Are you interested in pursuing a career in IT? One of the most popular certifications is the A+ certification, which validates the skills and knowledge of entry-level computer technicians. But you may be wondering, how much do A+ certified technicians make?
Many people considering a career in IT are concerned about salary and job prospects. The good news is that A+ certification can lead to a rewarding career with a competitive salary. However, it's important to understand the factors that can impact your earning potential.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for computer support specialists, which includes A+ certified technicians, is $54,760 as of May 2020. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $32,330, while the highest 10 percent earned more than $87,070.
Overall, earning potential can depend on various factors such as experience, location, and industry. For example, A+ certified technicians in the software publishing industry tend to earn more than those working in educational services. Additionally, those with more experience and advanced certifications may earn higher salaries.
Personal Experience with A+ Certification
As someone who has earned their A+ certification and worked as a computer technician, I can speak from personal experience about the earning potential. When I started out, my salary was around $35,000 per year. However, as I gained more experience and additional certifications such as Network+ and Security+, my salary increased to around $60,000 per year.
Location and Industry Impact on Salary
Location is another factor that can impact earning potential. For example, A+ certified technicians in San Francisco tend to earn more than those in smaller cities or rural areas. Additionally, the industry you work in can impact your salary. Those working in the finance or healthcare industries tend to earn more than those in retail or hospitality.
Experience and Advanced Certifications
If you're looking to increase your earning potential as an A+ certified technician, gaining experience and pursuing advanced certifications can help. For example, the Network+ and Security+ certifications are highly valued in the IT industry and can lead to higher salaries. Additionally, gaining experience in a specialized area such as cybersecurity or cloud computing can also lead to higher salaries.
How to Negotiate a Higher Salary
If you're already working as an A+ certified technician and looking to negotiate a higher salary, it's important to do your research. Look up average salaries for your job title and industry in your location. Additionally, highlight your skills, experience, and any advanced certifications you may have. Be prepared to make a case for why you deserve a higher salary and be open to negotiating.
Conclusion of How Much Do A+ Certified Technicians Make
Overall, A+ certification can lead to a rewarding career in IT with a competitive salary. However, earning potential can depend on various factors such as experience, location, and industry. By gaining experience, pursuing advanced certifications, and negotiating your salary, you can increase your earning potential as an A+ certified technician.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the highest paying industry for A+ certified technicians?
A: The software publishing industry tends to pay the highest salaries for A+ certified technicians.
Q: What is the average salary for A+ certified technicians?
A: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for computer support specialists, which includes A+ certified technicians, is $54,760 as of May 2020.
Q: How can I increase my earning potential as an A+ certified technician?
A: Gaining experience, pursuing advanced certifications such as Network+ and Security+, and specializing in areas such as cybersecurity or cloud computing can all lead to higher salaries.
Q: Is it possible to negotiate a higher salary as an A+ certified technician?
A: Yes, by doing your research and making a case for why you deserve a higher salary, you can negotiate for a higher salary as an A+ certified technician.
