Explore the fundamentals of IT management, networking, and system support. You’ll gain the technical problem-solving skills needed to maintain efficiency.
Learn the essential skills needed to become a Data Analyst or Business Analyst, including data analysis, data visualization, and statistical analysis. Gain practical experience through real-world projects and prepare for a successful career in the field of data analytics.
Become proficient in Microsoft Excel and go from beginner to pro with our hands-on Excel Bootcamp. Learn functions, formulas, Pivot Tables, macros, and time-saving techniques to conquer all the key skills needed to excel in Excel.
Learn to extract information from databases by writing SQL queries, joining tables, aggregating data, and filtering results. You'll learn PostgreSQL in this class, but the concepts apply equally to other databases such as SQL Server and MySQL.
Unlock the power of Python for data-driven decision-making as you master Python programming fundamentals and dive into data analysis. Acquire essential skills to clean and manipulate data, create insightful visualizations, and perform statistical analysis, all through hands-on projects with real-world datasets.
Learn how to use Tableau, a powerful data visualization tool, to create interactive and aesthetically pleasing charts, graphs, and maps. This course will teach you how to connect to datasets, analyze and structure data, customize visualizations, and publish your work.
Learn how to use Power BI, a powerful data visualization tool, to create interactive and aesthetically pleasing charts, graphs, and maps. Learn how to connect to datasets, analyze and structure data, customize visualizations, and publish reports.
Learn Python, SQL, automation, and machine learning to become a Data Scientist. Gain Python programming, data analysis, SQL querying, and predictive modeling skills. Perfect for beginners, this program prepares you for entry-level data science and Python engineering roles. Unlock high-paying job opportunities in the field of data science.
Learn how to harness the power of artificial intelligence to transform your workflow with hands-on training in ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot. This course will teach you how to generate content, streamline tasks, and integrate AI into business communication, writing, analysis, and productivity tools.
Gain the skills and knowledge to become a Full Stack Developer and meet the growing demand for professionals who can develop and maintain web applications. This project-oriented course teaches you how to code websites from scratch, and you'll build a portfolio of working web applications to showcase to potential employers.
Learn front-end development with HTML & CSS, JavaScript, and React, and back-end development with Python, Django, and Node.js. Get 1-on-1 mentoring and a structured curriculum to become a skilled Software Engineer or Full Stack Developer.
Begin your journey as a professional graphic designer by learning the essential skills and tools used by industry experts. Gain hands-on experience in Adobe Photoshop, InDesign, and Illustrator, and create a stunning portfolio to showcase your talent to potential employers or clients.
Become a skilled Video Editor and Motion Graphics Designer by learning Adobe Premiere Pro, and After Effects. Develop creative techniques and concepts for editing videos, and showcase your skills by creating a professional demo reel.
Information technology (IT) refers to the systems, devices, software, and networks used to manage, store, and share data. This broad field covers everything from servers, routers, and other networking hardware to the applications and digital tools that support communication and data exchange across the internet and internal networks. Since the term first appeared in a 1958 Harvard Business Review article, IT has been associated with data processing, analytical methods for decision-making, and the development of computer programs capable of handling complex tasks.
Today, IT is essential to virtually every industry. Organizations rely on technology for functions such as product development, marketing, sales, customer service, human resources, finance, and regulatory compliance. As companies continue to adopt and expand digital systems to operate efficiently and securely, the need for skilled IT professionals grows. For individuals considering a technology-driven career, IT offers a versatile and forward-looking path filled with opportunities.
Charlotte, otherwise known as the Queen City, is one of the most popular cities for young professionals today. The generally centralized location (just a few short hours from either the mountains, beach, or other major cities) means there’s enough variety to keep anyone feeling balanced and satisfied. Plus, the city has a lower cost of living than most major cities in other parts of the country. Most of all, job opportunities are abundant thanks to the number of Fortune 500 companies that have settled in the region.
