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Job outlook for junior network administrators in the United States
Junior network administrator job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected junior network administrator job growth rate is 5% from 2018-2028.
About 18,200 new jobs for junior network administrators are projected over the next decade.
Junior network administrator salaries have increased 9% for junior network administrators in the last 5 years.
There are over 100,007 junior network administrators currently employed in the United States.
There are 121,498 active junior network administrator job openings in the US.
The average junior network administrator salary is $51,121.
Are junior network administrator jobs in demand?
Junior network administrator job and salary trends over time
Junior network administrator jobs over time
Junior network administrator job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 100,007 | 0.03% |
| 2020 | 175,720 | 0.05% |
| 2019 | 82,891 | 0.02% |
| 2018 | 67,842 | 0.02% |
| 2017 | 69,372 | 0.02% |
Average junior network administrator salary over time
Junior network administrator salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $51,121 | $24.58 | +3.4% |
| 2024 | $49,436 | $23.77 | +2.3% |
| 2023 | $48,317 | $23.23 | +1.2% |
| 2022 | $47,758 | $22.96 | +1.8% |
| 2021 | $46,933 | $22.56 | +2.4% |
Junior network administrator jobs by state
Most common states for junior network administrators
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 536 | 77% |
| 2 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 2,633 | 31% |
| 3 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 1,875 | 31% |
| 4 | Alaska | 739,795 | 191 | 26% |
| 5 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 1,321 | 24% |
| 6 | Vermont | 623,657 | 138 | 22% |
| 7 | Utah | 3,101,833 | 635 | 20% |
| 8 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 1,276 | 19% |
| 9 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 250 | 19% |
| 10 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 133 | 18% |
| 11 | Delaware | 961,939 | 163 | 17% |
| 12 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 165 | 16% |
| 13 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 95 | 16% |
| 14 | Arizona | 7,016,270 | 1,067 | 15% |
| 15 | Alabama | 4,874,747 | 746 | 15% |
| 16 | Oregon | 4,142,776 | 626 | 15% |
| 17 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 1,051 | 14% |
| 18 | New Mexico | 2,088,070 | 282 | 14% |
| 19 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 265 | 14% |
| 20 | South Dakota | 869,666 | 118 | 14% |
Most common cities for junior network administrators
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pocatello | 1 | 2% | $50,603 |
| 2 | Huntsville | 1 | 1% | $43,810 |
| 3 | Los Angeles | 1 | 0% | $56,964 |
| 4 | Miami | 1 | 0% | $45,669 |
| 5 | Portland | 1 | 0% | $54,644 |
Junior Network Administrator job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of junior network administrator experts
Governors State University
California State University - East Bay
Palm Beach State College
University of New Haven
Western Illinois University
California State University - Long Beach
Bakersfield College
Purdue University
University of New Hampshire
Dominican University
Kennesaw State University
The University of Texas at Arlington
Idaho State University
Fairfield University
New York Institute of Technology
University of South Alabama
Indiana University Bloomington
University of Illinois
Western Kentucky University
What general advice would you give to a Junior Network Administrator?
Rich Manprisio MPM, PMP: Soft skills are necessary always but in regard to technical skills I see AI having a more prevalent role in IT. Graduates will need to look for ways both to leverage AI to help deal with cybersecurity related issues in addition on how AI can aid in complete infrastructure tasks
What Junior Network Administrator skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Rich Manprisio MPM, PMP: Make sure you stay on top of the latest developments with technology. With the fluidity of technology, students today need to have the solid groundwork of a degree in IT but also understand things are continually changing and this need to always be continuing their learning and professional development.
What will help Junior Network Administrators increase their earning potential?
Rich Manprisio MPM, PMP: Certifications help set you apart from other graduates. When just starting out focus on vendor neutral certifications that can show potential employers that you are willing to get the necessary additional certifications that are prevalent in the IT field.
Dr. Bobby Roohparvar Ph.D.
Professor of Computer Science and Computer EngineeringCalifornia State University - East Bay
Computer Systems Networking And Telecommunications
What general advice would you give to a Junior Network Administrator?
