Not only does this article cover the Computer Systems Technician – Networking program at Centennial College, it also looks at the industry and the types of duties professionals have in the field.

1. Computer Systems Technician – Networking Focuses on Latest Trends and
Advancements
The job of those working in computer networking is changing as technological
advancements are made. As such, professionals trained in computer networking — field
service representatives, network technicians, network technical support specialists, help
desk support and technical support — are responsible for maintaining the integrity and
security of a company’s network and the systems connected to it. As such, they are
required to have knowledge of network connectivity, protocols, network security devices,
network types, including wireless, fiber optic or Cat5, and common operating systems,
such as Windows and UNIX. Those just entering the field may be responsible for:
responding to troubleshooting calls and e-mails from users of the network; diagnosing
and offering repair instructions remotely, as well as in person; monitoring network access
for bottlenecks, security threats or problems with connectivity; configuring and
maintaining security devices to ensure the safety of company software, systems and data.
Centennial College offers its Computer Systems Technician – Networking undertaking to
applicants who have completed an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or
equivalent, or have mature student status (19 years or older); English Grade 12 C or U, or
equivalent (minimum grade required) or are willing to take the Centennial College
English Skills Assessment for Admission and Mathematics Grade 11 M or U, or 12 C or
U, or equivalent (minimum grade required) or are willing to take a Centennial College
Engineering Math Skills Assessment for Admission.
Because the program is facilitated from Progress Campus, which is outfitted with a range
of classrooms and smart classrooms, students get the benefit of a heavy emphasis on
hands-on labs and technical problem solving. As a result, they actually get to go into PC
hardware and into the details of operating systems to learn how to have full human
control of the computing and communicating technology. Throughout their studies,
students learn to put together and maintain systems that will empower users in their
creative, business and communication activities.
Specific courses within this offering include: Technical Writing with MS Office 2010 and
Visio, PC Operating Systems, Customer Skills, Introduction to Unix/Linux, Network
Devices, The Physical Layer, Network Services, Network Security, Data
Communications and more. Incorporated into each courses is the latest in computer
systems and network technology. This ensures that the lessons students gain reflect the
ever-growing innovations of the digital revolution.
Computer Systems Technician grads have two options. Firstly, they may head into the
field and seek entry-level in technical support from the growing mesh of Internet,
intranet, extranet and telecom networks. Past grads have had success with companies
such as StorageTek, Toronto Hydro and Transport Canada, among others. Secondly,
students who are deemed eligible may transfer to the three-year technology advanced
diploma program.