All this comes as no surprise—the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina shares that North Carolina has been ranked within the top three best states to do business in (for five years in a row), and cities like Charlotte are at the epicenter of this growth and job stability. The region has opportunities in a broad range of industries that require IT experts to conduct cybersecurity measures, analyze data, or maintain digital systems. As the tech industry continues to grow at a substantial rate in Charlotte, more tech-based jobs are popping up, meaning there’s room for advancement and growth at some of the most widely recognized companies in the world.
With a field as broad as IT, opportunities exist at every corner. Whether you want to focus on analytics or develop new products, the field has a career path for you.
| Title | Role | Average Salary (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Software Engineer | Designs, creates, and maintains the functionality and safety of software applications. | \~$92,000 to \~$131,000/year |
| Data Analyst | Draws insights from data trends and provides steps to improve business practices. Often handles data management, analysis, and visualization. | \~$72,000 to \~ $102,000/year |
| IT Security Specialist | Handles efforts to prevent cybersecurity attacks. Maintain security through different protocols, systems, and response plans. | \~$100,000 to \~ $146,000/year |
| UX Designer | Designs digital products to operate at maximum functionality, leading to a more user-friendly experience. | \~$71,000 to \~ $112,000/year |
The city of Charlotte is considered one of the fastest-growing in the country, having seen a 2.2% increase in population from 2023 to 2024. With all this growth, competition in the city is fierce, but there’s still enough opportunity to go around. In particular, tech jobs are becoming increasingly more widespread (and lucrative). Northeastern University reports that Charlotte is one of the best cities to find a high-paying tech job, as the area saw a 77% increase in tech workers within a five-year period back in 2016. The continued integration of tech into other industries like healthcare and finance (also strong in the region) shows that the growth shows no signs of slowing, as many young professionals flock to the area.
Charlotte’s finance industry is one of the biggest in the region, with many big-name companies planting roots in the region. Without well-trained IT professionals, the finance industry would suffer significant effects. Between financial systems like mobile applications and analytical measures like financial modeling, IT permeates nearly every corner of the field today. Most important are the cybersecurity pros who ensure clients’ sensitive personal data and financial information are not at risk of a breach. Needless to say, to provide the consumer with the best experience and build trust, financial institutions need strong IT teams.
Much like finance, tech is incredibly strong and growing within the Queen City. Tech is at the heart of roles like Data Analyst, Software Engineer, Cybersecurity Specialist, and Web Designer, so naturally, tech companies will hire a plethora of tech roles. In this professional sphere, IT professionals maintain technical systems (like databases or software applications) and resolve any bugs or technical issues that may pop up. In addition, analysts will determine what’s needed for maximized efficiency and company growth. Moreover, security pros help maintain the integrity of any confidential data or platforms and prevent future data breaches from occurring. All in all, working in-house for a tech company allows IT pros to become more adept at their craft while simultaneously learning about the inner workings of the company.
In Charlotte and many of the surrounding areas, manufacturing is king. From paper products and packaging to automotive parts and biomedical products, Charlotte has a strong manufacturing job market where IT professionals are integral to the effectiveness of the overall production. Learning skills like coding, computer-aided design (CAD), and data science subjects opens the door to numerous opportunities. As technical issues arise with software or digital systems, Software Engineers and Cybersecurity Specialists step in to ensure everything is working as intended. Data Analysts, on the other hand, identify ways the supply chain could operate more efficiently.
Several major retailers were founded in Charlotte and helped create the strong economy that the city has today. Grocers, clothing stores, and automobiles are only scratching the surface of all the retailers in the region. The retail industry hires teams of IT specialists to maintain software, analyze consumer behavior, and design user-friendly interfaces like mobile apps and websites. Plus, IT teams keep ecommerce platforms operating smoothly. Without access to an online platform, consumers may be less likely to purchase products. With this in mind, IT is essential to the retail industry’s continued success and exposure.
Noble Desktop offers a range of in-person and live online IT training options to suit different learning paths. For those interested in data, the live online Data Science & AI Certificate is a hands-on, beginner-friendly program spanning 114 hours. Students learn SQL for data querying, Python for automation, and visualization tools such as Plotly for building dashboards. With capstone projects, personalized mentoring, and access to class recordings, learners are fully supported as they work toward earning their certificate of completion.
