IT Job Opportunities with a High School Diploma

I'm thinking about going straight into the IT field after high school rather than attending college. What types of IT jobs can I get with just a high school diploma? Any advice on how to get started would be awesome!

For someone just finishing high school with an interest in IT, there are positions you may consider to start your career. Common roles that may only require a high school diploma include IT Support Specialist, Help Desk Technician, and Junior Quality Assurance Tester, among others.

IT Support Specialists and Help Desk Technicians are generally the first line of contact for any technical issues within an organization. They help troubleshoot and resolve employee technical problems, either in-person or remotely.

There's also potential in Quality Assurance Testing, particularly in the software development sphere. Junior QA Testers help to test, identify, and document issues with a software product before it goes to market.

Another route to consider is to gain certifications relevant to IT, such as CompTIA A+, Network+, or Security+, which could bolster your resume and increase your likelihood of getting hired. Self-teaching coding languages like Python or Java also opens you up to more possibilities, including roles such as Junior Web Developer or Software Developer.

Regarding getting started—networking can play a crucial role in finding a job in IT. Join local IT communities, online forums, and social network groups related to IT. Look for internships or even volunteer opportunities to gain experience and expand your professional network. Build a portfolio showcasing any projects you have worked on; this could be anything from coding a simple program to creating a website.

Remember, even without a college degree, persistence, continuous learning, and acquiring new skills are vital strategies in landing and progressing an IT role. Good luck!