Dr. Bobby Roohparvar Ph.D.: *The anxiety of AI is likely to change the landscape of computer networking, is a real threat but in my opinion, it won't eliminate the need for human network engineers. The focus will likely shift towards more strategic tasks, complex problem-solving, and leveraging AI tools to improve network efficiency and security.*
*Here again, I will explain in more detail about the expectation and future of Comp. Network Eng.*
* 1. AI Augments, Not Replaces: While AI can automate some network tasks, like data analysis and basic troubleshooting, it won't replace the need for human network engineers. It will increase the productivity for sure; Complex problem-solving, strategic decision-making, and human judgment are still crucial in network management. AI will likely become a valuable tool that assists network engineers in their tasks, making them more efficient.*
*2. Growing Demand: Our reliance on technology and data is constantly increasing. Businesses and organizations need secure, reliable networks to function. This necessitates a skilled workforce to design, implement, maintain, and secure these networks. The demand for qualified network engineers is expected to grow in the coming years.*
*In our technology horizon, I can see the quantum internet coming and I can see the demand for network engineering accelerate.*
*3. Diverse Skillset: A strong foundation in computer networking equips you with a versatile skillset. You'll understand network protocols, security concepts, and troubleshooting methodologies. These skills are valuable across the IT field and can be applied to areas like cloud computing, data center operations, or even cybersecurity. Data Centers for AI are becoming a huge opportunity for Comp Network Eng.*
Laura Kier
Network Design and Administration InstructorWhat general advice would you give to a Junior Network Administrator?
Laura Kier: Students graduating from the Computer Network Design and Administration program will enter the job market with a solid foundation in networking technologies. Above that they should also be able to develop and demonstrate excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Networking has a strong emphasis on teamwork and being able to communicate well with customers, co-workers and teammates is vital. Attaining certifications in Cisco, Linux, Windows, and security will also help the student stand out within the industry (classes in the program help to learn the knowledge needed to attain certifications). Students should participate in any local or online communities and groups to enhance skills and knowledge and find networking opportunities.
What Junior Network Administrator skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Laura Kier: Computer Networking is a dynamic field with a wide variety of opportunities in many different industries. Some skills that will be more important in general are skills in software defined networking and automation. Skills in the DevOps field will be necessary, as well as skills leveraging AI tools. Cybersecurity is always important and using AI tools to enhance security and monitoring is necessary.
What will help Junior Network Administrators increase their earning potential?
Laura Kier: Learn to present your skills well from the interview and into your career. Those communication skills count! Industry certifications like CCNA matter. They help you demonstrate a willingness to grow and learn beyond what was required for your degree. Be willing to take on new challenges with your new job and keep learning new skills. It is really important for graduates to understand that talented IT professionals can move up quickly in a company, but they often must start at the bottom to showcase their technical and soft skills. Because of that, they should not shy away from entry level jobs if there is potential for growth.
Dwight Elliot
Professor: Information Management, Cybersecurity & LawPalm Beach State College
Homeland Security
What will help Junior Network Administrators increase their earning potential?
Dwight Elliot: Combination of Theoretical and Practical Knowledge: Ensure that you have a strong
combination of theoretical knowledge and practical hands-on skill sets. You must be able
to articulate your knowledge and experience well in an interview and demonstrate what
you are able to do. Be prepared to show examples of precious work that you have
produced or created.
b) Job Research: Always engage in continuous job search Online and in-person. Read
carefully the job description and determine how your background, knowledge and
experience fits best with the job you are reviewing. Customize your resume to that job if
you feel you have the appropriate matching skill sets. If you do not have all the skills sets
at the time, be willing to set mini-goals to gain those skills and update your resume when
you do add additional skills, then reapply to the appropriate jobs available.
c) Online Job Database: Gradually build your profile on various IT and Cybersecurity jobs
such as: www.dice.com, www.monster.com, and www.cyberseek.org and also at the
organizational and company website. Once you setup an Online profile it will make it
easier to reapply in the future for other jobs that are related to your background.
d) Keywords: Make sure you list certain keywords on your resume that matches the jobs, if
you have those skills, so when a HR representative reviews resumes you have the
appropriate terms on your resume that match the job and the algorithms can identify your
skill set. Only do this if you have the actual knowledge and skill can explain yourself in
an interview. Do not do this if you do not have the actual knowledge and skill, since
being asked a question in an interview that you are unqualified to answer is not a good
look for your career and could be detrimental.
e) Continuous Learning: Be willing to engage in continuous learning, studying beyond
your degree accomplishments, since learning never stops and technology continues to
change. Maybe also pursue certifications.
f) Professional Online Business Portfolio and Brand: Continue to build a strong Online
IT, Networking and Cybersecurity Portfolio, through websites such as Linked in for
example, and also your own secure website that shows demonstrations of the creative
work that you have done in the past for clients and other jobs.
g) IT , Networking and Cybersecurity Events, Seminars and Conferences: Be willing to
always continue to attend events, seminars and conferences (in person and virtual) and
actually meet industry professionals. Do a search these events Online at all times.
