Associate Degree Program

Why Become IT Support Professional in Milwaukee

As an IT Support Specialist, there are numerous reasons why it’s an excellent career choice in the Milwaukee area. Here are some of the most compelling reasons:

High Demand: The demand for IT Support Specialists in Milwaukee and the surrounding areas is growing rapidly. With the increased reliance on technology in businesses, the need for professionals to support and maintain the technology also increases. This means that there are plenty of job opportunities available for IT Support Specialists, with a variety of businesses and organizations seeking professionals to fill these roles.

Competitive Salary: According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for Computer Support Specialists in Milwaukee is around $50,000, which is significantly higher than the median annual wage for all occupations. Additionally, as you gain experience and certifications, your earning potential as an IT Support Specialist can increase substantially.

Diverse Job Opportunities: IT Support Specialists can work in a variety of industries, including healthcare, finance, education, and more. This means that you can find a job that aligns with your interests and passions, whether you want to work in a corporate environment or a non-profit organization.

Rapid Career Growth: IT Support Specialists have the opportunity to quickly advance their careers, particularly if they continue to learn and gain new certifications. Many IT Support Specialists go on to become IT Managers or Network Administrators, which can be even more lucrative and rewarding career paths.

Personal Satisfaction: As an IT Support Specialist, you have the opportunity to solve problems and help others. Whether it’s troubleshooting a technical issue for a colleague or implementing a new system that improves efficiency, the work you do can have a direct and positive impact on the people around you.

In summary, becoming an IT Support Specialist in Milwaukee is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a career with high demand, competitive salary, diverse job opportunities, rapid career growth, and personal satisfaction. With the right training and certifications, you can build a fulfilling and rewarding career in the growing field of technology support.

MATC IT Support Specialist Catalog

MATC IT Support Program Overview Guide

Day in Life of IT Support Specialist

Computer support specialists provide help and advice to computer users in public and private organizations. Support specialists either configure, secure, protect and maintain computers, mobile devices and networks or they provide technical assistance directly to computer users.

Computer User Support Specialists (or Help Desk Technicians) help individual employees work through computer problems. Talking with workers who do not have an IT background, specialists avoid jargon as they ask questions to diagnose a computer problem, and then walk users through steps to resolve the issue. They also set up and repair computer equipment and train users on new hardware and software.

IT Support Specialists are professionals who provide technical assistance and support to organizations and individuals who use computers, software, and other technology products. Here are some of the main responsibilities of IT Support Specialists:

Troubleshooting: IT Support Specialists are responsible for diagnosing and resolving technical issues that arise in computer systems, networks, and software applications. They use their expertise to identify the root cause of the problem and develop a solution to fix it.
Maintenance and Upgrades: IT Support Specialists are responsible for maintaining and upgrading computer systems, networks, and software applications to ensure that they are functioning properly and efficiently. This involves installing updates, patches, and upgrades as needed to keep the systems up to date.
User Support: IT Support Specialists provide technical support to users who are experiencing technical issues with their computers or software applications. This includes answering user questions, providing training, and assisting users with software and hardware issues.
Security: IT Support Specialists are responsible for ensuring the security of computer systems, networks, and data. This involves implementing security measures such as firewalls, antivirus software, and data encryption to protect against cyber threats.
Documentation: IT Support Specialists create and maintain documentation for computer systems, networks, and software applications. This includes user manuals, troubleshooting guides, and technical specifications.

Overall, IT Support Specialists play a crucial role in ensuring that computer systems, networks, and software applications function properly and efficiently. They provide technical support to users, maintain and upgrade systems, ensure security, and create and maintain documentation. As technology continues to play an increasingly important role in business and society, the demand for IT Support Specialists is expected to continue to grow, making it an excellent career choice for those interested in technology and problem-solving.

Skills Students Learn

The IT Support Specialist program equips students with a range of technical skills, soft skills and knowledge that are essential for success in this field. Here are some of the skills that future IT Support Specialists learn as part of the program:

Technical Expertise: IT Support Specialists learn technical skills such as installing, configuring, and troubleshooting hardware and software, as well as managing networks and security systems. They also learn how to use diagnostic tools and other software programs to identify and solve technical issues.

