Your guide to becoming an IT manager
Information Technology (IT) is like the electricity that keeps the machine of business powered up and running smoothly. IT systems can automate repetitive tasks, make communication between team members and clients effortless, help secure sensitive data and so much more. IT is a broad classification of software and systems that can streamline operations, boost productivity and give businesses the tools they need to succeed in an increasingly digital world.
IT is a broad classification of software and systems that can streamline operations, boost productivity and give businesses the tools they need to succeed in an increasingly digital world.
But the abundance of options can be overwhelming. That's why business owners turn to IT managers to help manage their tech needs. IT managers are preventative problem-solvers. They make sure systems run reliably, minimizing downtime and frustration for employees. They make critical choices about software, hardware, security and vendors, weighing the costs and the long-term benefits. They can create IT plans that directly support the business, not just introduce tech for tech's sake.
The ever-evolving world of IT offers exciting opportunities for those with leadership potential and a passion for technology. IT managers enjoy exciting challenges, great salaries and the satisfaction of making a real impact on their organizations. If this sounds appealing to you, let's explore how you can make this career move happen.
What does an IT manager do?
An IT manager is like the conductor of an organization's technological orchestra. It is their job to ensure all the instruments (technology, people, processes) are functioning smoothly and playing in harmony to best support the business as a whole.
Their role is a multifaceted one. Some companies already have a suite of tech tools they need someone to run; others may need an IT manager to advise them on the types of tech they would benefit from the most and then set out to incorporate that into the company's day to day workflow. No matter how big or small the focus, every IT manager will need to make critical choices about software, hardware, security and vendors.
One of an IT manager's major functions is to strategically lead and manage the information technology team and resources. They find the right mix of tech talent for a business's needs to create a skilled and effective IT department. They guide and train employees, keeping the team's skills up to date. Effective IT managers keep morale high, resolve potential conflicts and ensure the team is performing optimally.
An IT manager is like the conductor of an organization's technological orchestra. It is their job to ensure all the instruments (technology, people, processes) are functioning smoothly and playing in harmony to best support the business as a whole.
IT managers need to be comfortable teaching, too. New tech is sometimes intuitive to figure out, but not always. As an IT manager, you'll need to create training documents or deliver training that is easy for the end user to understand. They also need to be available and attentive, because when tech issues arise, it can make business operations grind to a halt.
This role offers a unique mix of collaboration and independent work. On a larger team, IT managers need to be able to identify strengths in their associates in order to assign tasks effectively. To do this, they need to understand not just their tech-focused domain, but also the company's overall goals and culture.
IT managers are champions of change. They help everyone in a company understand and adapt to new technologies, ensuring successful adoption. IT managers bridge the gap between technical teams and business needs. They possess a deep understanding of IT infrastructure, software and emerging technologies.
Compliance is another area where IT managers play a crucial role in business, as is operations. They develop IT budgets, prioritize projects and ensure technology investments support business objectives. They develop disaster recovery plans. Should the worst happen, they minimize damage and get the business back on its feet fast. They ensure the company adheres to industry-specific regulations for data and technology, avoiding costly fines. IT managers navigate complex technical challenges and make critical decisions that impact system uptime, data security and overall IT operations.
A day in the life…
No two days are the same, and this is true in almost any profession. However, if you're wondering what an average shift might look like for an IT manager, here's a sneak peek at their 9 to 5:
Morning
Check-in: Review system health reports, check for overnight security alerts, address any critical issues left over from the previous day.
Project meetings: Attend meetings on ongoing IT projects (e.g., software updates, new system rollout), provide updates, address obstacles and make sure projects are aligned with timelines and budgets.
Team updates: Meet with direct reports (IT team leads) to discuss performance, challenges and any necessary adjustments or support.
Afternoon
Planning: Review and approve IT proposals, explore new technologies or solutions, research vendors.
