Certain careers are natural fits for those who want to help others. Teachers, nurses and social workers are among them. Less obvious, but equally essential, are computer support technicians who keep businesses operating when technology fails.

Bugs, viruses and data recovery are the bane of business but represent job security for tech support employees.

Brett Pitts of Oklahoma City completed degrees in information technology and computer science, but he recognized gaps in his hands-on experience. That led him to enroll in the Computer Information Systems program at Canadian Valley Technology Center.

“I still felt like I didn’t know as much as I would like about computer hardware and software maintenance,” Pitts said. “I wanted to know more about networks. I had also been told by many friends in the industry that many companies use the A+ certification as a benchmark for basic understanding and that the Network+ was a good next step. Both were offered as the goals for studying at Canadian Valley.”

Pitts completed CV Tech’s program nearly two years ago and was immediately hired by Oklahoma City-based Hobby Lobby Stores, Inc., as a Tier 1 technology help desk technician.

“I have found a pleasant work environment, and the skills I learned at Canadian Valley provided a deeper understanding of what is going on when something breaks or installation of some device or application,” he said.

His typical day includes assisting Hobby Lobby and affiliated Mardel Christian and Education stores nationwide, guiding staff through equipment installations and troubleshooting technical issues.

Pitts said CV Tech provided the skills gaps he recognized in his education, and he envisions a long-term career at Hobby Lobby.

Levi Romo of Chickasha followed a similar path after completing the program last May. He was hired immediately as a general technician by Industry Systems, LLC. The Chickasha computer consulting firm develops computer network systems and maintains IT platforms.

Romo spends considerably more of his time repairing hardware, such as Chromebooks, laptops, personal computers and servers. Recently, he also began working on network switches. He learned that skill at CV Tech also.

“I truly enjoy the work I do,” Romo said. “The paycheck is definitely a plus, but enjoying the work itself is what matters most to me.

CV Tech’s curriculum prepares students for industry-recognized certifications, including CompTIA A+, Tech+, and Network+, as well as Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST) credentials in networking and cybersecurity.

Median pay for computer support specialists is about $29 per hour, or roughly $61,500 annually, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Earnings can exceed six figures with experience and advanced roles.

Romo said patience and professionalism are just as important as technical ability.

“It’s okay if you are not making the best money at first,” he said. “Don’t expect to walk in and immediately earn a huge paycheck. Keep pursuing growth in your field, because the more you learn, the more valuable you become. And just as importantly, be kind. A bad attitude can close doors and destroy opportunities.”