What general advice would you give to a Junior Network Administrator?
Dwight Elliot: In addition to the following 10 best practices from the article below, I would like to share the
following approach to career and job success that leads to maximization of salary during a
career:
a) Employers' Vision and Mission: Focus on understanding the vision and mission of the
organization you work for and what is important to them. If the idea, concept, or project
is important to them then it is important to you. Understand the history and background
of the company, the current project, financial and financial growth goals of the company,
who their competitors are, and what competitive edge the company have or some that you
can suggest. Do not just concentrate on what you want from the job (such as a good
salary, everyone says this). Make sure you are providing the employer with value, what
they want and need from you and in return you are laying the foundation and a strong
case for what you want and need from the job. This is an essential component of making
yourself valuable and marketable for salary increases and promotions based on your
performance and your measurable growth contribution to the organization.
b) Environmental Awareness and Communication with Stakeholders: Be sure you take
the time to learn the different internal and external stakeholders within the organization.
Understanding and respecting organizational structures as well as hierarchies and
following processes and communication protocols matter in an organization. You must
know who to speak to about what, when , where and how. Know your job well and how it
is related to the job of other people on your team. Understand and respect the role of all
individuals within the organization, especially those who are above you. If you do not yet
know their role within the organization begin to ask questions nicely of someone who
does know the players well and the history behind certain key positions. Get to learn the
written and unwritten rules. Saying the wrong thing to the wrong person could cost you a
job or be detrimental to your career in the long term. In the alternative, making a good
impression by communicating properly with the right person could open doors for you
now and in the future. This is an essential component of making yourself valuable and
marketable for salary increases and promotions based on your performance and your
measurable growth contribution to the organization.
c) Employer's View: Are You An Asset or Liability? Try your best to understand the
employer's point of view versus your own. Engage in micro level vs. macro level
comparative analysis as best you can. This means you make a concerted effort to think
about what is important to your employers or clients and how you can be instrumental in
meeting their needs at the highest level of performance, then think of how you can benefit
based on your valuable contribution. Ask yourself each day whether you are an asset to
the company or liability?, and be truly honest with yourself. What unique value do you
bring to the team, such as advanced data analytics skills, advanced accounting skills,
advanced technological skills, etc. Is there anything that you are doing that detracts from
this value that can make this valuable asset that you bring non-useful or non-impactful?
This is an essential component of making yourself valuable and marketable for salary
increases and promotions based on your performance and your measurable growth
contribution to the organization.
d) Be Present Physically, Mentally and with Positive Energy: Please be sure that you are
showing up to work ahead of time or at least on time.
a. Physically Present: Many individuals lose job opportunities just based on their
inability to be present and accountable for work on time. High level employees
actually show up to work 30 minutes to an hour early on a consistent basis.
b. Mentally Present: While you are at work you need to be fully engaged in work
related activity. This means that you do not spend an inordinate amount of time on
your cellphone looking at non work related messages, such as social media and
non-work related text. This is not fair to the employer and you will not allow you
to maximize your contribution to the organization or put in the work necessary to
make yourself a valuable asset to the company. What you do with your time is
what you become.
c. Energy, Communication and Positive Presence: Be sure that your energy level
is monitored and you positive in your communications, since this ultimately
affects profits and losses if a customer does not return to do business with you or
an employer because of how they were treated. Your outlook and energy affect
your overall job performance, business and career growth and ultimately your
profits. All your roles within an organization require good communication and
customer service skills. Be sure that your energy level is uplifting, positive and
creates an atmosphere where customers and colleagues feel welcome to do
business with you. This is a "little" thing that can make a big difference.
e) E) Respectful: Ensure that you are respecting others in the same way and even more than
you want them to respect you. Give as much or more than you receive, and your career
will be even more fulfilling. Ultimately a person's attitude determines their altitude in
life.
