Information Support Services and Networking

The Information Support Services and Networking

program is a Chapter 74 competency-based program designed to provide students with entry-level skills in personal computer maintenance and repair, data communications, and networking. The curriculum is aligned with the Massachusetts Department of Education Vocational Technical Education Frameworks – Information Technology Services Cluster- Information Support Services and Networking. Students are taught the basic skills needed to install, troubleshoot, and repair computer system hardware and operating systems as it prepares students for the Comp-TIA A+ technician certification.

The technical support section will develop an awareness of work opportunities for technically prepared individuals and help each student focus on directions for further training and meaningful work in the field. Included in the program are some fabrication skills along with electro-mechanical troubleshooting and repair. Students will have practical knowledge of analog and digital electronics, as well as competencies with tools and test equipment.

The Cisco Networking Academy component provides students with a solid background in the field of data communications, which includes network design, routing and switching, and network maintenance and operation. Topics include the OSI model, internetworking devices, IP addressing, LAN media and topologies, structured cabling, PC hardware and software, patch cables, installation of structured cabling, cable management techniques, and the use of test equipment. In addition, students develop the critical skills needed to succeed in a changing economy: math, science, problem-solving, reading, and writing. Additionally, instruction and training are provided in the proper care, maintenance, and use of networking software, tools, and equipment, as well as all local, state, and federal safety, building, and environmental codes and regulations.

The Cisco Networking curriculum delivers Web-based content, online assessment, student performance tracking, hands-on labs, instructor training, and support. The program’s curriculum gives students in-demand Internet technology skills for designing, building, and maintaining networks. Combining instructor-led, online education with hands-on laboratory exercises, the curriculum enables students to apply what they learn in class while working on actual networks. The Cisco Networking Academy Curriculum™ prepares students for industry standards, as well as vendor-neutral certification exams.

Assignments and projects will require students to draw upon and develop their academic skills (language arts, science, and mathematics.) The curriculum emphasizes hands-on work, both individually and as a member of a team. Theory and practice are combined in order to prepare individuals to be valued assets in the technically-oriented workplace.

Course Objectives:

Using industry standards, students will learn the following competencies:

Integrate academics through project-based learning
Recognize career pathway opportunities
Interact safely in a shop environment
Incorporate the use of industry standard technology and software
Read, understand, and communicate in the language of the field
Research and organize information
Develop a professional appearance, exemplary work ethic and superior communication skills
Demonstrate customer relationship skills
Determine customers’ needs and process technical work orders
Use technology to seek diagnostic techniques and repair procedures, parts information and labor rates

Certifications/Licenses:

BLS CPR w/ AED
Heartsaver First Aid
Comp TIA – IT Fundamentals
Comp TIA – A+
Comp TIA Network
OSHA 10-Hour General Industry Certification
TestOut Pro A+
TestOut ProNet+
TestOut Pro Security

Looking toward the future:

The demand for talented employees in the Computer Support and Networking fields are continually growing at a rapid pace. With the convergence of communications, such as Voice-Over IP, along with continued advances in technology and electronic hand-held devices, support and wireless networking needs have been steadily increasing. Computer and Network support professionals with hardware, software, and Cisco networking backgrounds will be in high demand as most computers and communication devices now utilize wireless connectivity for their functionality.

Students successfully completing the Information Support Services and Networking program will have the opportunity of securing gainful employment, and continuing formal studies at the post-secondary level, or pursuing a combination of both.

Post-Secondary Options:

Bay Path College Boston University
Brandeis University Elms College

Holyoke Community College
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Northeastern University
Springfield College

Tufts University
University of Connecticut
University of Massachusetts
Westfield State University

Career Opportunities:

Entry level Jobs – High School Diploma – On-the-Job Training/Apprenticeship

Applications Support Technician
Help Desk Technician

Network Cabling
Network Support Technician

PC Technician
Systems Support Technician

Skilled Jobs – Technical/Community College/Associates Degree or Certificate

Help Desk Manager
Linux Server Administrator

Novell Netware Administrator
Systems Security Specialist

Website Development/Admin
Windows Server Administrator

Professional Careers – BS/MS Degree/Graduate Studies

Business Systems Analyst
Chief Information Officer

Communications Engineer
Computer Engineer

Database Administrator
Developer/Programmer

Instructors