How To Become A Network Technology Instructor: What It Is and Career Path

What is a network technology instructor and how to become one

Updated January 8, 2025

3 min read

Quoted expert

Dr. Bobby Roohparvar Ph.D.

The average network technology instructor salary is $60,503. The most common degree is a bachelor's degree degree with an business major. It usually takes 1-2 years of experience to become a network technology instructor. Network technology instructors with a CompTIA A+ Certification certification earn more money. Between 2018 and 2028, the career is expected to grow 5% and produce 18,200 job opportunities across the U.S.

What general advice would you give to a network technology instructor?

Dr. Bobby Roohparvar Ph.D.

Professor of Computer Science and Computer Engineering, California State University - East Bay

*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.*

ScoreNetwork Technology InstructorUS Average

Salary

4.7

Avg. Salary $60,503

Avg. Salary $59,228

Stability level

5.7

Growth rate 5%

Growth rate 0.3%

Diversity

3.8

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 0.31%

Asian 8.71%

Black or African American 9.13%

Hispanic or Latino 12.81%

Unknown 5.10%

White 63.94%

Gender

female 14.58%

male 85.42%

Age - 42

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%

Asian 7.00%

Black or African American 14.00%

Hispanic or Latino 19.00%

White 57.00%

Gender

female 47.00%

male 53.00%

Age - 42

Stress level

5.7

Stress level is manageable

7.1 - high

Complexity level

6.7

Complexity level is challenging

7 - challenging

Work life balance

7.1

Work life balance is good

6.4 - fair

Key steps to become a network technology instructor

Explore network technology instructor education requirements

Most common network technology instructor degrees

Bachelor's

53.1 %

Associate

23.3 %

Master's

15.6 %

Start to develop specific network technology instructor skills

Skills	Percentages
Linux	10.04%
Curriculum Development	6.60%
TCP/IP	6.47%
Tcp Ip	6.42%
Technical Assistance	4.38%

Complete relevant network technology instructor training and internships

Accountants spend an average of 3-6 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New network technology instructors learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a network technology instructor based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real network technology instructor resumes.

Gain additional network technology instructor certifications

Network technology instructor certifications can show employers you have a baseline of knowledge expected for the position. Certifications can also make you a more competitive candidate. Even if employers don't require a specific network technology instructor certification, having one may help you stand out relative to other applicants.

The most common certifications for network technology instructors include CompTIA A+ Certification and Certified Network Computer Technician (CNCT).

More About Certifications

Research network technology instructor duties and responsibilities

Develop, manage, and implement Linux/Unix base network and end-user security methodologies and practices to protect systems from security threats.
Work on laptops and PC's such as IBM, Compaq, and Toshiba.
Design and implement a VPN, DMZ and VLAN schemes for security purposes and better network performance.
Configure and maintain Microsoft DNS environment and PKI infrastructure

Get network technology instructor experience

Generally, it takes 1-2 years to become a network technology instructor. The most common roles before becoming a network technology instructor include network administrator, instructor team lead and computer technician.

Apply for network technology instructor jobs

Now it's time to start searching for a network technology instructor job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:

Browse job boards for relevant postings
Consult your professional network
Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
Watch out for job scams

How do network technology instructors rate their job?

-/5

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1 star

Network technology instructor reviews

A zippia user wrote a review on Nov 2019

Pros

talking to people

Cons

outside weather, I work as a network technician and the main problem I always encounter is the cold weather.