These are essential components of making yourself valuable and marketable for salary
increases and promotions based on your performance and your measurable growth
contribution to the organization..
f) Documentation of Biography, Website, Linkedin Portfolio and GitHub: Please be
sure that your are consistently updating you BIO, resume, LinkedIn, website or any other
form of professional documentation that ensures your accomplishments, achievements
and status is current and up to date. As you engage in professional development trainings,
gain certifications or additional degrees, and add additional experiences be sure to update
your profile so that you are maximizing your value.
Implementing these best practices consistently will help position you for salary increases and
promotions based on your performance and measurable growth contribution to the organization.
What Junior Network Administrator skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dwight Elliot: Core Skills Areas: data security, networking, software development, cybersecurity, systems
engineering, AI, data analytics, financial and risk analysis, security intelligence, GDPR
Certifications (some important ones):
1) CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+
2) Microsoft Certified: Security, Compliance, and Identity Fundamentals
3) Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
4) Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
5) Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
6) Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE)
7) Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
Soft Skills: honesty, integrity and trust, compliance, communication (in-person and live) then
virtual, patience, accountability and dependability, transparency, trainable and coachable,
teamwork, discipline, commitment, dedication, humility, time management, project management
Adrian Rusu
Professor, Alice E. and Michael J. Fisher Teaching Chair in Computer ScienceUniversity of New Haven
Computer Science
What general advice would you give to a Junior Network Administrator?
Adrian Rusu: By getting involved in internships, co-ops, or other potential real-world experiences in their field of interest, so they can obtain real-world experience beyond classroom during their studies. Generally, employers value graduates who already have relevant real-world experience and who therefore can easier adapt to job requirements.
What Junior Network Administrator skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Adrian Rusu: Soft skills will be important as graduates will have the opportunity to interact with a variety of professionals and customers. Relating to and understanding customers' point of view is critical to their ability to deliver technical solutions that meet customers' needs.
In addition to soft skills, technical skills in high demand and emerging areas of interest will be important. Whether graduates have interest in developing information technology infrastructure, providing information security services, or getting involved in business analysis, they would need to deepen their technical skills in those areas.
What will help Junior Network Administrators increase their earning potential?
Adrian Rusu: Since an Information Systems degree covers a variety of different types of jobs, a graduate beginning their career has a variety of opportunities. My advice is to follow their interests and pursue jobs in their area of interest.
Hoyet Hemphill Ph.D.
IDT Program Coordinator and Graduate Advisor, Instructional Design and TechnologyWestern Illinois University
School of Engineering and Technology
What skills stand out on Junior Network Administrator resumes?
Hoyet Hemphill Ph.D.: The next K12 job mostly advertised is Technology specialist, and the majority of the skills include knowledge of data visualization tools like google data studio, strong spreadsheet skills. (Google Sheets is preferred.), ability to collect, organize, analyze, and disseminate significant amounts of information with attention to detail and accuracy, excellent communication and analytical skills, knowledge of data analytics, ability to troubleshoot data questions, excellent organizational skills including attention to detail and multi-tasking skills, excellent client-facing and internal communication skills. Duties most seen include interpreting, summarizing, and communicating data analyses to clients, ability to create forms and strategies to help schools efficiently and effectively collect data, download, review, and interpret school-related data from assessment providers, school spreadsheets, and other systems.
The skills required majorly for the curriculum designer position include understanding by design principles for curriculum design, excellent interpersonal and communication skills, excellent writing skills, ability to create effective and fair assessment methods. The duties include collaborating effectively and extensively with internal and external partners, including content and specialty teams to ensure the curriculum is developed in accordance with all articulated quality standards, overseeing the review/feedback process for all subject curriculum, including coordination of teacher review teams, consensus building, conflict resolution, planning, and decision-making, etc.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Junior Network Administrator job market given the pandemic?
Dr. Lesley Farmer: Many employees have trouble pivoting to online work so in the short term, tech support and instructional design jobs are in high demand. Data privacy and security are also hot topics and need ed tech expertise. Tech maintenance, including cloud services and networks, continue to be needed, rather like car maintenance. Thinking forward, software development is another area of need, particularly with more online-based education. If grads have data analytics expertise, they can find jobs on data management and learning analytics.
