A career in information technology (IT) can be both professionally and financially rewarding. Many computer enthusiasts — perhaps like you — dream of a job where they can pursue their technology interests while being well compensated for their time.
In 2023, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), U.S. computer and IT workers earned a median annual wage 2.2 times greater than for all occupations. In addition to above-average pay, the long-term job outlook for IT roles is positive. Between 2023 and 2033, the BLS projects that the number of IT positions will grow 3 times faster than average for all occupations, for a net gain of more than half a million jobs.
“The growth of computer and mathematical occupations is expected to stem from demand for upgraded computer services, continued development of artificial intelligence (AI) solutions, and an increasing amount of data available for analysis. In addition, the number and severity of cyberattacks and data breaches on U.S. businesses is expected to lead to greater demand for information security analysts.” — U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2024
While pursuing a tech-related college degree (like computer science, information services, or cybersecurity) is a great way to gain much of the knowledge required to start an IT career, it’s far from the only path. If you’re determined to acquire the necessary skills to enter this ever-evolving field, you can gain employment in tech through other means.
Can you get a tech job without a degree or experience?
The good news for highly motivated IT job seekers is that hiring managers often value adaptability, social skills, and a willingness to learn over formal education. If you have the right attitude and work ethic, you can secure an entry-level job in user support, network support, or an IT help desk without a degree or even prior work history in tech.
How do we know? This article’s advice draws upon the real-world experiences of members of the Spiceworks Community, home to millions of working IT professionals who know what it takes to succeed in their field.
Many IT professionals landed in tech by accident
In a 2024 Spiceworks survey of working IT pros, only 43% said they intended to go into IT during their education. In other words, most IT professionals said they found their way into the field indirectly, without the benefit of a formal tech degree.
“I was always the person people went to for help with tech issues … I then took a part-time job at a non-profit, and boy, did they need an on-site IT person. But that is not what I was hired for … In a non-profit it’s all hands on deck, so you are embraced if you have other skills. Their outside (IT) consultant took me under his wing, and here we are … I have now been employed as a systems analyst full-time for 5 years … It’s NEVER too late.” — abbeyainscal, Systems Analyst
How easy is it to get an IT job with no experience?
While demand for IT positions is expected to grow over the long term, companies typically receive hundreds of applications in competitive job markets for a single open tech role. However, despite many potential IT job seekers to choose from, hiring managers can struggle to find qualified candidates. According to the 2025 Spiceworks State of IT report, 68% of hiring IT managers believe it is difficult to hire skilled IT talent.
So, how do you stand out from the crowd and become a candidate that IT managers can’t wait to hire?
According to members of the Spiceworks Community, IT professionals who have an easier time landing jobs employ a multi-pronged career strategy that emphasizes demonstrating practical and in-demand skills, hands-on tech knowledge, and a willingness to “always keep learning.”
Full article @ https://www.spiceworks.com/it-careers/how-to-get-entry-level-it-job/