Problem-solving: Tackle an unexpected technical issue that's affecting the business, coordinate with team members to troubleshoot and find solutions.
Communication: Meet with stakeholders from other departments to discuss their IT needs, explain plans or gather feedback.
Throughout the day
Emails and communication: A constant flow of emails, responding to questions, handling requests and coordinating with internal and external parties (vendors, etc.).
Performance reviews: Schedule or conduct performance reviews for team members, provide feedback and set professional development goals.
Urgent issues: IT managers need to be ready to drop whatever they are doing to address critical issues like a cyberattack or major system downtime.
Insights from Jon Morgan, IT Manager, Venture Smarter
How he got there: My path to IT management wasn't exactly a straight line. I got my bachelor's in Computer Science at Stanford and, like a lot of CS grads, I figured I'd be diving straight into software development. Coding was definitely my passion, but as I started getting some real-world experience, I discovered another side of the IT world that I really enjoyed—the bigger picture stuff.
I found myself gravitating towards projects that involved not just writing code, but also understanding the system as a whole, how it fit into the company's goals and how to manage a team to achieve those goals. It became clear to me that IT wasn't just about the tech itself, but about using technology to solve real-world problems and drive business success. So, I took on more projects that involved leadership and communication and eventually transitioned into a full-time IT manager role.
"It became clear to me that IT wasn't just about the tech itself, but about using technology to solve real-world problems and drive business success."
Jon Morgan
Looking forward: Traditionally, IT managers were primarily responsible for overseeing technical tasks and ensuring systems ran smoothly. However, in today's landscape, the role has expanded to encompass strategic planning, innovation management and even cyber security. Looking ahead, I foresee IT managers taking on even more strategic roles within organizations, driving digital transformation initiatives and spearheading efforts to harness emerging technologies like AI and blockchain to gain a competitive edge.
Best project: One of the most successful IT projects I've led was the implementation of a cloud-based enterprise resource planning (ERP) system for our organization. The project involved migrating critical business processes and data to the cloud while ensuring minimal disruption to day-to-day operations. Several factors contributed to its success, including thorough planning and stakeholder engagement, effective project management and a dedicated team with the right mix of technical expertise and domain knowledge. Plus, we placed a strong emphasis on change management and training to ensure smooth adoption by end-users. The project's success not only streamlined our operations but also positioned the company for future scalability and growth.
Facing down challenges: One major IT challenge I faced was mitigating a cyber security breach that threatened the integrity of our company's sensitive data. Upon discovering the breach, our immediate priority was to contain the threat and assess the extent of the damage. We assembled a cross-functional incident response team comprising IT specialists, cyber security experts, legal counsel and senior leadership. Collaborating closely, we conducted a thorough forensic investigation to identify the root cause of the breach and implemented remediation measures to prevent future occurrences. Transparency and open communication were key throughout the process, both internally and externally, to maintain trust and credibility.
Tips to cope with crisis: Managing crisis situations or unexpected technical issues requires a calm and methodical approach. First and foremost, it's essential to establish clear lines of communication and designate roles and responsibilities within the response team. I prioritize triaging the situation to determine the severity and scope of the issue, then mobilize resources accordingly. Throughout the crisis, I remain accessible to provide guidance and support to my team while keeping stakeholders informed of the situation and any mitigating actions being taken. Afterward, conducting a post-incident analysis helps identify lessons learned and areas for improvement to strengthen our resilience against future incidents.
As an IT manager, one of the biggest challenges I face is balancing the need for innovation and agility with the imperative for security and compliance. With the proliferation of cloud computing, IoT devices and mobile technologies, the attack surface has expanded exponentially, making cyber security a top priority. At the same time, there's pressure to leverage emerging technologies to drive digital transformation and gain a competitive edge. Finding the right balance between innovation and risk management requires careful strategic planning, robust cyber security measures and ongoing monitoring and adaptation.