Disabilities continue to be an issue, particularly in terms of equity, so jobs dealing with assistive technology and other ed tech supports are possible. Finally, grads should broaden their concept of educational settings; informal education is more important than ever: in business/HR, libraries and museums, recreational and youth-serving clubs, mass media, government and non-profit agencies. All of these entities are involved in training, outreach, PR, and public awareness/education. Be creative and persistent.
What Junior Network Administrator skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Lesley Farmer: Internships are probably the best option, even if unpaid. Some institutions provide career placement services, and grads could contact their instructors about possible options. Companies, professional associations, and non-profits also advertise internships.
What general advice would you give to a Junior Network Administrator?
Dr. Lesley Farmer: Get to know the site before interviewing, and remember that even interviews are an opportunity to practice communication skills-and to see if there's a good match between you and the site. Once hired, learn about the organizational culture and develop trustful relationships. Make one memorable contribution the first month, but focus on becoming an expert before changing others. In addition, join a local and national professional association to keep current and network.
What general advice would you give to a Junior Network Administrator?
Maryam Farahani: Thinking about the fields they want to experience or try. And to be intentional about their job search. The best advice is learning as much as they can about what company offers. Visualizing themselves in the next 5 years as a starting point. Do they want to travel a lot, or be in management positions? Do they want to be subject matter expert, or a hands-on engineer or technologist? Their goal may change as they progress in their career but having one makes a big difference in their career choices and keeping them on track.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Junior Network Administrators to find work opportunities?
Jennifer Richardson Ph.D.: In our field, Learning Design or Instructional Design, there is no shortage of places, anywhere there are corporations and higher education institutions provides opportunities. Military and non-profits also provide opportunities for designers looking in those directions. When it comes to K-12 it is more the skills of technology coordinators and trainers that are sought out, a different balance than other instructional designers might encounter.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Junior Network Administrator job market given the pandemic?
Jennifer Richardson Ph.D.: The need for problem-solving abilities and adeptness at technology use for communication and training opportunities. If we've learned anything from 2020 it is that we need to be able to pivot at a moment's notice.
What skills stand out on Junior Network Administrator resumes?
Jennifer Richardson Ph.D.: Always the soft skills - they stand out I think first and foremost regardless of where you are coming from and where you are going to. Without the ability to communicate, collaborate, facilitate, and problem-solve it is tough to succeed in today's environment. Experience is also key no matter the position; without prior experience to demonstrate the skills you are indicating you have trained for it is hard for those doing the hiring to know if you have learned the skills or if you have learned and experienced (or applied) those skills. Students should seek out opportunities to apply their skills while still working through their program. I believe going forward with K-12 educators we will see that those that have training or professional development with teaching at a distance will go a long way. Before COVID-19 hit we were already planning a new offering for virtual instruction licensure, it is now garnering a lot of attention.
Marc Lessard
ProfessorUniversity of New Hampshire
Physics and Astronomy Department and Space Science Center
What experience really stands out on Junior Network Administrator resumes?
Marc Lessard: Students who have been significantly involved in research projects have a distinct advantage over those who haven't. Those who began such work (which is typically paid) as sophomores or juniors often will have played a significant role in these real-world research efforts, which can be very different than what might be tackled as part of a capstone project.
Written and oral presentation skills are also essential!
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Junior Network Administrator job market given the pandemic?
Kate Marek Ph.D.: Probably an acceleration of existing trends - remote working, skill-set based job openings (rather than degree-specific), along with an ongoing need for necessary skills such as writing, problem-solving, collaboration, and project management.
What Junior Network Administrator skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Kate Marek Ph.D.: If possible, find a paid internship in your area of interest, which will help expand your professional network and build your skillset. Use this time to keep scanning job ads to identify skill sets in demand; look for online mini-courses to make those skill sets.
What general advice would you give to a Junior Network Administrator?
Kate Marek Ph.D.: Choose an organization in tune with one's values. Look for a job in growth areas, such as data asset management, data analysis, etc.
What experience really stands out on Junior Network Administrator resumes?
