Will a Certification Help My IT Career? Here’s What You Need to Know

Why the IT Industry Is Still Booming

Before diving into certifications, it’s important to understand the bigger picture. The IT industry isn’t just growing—it’s thriving.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment in computer and information technology occupations is projected to grow 15% from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 682,800 new jobs added over the decade.

The demand is fueled by cloud computing, big data, information security, and the ongoing need for IT support across every industry. Whether you’re interested in cybersecurity, network administration, or help desk support, there’s likely a career path waiting for you.

So back to the big question: Will a certification help my IT career? Given the current job market, the answer leans heavily toward yes.

How Certifications Can Boost Your IT Career

Certifications act as proof of your skills. They show employers that you’re committed, knowledgeable, and ready to contribute. While degrees take years to complete, certifications can often be earned in a matter of weeks or months, making them a faster route into (or up) the IT ladder.

Here’s how certifications help:

1. They Validate Your Knowledge

Let’s say you’ve been tinkering with networks at home or helping friends with their tech issues. A certification like CompTIA Network+ or Security+ turns your hobbyist know-how into recognized credentials. It answers the question, “Can this person really do the job?”

2. They Open Doors to Entry-Level Jobs

Entry-level positions such as IT support specialist, help desk technician, or junior network admin often require or prefer certifications. These roles are ideal for breaking into the industry, and having a certification on your resume can get your foot in the door faster.

3. They Help You Earn More

According to Global Knowledge’s 2023 IT Skills and Salary Report, certified IT professionals earn an average of $12,000 more per year than their non-certified peers. For example, professionals with the CompTIA Security+ certification earn an average salary of $84,000.

4. They Keep You Competitive

The tech field evolves constantly. Certifications are a great way to stay current, learn new tools, and stay ahead of the curve—especially if you’re transitioning from another industry.

Most Valuable Certifications for IT Careers

Wondering which certifications are most useful? Here are some highly recognized ones that can kick-start or elevate your career:

• CompTIA A+ – Great for beginners; covers foundational IT skills

• CompTIA Network+ – Focuses on networking infrastructure, security, and troubleshooting

• CompTIA Security+ – A must-have for aspiring cybersecurity professionals

• Cisco CCNA – Ideal for networking careers and advancing in enterprise IT

• Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals – Perfect for cloud-focused roles

Each of these certifications answers the all-important question: Will a certification help my IT career?—and the answer is a resounding yes, especially when paired with real-world training and support.

Where to Start? Digital Workshop Center Has You Covered

If you’re ready to dive into the world of IT certifications, it helps to have a trusted partner guiding you along the way. Digital Workshop Center offers hands-on, instructor-led training that’s built for adult learners and career changers alike.

Here are a few standout options:

• CompTIA A+ Certification Program
  Perfect for beginners looking to start their IT careers.

• CompTIA Network+ Certification Program
  A deep dive into networking concepts and infrastructure.

• CompTIA Security+ Certification Program
  Designed for those moving into the high-demand field of cybersecurity.

Each program includes personalized instruction, career coaching, and job search support—exactly what you need to succeed.

Real People, Real Results

Still wondering, Will a certification help my IT career? Let’s look at some real-world success.

Many students from Digital Workshop Center have gone from completely unrelated fields—hospitality, retail, even education—into thriving IT jobs within months of completing a certification program.

With the combination of expert instruction and industry-recognized credentials, they’ve found jobs as:

• IT support specialists

• Network administrators

• Cybersecurity analysts

• Cloud technicians

Their success proves that with the right training and a clear path, anyone can make the leap into tech.

What Employers Are Looking For

When employers scan resumes, they’re looking for a few things:

• Certifications: These tell them you’re serious and qualified.

• Hands-on experience: Which Digital Workshop Center’s programs help you get.

• A growth mindset: The IT world moves fast—being eager to learn is key.

So again, will a certification help my IT career? Absolutely, especially if you’re looking to stand out in a crowded job market or pivot into tech from another field.

Next Steps: Turn Your Curiosity into Action

If you’ve read this far, chances are you’re seriously considering a move into tech or want to grow your existing career. The good news is, you don’t have to go it alone. Certification programs from Digital Workshop Center are designed to fit into your busy life, help you learn efficiently, and give you the credentials that hiring managers want to see.

Ready to stop asking “Will a certification help my IT career?” and start finding out for yourself? Explore your options, reach out for a free career consultation, and take the first step toward a more rewarding future.

Final Thoughts

The world of IT is full of opportunity—and it’s only getting bigger. Whether you’re just starting out, returning to the workforce, or changing careers, certifications are a powerful way to validate your skills and set yourself apart.

So let’s settle it: Will a certification help my IT career? Yes, it very likely will. With strong job growth, competitive salaries, and plenty of pathways to specialize, now’s the time to invest in yourself and your future in tech.

Check out Digital Workshop Center’s certifications and start mapping out your path today.