Fostering a culture of continuous learning: To stay on top of emerging technologies, I rely on a combination of strategies. I attend industry conferences and workshops, I network with other IT professionals and I subscribe to relevant publications and blogs. But honestly, some of the best insights come from my own team. Encouraging a culture of continuous learning is essential—we all need to be constantly learning and adapting to stay ahead of the curve.
If you're looking to move into IT management, my advice is to focus on developing your well-rounded skill set. Obviously, technical knowledge is a must, but so are soft skills like communication, leadership and project management. Look for opportunities to take on leadership roles within your current IT team and don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone.
Skills and qualifications
A technical foundation
Vit Koval, co-founder at Globy and experienced IT professional, says that the most important thing you can do to start your journey as an IT manager is to earn a relevant degree. "To embark on a career as an IT manager, it's essential to have a strong foundation in information technology or computer science. This typically means pursuing a relevant bachelor's degree, although some find their way into the field through experience and certifications."
A bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology or a related field is typically required. Experience in areas like network administration, cyber security and systems management is highly valuable as well.
Leadership skills
"It's not just about technical skills," Koval says. "Leadership qualities cannot be overstated in the role of an IT manager. Understanding project management and strategic planning is crucial too. As I progressed in my career, I found that continuous learning through additional certifications, such as PMP or ITIL and staying abreast of technological advancements were key to moving up the ladder."
To succeed in IT Management, you'll want to take every opportunity to develop strong leadership skills. Build and provide examples of how, through your coursework and in hands-on experience, you motivated a team, delegated tasks, resolved conflict and managed performance.
Communication and interpersonal skills
The ability to clearly communicate complex technical concepts to diverse audiences is essential as well. Active listening and interpersonal skills are crucial for building trust and leading a team effectively.
Koval agrees that being a savvy communicator is key to success as an IT manager. "From early in my career, I learned the importance of clear communication, empathy and the ability to inspire and motivate a team. It's about more than just managing tasks; it's about fostering a positive work environment and a culture of innovation and continuous improvement." Being able to adjust your communication style to the appropriate audience is critical to your success, as is the ability to break complex topics down for entry level end users. Koval says that developing these soft skills through mentorship, leadership courses or even volunteer opportunities has been absolutely instrumental to his career advancement in IT management.
anaged performance.
Project management skills
Understanding project management methodologies and best practices is beneficial for leading IT projects and ensuring their successful completion. Project management is the toolkit that allows IT managers to turn complex ideas into successful realities. Without it, IT projects risk becoming disorganized, costly and failing to deliver the desired outcomes.
Meeting timelines and staying within budget is crucial. Project management methodologies (like Agile or Waterfall) provide frameworks for effective planning, tracking progress and avoiding costly delays. These skills ensure not only that the project is completed, but that it delivers the intended business value (such as improved efficiency, new features or cost savings). Project management keeps the big picture in focus.
Education and certifications
There is not a single, standardized path to beginning a career in IT or IT Management. There are some common pathways, however. Here's a look at the breakdown of general education requirements that will set you up for success in an IT management career:
Bachelor's degree
Many companies prefer—or even require—bachelor's degrees for management-level positions. A bachelor's degree provides a broad understanding of computing, networking, cyber security and business management—all key for an IT manager. Earning your Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts demonstrates dedication and a foundation of knowledge to employers. This is especially important early in your career.
Courses, projects and extracurriculars in college help develop communication, team management and problem-solving that you'll need for your career in IT leadership. The most common majors for IT Management students include subjects such as computer science, information technology and management information systems.
The skills you'll learn will:
- provide in-depth technical knowledge of software, hardware, programming and systems
- focus on the practical application of technology in businesses and organizations
- blends business concepts with IT-focused courses
Even degrees in seemingly unrelated fields, such as business or engineering, can be valuable when paired with IT experience and certifications. Consider programming, database management, networking, systems analysis, cyber security and cloud computing elective courses or certification programs if you intend to pursue a degree program outside of the IT field.