Adeel Khalid Ph.D.: It is the age of diversity. A graduate can stand out when their resume shows a broad portfolio of experiences. In addition to a solid academic record, students who demonstrate that they can take on challenging tasks and work beyond a degree's basic requirements are more likely to be successful. I advise students to get involved in various activities, including undergraduate research projects, student design competitions, student organizations, internships, co-ops, etc. All of these should be highlighted on the resume. When a recruiter sees an overview of a student that shows relevant work experience in the form of work-study, internships, or co-op or research, their resume automatically comes to the top of the pile.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Junior Network Administrators to find work opportunities?
Dr. Kay-Yut Chen Ph.D.: The traditional tech hubs, such as the SF Bay Area, will still be a magnet for tech opportunities. However, the pandemic has created a work-from-home trend. Many companies, such as Twitter, are allowing employees to work-from-home permanently.
As a result, having all the tech talent to assemble in a few regions is no longer necessary. Living standards, lower taxes, and affordable cost of living will become more critical than before. Places like the Dallas Fort-Worth metroplex, with no state income tax, lower living costs than the SF Bay Area, particularly in real estate. Still, good infrastructure and a vibrant and diverse population will become more attractive.
I would also expect graduates' location will become a less important factor, relatively, compared to skills, talent, and motivation, of finding exciting information science careers as time goes on.
What are the best companies to work for a Junior Network Administrator?
Dr. Kay-Yut Chen Ph.D.: The pandemic has changed, probably in the long run, of consumer behavior in the U.S. It accelerates the adoption of online shopping and further shifted demand from offline to online. The pandemic has also changed work modality and encouraged working from home. As a result, online retailers and delivery services, like Amazon, Doordash, and Instacart, are experiencing tremendous growth. Note that this shift was going to happen, even without the pandemic. The pandemic only accelerated this trend.
Hence, the best companies to work for are the ones with products and services more in demand. Amazon, Doordash, Instacart on the frontline, and all the technology suppliers, such as HP Enterprise, on the backend. As people are stuck at home, and digital entertainment (video games + streaming) is also becoming more in-demand. That will be another employment growth area, mainly when theaters and large scale in-person entertainment events will be stuck in limbo for a while.
Will there be an increase or decrease in demand for Junior Network Administrators in the next 5 years?
Dr. Kay-Yut Chen Ph.D.: I would predict an increase in demand for graduates in information sciences and related fields in the next few years. The growth has already been strong before the pandemic, as more and more companies were going through or planning to go through digital transformation to stay competitive. While the epidemic did seriously reduce the prospects and investments of some sectors of the economy (such as mall operators), it helps others. The performance of the stock market seems to indicate that the balance is on the positive.
Also, once a safe and effective vaccine is developed (and we have been receiving positive news lately in that regard), the recovering economy will certainly further stimulate the demand for information science.
What experience really stands out on Junior Network Administrator resumes?
Darren Leavitt: Civil Engineering technician students have the following skills, which stand out on a resume, especially for those looking to hire these students: the ability to efficiently use the latest technology in the surveying industry, such as GPS, 3D scanning, and unmanned aerial systems, an understanding of Autocad Civil 3D software and road design standards, and certifications as materials testing technicians in the areas of aggregate, concrete, compaction, and asphalt.
What Junior Network Administrator skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Darren Leavitt: For the items mentioned above, skills are best enhanced by working in an industry where there currently resides many positions.
What technology do you think will become more important and prevalent for Junior Network Administrators in the next 3-5 years?
Darren Leavitt: Technology is ever-changing and improving. We expect to see 3D scanning and unmanned aerial systems prevail as the most advancing technology shortly.
Will there be an increase or decrease in demand for Junior Network Administrators in the next 5 years?
Joshua Elliott Ed.D.: The demand for educators with a background will continue to increase. Many realize that what is happening now in education (in response to the pandemic) is more online survival than online teaching. In many cases, this is true on both the K-12 and higher education levels.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Junior Network Administrators to find work opportunities?
Joshua Elliott Ed.D.: Although I am not sure where the best places are to work geographically, many states are adopting initiatives like Open Educational Resources (OER) and ISTE Certification for Educators, both of which are a part of the Fairfield University Educational Technology program.
What general advice would you give to a Junior Network Administrator?
