Technical Support Specialists

Arrange an information interview with a technical support specialist. Local computer repair shops that offer technical support service might be a good place to contact. Also contact major corporations and software firms directly.

Work and play on computers as much as possible; many computer professionals became computer hobbyists at a very young age. Use the Internet and seek out the assistance of an online support specialist if you need assistance with a video game or a computer problem. Read computer magazines and join school or community computer clubs. Additionally, join the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM), which offers membership options for high school and college students. Members receive XRDS (the organization’s magazine for students), discounts on conferences and other learning opportunities, and other resources.

Another good way to explore this field is through a computer technology course at a local technical/vocational school. This will give hands-on exposure to typical technical support training. In addition, if you experience problems with your own hardware or software, call technical support; pay careful attention to how the support specialist handles the call and ask as many questions as the specialist has time to answer.

Participate in competitions that are offered by professional associations, youth organizations, and other entities. For example, SkillsUSA (https://www.skillsusa.org) offers competitions such as Computer Programming, Cyber Security, Electronics Technology, Engineering Technology/Design, Information Technology Services, Principles of Engineering/Technology, Robotics and Automation Technology, Technical Computer Applications, and Web Design and Development. The Technology Student Association (https://tsaweb.org/competitions) offers 40 competitions for high school students, including in Software Development, Technology Problem Solving, and System Control Technology.