An excellent way of honing practical skills in networking while earning is by participating in a networking apprenticeship program. These programs help you learn on the job to tackle networking-related issues in the technology industry. By engaging in these professional development programs, you get to build professional competence in cloud computing and network engineering.
Networking apprenticeship opportunities are offered by reputable institutions, corporations and individual employers. Any individual with a passion for technology and career advancement can take advantage of this paid technical training to secure rewarding positions as cloud architects, software engineers, and network engineers. In this article, we show you the top networking apprenticeships available right now.
What Is a Networking Apprenticeship?
A networking apprenticeship is a paid hands-on training program that educates trainees on how to design, install, configure, test, and maintain communication networks, cloud services, and operating systems according to industry standards. Participants gain the relevant qualifications needed to take advantage of networking opportunities in the technology industry.
What Does a Networking Apprentice Do?
A networking apprentice learns through a structured apprenticeship training program how to apply their creative thinking, programming, and troubleshooting skills in identifying and resolving networking issues. Apprentices also use their skills to find faults in hardware systems, software applications, and computer networks.
A networking apprentice works with complex digital technologies under the guidance of one or more experienced networking professionals to assess the performance of a network system. They learn how to design networks and complex systems infrastructures and maintain network performance across multiple network servers.
They are taught to collaborate with members of other operating teams to develop strategies for implementing network security measures across systems. They also work as part of a team to protect sensitive data and optimize network services.
Networking Apprenticeship Salary
The average salary of a network engineer apprentice is $85,086 a year, according to Glassdoor. This figure, based on over 30,000 submissions, is higher than apprentice positions in related fields.
Networking Apprenticeship Requirements
To participate in a networking apprentice program, you should have a solid technical foundation in networking, network design, and cloud services, including knowledge in Cisco Systems and Microsoft Azure.
You should have some IT experience working in systems or network administration or a foundational IT certificate combined with at least a high school diploma. Some programs accept candidates with a bachelor’s degree in a computer-related discipline.
As a networking apprenticeship applicant, you should possess foundational troubleshooting and programming skills. Above all, you should have an interest in building a networking career in the technology industry.
Types of Networking Apprenticeships
There are different types of networking apprenticeships, each with unique entry requirements. All of these training programs are intended to set you on a high-earning career path. They will help you gain the professional qualifications you need to grow in your career. We take a look at these types of apprenticeships below:
Network Administrator
Network administrator apprentices learn to install, configure, and maintain networks and operating systems. They are usually not concerned with incident response. Instead, they monitor network performance, test for reliability, and check for security breaches so they can provide updates to network engineers or senior-level network administrators. They also provide email and internet filters.
To participate in network administration apprenticeships, you should have prior knowledge of how computer systems work. You should also have good communication skills. Sometimes prior knowledge working in an IT support role can give you an edge over other applicants for this position.
Cloud Architect
Cloud or solutions architect apprentices learn to design networks and cloud technologies and ensure the reliability of cloud services across multiple systems and servers. They participate in defining business requirements and learn to maintain cloud databases and existing cloud architecture. To excel in this role, prior technical familiarity with cloud platforms is needed.
Cloud architects oversee the deployment of cloud applications and services across network servers. Companies seek these professionals to secure their cloud storage or optimize their cloud services. Cloud architects do this by designing complex systems to secure sensitive information or implementing strategies that can optimize their service offerings.
Network Engineer
Network engineer apprentices learn aspects of networking, cloud computing, and network administration through a structured curriculum, group projects, and simulations. By the end of their apprenticeship, they are able to design and build communication networks and systems. They are equipped to ensure network performance by implementing network configurations and network technologies upgrades.
Network engineering is a more specialized aspect of networking. Candidates applying for apprenticeship roles in this field typically have more than a high school diploma. These programs usually require a bachelor’s or master’s degree or at least two or more years working in network administration.
Information Systems Analyst
Systems analysts conduct system analysis on an organization’s IT infrastructure and systems to determine the extent of their efficiency compared to the client or business requirements. They provide systems support to other technical units in ensuring the reliability of information technology.
These professionals conduct research to find out ways to improve the IT systems and networks for their organizations. Through this research, they devise business strategies to enhance the functionality of information hardware and software systems. They also integrate and automate database storage processes to improve information management.
Network Security Specialist
Network security specialists help monitor and maintain computer networks, hardware, and software systems used for network monitoring and security to prevent unauthorized access to information and network servers. They perform periodic network security audits to give updates on network performance and security status.
They identify compromised network systems and evaluate the level of risk exposure. Network security specialists also deploy security tools, systems, and firewalls. They install security software applications to detect security breaches and intrusions. They work with other security professionals to devise and implement security and incident response strategies.
Networking Apprenticeship Jobs
One of the major benefits of apprenticeships is that you get compensated for learning. Apprentices often have a salary, and some programs even offer a job guarantee after the training is over. If this sounds appealing to you, check out these networking apprenticeship opportunities.