Whether you opt for a more tech-focused or business oriented degree, it can be helpful to choose electives that emphasize strong communication, problem-solving, leadership and decision-making skills in your academic journey. Other important electives include courses in project management, finance, accounting, organizational behavior and communication. These are as important to your success as technical knowledge in the IT field.
Certification
With significant hands-on IT experience (often help-desk or system administration roles), specialized certifications can prove your knowledge. This path requires excellent self-motivation and a commitment to constantly updating your skills.
Industry-recognized certifications demonstrate specific skills and can boost your early career even without a directly related degree. A few of the most common certifications that are of interest to IT managers include:
General management and project management:
- CompTIA Project+: Basic project management principles applicable across industries, a good starting point
- Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM): Entry-level project management certification from the Project Management Institute (PMI)
- Project Management Professional (PMP): The gold standard for project managers, requires experience but demonstrates expertise
- ITIL Foundation: Covers IT service management best practices, helpful for managing IT operations
Vendor-specific:
- Microsoft Certifications: Wide range of certifications for Microsoft systems administrators, cloud architects and other technical specialists
- Cisco Certifications: From entry-level CCNA to advanced certifications, proving expertise in networking technology
- VMware Certifications: Demonstrate knowledge of virtualization technology, valuable in cloud-centric environments
Security:
- CompTIA Security+: Foundational cyber security knowledge for various IT roles
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP): Advanced cyber security certification for experienced professionals
- Certified Information Security Manager (CISM): Focuses on security management and governance for IT leaders
Cloud:
- AWS Certified Solutions Architect: Demonstrates proficiency in designing and deploying solutions on Amazon Web Services
- Microsoft Certified Azure Solutions Architect Expert: Similar to AWS certification, but for Microsoft Azure cloud
Some certifications have experience prerequisites. You'll want to start with entry-level options and build up. Align the certifications you pursue with the type of IT management role you're aiming for (project manager, security specialist, etc.). Still not sure where to start? Try researching which certifications are most valued by the companies you're interested in.
But remember: Certifications alone won't make you an IT manager. These credentials need to be paired with experience, education and demonstrable leadership skills in order to prove your mettle in this growing field.
Experience
Internships or tech-related work experience while in school provide hands-on skills and make you more attractive to employers. Here are some of the best ways for IT students to gain hands-on experience both during their education and after graduation:
During your education:
- Internships:
- A classic and highly effective route. Structured internships in companies allow you to work on real-world projects under experienced mentors.
- Lab work and in-class projects:
- Many IT programs include labs, simulations or project-based courses. Make the most of these to apply theory and build tangible skills.
- Student organizations:
- Tech clubs, hackathons or competitions provide a fun, collaborative environment to build projects and troubleshoot real problems.
- Freelance or part-time work:
- Take on small projects for individuals or local businesses to build your portfolio and handle client interactions.
- Open source projects:
- Contribute to open-source software projects. This demonstrates coding prowess, collaboration skills and industry engagement.
After graduation:
- Entry-level IT jobs:
- Even if not explicitly management-focused, roles like help desk and junior system administrator provide a foundation for building management skills.
- Volunteer work:
- Use your skills to support nonprofits or community groups in need of tech expertise.
- Personal projects:
- Develop your own apps, websites or IT solutions to showcase skills and demonstrate initiative. Attend hackathons to get inspired and work with others on innovative ideas.
- Networking or mentorship:
- Build a network in the tech industry. Seek mentors who can guide you and open doors to potential opportunities.
The most important thing to remember when you're volunteering or employed—at the entry level especially—is to document your work. Create a portfolio website or detailed resume outlining the projects you've worked on, technologies you've used and the outcomes you achieved. More and more, employers are looking for results-focused resumes from candidates. Keeping track of your successes and having them ready to share makes hiring you an easy decision.
