Career Path Advice

[cistech]

Hey everyone,
Its great to find a community forum such as this one. I am a 21 year old PC Technician with about 3-4 years experience. Eventually I would like to become a Network Engineer. I am very uncertain on how to continue with myself in the IT Field as far as education. I would like to end up making 80k or more a year, Ofcourse not right away, but eventually.
My question is, can I accomplish this with a set certifications such as A+, Network+, MCSE, MCP, CCNA and higher level cisco certifications or would I need to go to college? Ofcourse the experience is a big matter and I will see to it that I attain it.

A buddy of mine is going to college for a bachelors degree AND also getting certified in the above certifications. I personally would like to become certified in SEVERAL certs.
as my educational background. So what do you guys think? Can I accomplish this with several certifications? I would love to hear from college grads vs. certified experienced professionals. Thanks in advance!

 

[Heckler]

CisTech,

I don't think you should look at careers based on how much money you want to make. I tell you from personal experience the job I hated the most is the job I made the most money. That lasted 10 months. Start with the end in mind but my advice is don't focus on the money.

 

[ELEcontrol3e]

Hey have you checked out eng tips sister site tek-tips? Its a little closer to you specialty/tech-interests.

 

[DonPE]

80K a year? I don't know how realistic that is. Maybe it makes sense, but I can't imagine that. It would be cheaper to outsource the work for a fraction of that. Of course, in 15-20 years, 80K might be a pretty common salary.

Good luck.

 

[waskillywabbit]

After working for over 15 years in (2) careers, I'd take less money for a job I love going to each day over a big salary and a job I hate every time. Now if you can some how work it out so you get BOTH, then you got it made!

Brian