How To Become a Technical Expert in 8 Steps
Updated February 16, 2023
Are you interested in a career as an IT Specialist but are not sure how to start preparing for it? We have you covered!
What is a technical expert?
A technical expert is a highly skilled professional who solves technology problems and oversees a company's computer programs. Technical experts are often well known in their industry and have a good relationship with technology companies. They can provide technical support to customers or other team members through phone, video calls or in-person meetings. Technical experts may also create new technology or repair existing technology.Read more: Learn About Being an IT SpecialistHow to become a technical expert
Here are eight steps to help you become a technical expert:1. Earn an undergraduate degree
Consider earning a degree that relates to technology, such as computer engineering, computer science or information science. In these majors, you can take courses in science, engineering and math. You may also learn how to program using code or test new applications. Earning a degree can allow you to apply to different programs, like internships, to learn more about technology. Having an education can also quicken the process of becoming a technical expert and give you credibility.Related: A Guide to Technical Leads: What They Do and How To Become One2. Become certified
After you earn your undergraduate degree, you can continue learning and gaining experience by becoming certified. Having a certification can show you're dedicated to your industry and can help increase your expertise in a technical subject, such as computer science. Consider becoming certified in something related to the technology field, such as project management, information systems or information security. The requirements for certification often depend on the program, so research the association you want to earn your certification from to find their requirements.3. Consider earning a higher degree
Although further education is optional for technical experts, you might consider earning a higher degree, such as a master's or doctoral degree. Having a higher degree can increase your professional skills and qualifications, which might help you earn a higher salary. Some common degree programs include technology management and information technology. A master's or doctorate program in computer or technology studies typically uses more complex theories to expand on what you learned during your undergraduate studies.4. Choose a specialty
Once you've completed your education, you can choose a specialty you're interested in and passionate about. While it's beneficial to be knowledgeable in many technical fields, it's also valuable to have specialized knowledge in an area of study. For example, you might specialize in mobile computing, data networking or computer forensics. After you pick your specialty, you can do individual research on the subject and take additional classes or workshops to learn more about it.Read more: 10 Types of Technical Competence and Examples5. Get experience
Getting experience helps you gain practical knowledge, which is important for becoming a technical expert because it allows you to apply what you learned in school or training to real-life situations. For example, you may learn the basics of coding in college, and you can use your education to gain experience through a job or internship focused on program software. Try to apply to positions related to your field or specialty, such as a software developer, data scientist, web developer or product manager.6. Take leadership roles
Once you've gained experience and established your career, you may be qualified to apply for leadership roles. This could mean being promoted to a management position or taking more responsibilities in your workplace. Receiving a leadership position shows you're a qualified professional and can help you gain more skills and experiences to expand your knowledge. Consider asking your employer about leadership or management positions in your company and what you can do to get that type of role.7. Network with other professionals
You can also network to help you become a technical expert. Networking allows you to meet people in the technology field, which can help you become more widely known. If people are familiar with your work, you might receive work opportunities, such as getting a new job or being invited to work on different technical projects. Try attending multiple events relating to your field, such as workshops, seminars or conferences, to meet new people in the industry.8. Write about technical subjects
Many technical experts are authors with one or more publications. Writing articles, reports or books about technology can show you have a lot of knowledge on the subject, which can indicate that you're an expert. Try writing about technical subjects you know a lot about or have a special interest in. For example, if you're passionate about data mining, you could write an article about finding patterns in data sets. You can self-publish your writing on a professional blog or website or submit your writing to a journal or press.Read more: How To Become a Subject Matter Expert in Your FieldDo you need help with your resume?
Tips to become a technical expert
Here are some tips to help you become a technical expert:- Socialize online and in person. Socialize with people online and in person to find colleagues who share similar interests. You can connect with these people when you have questions or need help on projects.
- Present your work. Consider applying to speak at seminars or conferences. Presenting your work at these events may help you become more recognizable in your industry and find job opportunities.
- Research current trends. To stay current on new technologies and findings in your field, try to research new trends. Being a technical expert requires continual research so you can stay informed.
- Practice your craft. Continue working to improve your technical skills. You might try volunteering or working on personal projects, such as programming an application, to practice your skills.
Technical marketers & marketing engineers
Explore more articles
- 8 Ways To Maintain Motivation at Work Throughout Your Career
- A Complete Guide About the Pros and Cons of Being a Doctor
- Quitting Your Job After 3 Months: Tips, Pros and Cons
- What Is Unlimited Paid Time Off (PTO)? (With Pros and Cons)
- 7 Nursing Certifications for New Graduates
- How To Become a Real Estate Agent in New Jersey in 8 Steps
- How To Write an ERP Resume (Plus Template and Example)
- How To Become an Optometrist (Plus FAQs)
- How To Write a Maintenance Worker Resume (With Example)
- 10 Jobs In Music Education (With Duties and Salaries)
- 14 Effective Workflow Examples for Business Processes
- Top Remote Job Skills for Work-From-Home Professionals