Overall, the IT Support Specialist program provides students with a well-rounded education that includes technical skills, communication, problem-solving, customer service, project management, and professionalism. These skills are essential for success in the IT support field, and graduates of the program are well-prepared to enter the workforce as IT Support Specialists to perform below listed tasks:

Install, configure and support desktop and server operating systems
Configure and deploy Windows laptops, desktops and tablets
Configure and deploy OSX laptops and servers
Administer and support mobile devices: IOS, Android and Windows smartphones and tablets
Support, monitor and troubleshoot wired and wireless networks
Deploy hardware and software solutions to the enterprise
Configure and support cloud based solutions
Secure network devices to protect company assets
Analytical and solve technical problems to resolve end user issues

Technical Skills

As an IT Support Specialist, technical expertise is a critical component of the job. The IT Support Specialist program is designed to equip students with the technical skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in this field. Here are some of the technical skills that IT Support students learn as part of the program:

Operating Systems: Students learn about different operating systems, including Windows and Mac OS, Android, IOS, Unix, Linux andVMWare focusing on how to install, configure, and troubleshoot them.
Computer Hardware: Students learn about computer hardware components, including processors, memory, hard drives, and graphics cards. They also learn how to troubleshoot and repair hardware issues.
Networking: Networking is a crucial part of IT Support, and students learn about network components, protocols, and architectures. They also learn how to install, configure, and troubleshoot networks.
Virtualization: Virtualization is becoming increasingly important in IT Support, and students learn about virtualization technologies such as VMware and VirtualBox.
Cloud Computing: Cloud computing is another emerging technology in the IT Support field, and students learn about cloud computing platforms such as Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Microsoft Azure.
Security: IT Support Specialists are responsible for ensuring the security of computer systems and networks, and students learn about security concepts such as encryption, firewalls, and antivirus software.
Troubleshooting: Troubleshooting is a critical skill for IT Support Specialists, and students learn how to use diagnostic tools and techniques to identify and solve technical issues.

Overall, the IT Support Specialist program provides students with a comprehensive education in technical skills and knowledge necessary for success in the IT Support field. By learning about operating systems, computer hardware, networking, virtualization, cloud computing, security, and troubleshooting, students are well-prepared to enter the workforce as IT Support Specialists.

Soft Skills

In addition to technical skills, the IT Support Specialist program also focuses on developing soft skills that are essential for success in the IT Support field. Soft skills are non-technical skills that relate to interpersonal communication, problem-solving, and teamwork. A combination of technical know-how, persistence, and customer service skills are needed to be a computer support specialist. Strong active listening skills are a must. Without them it is very hard to understand peoples’ needs. Good speaking skills allow a computer support specialist to convey information to those he or she is trying to help. They also need good critical thinking and problem solving skills. Here are some of the soft skills that IT Support students learn as part of the program:

Communication: Effective communication is critical for IT Support Specialists, as they must be able to explain technical concepts and solutions to non-technical users. Students in the IT Support Specialist program learn how to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.

Problem-Solving: IT Support Specialists are responsible for solving technical problems that arise in computer systems, networks, and software applications. They must be able to analyze complex problems, identify the root cause, and develop solutions to fix them. Students in the IT Support Specialist program learn how to use critical thinking and problem-solving skills to solve technical issues.

Customer Service: IT Support Specialists work with a range of users, including non-technical users who may be frustrated or confused by technical issues. As such, they must have excellent customer service skills and be able to handle difficult situations with professionalism and empathy. Students in the IT Support Specialist program learn how to provide effective customer service and support.

Project Management: IT Support Specialists may be involved in managing projects such as system upgrades, software installations, and network maintenance. As such, they must have project management skills such as planning, organizing, and prioritizing tasks. Students in the IT Support Specialist program learn how to manage projects effectively.

Professionalism: IT Support Specialists must be professional and reliable, as they are responsible for the security and functionality of computer systems, networks, and software applications. Students in the IT Support Specialist program learn about professional ethics, standards, and best practices.

Adaptability: IT Support Specialists must be adaptable and able to handle a wide range of technical issues and challenges. Students learn how to quickly adapt to new technologies, processes, and procedures, and how to handle unexpected situations with composure and flexibility.

Time Management: Time management is essential in IT Support, and students learn how to prioritize tasks, manage their time effectively, and meet deadlines.

Problem-Solving: IT Support Specialists are responsible for solving complex technical problems, and students learn how to approach problems systematically, analyze information, and develop effective solutions.

Collaboration: IT Support Specialists often work in teams, and students learn how to collaborate effectively with colleagues, share information, and support team goals.

Professionalism: IT Support Specialists must demonstrate professionalism in their interactions with users and colleagues. Students learn about professional ethics, standards, and best practices.

By learning about communication, customer service, adaptability, time management, problem-solving, collaboration, and professionalism, students are well-prepared to enter the workforce as IT Support Specialists who can provide exceptional support to users and add value to their organizations.

How Much IT Computer Support Specialist Make?

