Computer Systems Technician Skills Can Be Attained in Just Two Years

Computer systems technicians, field service representatives, network technicians, network technical support specialists, help desk support and technical support are some of the jobs available to students who graduate from Centennial College’s Computer Systems Technician – Networking program. Despite the different titles, professionals in this field work as part of a team that implements and maintains networks, which link desktop computers to send e-mail, and to share data, computer applications and Internet connections. This process includes installing, configuring, and resolving conflicts among different hardware used in the network, such as network adapters. In addition technicians identify problems common to components of the network, such as cards, cables, and other related hardware. They also establish disaster recovery plans for various situations if the network were to malfunction.

At Centennial College in Toronto, Ont. students takes two years to complete the Computer Systems Technician program, which incorporates the latest in computer systems and network technology. In the program, students become one of 100 yearly graduates who find their jobs in technical support from the growing mesh of Internet, intranet, extranet and telecom networks. They are taught to go inside PC hardware and into the details of operating systems to have full human control of the computing and communicating technology. They also learn to maintain systems that will empower users in their creative, business and communication activities. Specific courses in the Computer Systems Technician program include: PC Hardware (concentrates on understanding terminology, how to do fundamental tasks, and advanced configuration and troubleshooting, including using command line to accomplish technical tasks); Windows Server Operation System (provides a comprehensive introduction to Windows 2000 through a variety of individual and group activities); Electricity for Computer Systems (students experience a combination of theory and lab while they learn the fundamental principles and theories of DC and AC circuits); and many others. There is an exit point after one year, which earns students a certificate or a possibility of a three-year technology diploma.

It should be noted that Centennial College’s Computer Systems Technician training is nationally accredited by the Canadian Council of Technicians and Technologists, and, as such, has met the established national technology accreditation requirements. In addition, the Ontario Association of Certified Engineering Technicians and Technologists (OACETT) recognizes the Computer Systems Technician - Networking program as meeting all the academic requirements for certification in the Technician category.

To apply, students possess at minimum an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent or be 19 years of age or older. They must also have completed the compulsory English 12C or U or skills assessment, or equivalent and Math 11M or U, or 12C or U or skills assessment, or equivalent. Students will be placed in the appropriate English level based on skills assessment results. Please note that meeting minimum admission requirements does not guarantee admission to the Computer Systems Technician program.