Another strong option for expanding IT skills is Noble’s Software Engineering Certificate, a comprehensive 510-hour program that teaches HTML, CSS, JavaScript, React, Python, and more. Students build foundational knowledge before moving into practical, portfolio-ready projects. The program includes one-on-one mentoring, a free course retake, and additional resources to help students graduate with confidence and a professional certificate.
Beginners looking to focus on programming may also benefit from the Python for Data Science Bootcamp, a 30-hour course designed to teach Python fundamentals and introduce key analytical workflows. Students gain experience with essential libraries like NumPy and pandas, learn to analyze datasets, and develop automation skills. The course includes one-on-one mentoring and a free retake option, allowing learners to revisit material as they strengthen their skills.
For those drawn to data visualization, Noble Desktop’s Power BI Bootcamp and Tableau Bootcamp provide practical training in two leading business intelligence tools. Participants learn to build interactive dashboards, interpret data, and uncover insights—making these courses valuable additions to any IT professional’s toolkit.
Noble Desktop offers tailored corporate training programs built to meet the unique goals of any organization. With flexible in-person and live online formats, teams can participate from any location while receiving high-quality, hands-on instruction. For businesses that need to train larger groups or provide ongoing skill development, Noble provides discounted bulk class vouchers, making continued education more affordable. To learn how Noble Desktop can support your team’s growth and enhance workplace productivity, reach out to discuss corporate training solutions customized to fit your company’s objectives.
Charlotte is a city full of opportunity for professionals looking to grow their skills in tech, design, business, data, and more. Known as a major hub for finance, energy, and technology, the Queen City is home to numerous banks, investment firms, and insurance companies, including Truist and Bank of America, as well as Duke Energy, the region’s leading electric company. IT departments are always needed in many of Charlotte's major industries. If your goal is to work in an environment where you're tasked with maintaining security for computers, networks, and data systems, as well as supporting the everyday tech that people use, this field is worth exploring. Noble Desktop offers hands-on training with expert instructors who are not only willing, but excited, to help you take your skills to the next level. These instructors have decades of experience and know what it takes to succeed in the field that you wish to explore. All in all, you can learn how to enter the professional landscape and thrive in your role, no matter what that may be. In a city like Charlotte, the opportunities are abundant, so professional training is well worth the time and effort.
Henry Gonzalez is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) and seasoned educator with over 30 years of experience working for the federal government as an Engineer, Manager, and Executive. During his time as an Executive, his main focus was program management of advanced technology programs in naval warfare, air traffic management, and homeland security. Now a retired senior official based in Charlotte, Gonzalez provides training in project and program management, leadership, and strategic planning to students and clients across sectors worldwide. He has achieved great heights in his career, obtaining the highest level of federal certification in acquisition program management and systems engineering. He also contributed to the Project Management Institute’s Standard for Program Management as a member of the original update team.
Based in Charlotte, Adrianna is a retired federal Human Resources (HR) Senior Leader with over 32 years of experience. She holds a Master’s Degree in Management Technology and Human Resource Management and is a certified Senior HR Professional by the Society for Human Resource Management. Throughout her career with the Department of Veterans Affairs, Adrianna worked everywhere from headquarters to regional offices, giving her ample experience with mentoring professionals all across the organization. She is passionate about sharing her knowledge with others, now working as an instructor to help others further their understanding of human resources and professional development.
James Campbell is an independent federal financial management consultant and seasoned instructor with over a decade of experience developing and teaching courses in finance and accounting at Graduate School USA, including subjects like budgeting and auditing. His career includes senior consulting roles with PricewaterhouseCoopers LLC and IBM Consulting Services. He’s also performed extensive audit and review work at the U.S. Government Accountability Office, where he served as an Assistant Director. James has also designed and updated numerous financial management and auditing classes, drawing on his expertise as a former CPA. His academic background also positions him to be an excellent instructor. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from East Tennessee University, an MPA from Georgia State University, and completed executive development training from George Washington University.