely not have to search for other work as the world marches into the next millennium. Below are just a few reasons why computer technician training will still be relevant in the years to calm:

Evolving Technology. Although basic computing needs are becoming less expensive, many consumers demand higher quality functions. Many computers that were manufactured two or three years ago are not powerful enough to run Microsoft's new Vista OS. Computers that can run Vista are substantially more expensive than their lower grade counterparts. As such, many users are faced with the choice of shelling out a lot of money for a faster computer or spending that money on upgrading existing units.
Computer Industry Growth. Computer repair training is increasingly expanding its influence in areas that were once quasi-restricted (example: software support). So even though hardware troubleshooting needs may decrease, users will always need help with applications and software upgrades.
Increasing Sophistication. Even though computers are becoming more reliable, they are also becoming infinitely more sophisticated. Thus, laypeople will have to rely even more heavily on those with computer repair training to help them fix their machines.

Career Outlook: Computer Repair Technician

If you're still not convinced, consider the US Department of Labor's assessment of the situation. According to its 2004 survey, job growth for those with computer repair technician training could be as high as 8% over the next 8 to 10 years. This would also mean that the current median salary of $17 an hour would likely go up as increased demand helps drive up wages. Those who want to secure top paying positions ($25 an hour and up) will probably want to have an associates or bachelors degree in some aspect of computer science or software programming.

Sources:
US Department of Labor
Computer History

About the Author
A freelance writer, Stanley Rubenti currently lives in Bangkok where he writes columns for a variety of publications. Stanley holds a B.A. in history.

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