Remember, hands-on experience is often what sets IT professionals apart. The more you build, troubleshoot and solve real-world problems, the more prepared you'll be for successful IT management roles.
Career progression
- Build a strong technical foundation: Start your career in IT support roles, gaining experience with various technologies and troubleshooting common issues.
- Transition into leadership roles: As you gain experience, seek opportunities to lead projects, mentor junior IT professionals and demonstrate your leadership potential.
- Earn relevant certifications: Certifications like Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) or Certified Information Technology Manager (CSPO) can enhance your resume and showcase your expertise.
- Advance your formal education: While not always mandatory, a master's degree with a focus on technology management can provide a competitive edge, particularly for senior IT manager roles.
Work environments for IT managers
The work environment for an IT manager is generally fast-paced, intellectually stimulating and offers a mix of planned tasks and unexpected challenges. Success, as we've discussed, depends on technical knowledge, leadership capabilities and excellent communication skills.
This role is primarily office-based. You can expect to work at a mix of your own office/desk, team workspaces and conference rooms. Occasional travel might be needed for meetings with other departments, visiting branch offices or attending tech conferences. Occasionally, you may visit data centers or server rooms for troubleshooting or overseeing infrastructure upgrades.
Much of the day involves planned work, but be prepared for unexpected issues that require immediate attention. Long hours or weekend work sometimes occur during project rollouts, critical system failures or cyber security incidents.
Many companies offer flexible schedules or remote work options depending on the nature of tasks and company culture. No matter where you park your modem, you'll work closely with your IT team, other department heads, executives, vendors and sometimes even directly with clients.
A major focus is on identifying issues, finding solutions and coordinating teams to implement fixes. High-pressure moments can occasionally occur, especially when system failures impact the business. The ability to handle stress well is essential.
Some common places that you may find yourself working as an IT manager include:
Corporate IT departments where you'll lead IT teams in various industries, ensuring the smooth operation of IT infrastructure and supporting business needs.
Government agencies where you'll oversee government IT systems, ensuring data security and compliance with regulations.
Healthcare organizations where you'll be in charge of managing IT systems crucial for patient care security and healthcare operations.
IT Manager salary and job outlook
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports a promising outlook for IT managers. The median annual salary in 2024 was $171,200, indicating strong earning potential. Take a look at salaries by state:
10%$104,450
25%$134,350
50%$171,200Median
75%$216,220
90%N/A
Median Hourly Wage$82
Job growth15.2%
Total Employment645,970
| State | Median Salary | Bottom 10% | Top 10% |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $133,500 | $78,740 | $212,280 |
| Alaska | $130,700 | $84,360 | $197,800 |
| Arizona | $160,900 | $99,450 | $225,920 |
| Arkansas | $118,230 | $63,680 | $201,710 |
| California | $211,340 | $127,220 | N/A |
| Colorado | $180,240 | $125,720 | N/A |
| Connecticut | $164,460 | $103,030 | N/A |
| Delaware | $180,960 | $116,430 | N/A |
| District of Columbia | $191,880 | $128,200 | N/A |
| Florida | $164,620 | $99,430 | N/A |
| Georgia | $169,170 | $107,380 | N/A |
| Hawaii | $138,020 | $97,440 | $221,000 |
| Idaho | $149,290 | $81,570 | $207,880 |
| Illinois | $165,720 | $101,590 | N/A |
| Indiana | $134,750 | $83,930 | $208,990 |
| Iowa | $136,610 | $96,200 | $206,310 |
| Kansas | $154,830 | $97,720 | N/A |
| Kentucky | $132,700 | $78,080 | $215,450 |
| Louisiana | $128,230 | $80,860 | $207,490 |
| Maine | $132,930 | $93,180 | $207,890 |
| Maryland | $171,570 | $109,350 | N/A |
