IT Classes & Bootcamps San Antonio

Train in Python, SQL, and Power BI to prepare for data-focused and technical problem-solving careers.

Commonly known as IT, the field of information technology refers to the computer systems, hardware, software, and networks related to the processing and distribution of data. The umbrella of IT also covers things like networking hardware (servers and routers) and applications that allow communication over a variety of networks and the internet.

The term “information technology” was originally used in a 1958 publication of the Harvard Business Review, which divided IT into the following three categories: techniques for processing, the use of statistical and mathematical methods to make decisions, and the simulation of higher-order thinking through computer programs. Enterprises devote entire departments to information technology.

Data processing plays a significant role in a variety of business practices, including product development and design, marketing and market research, sales and invoicing, customer development and retention, accounting and taxes, human resources and payroll, and regulatory compliance. IT has become an essential part of nearly every modern industry, so it is a wise choice to become an expert in information technology.

Why Become Certified in IT?

Acquiring certification in information technology has several benefits. An IT certification is a recognized credential within the field of IT. It signifies your dedication, motivation, and proficiency in the subject matter. Preparations for certification exams, training, and fees cost time and money, further confirming your commitment to the field.

Being able to prove your dedication and proficiency can help you stand out from other job applicants. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that there will be around 377,500 job openings in IT each year from now until 2032. And, with the median salary sitting well above the national average at $100,000, you can expect a healthy salary in most of these open roles.

It is fairly common for companies to require ongoing certifications, especially within the field of information technology. If you currently work in IT and want a promotion, enrolling in a certification course can be a great way to prove you deserve that higher-paying, higher-ranking job. Cisco’s recertification requirements, for example, include earning continuing education credits, taking an exam, or attending training during each three-year cycle. If your employer makes ongoing training mandatory, there’s a high probability they will help pay for your certification, so make sure to check with them before enrolling.

IT professionals often have the added benefit of being able to work from anywhere they choose. Online work offers more flexibility for IT experts, allowing you to assist fellow employees or clients via email, video chat, or by taking over their desktops. You’re no longer tied to living in cities with high living costs and are often only required to work within a specific time zone.

High pay, ample career opportunities, and the ability to choose where you work are only a handful of the perks of working in information technology. Getting certified in IT is the quickest way to make your dream career a reality. Keep reading to discover more about what you’ll learn in a training program and how to choose the right certification for you.

What You’ll Learn While Becoming IT Certified

Information technology is a diverse field that requires professionals who are knowledgeable in a variety of tools and techniques. Below is a list of the most common skills you’ll gain in a certification program, so that you know what to look for when you’re researching potential training courses. It’s important to note that there are several other hard and soft skills that you’ll want to master, especially collaboration, effective communication, and problem-solving. (And if you’ve already mastered some of the below, consider yourself ahead of the game.)

Security

Security is an important piece of an IT department. Starting in a help desk, networking, or system administration role can introduce you to fundamentals that are helpful to know for security purposes, but most training programs will cover the basics of security, which can include familiarity with physical, network, and software security, installing firewalls and routers, data encryption, risk mitigation strategy and threat analysis, knowledge of compliance regulations and standards like PCI-DSS, HIPAA, and CCPA, and ethical hacking and penetration testing.

Programming

If you wish to develop software, web applications, and websites, knowing how to program will be crucial. Commonly used languages are Python, C++, JavaScript, Ruby, and PowerShell. Being familiar with at least two is recommended to adequately troubleshoot any errors you may encounter on the job.

Data Analysis

Troubleshooting problems and improving systems and networks means you’ll need to know how to properly dissect and analyze data. Monitoring performance data can help you find security threats or coding errors, or see where inefficiencies exist in the overall operation. Having a foundational understanding of SQL and statistics will go a long way when analyzing data.

Networks and Systems

Two typical job titles for an IT professional are System Administrator and Network Administrator. Managing and improving computer systems and networks is central to the work of an IT team. IT work will often require you to administer diverse operating systems like Windows, Linux, or Mac, install and configure computer hardware and software, cloud administration, and applications, maintain local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), storage area networks (SAN) and virtual private networks (VPNs), and troubleshoot and help employees with technical issues.

Cloud Computing

Cloud computing skills are highly sought after within the IT industry. By conducting delivery of on-demand computing resources like hardware, storage, databases, networking, and software, cloud computing lets companies access and store information without managing their own physical devices or IT infrastructure. Its scalability, flexibility, and cost savings have helped it grow in popularity across a variety of industries.

IT Industries in San Antonio

San Antonio is a steadily growing place in the Lone Star State, so it’s not surprising that the city boasts a variety of thriving industries. For instance, San Antonio is well-known as a military city, which is always seeking IT professionals to fill voids in their data, software, and cybersecurity fields.

But beyond the expected, San Antonio-based IT pros can find work in the healthcare and biotech industry. With a growing MedTech scene, San Antonio IT experts may find themselves working in research, cybersecurity, health records, and complex databases.

