Career Profile of a Network Systems Administrator

Today, computer networking is essential to every business and home, and Network Systems Administrators play a vital role in keeping the technology we rely on running smoothly. 

Currently, multinational tech companies such as Amazon, IBM, and Cisco Systems Inc. make up some of Canada’s top employers, all of which require a large volume of IT professionals to operate efficiently. In 2021, Alberta Enterprise Corporation reported that Alberta is now home to 3,000 tech companies, which is a 233% increase from 2012. Additionally, technology is one of the fastest-growing sectors in British Columbia, and in the last few years, Manitoba and Saskatchewan are enjoying the successful emergence of many technology startups. In Western Canada, we are seeing mass innovation in this sector, which presents an array of opportunities for those who graduate with a Network Systems Administrator Diploma.  

To become a sought-after Network System Administrator is to become a professional in an exciting, and ever-changing industry; one that could provide you with a lifelong career. Keep reading to learn more! 

What Does a Network Administrator Do? 

As a skilled Network Systems Administrator, you are trained to organize, maintain, and secure computer networks. You are the first call a company makes when there is a problem with its computer and information systems, such as LAN/WAN infrastructure, network segments, intranets, and many other data communication systems. 

Skills and Responsibilities of a Network Systems Administrator  

Your daily responsibilities as a Network Systems Administrator are diverse, due to the complicated nature of computer networks. From combating company-wide security breaches to training new users on how to use hardware or software, no two days look the same.  

Listed below are some of the main responsibilities of a Network Systems Administrator: 

• Troubleshooting hardware, software, connectivity, and server issues 

• Monitoring network security 

• Performing back-up operations 

• Configuring cloud services 

• Improving network performance  

Because you possess a highly specialized skillset that others do not, it is important to have well-developed interpersonal and communication skills. You will need to explain complex ideas in user-friendly language to your clients. As a Network Systems Administrator, exercising patience and clear communication skills will help you throughout your career in this niche field.  

Career Path for Network Systems Administrators 

With the steady influx of IT companies arriving in Western Canada, employment growth is projected to be higher than average. The technological changes and rapid innovation in this field are quickly prompting companies to adapt their IT infrastructure, which will continue to create a demand for Network Systems Professionals.

Securing a diploma in Network Systems Administration can open the door to a variety of job positions, such as:  

• Network Administrator 

• Network Support Technician 

• Network Analyst 

• Cisco Networking Specialist 

• IT Help Desk Analyst 

• Infrastructure Administrator 

• System Administrator 

Industry Fact: About 95% of Network Systems Administrators in Western Canada are employed in full-time positions. Compare that to the average for all occupations: about 80% are full-time workers. 

How to Become a Network System Administrator 

To be successful in this highly technical industry, start with the completion of a Network Systems Administrator Diploma program. 

Sundance College offers an accelerated diploma program that provides students with the fundamental knowledge and hands-on technical skills needed to succeed in today’s information technology world. 

Sundance focuses on preparing its students for the industry-recognized certifications, such as CompTIA, Microsoft, and Cisco, which are required for employment in a variety of IT and server administrator positions.  

Additionally, our program offers a workplace practicum to ensure you graduate as a confident professional with real-life experience. 

All programs at Sundance College are instructor-led, meaning your teachers are IT specialists and network administrators, who can provide you with insider knowledge of the industry and the skills you need for career success. Graduating students receive a full range of professional Career Services including resume and marketing materials preparation, interview skills, and job search techniques, to help them on their onward journey.  

Get Started!   

At Sundance College, we are dedicated to our students’ success. We work together towards one common goal – supporting our students on their journey to a new career and a brighter future. To find out more about Sundance College’s Professional Network Systems Administrator program click here.