The Information Technology sector is expanding at a prolific rate and now affects all facets of business and the economy. In the Information and Communications Technology Council’s (ICTC) report, Current Snapshot of the Canadian ICT Labour Market, March 2007, a shortage of 100,000 skilled ICT workers is expected by 2009, one million by 2016. There are projected increases in demand specifically for IT Security, Systems Infrastructure Software, Telecommunications Services, and Hosted Application Management.
This concentration area prepares students for positions in Systems Administration, Network/Intranetwork Design, Security, User and Technical Support, and Helpdesk.
At AVC, we provide students with unparalleled access to resources (hardware, networking, and internetworking labs) and hands-on experience. The small class sizes and access to faculty provide wonderful learning opportunities.
Students have opportunities to gain considerable hands-on experience with computer hardware repair and servicing over and above the program requirements through the Annapolis Valley Computer Recycling Program located adjacent to the program’s Hardware Lab.
We deliver our operating systems, networking, and internetworking courses using project-based approaches, which enables learners to develop excellent problem-solving skills.
Most employers are looking for people who have not only technical skills, but also skills such as problem solving, teamwork, and communication. We place considerable emphasis on the integration of these essential employability skills into the completion of technical tasks. Students work in teams from the beginning of the program to develop effective teamwork skills; they conduct presentations and research and prepare reports for real-life situations.
Students from the Systems Management/Networking program at AVC have had great success in the Skills Canada provincial and national competitions. Between 2003 and 2007, AVC students have taken home eight medals provincially (two gold, four silver, and two bronze). Two students proceeded from provincial gold medal wins to taking the Bronze medals nationally in Website Development (Adam Moore, 2006) and IT and Network Support (Evan Isnor, 2007). Congratulations Adam and Evan!
AVC Systems Management/Networking grads have secured interesting and challenging employment in the field. Following are some of the employers of our graduates:
“I was offered a full time position at IAI and I accepted! I'll be employed here for some time…thanks to everyone at AVC for the support. I wouldn't be where I am without you guys! ”
Evan Isnor, Class of 2007
“This job perfectly follows what the Systems Management/Networking program taught. Hardware, networking, project writing and proposals, training employees on software, troubleshooting, etc.”
Justin Ash, Class of 2005
“…the NSCC has been the best thing that has happened to me from an educational standpoint and personal growth. ”
Sebastian Joseph, Class of 2004
“A good craftsman understands his tools, and although my current job entails primarily web development and programming, my tools are computers and networks. My choice of the SM/N program gave me the understanding of those tools that enables me to be versatile and adaptable. ”
Greg French, Class of 2004