Likewise, there's a lot of manufacturing in San Antonio, mainly due to the strong aerospace and logistics industries. In fact, the city is gaining international recognition for its robotics sector. IT departments are needed extensively in a place like this, where automated assembly lines and integrated cloud solutions can make all the difference in terms of productivity.

Lastly, cybersecurity is growing in a place like San Antonio, largely due to the growing tech scene and the already well-established defense industry. The region now has one of the largest concentrations of cybersecurity professionals in the area, with some calling it "Cyber City" as an indication of how valuable Cybersecurity Specialists are in the region.

Each of these industries, and countless others, relies on IT professionals to maintain their systems and networks on hard drives, remote servers, and the cloud. Information technology experts are also needed to help troubleshoot issues both on the back-end and with employees or other personnel. With such a high need across a variety of enterprises, there are plenty of roles for you to pursue, several of which are covered below.

IT Careers in San Antonio

There are several potential job titles for someone certified in information technology. You could become a Systems Architect. This role involves devising, configuring, operating, and maintaining computer and networking systems. Systems Architects analyze desired processes and outcomes. Then, they advise on the right pathway to achieve specific business, department, team, or functional goals. In San Antonio, you can expect to make $100,000 to $200,000 as a Systems Architect, but the average is closer to $142,000.

You could also become a Computer and Information Systems Manager. These professionals are responsible for overseeing the computer and data-related infrastructure for the organization. You would likely be in charge of running an entire information technology department if working at a small company. However, in larger firms, these professionals may focus on a specific area such as cybersecurity. In San Antonio, you could earn roughly $77,000 in this role each year on average.

Another option is to become a Cloud Security Engineer. You would plan, implement, upgrade, or monitor security measures for the protection of computer networks and information. You’d also lead system assessments for vulnerabilities, monitor for and protect against security risks, and ensure appropriate security controls are in place that can safeguard digital files and vital electronic infrastructure. Salaries for this role in San Antonio earn roughly $132,000 each year on average, but the range can be between $95,000 and $184,000.

As you can see, there are several roles you can pursue within IT depending on your interests. With salary ranges well above the U.S. average of $66,000, you can have a successful and lucrative career in IT no matter your job title.

Should You Pursue a Certificate or Certification?

While these two terms might seem similar, they are quite different regarding training programs. Gained through an assessment or a professional training program, a certification is a professional credential that regularly culminates in a final exam or test. Many jobs require certain certifications for promotions and career advancement. These can lead to increased pay, potential promotions, and enhanced professional expertise. Several professions demand certifications to be renewed at regular intervals. Some companies may even cover the cost of certification, as these credentials bring value to the workplace.

Often thought of as continuing education, a certificate is given to signify your successful completion of a course or training. Mid-career professionals pursue certificates to enhance or develop high-demand skills in their industry, while novices use them to carve out new career paths. These are noncredit programs sponsored by educational institutions, so you won’t earn an associate’s or bachelor’s degree by completing them. A certificate can definitely add value to your resume, but it’s important to remember that it doesn’t carry the same weight as degrees, which are commonly required for many jobs.

If your goal is to change career fields entirely or learn as much about a new industry as possible, then a certificate could be the right choice. A certification course is probably the right route if you are established in your career and looking to gain a new title or increase your pay.

You’ll also want to consider how much time and money you can commit to your training. If your company requires a certification for you to advance in your career, it's possible that they will pay in full or offer financial assistance. If they don’t, you’ll want to be mindful of your budget, as these training programs can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. Both certificates and certifications can vary in length, from a few days to several months. So you'll want to consider how long the program will take you to complete, as well as how much time you can commit on both a daily level and overall for the length of the program.

Regardless of which route you choose, both can give you an upper hand in your professional development and expand your skill set, making you highly desirable within your current field or a new one.

Top IT Certificate Programs in San Antonio

San Antonio's various thriving industries and ever-growing economy make it the perfect place to study information technology. Below are listed some of the top trainings available, which can help you launch your next career and prepare for official certification exams. 

The Data Analytics Certificate, offered by Noble Desktop, provides practical instruction in the essential tools used by Data Analysts and Business Analysts. Available both online and in-person in New York City, this program teaches Excel, SQL, and Tableau, along with the fundamentals of statistics and data visualization. Students complete hands-on projects using real datasets and receive personalized mentoring from industry professionals. The course is designed for beginners and includes flexible scheduling options as well as a one-year free retake policy, allowing students to revisit material and sharpen their skills.

Similarly, Noble Desktop offers a Software Engineering Certificate program designed to prepare students for careers as Full Stack Developers. This immersive course teaches front-end and back-end development, covering HTML, CSS, JavaScript, React, Python, Django, and Node.js. You’ll work on real-world projects that strengthen your portfolio and receive 1-on-1 mentoring throughout the program. Open to beginners, the Software Engineering Certificate is available both online and in-person and offers flexible financing options. Upon completion, students receive a certificate verifying their skills and readiness to enter the workforce as professional software engineers.

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