Babak Beheshti Ph.D.: As most economies in the world have moved towards a "gig economy" paradigm, it is essential for graduates beginning their careers to adopt an entrepreneurial and self-guided career mindset. Young professionals would need to take charge of their professional development. This means that they must continually remind themselves that the knowledge learned shelf life is reducing more and more every year. New skills and technologies come into the picture. They must know these new skills on their own to maintain their competitive edge in the job market. Moreover, young professionals must view every position they hold to be an added chapter in their portfolio - every position held should be considered an experiential skill added to the resume.
What technology do you think will become more important and prevalent for Junior Network Administrators in the next 3-5 years?
Babak Beheshti Ph.D.: -The enormous growth of IoT and wearables. The number of connected devices is expected to be more than 26 billion in 2020. That includes things like household appliances, controllable lighting, and much more. This trend is likely to continue as it is expected to see the industry grow to 661 billion dollars by 2021.
-We will be witnessing a more widespread commercial deployment of 5G in 2020. With the implementation of the Standalone 5G devices based on the 3gpp release 16, we should be seeing the more robust mobile broadband deployment of 5G, wider availability of 5G smartphones, and a push towards an all 5G Network in select urban areas around the world.
-Significant growth in AI-based technologies, from face recognition and voice recognition to business intelligence and market predictions. As machines and deep learning algorithms get integrated into many applications, many industries will undergo substantial changes. AI systems will continue to interact with our phones; cars will interpret and analyze their surroundings and intelligently drive themselves. Online vendors will monitor our browsing habits, and Google decides what kind of search results to give us, based on who it thinks we are.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Junior Network Administrators?
Dr. Matt Campbell Ph.D.: During this pandemic, the demand for Health Informatics graduates is increasing as healthcare organizations increasingly rely on various technologies to reduce the risk of contagion while still delivering patient care. One of the primary methods of reducing that risk is the increased use of video conferencing technologies. Health informaticists conduct more meetings via video conferencing, but they are supporting their organizations' increased needs for it.
For example, pandemic-inspired changes in billing guidelines and government regulation have allowed for much broader adoption of telemedicine among providers, which is taxing existing organizational resources. Health informaticists are helping healthcare meet the challenges of this new "normal." Overall, I believe that the current pandemic and the associated changes that are being made in response to it will provide exciting new opportunities and better job security for those in the field of Health Informatics.
Krista Glazewski
Professor & Department ChairIndiana University Bloomington
Department of Instructional Systems Technology
How do you envision technology impacting Junior Network Administrators in the next 5 years?
Krista Glazewski: More than likely, I think we will see the most significant impacts in ways that bring together data science and learning analytics, so that designers and educators can make informed decisions about learning pathways and progressions. Five years from now, we will have more information than we ever imagined we could have about learners, and the key will be to make reasoned inferences about the meaning behind that information. Of course, individuals in our profession will confront complex questions, and they will have to engage ethical reasoning to ensure we are making responsible decisions.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Junior Network Administrators?
Krista Glazewski: I think graduates will be working from home for the foreseeable future in this field. Now that we have developed a workflow for virtual teamwork, teams can be formed to maximize skills and distribute expertise. Instructional designers can work from home pretty quickly, and it's likely to stay that way. The exception to that might be brick-and-mortar universities. Most are hoping to return to residential campus life as quickly as possible, and they will generally want their designers to consult with instructors and faculty in person. In the short run, I think the pandemic has created an increased need for instructional designers, and I think that will likely be the case in the long run, too, now that more organizations have had the chance to experience the value that instructional designers bring to their groups.
What experience really stands out on Junior Network Administrator resumes?
Krista Glazewski: These positions might be called instructional designers, learning designers, learning specialists, educational technologists, course designers, training developers, or learning engineers. But they all have one thing in common - people in these positions are skilled in developing creative solutions that meet a wide range of instructional and training needs. Employers generally like well-rounded and flexible individuals - someone who can work individually or on a diverse team. Something that stands out on resumes is when people show range. This might be a range of skill or format or technical expertise or any combination.
For example, it is excellent if someone can showcase that they have designed everything from webinars through entire curricular progressions and anything in between. It also helps when applicants can show that they can prepare for instructor-led or self-paced experiences. And it's valuable if applicants show that they can reason about complex issues to enhance learning and performance for a wide range of diverse learners. So I also think it's essential for applicants to show the content of inclusive and culturally relevant strategies. More specifically, I think employers are looking to see how applicants can visit the complexities of learning issues and meet those with practical, on-the-ground solutions.