The salary for IT Support Specialists in Milwaukee, like in any other city, can vary based on a number of factors such as experience, skills, education, and industry. However, according to salary data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for computer user support specialists in the Milwaukee area was $51,470 as of May 2022. This means that half of all IT Support Specialists in Milwaukee earned more than this amount, and half earned less.

The BLS also reports that the highest-paid 10% of computer user support specialists in Milwaukee earned more than $79,080 annually, while the lowest-paid 10% earned less than $31,900. IT Support Specialists who work in industries such as finance, insurance, and management of companies tend to earn higher salaries than those in other industries.

It’s worth noting that the demand for IT Support Specialists is expected to continue to grow in the coming years, as more businesses rely on technology to operate. This could lead to an increase in salaries for IT Support Specialists in Milwaukee and other areas.

Overall, the IT Support Specialist program provides students with the technical and soft skills needed to succeed in the field, and the potential for a competitive salary and career growth.

IT Support Careers in Milwaukee Area

IT Support employment opportunities are expected to grow in Milwaukee Metropolitan Area. Typical positions available to graduates of MATC IT Computer Support Specialist program include:

Help Desk Technician
Mobile Device Support Specialist
Cloud Systems Support Specialist
Service Center Specialist
Junior Support Specialist
System Administrator
Apple Support Specialist
Mobile Device Support Specialist
Computer Applications Technician
Technical Sales Support Representative
Network Technician
Mac OSX Technician
Unix Support Specialist

Where MATC IT Support Specialist Work after Graduating?

As a 2-year college, Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC) is dedicated to preparing students for in-demand careers, including IT Support Specialist roles. After completing the IT Support Specialist program, graduates have a variety of options for where to work in Milwaukee and the surrounding areas.

Many IT Support Specialists work for businesses of all sizes, ranging from small startups to large corporations. Some graduates may find work in industries such as finance, healthcare, education, or government, depending on their interests and expertise. Additionally, many IT Support Specialists work for technology consulting firms, where they provide support to multiple clients across different industries.

Graduates of the MATC IT Support Specialist program may also find work in positions such as help desk technician, technical support specialist, or desktop support specialist. These positions may be available at companies such as software development firms, tech startups, or IT consulting firms.

Another option for IT Support Specialist graduates is to work for managed service providers (MSPs), which are companies that provide IT services and support to other businesses. MSPs may employ IT Support Specialists to work on-site at client locations or remotely from their own offices.

In addition to traditional employment opportunities, some graduates may choose to work as freelance IT Support Specialists or start their own IT support businesses.

Computer support specialists are employed in a variety of industries, including IT, education, finance, healthcare, and telecommunication. Many help desk technicians work for call centers and firms that contract with businesses, some work from home-based offices. Most computer support specialists work full time, and many work nights and weekends. There are many paths into this field; a bachelor’s degree is required for some positions, but an associate’s degree or related computer classes may be enough for other jobs.

We stay in touch with our graduates and collect their advancements and success stories. MATC IT Computer Support Program alumni work in IT Departments of various Milwaukee area employers: Aurora Heath Care, FIS, Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare, Kohl’s Department Stores, Northwestern Mutual, Milwaukee Public schools, Johnson Controls, Froedtert Hospital, Columbia St. Mary’s Hospital, Rockwell Automation, City of Milwaukee, ManpowerGroup, Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin, GE Healthcare, Quad/Graphics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Harley Davidson Motor Company, University of Wisconsin Milwaukee, U.S. Bank, Fiserv, TEKSystems, AT&T, BMO Harris Bank, Time Warner Cable, We Energies and other local Milwaukee based companies.

Most computer support specialists have full-time work schedules; however, many do not work typical 9-to-5 jobs. Because computer support is important for businesses, support services may need to be available 24 hours a day. As a result, many support specialists must work nights or weekends

Overall, graduates of the MATC IT Support Specialist program have a variety of options for where to work in Milwaukee and beyond. The program prepares students for success in a growing field with diverse career opportunities.

Career Advancement opportunities for IT Support Specialists

Even though most of MATC IT Computer Support Specialist graduates find initial jobs in IT Computer Support a lot of the them choose from various career advancement opportunities available in Information technology

Some support specialists later become software developers and network and computer systems administrators. As their careers advance, they choose different options available, based on their education and skills they have acquired. Based on the information available on LinkedIn IT Computer Support Specialist students work in Operations, Support, Sales, Healthcare Services, Engineering, Finance, Consulting, Program and Project Management , Information Technology and other organizational units.

IT Computer Support Specialists can advance into different areas of IT. Below chart shows career growth possibilities for the graduates:

Typical Industry Career Path for IT Computer Support Specialist (Source: PayScale.com)

Is IT Computer Support Specialist Career for Me?

