What can you do to prepare for a technical training career?

1 Assess your skills

Before you embark on a technical training career, you need to assess your current skills and identify your strengths and weaknesses. You should have a solid foundation in the technical domain you want to teach, whether it is software development, network administration, cybersecurity, or any other field. You should also be proficient in using various tools and platforms to create and deliver training materials, such as learning management systems, presentation software, video conferencing, or online courses. Additionally, you should evaluate your communication skills, such as your ability to explain complex concepts, engage your audience, provide feedback, and handle questions.

2 Get certified

One way to demonstrate your credibility and competence as a technical trainer is to get certified by a reputable organization or vendor. Depending on your area of specialization, you may choose to pursue certifications that validate your technical knowledge, such as Microsoft, Cisco, or CompTIA certifications, or certifications that focus on your training skills, such as the Certified Technical Trainer (CTT+) or the Certified Professional in Learning and Performance (CPLP). Getting certified can help you stand out from the crowd, enhance your resume, and increase your earning potential.

3 Gain experience

Another way to prepare for a technical training career is to gain practical experience in designing and delivering training programs. You can start by volunteering to train your colleagues, friends, or family members on a topic you are familiar with. You can also look for opportunities to teach online courses, webinars, workshops, or tutorials on platforms like Udemy, Coursera, or YouTube. These experiences can help you build your portfolio, expand your network, and improve your skills.

4 Keep learning

Technical training is a dynamic and evolving field that requires constant learning and updating. You should always keep an eye on the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in your domain and in the training industry. You should also seek feedback from your learners, peers, and mentors to identify areas of improvement and growth. Moreover, you should invest in your professional development by attending conferences, webinars, podcasts, or online communities where you can learn from experts and exchange ideas with other trainers.

5 Explore opportunities

Finally, you should explore the various opportunities and career paths that are available for technical trainers. Depending on your interests, goals, and preferences, you may choose to work as an independent contractor, a consultant, an employee, or an entrepreneur. You may also specialize in a specific niche, such as corporate training, academic training, or technical writing. You may also consider branching out to related roles, such as instructional designer, curriculum developer, or e-learning developer. The technical training field offers a lot of flexibility, diversity, and creativity for those who are willing to pursue it.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?