Kiel Adam - IT Support

Bio: Went to Warnbro Community High School, then straight on to Central TAFE.

What do you do?
I'm an IT Support Assistant at Central TAFE. I troubleshoot malfunctioning computers, resolve hardware and software issues and update and maintain Standard Operating Environments (specific software configurations for different classrooms etc)

What do you love about your work?
Plenty of things! I work with a great team. I get to meet lots of people. I put the skills I learnt during my studies to use everyday and I find it very satisfying when I solve a really difficult problem then share my solution with others.

What is the money like?
The pay is great. I'm earning enough to afford a new car and put away a bit each month for a house.

How did you get to where you are today?
I completed a two year Diploma in IT Networking at Central TAFE. Because of my marks, I was asked to apply for a position with the college when I graduated.

What made you decide to work in ICT?
I've always been fascinated by computers and technology. As a kid I played on my computer and used it for homework, but as I got older I started pulling them apart and developed a keen interest in how the machines actually worked.

Is the ICT industry what you expected?
It's better than I expected! I thought my job would be tedious and repetitive, but the reality is very different. The work I do is challenging and wide-ranging, which means no two days are the same.

What do you find interesting about working in ICT?
It has to be the variety of work I'm asked to do. Also I'm working amongst some very professional people who are happy to share what they know, so I feel like I'm learning at an exponential rate.

Where do you see your job in ICT taking you?
I will eventually move into a different area of ICT so I can use some of the different skills that I developed during my studies. The ICT industry is so vast and changing, my skills could take me anywhere.

What advice would you give someone considering a career in ICT?
Figure out which area in ICT appeals to you the most, and develop as much knowledge and as many skills as possible through studies. I found Central TAFE was really hands-on. A lot of my assessments were practical and very relevant to the industry. One major advantage of having a hands-on education is that you get the chance to determine and overcome real workplace issues.

Why would you encourage others to get into the ICT industry?
Technology is constantly advancing and expanding, and a huge number of businesses rely heavily on computers and other technology systems. This is only going to result in a constant increase in demand for trained ICT professionals. If you are looking are a career in an industry that will only get bigger and better, then get into ICT!