Deciding whether a career as an IT Support Specialist is right for you can be a personal and complex decision. You can try by answering below questions to see if this might be a good fit for you:

Do you enjoy solving problems and helping others?
Do you enjoy consistently learning new technologies?
Do you have good analytical skills?
Do you like working with iPads, Android devices, Laptops, Computers, Macs, Smartphones and Tablets?
Are you communicating well with others?

If you answered yes to these questions, then the exciting and challenging world of IT Support Professional may be for you!

Here are some additional considerations for students to help answer the question:

Research IT Support field: Before making a decision, students should research the IT Support Specialist field to gain a better understanding of the day-to-day tasks, required skills, and potential career paths. This can involve speaking with IT Support Specialists, reading industry publications, and attending career fairs and networking events.

Consider your interests and strengths: Students should reflect on their interests and strengths to determine if a career as an IT Support Specialist aligns with their passions and skill set. Are they passionate about technology and problem-solving? Do they enjoy working with others and providing excellent customer service?

MATC allows you to take advantage of internships and job shadowing opportunities: Internships and job shadowing opportunities can provide students with hands-on experience and a chance to see if a career as an IT Support Specialist is a good fit for them. These experiences can also help students build their resume and network with professionals in the field.

Talk to your MATC academic advisor: Academic advisors can provide guidance on career paths and how the IT Support Specialist program can prepare students for success in the field. They can also provide resources for career exploration and job search strategies.

Take a self-assessment: There are many online self-assessment tools that can help students determine if a career as an IT Support Specialist is a good fit for them. These assessments can provide insight into personality traits, interests, and skills that are important for success in the field.

By taking these steps, students can gain a better understanding of the IT Support Specialist field and determine if a career as an IT Support Specialist is the right path for them.

Why Study at MATC

MATC offers cost effective education allowing students to prepare for this career in two years or less, if you study full time.
Based on your financial situation you might be eligible for Financial Aid.
IT Support curriculum is continually being evaluated and updated to reflect the latest technologies. Students attain the skills necessary to not only acquire a job in the IT support industry but also succeed in their new working environment. We have recently introduced new courses have been introduced to to help students learn smartphone and tablet technologies (IOS, Android and Windows Mobile), which are being adopted by local area businesses, Apple OSX and Microsoft Windows Enterprise Support
MATC IT Support instructors have experience working in the industry and are very passionate about student learning. Most of IT Support instructors are currently being employed and work in IT divisions of private companies, bringing the latest knowledge and techniques from the enterprise directly into the classroom. Learn more about MATC IT Support Faculty here.
Most MATC IT Support courses lead to industry certification, adding more job possibilities and helping students to differentiate them self as part of hiring process. You will be ready to take industry certification exams including CompTIA A+, Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS) – Windows 7, HDI Support Center Analyst (HDI-SCA), HDI – Dockside Support Technician, ITIL Foundation, Apple OSX Certified Professional (ACSP), Mobility+ Administrator (IOS, Android and Windows), COMPTIA Network+ and COMPTIA Security+.
MATC’s Information Technology Support Pathway allows students to start with Pathway Certificates and work toward Technical Diploma and Associate Degree Program. These offerings are designed for people with no IT experience as well as those currently working in the technical field to quickly get educational credentials from recognized school and help accelerate your career. Online and face-to-face courses are available, providing students with greater flexibility in completing the program.

Industry Certifications as part of IT Support Program

As part of IT Support Program we prepare students to pass IT industry certifications. You will be ready to take industry certification exams including CompTIA A+, HDI Support Center Analyst (HDI-SCA), HDI – Desktop Support Technician (HDI DST), ITIL Foundation, Apple OSX Certified Professional (ACSP), COMPTIA Network+ and COMPTIA Security+.

Tutoring for IT Support Specialist Students

As part of IT Computer Support Specialist program we would like students to succeed academically, so students can find jobs. You choose which way is best for you!

Walk-In Tutoring: walk-in tutoring is for the student who occasionally wants to “drop in.” Times and subjects tutored vary.

Supplemental Instruction (SI), also called group tutoring: Believe it or not, most people learn best in small groups! We offer Supplemental Instruction sessions that meet several times each week, with optional attendance.

Structured Learning Assistance (SLA), also called embedded tutoring: Students can get valuable help with assignments and studying in Chemistry by taking classes with assigned tutoring sessions.

Online Tutoring: Can’t get to campus for tutoring? Try one of these services via the Internet.

Transfer Agreements with 4 year colleges

MATC IT Computer Support Program makes it easy for you to start your bachelor’s degree. You can seamlessly transfer many MATC credits to virtually any four-year college or university in Wisconsin, and to others across the nation.

