Welcome to the IBM Technical Support Professional Certificate! Did you know that industries worldwide depend more on technology now than ever before? That’s because more people are using technology in their everyday lives in many ways, including working remotely, taking online classes, and even having health check-ups with a doctor via webcam. With a worldwide increase in demand for technology comes an increase in need for user support for all technology-related needs. Who will provide technical support to individuals, companies, and organizations? Professionals who are knowledgeable in the fundamentals of computer hardware, operating systems, software, networking, storage, cybersecurity, and cloud computing. According to the most recent US Bureau of Labor Statistics report, about 70,400 computer support jobs are posted annually in the US alone, and job growth in the computer support industry is projected to increase 9 percent through 2030, At the time of this course publication, the median US computer support specialist salary is $57,910 US dollars annually, and per hour pay is almost $28 US dollars. Technical support jobs are also a great way to start on your path to a high-paying career in information technology. This certificate consists of several engaging and informative courses, designed to introduce you to the fundamentals of technical support. as well as Information Technology fundamentals Additionally, this professional certificate can help you prepare for the CompTIA IT Fundamentals Certification Exam. This is a beginner-level certificate, which means that anyone, even if you’re new to IT, can take this course. You don’t need prior experience in IT or technical support. No college degree is required. All you need to get started with this certificate is a willingness to learn and basic computer literacy to take online courses through your web browser or mobile app. The courses in this certificate will introduce you to the essential parts of IT. You will learn about hardware, software, networking and cybersecurity, cloud computing, ticketing systems, and careers and pathways in IT. Throughout the courses, you’ll hear from IT insiders as they share their experiences and what they’ve learned as they’ve progressed through their careers. Some of the experts you’ll hear from are: Aditya Pundir, an IT manager, Michelle Sanchez, an instructional designer who started in help desk, Mike Schwartz, who works in IT support, and Aimee Taylor, an Enterprise Support Technician. You will learn in this course through guided instructional videos that walk you through key concepts with essential need-to-know facts. Interactive exercises will reinforce what you’ve learned in videos. Insider viewpoints allow you to learn from professionals working in the many fields of IT. And practice assessments and graded assessments will help you gauge your knowledge and prove what you’ve learned. Upon completing all of the courses, you’ll earn a shareable badge and the IBM Technical Support Professional Certificate. Why do you need a professional certificate? A professional certificate is beneficial for you because it is proof of your knowledge and accomplishments! The IBM Technical Support Professional Certificate has been specifically created to focus on the core knowledge you will need to possess to succeed in Technical Support and beyond! The courses work together to familiarize you with the elements of IT, introduce you to hardware and software, help you build your IT skills and provide you with hands-on labs to practice using what you’ve learned in the course. When you’ve completed the courses in the certificate, you will receive a professional certificate so that you can share your hard work and accomplishment with potential employers and your professional network. One of the many benefits of the IBM Technical Support Professional Certificate is that all of the courses are online and ready to start when you’re ready to take them. The courses have flexible schedules, meaning you can complete the course at whatever time is most convenient for you and at your own pace, even if you have only 2-3 hours a week to spare. Or you could even complete the entire Professional Certificate in as little as 3 months, if you spent 5 or more hours per week on the courses. Financial aid is available for those who qualify. If you are not sure this program is right for you, you can try a free 7-day trial or you can audit the courses. These options give you the opportunity to sample the content and determine if the courses are right for you. And remember that we’re here for your success. If you have any questions about the courses or the professional certificate, just ask. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get started!