[Mechtech3000]

Hey everyone I'll start by saying I am 26 years old 27 in September and I've been messing around with computers since I was about 10 years old. Started out with Dos, just screwing around learning commands, then started doing windows when it came out and mostly did hardware stuff. I've had multiple classes in computers over the years and currently have my A+ and Network+ certs. I have about 2.5 years of actual IT experience under my belt as well. Most of it is just building computers, fixing them, and managing software. I haven't done alot of programming maybe just a bit of C++ and HTML thats about it.

My question is this. I've applied to tons and TONS of jobs with no luck and these jobs aren't even making alot of money.... Why is it so dang competitive these days for jobs? I mean it's almost getting so rediculous for IT people to even consider going IT unless you plan on working help desk for 10 years while you get a BS CS degree, tons of certs. It has become so flooded that if you aren't in a big city forget any entry lvl jobs that pay well.

What do you guys think? I've done a lot of research and think that I'm right on cue but if anyone can offer any tips I would appreciate it. What am I doing wrong? I'm from the Midwest and don't want to commute to Chicago either so that is part of the problem.

I was thinking of doing just straight Business? Or what is the hot fields to study now adays? Or what area of IT would be best for me?

[motoxer4533]

Well, if you don't live in, or within ~30 min of a big city, chances aren't very good of finding a good paying job. I live in northern ohio, and I've heard that around 30-40% of computer users still use dial-up... It is really hard to find something good around here.

If you are anywhere like it is here, it's hard. Perseverance pays off, however. Just keep on try - like they say: It's not what you know, it's who you know.

[Mechtech3000]

yea it just amazes me how competitive things have gotten

[superdave1984]

I lived in Knoxville for two years after I finished school and applied for dozens of jobs. ZIP. Moved back to my hometown of 10,000 people, found a job fairly quick. It was a short term contract, but it paid well. Then I just kept at it for thenext 9 months putting in resumes all over the place. Finally landed a job at a hospital as a IS tech, now a year later I am the IS Director. Starting over is hard, very hard. You are still young. I started over at 36. Don't just put in applications. Go to local places and submit a good resume. Be persistant. I would go once a week on my "Resume road trip" and cover about a 60 mile radius from my house. Also check temp services in your area. You can make extra cash by signing up at OnForce - The Marketplace For Computer Repair Services & IT Consultants too.

[Mechtech3000]

well I work as an IT tech in a city nearby but I only make 9.75 an hour but I suppose without a degree that is best I will get right now while I'm 'in school and getting exp. I guess maybe I expect too much and should just be happy I'm working with computers.

[superdave1984]

Read this article. The demand for IT pros in the health care field is growing. There is a LOT to learn when you get into a hospital setting such as different systems, HIPAA, SOX, etc.
Help Wanted: Demand Is Hot for IT Professionals

[Mechtech3000]

Good article Dave thanks! I worked at a pharmacy for almost a year so I have some medical knowledge.