Below list the list of colleges with their programs, that accept MATC IT Computer Support program credits:

UW Milwaukee: Information Science and Technology
MSOE: Computer Science Degree
Cardinal Stritch University: Strategic Management Information Technology
Lakeland University: Computer Science
UW Parkside: Management Information Systems
UW Stout: Information and Computer Technologies

Meet IT Computer Support Faculty

Our instructors have many years of experience working in the industry and are very passionate about student learning. Most of IT Support instructors are currently being employed and work in IT divisions of private companies, bringing the latest knowledge and techniques from the enterprise directly into the classroom. Learn more about MATC IT Support Faculty.

MATC IT Support Advisory Board

Every 6 month MATC IT Team meets with IT Professionals from Milwaukee Area to align IT Computer Support Specialist Program curriculum and course offerings based on IT industry trends in Southeast Wisconsin. These advisers hold key management and leadership position in Milwaukee and bring to variety of perspectives and strengths gained through their education, careers, personal experience and their volunteer service in the community.

Our team of trusted advisers cares deeply about success of Milwaukee community, our student’s success and making MATC IT Support program the best educational offering in Milwaukee area. Some of the members of our Advisory Committee are graduates of MATC.

MATC IT Support Advisory Committee Members (from left to right): Zachary Kosh (VCPI Software Company), Mario Cortez (VCPI Software Company), Joe Kmoch (Milwaukee Public Schools), Diane Stasiewicz (Dart Chart Systems), Linda Miller (Johnson Controls), Jennifer Anderson (Manpower), Lester Best (Kohls Department Stores), Jason Wischer (Thomson Reuters)

Why Milwaukee Employers Hire MATC IT Computer Support Graduates

IT Support Graduates are very skilled with the latest IT technologies. They get hands on experiences as part of the labs and exercises, using actual technologies, devices and software used by local businesses
Computer Support Program graduates demonstrate continuous learning skills. IT Support curriculum is continually being enhanced to prepare student for new industry trends and power graduates with skills needed by modern Milwaukee enterprises.
Graduates come to the workplace fully prepared to contribute and deliver value day one. They have skills to support Microsoft Windows systems, Apples OSX devices, Mobile technologies(iPad, Android and Surface) and more.
Students are knowledgeable on the core core support technologies, processes and procedures: they use Incident Management systems, remote support systems, effective troubleshooting skills and more as part of their labs.
IT Support graduates learn solid business and soft skills to help them be more effective and provide value to organizations right away. Students attain practical knowledge and skills to help them communicate more effectively, manage stress, be more efficient and productive at work and succeed in the business environment, resulting in more productive workforce for employers
IT Computer Support Graduates are passionate about technology and success of your business and provide New Perspective and help lead technology upgrades and system integrations on Enterprises.
Graduates have versatile skills and can work solving different business and technology problems for organizations, contributing in different departments on the enterprise.
Students can complete organizational upgrade and technology projects, that might require industry certifications. Upon course completion students prepared to take certification exams: CompTIA A+, Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS) – Windows 7, HDI Support Center Analyst (HDI-SCA), HDI – Dockside Support Technician, ITIL Foundation, Apple OSX Certified Professional (ACSP), Mobility+ Administrator (IOS, Android and Windows), COMPTIA Network+ and COMPTIA Security+ and more.
IT Support graduates can continue to upgrade their skills with the changing organizational needs. They can go back to college to get additional skills, using newly developed IT Computer Support Pathway.

Scholarships for MATC IT Support Students

MATC offers a variety of scholarships that are available to students, including need-based scholarships, academic scholarships, and program-specific scholarships.

To apply for scholarships, students can start by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which is a government form that determines a student’s eligibility for financial aid. Additionally, students can visit the MATC website to learn more about the available scholarships and their eligibility requirements.

Furthermore, students can reach out to the MATC financial aid office for guidance and support in the scholarship application process. The financial aid office can provide information on deadlines, required documentation, and other important details.

In summary, the IT Support Specialist Program is an excellent choice for students who are interested in pursuing a career in the IT industry. MATC provides various opportunities for students to apply for scholarships, and the financial aid office is available to assist students in the scholarship application process.

Click here to Learn about available IT Computer Support Scholarships

Watch MATC IT Computer Support Specialist Student Testimonials and Success Stories

Next Step: Contact MATC IT Support Team to learn more

Questions about the program (Jonathan Arnold): arnoldjb@matc.edu

Call or Email US: Call: 414-297-6319 Email: stempathway@matc.edu

Register for IT Computer Support Degree Program: https://www.matc.edu/register/

Support Specialist Program