Computer Systems Technician CTN

Holland Code: I (Investigative)

What academic skills do I need to be successful in the program?

This list does not replace the admission requirements you must have for admission to the program. Please see website for details.

Arts & Literacy Grade 12 English is required. Strong writing skills are an asset.

Math & Science Basic math skills needed, course work will cover binary math.

Technology Basic computer skills needed (Microsoft Office, email, Internet, checking student portal daily). High school courses in computer science, computer programming and information and communication technology would be beneficial preparation for this program.

What personal qualities should someone interested in this career have?

• Have excellent communication  and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently as well as in a team environment
• Ability to remain patient and persistent when dealing with frustrating problems and frustrated users
• Enjoy technology and be an early adopter
• Be a life-long learner willing to keep up with advances in the field
• Ability to concentrate for long periods of time 
• Ability to think logically and analyze complex problems
• Ability to pay attention to details and use abstract logic at the same time
• Can work well under pressure, meet deadlines
• Self-directed and self-motivated
• Thrive on new challenges and change

What kind of work could I do when I graduate?

Graduates of this program may go on to become a 

Support Technician; Security Research Engineer; IT Service Desk Representative; Data Network Specialist; Product Support Specialist; Slot Technician (OLG); Junior Systems Administrator; Technical Support Agent; or Help Desk Technical Support.

Places you may find yourself employed include 

Consulting firms that provide technical support services for other organizations; information systems departments of large organizations; municipal, provincial and federal governments; educational and financial institutions; manufacturing firms; or any establishment that relies on computers and networks.

Typical working conditions for this kind of work:

• Work environment varies, could be in an office, may work in manufacturing, may work from home doing remote repairs
• Regular hours or on-call depending on place of employment
• Travel to remote sites; may be required for installations or setting up new systems
• Lifting up to 10kg may be required

Tasks a graduate may do in the workplace

Support

• Respond to telephone calls from users who are experiencing computer related problems or who need assistance using a particular software application
• Ask questions to determine what is causing problems, explore possible solutions and diagnostic procedures
• Identify possible causes or consult other computer experts to research the problem and develop solutions
• Arrange to have defective software and hardware products replaced or repaired
• Keep up to date by communicating with other computer experts, reading manuals and trade magazines and attending computer trade shows and seminars
• Test hardware and software
• Install and maintain hardware, software and peripheral equipment

Networks

• Respond to network user inquiries
• Maintain, troubleshoot and administer networks, computer workstations and peripheral equipment
• Oversee the installation of copper, optical fiber and wireless network media
• Perform routine network startup and close down procedures and maintain control records
• Perform data backups and disaster recovery operations
• Assess the suitability of new products and changing network components
• Plan for the management and implementation of configuration and security settings for workstations and servers that are part of the network
• Configure and maintain switching and routing equipment
• Monitor the performance of computer systems and networks and to co-ordinate network use

Helpful links for further research into this Fanshawe College program and career opportunity

• Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
• Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP)
• Microsoft Certifications
• TechAlliance of Southwestern Ontario
• Fanshawe’s library has prepared a subject guide for current students in this program. You may find the links and information provided very useful in learning more about this career.

Opportunities for further development or education

• Current students in good standing may apply to change programs and enter the third year of the Computer Systems Technology program.
• Graduates may qualify for entry into the Fanshawe College graduate certificate Information Security Management.
• Credits from the diploma may transfer to a university degree or other college programs at many different schools More information.

Last Modified: January 11, 2024