Furthermore, designers have to be good communicators, making sure that everything in the application, resume, and portfolio showcases strong communication skills. I also think employers also want to see technical skills, but I mean this broadly. If you have visual design skills or media expertise, or programming competence, find a way to showcase it.
What general advice would you give to a Junior Network Administrator?
Ranganathan Chandrasekaran: As we roll into another month of the COVID-19 pandemic, graduating students are facing one of the worst moments of their lives. They face several uncertainties; due to financial challenges, uncertainty about completing their degrees on time, adjusting to online and hybrid modes of learning, and worst of all, facing the worst job market. As a result, I see the stress and anxiety levels among the graduating students to be significantly higher, at levels I have not experienced in my academic career.
Several businesses have been hit hard by the pandemic, and they have rolled back their offers made to students for internships and jobs. Businesses have also resorted to downsizing and layoffs, and we are likely to see that continue, at least in the near term. However, two sectors that are showing promises of a quick turnaround are technology and healthcare.
It might take many months for the economy to get back on track, but the demand for information systems graduates is likely to grow, as a large number of businesses have turned to increased use of technology in this pandemic period. As more companies go digital, we need more professionals to manage the remote-work, technological infrastructure and meet the other demands of the business. Students pursuing education in information systems, computer science, and healthcare are going to be in greater demand.
On the positive side, the uncertainties induced by the pandemic have also helped students to prepare themselves better for a tougher job market. I found many students rise up and use the lockdown period to have a serious introspection and invest their time and effort in upgrading their knowledge and skills. The internship drought and rescinding of job/internship offers brought their dreams crashing down, but I found several students to quickly get over their disappointments, and engage in improving their skillsets utilizing the pandemic lockdown as an opportunity. I am aware of many students, especially in the information systems disciple, who spent time doing online courses, completing certification programs, and take up DIY projects on data analysis, developing analytical and forecasting models, and visualization of various aspects of the pandemic. The pandemic has resulted in massive amounts of data, released by several organizations worldwide, that have provided a stimulant for students to indulge in DIY-projects. I had several students approach me over summer to do some projects, and we have done some interesting projects using public datasets related to COVID-19.
What Junior Network Administrator skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Ranganathan Chandrasekaran: With remote-working and virtual collaborations becoming routine, more firms are increasing their investments in technology. In my opinion, irrespective of the location, many companies will seek to hire technology professionals.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Junior Network Administrators?
Ranganathan Chandrasekaran: I expect companies, across the board, to 'go-digital' more than ever before. This pandemic has taught us that a lot can be achieved by clever use of technologies and by working remotely and virtually. The pandemic has also served as a wake-up call for several firms with outdated and inflexible technological infrastructures, weak cybersecurity, and poor business continuity plans. I see firms across many industries to digitize a lot of their processes and operations. With increased digitization, cybersecurity is going to be much more important. Tele-work, use of smart devices, and use of AI-driven operations is going to accelerate at a rapid pace. Many firms will be forced to undertake technology projects that they have been sidelining for a long time and swiftly execute them.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Junior Network Administrators?
Kirk Atkinson: Enduring is a vague term; there is likely to be an impact on them, until life normalizes. The pandemic will no doubt affect these graduates for years to come, in yet undetermined ways. My concern is focused on communication skills. The ability to speak concisely with others typically ranks high in potential employers' list of abilities. Will social-distancing and mask-wearing hamper these important skills even further or have the opposite effect?
How do you envision technology impacting Junior Network Administrators in the next 5 years?
Kirk Atkinson: AI and machine learning are already impacting the field and will continue to empower change. Employees must be more ready than ever for life-long learning. This means more than formal education; it also includes self-learning, free and lost-cost, web-based learning, and a willingness to adapt to various roles. The ability to interpret the analysis of data and critical thinking will continue to be sought after skills!
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Junior Network Administrators to find work opportunities?
Kirk Atkinson: Metropolitan areas traditionally are the hotspots for jobs in this profession. However, technological advances, threats of terrorism, Covid-19, and an already developing trend toward remote work practices may find workers in less than traditional office surroundings. As rural areas advance in high-speed Internet availability, look for more telecommuting from home.