Information Technology Infrastructure Engineers

High School

Learn as much as you can about hardware, software, computer networking, programming, computer-aided design, data analytics, and computer security by taking specialized classes in these fields, as well as general computer science courses. Other recommended classes include business, mathematics, statistics, English, speech, and social studies.

Postsecondary Education

Infrastructure engineers typically have at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, an IT specialty (such as networking, computer security, or software development), or electrical engineering, although some employers hire candidates who have an associate’s degree in one of these aforementioned fields and considerable on-the-job experience in lower level IT positions. Some engineers choose to take classes, minor, or earn certificates or additional degrees in IT project management or change management to improve their skill at managing large IT projects and interacting effectively with coworkers and managers.

During college, many students obtain experience and make valuable networking contacts by participating in an internship, co-operative education experience, or a part-time job at an IT employer or nonprofit or government agency.

Certification

Certificates in cloud computing, cybersecurity, software development, database management, network administration, and many other IT-related areas are offered by postsecondary institutions, professional associations, and online learning platforms (OLPs). Aspiring engineers earn certificates to explore their interest in a particular field (such as cybersecurity) before making the decision to earn a degree in the field. Others do so to augment a general degree in computer science or information technology. Experienced engineers often participate in certificate programs to learn about emerging technology (such as artificial intelligence or quantum computing) in order to do their jobs more effectively.

Other Education or Training

The Association for Computing Machinery, Cloud Computing Association, Cloud Security Alliance, CompTIA, IEEE Computer Society, CompTIA, other professional associations, colleges and universities, and for-profit OLPs offer webinars, conference seminars, and other continuing education (CE) opportunities that help infrastructure engineers keep their skills up to date and prepare for certification or re-certification programs.