"I started working as a customer service representative for users of proprietary software suite in early September 2005. I moved to this new position from a research and reporting job with the same company. Both of these positions are with a contractor, which is a volatile and unstable world in which to work. Shortly after beginning this position, I noticed that the position and the team I was working on didn’t provide much opportunity for advancement or growth. In addition to that, after a short while the job ceased to be challenging or exciting. I have a B.S. in Information Systems Management, and some applicable IT background, but the bulk of my professional experience has been all over the map and I have been lacking the skills and certifications most sought after by IT companies and recruiters. This meant that switching to a new position, either with my company or another, but staying in the IT world was going to prove as a bit of a challenge. I heard about ComputerTraining.com on the radio and decided to research it and several other programs online. ComputerTraining.com’s program was the only one to offer the combination of specific training and the timeline that I was seeking. Other programs were either too long or geared towards associate degree programs.

The program was tough right out the gate, but the teacher did a fine job helping us understand the tougher concepts and gave us key tips to focus our studies in preparation for the certification exams. After the first few months, I was able to pass my first test and we were off and running. The tests began to come at a rapid fire pace, but I became more comfortable with the material and maintained focus on preparing for each test. To my own surprise, I was able to complete my MCSE two days before finishing the program.

While I still hold the same position with my company (at least in title), completing my MCSE in such a short amount of time has already opened the door to numerous opportunities for me. Almost immediately after the program ended I was allowed to study for and earn my CCNA on company time. I have also been given permission to study for my Network+ certification. Additionally, I have been given several opportunities to perform additional duties assisting full time IT staff. Soon I’ll be transferring to a new position within the company as a Systems/Network Administrator at our Research and Development Laboratory, which will mean an increase in responsibility as well as an increase in pay. All I needed was an opportunity to prove to my company that I had the capabilities to work in their IT department, and this course has given me that.

This program has already proven to be well worth the time, money, and effort. It’s intimidating and difficult, but if you’re willing to work hard, the program is not only educational but fun. I’d compare the pace of this course to a Master’s level course, minus the writing. The teachers are a great help, and you have to have the ability to motivate yourself and focus on your goal."

Chris Elbrecht
MCP, MCSA, MCSE
Network Administrator