Technical consultant career path from high school

I've heard about technical consultants, but I'm not sure what they do. What does the job entail, and how can someone in high school start preparing for a future career as a technical consultant?

Technical consultants generally work in a specific field such as computers, information systems, or finance. In many cases, they are responsible for helping businesses improve their processes and systems. They may analyze data, create and implement new systems, or train employees on how to use new technologies. Essentially, a technical consultant is an expert in a certain area who provides advice and guidance to others.

If you're in high school and interested in heading toward this career path, your plan of action will largely be determined by what specific area you are looking to become a consultant in. Generally speaking, strong analytical and problem-solving skills are a must in this field. You'll also need to be able to communicate effectively, as consultants often need to explain complex concepts in ways that non-experts can understand.

Start with a strongly academic high school education. Take advantage of any AP courses your school offers, especially in the STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math). If your area of interest is IT or computer science, for example, taking AP Computer Science would provide a solid foundation. For a potential finance technical consultant, courses like AP Economics or AP Statistics could be beneficial.

Additionally, getting involved in extracurricular activities that focus on your chosen field can also help. Clubs or programs that emphasize mathematical skills, computing, or even debate can all help prepare you for a career as a technical consultant. The experience you gain here will also be valuable when it comes to applying to colleges, where further preparation for your career will take place.

Speaking of college, universities typically offer degrees in the areas where technical consultants operate, like computer science, IT, and finance. You would major in your chosen field and then potentially go on to gain a master's degree or a specialized certification in your area of interest.

Finally, remember that internships and work experience can be equally important as formal education. Look for opportunities to intern at tech companies or financial firms. This hands-on experience can give you a big boost when you're ready to start your full-fledged career.

In sum, if you're thinking about a technical consultant career, focus on your academics, particularly in regard to STEM subjects, gather practical experience through extracurricular activities and internships, and plan for a college education in your chosen field. It's a position that requires a lot of expertise, but with dedication and the right preparation, it's certainly attainable!