What Type of Employers are Looking for CCNAs

I received the folling questions today and thought it such a good question that I would share it, and my response, with you:

"Hi. I met with a counselor regarding obtaining a certificate in the CIS or CIT area. Lisa said you might be able to help me understand what type of employers are looking for the CCNA certificate and what type of jobs might be obtained with one of these certificates."

Hi
I have been taking classes in computer networking. As I continue to take classes, I would like to work on finding out what businesses I would be able to work in and work on my resume and/or try to get job in a company in computer networking as I go to school--even as an intern. How would I go about getting a job in computer networking? How do I get my foot in the door? Do all companies have a networking dept? Thanks

IT managers across all vertical markets, government, healthcare, education, finance, insurance/securities, wholesalers, and retailers in the production and distribution of products, law, entertain/sports, real estate, etc. hire our graduates. Depending on the individual student’s background, he/she may find a career in any of the following fields with a degree or certificate from CIT: network administrators, system support specialists, system administrators, technical support specialist, network support specialist, computer support, security specialist, convergence specialist, or VoIP support specialist. And of course, there are also many opportunities and careers in security, not only as a career but as a network professional in the IT departments of any of the above mentioned industries.

One of the best ways to get your foot in the door is to land an internship while working on that CCNA certification. An intership, paid or unpaid, will give you that experience every company seems to be asking for. Experience can increase the number of job opportunities available to you exponentially. More than 30% of hiring managers surveryed by CareerBuilder.com said relevant experience is the most influential factor in hiring a new college graduate. Check out CODs job board, my blog, network, hit the job fairs, etc. A high percentage of students who serve in internships in up getting hired by the firm.

Hope this helps - Joanne