How to Start a Career in IT with No Experience
The demand for skilled professionals in the information technology (IT) sector continues to grow—and the good news is, you don’t need a computer science degree or years of experience to get started. Whether you’re looking to transition into a more stable field, re-enter the workforce, or build a future-proof career, IT offers a wide range of opportunities for motivated individuals ready to learn new skills. With the right training and support, launching your IT career is more accessible than ever.
At RIT Certified, we specialize in helping people take their first steps into in-demand careers. If you’re wondering how to start a career in IT with no experience, here’s a guide to help you get going.
Understand the Landscape of IT Careers
IT isn’t a one-size-fits-all industry. From troubleshooting tech issues as an IT Support Specialist to protecting sensitive data as a Cybersecurity Analyst, there are many entry points depending on your interests. Some roles require deep technical knowledge, while others focus on user support, systems maintenance, or project coordination.
The best part? Many of these roles are open to career starters, especially if you have foundational skills and certifications that align with what employers are looking for. Entry-level positions often serve as stepping stones to more advanced roles once you build experience and confidence.
Identify Transferable Skills You Already Have
Think you don’t have any relevant experience? Think again. If you’ve worked in retail, customer service, or administrative roles, you likely have valuable transferable skills that are crucial in IT like communication, problem-solving, and attention to detail.
Maybe you’ve helped friends set up their home Wi-Fi or built your own PC. These kinds of informal experiences can also show that you have the curiosity and aptitude to succeed in a tech career.
Start Learning the Basics with Flexible, Skills-Based Training
You don’t need to go back to school for a four-year degree. Instead, focus on short, practical learning experiences designed to get you job-ready. Courses that cover the fundamentals, such as networking, cybersecurity, or IT support, can help you build confidence and competence quickly.
RIT Certified offers flexible, industry-informed programs like our Networking Technologies Mastery Certificate. This program is designed with your goals in mind and provides hands-on training that prepares you to hit the ground running in an IT role.
Gain Practical Experience—Even Without a Job
Employers love to see candidates who take initiative, even if they’re not coming from a traditional background. Build a home lab to practice troubleshooting. Volunteer to help a local nonprofit with basic tech support. Contribute to open-source projects or create tutorials documenting what you’ve learned.
Build Your Resume and Digital Presence
Once you’ve built some skills, it’s time to showcase them. Tailor your resume to highlight your training, certifications, and any hands-on projects you’ve completed. Create a LinkedIn profile and include digital badges or portfolio pieces to demonstrate your new capabilities.
Your IT Career Starts Here
Starting a career in IT with no experience may sound intimidating, but it’s absolutely possible with the right support and training. If you’re ready to take the first step, explore RIT Certified’s job-ready courses and programs that can help you build the skills employers are looking for.
Ready to launch your IT career? Explore our IT courses or connect with a member of our team to get started today.