IBM Network Administrator Apprenticeship
IBM offers a wide range of traineeship opportunities, one of which is this network administrator apprenticeship. During your training, you’ll nurture your skills in Agile, network design thinking, and Cisco switches. If you finish the program, you’ll earn a completion badge
Network administrator apprentices are taught how to resolve faults in computer networks, hardware, and software applications. Their responsibilities mainly involve installation, monitoring, and maintenance. During their training, they learn to troubleshoot network issues and master the technologies and tools used to configure and monitor networks.
Franklin Network Engineer Apprenticeship
This apprenticeship program offers you a unique chance to gain industry-recognized certifications such as those offered by CompTIA and Microsoft. Network engineer apprentices learn effective incident response and troubleshooting as well as how to resolve faults in software and hardware components.
Apprentices will offer network support to system engineers, clients, and help desks to ensure uninterrupted network access. To qualify, you should have prior knowledge of network design and implementation and be familiar with Microsoft support and Cisco Meraki. Applicants with high school diplomas and two or more years of IT experience are welcome.
Google Information Technology Apprenticeship
This apprenticeship enables students to gain training in the field of information technology and is open to applicants regardless of their level of education. To apply, you will be required to take an aptitude test.
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Candidates in this apprenticeship learn to troubleshoot network and systems issues efficiently and will receive a Google IT support certificate, a credential that will boost their career growth. This program usually lasts 12 months.
Amazon Cloud Computing Apprenticeship
These cloud computing apprenticeships offer servicemen a chance to build careers in cloud computing as cloud consultants and solutions architects through paid training courses. The courses are followed by 12 months of paid, on-the-job training that prepares apprentices for their desired career paths.
Apprentices will gain the professional competence needed to excel in cloud-related careers by working alongside industry experts. Likewise, they will acquire recognized certifications and have a chance to secure a high-paying position with Amazon at the end of the program. You can finance this program through the GI Bill.
HCL Information Technology Apprenticeship Program
The HCL apprenticeship program gives candidates a chance to secure a high-paying IT job with the organization. Apprentices receive expert job training and get the professional experience needed to launch their careers.
As part of the many benefits of this program, participants get access to a competitive salary package and the chance to learn and work alongside global clients and teams. Apprentices that complete the program successfully may be retained as full-time employees.
How to Get a Networking Apprenticeship
A networking apprenticeship prepares you for network-related careers. However, to qualify for one, you need specific capabilities, especially in network design and system administration. Below, we explore several pathways to attain the competence you need to qualify for a top networking apprenticeship.
Bootcamps
Attending a networking bootcamp is one of the best ways of securing a top networking apprenticeship. In a bootcamp program, you’ll learn through a hands-on curriculum that focuses on the networking processes and network technologies used by industry leaders. You will also work on a capstone project to boost your resume and portfolio.
The best networking bootcamps give students the technical knowledge and experience they need to secure high-paying, entry-level roles in the industry. Many employers prefer hiring coding bootcamps graduates because they have the training required to excel in technical roles.
Internships
Internships are a great way to secure apprenticeship jobs. Internships are often part of college coursework requirements and can help you acquire technical experience in your field. These programs are ideal to master fundamental networking functions such as network configurations, installations, testing, and support. Internships usually last only a few months and are sometimes paid. Students with internships will find it easier to land an apprenticeship after graduation.
Trade Schools
Trade schools prepare candidates for jobs in skilled trades. These institutions offer practical learning programs that equip students with the hands-on skills needed to excel in a particular field. An IT diploma or certificate from a trade school can make you a stronger candidate when applying for apprenticeships.
Vocational Training
Vocational schools offer training courses that prepare students to venture into technical career paths or trades. Students are equipped with the technical skills needed for their chosen profession and earn a diploma, certification, or, in some cases, an associate degree.
A vocational training program can help you secure entry-level roles and technology apprenticeships because they emphasize hands-on learning. Some apprenticeships specifically seek out graduates of vocational schools to train them on the job role.
Is a Networking Apprenticeship Worth It?
Yes, it is. If your goal is to become a network administrator, network architect, or network engineer, then a networking apprenticeship has lots of benefits. For one, you will acquire the training and professional experience you need to launch a successful career in this industry.
A networking apprenticeship will also prepare you for the most important certification exams. If you impress your supervisor during the program, you may even be offered a full-time position with the company. In other words, an apprenticeship is an excellent option for those serious about a career in networking.
Networking Apprenticeship FAQ
An IT support apprentice offers real-time IT support to members of technical teams such as network and system engineers. They learn to fix network and systems issues for customers and colleagues to ensure optimal performance of operating systems and network servers. They help repair IT infrastructure and install upgrades and features.
Networking professionals can fit into many roles, including network administration, database management, network engineering, network security, and systems engineering. These professionals can transfer their critical thinking, analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills to any career, even outside networking.
You can secure an apprenticeship position without working experience. Some apprenticeships are for high school graduates who are seeking to gain formal training in technology roles. In some cases, all you need is a high school diploma and a sincere passion for a career in technology.
No, it’s not. Networking takes focus and patience, both of which can be nurtured. You also need technical skills such as cloud management, network access control, network design, installation, maintenance, and virtualization. However, anyone can acquire these skills as long as they put in the work. A bootcamps or college degree can help you prepare for a career in networking.
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