| Massachusetts | $203,300 | $131,300 | N/A |
| Michigan | $159,290 | $97,260 | $230,390 |
| Minnesota | $171,750 | $108,030 | N/A |
| Mississippi | $117,350 | $74,840 | $182,840 |
| Missouri | $139,740 | $84,970 | $211,250 |
| Montana | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Nebraska | $133,950 | $96,100 | $205,800 |
| Nevada | $136,690 | $86,640 | N/A |
| New Hampshire | $177,160 | $111,910 | $234,070 |
| New Jersey | $196,480 | $131,610 | N/A |
| New Mexico | $139,330 | $92,690 | N/A |
| New York | $209,980 | $129,400 | N/A |
| North Carolina | $167,550 | $101,650 | N/A |
| North Dakota | $136,300 | $91,460 | $183,230 |
| Ohio | $163,260 | $99,010 | N/A |
| Oklahoma | $132,790 | $80,510 | $205,780 |
| Oregon | $178,210 | $111,380 | N/A |
| Pennsylvania | $161,570 | $99,830 | $225,350 |
| Rhode Island | $165,030 | $99,540 | N/A |
| South Carolina | $142,490 | $85,160 | $224,380 |
| South Dakota | $160,850 | $116,330 | $218,950 |
| Tennessee | $149,990 | $92,820 | $239,060 |
| Texas | $167,320 | $104,270 | N/A |
| Utah | $162,400 | $101,440 | N/A |
| Vermont | $139,920 | $87,500 | $230,100 |
| Virginia | $192,870 | $126,480 | N/A |
| Washington | $206,420 | $133,320 | N/A |
| West Virginia | $145,430 | $83,200 | $211,650 |
| Wisconsin | $149,760 | $98,360 | $219,280 |
| Wyoming | $117,060 | $81,010 | $165,460 |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 2024 median salary; projected job growth through 2034. Actual salaries vary depending on location, level of education, years of experience, work environment, and other factors. Salaries may differ even more for those who are self-employed or work part time.
The job market is projected to grow by 15.2% through 2034, much faster than the average for other occupations. This growth reflects the increasing importance of technology across industries, with trends like cloud computing and cyber security boosting the demand for skilled IT managers.
While experience, industry, location and skills all influence pay, even those in the lowest 10% of earners still made over $104,450 annually.
The BLS says the median annual wages for computer and information systems managers in the top industries in which they worked were:
| Work environment | Median annual salary |
|---|---|
| Information security and systems | $205,510 |
| Software publishing | $180,470 |
| Finance and insurance | $159,750 |
| Computer systems design and related services | $170,080 |
| Management of companies and enterprises | $161,110 |
Explore IT manager salaries by state
Is IT management right for you?
Ask yourself the following questions:
- Do you enjoy solving problems and figuring out how things work? IT is about breaking down problems and crafting solutions.
- Are you comfortable with computers and technology in general? Do you like learning about new software and gadgets?
- Do you have a logical and analytical mindset? Coding, troubleshooting and system design require structured thinking.
- Do you pay attention to detail? Small mistakes in IT can have significant consequences.
- Are you a lifelong learner? Technology evolves rapidly, demanding a willingness to constantly learn new things.
- Can you handle pressure and occasional frustration? Things break, deadlines loom and sometimes solutions aren't immediately obvious.
- Do you enjoy collaboration but also independent work? IT often involves teamwork but also periods of focused problem-solving alone.
- Are you a good communicator? IT managers need to explain technical concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.
- Do you value a dynamic and ever-changing work environment? If predictability isn't your strong suit, IT offers constant challenges.
- Does the idea of having a positive impact on how people work and businesses operate appeal to you?
- Are you looking for a field with good job security and earning potential?
If you answered yes to most or all of these questions, then a career as an IT manager may offer a dynamic and rewarding path to leverage your technical expertise, leadership skills and strategic thinking. You may be the right person to guide a team of tech enthusiasts and ensure the successful operation of IT systems within an organization.
Explore more cyber security and IT administrative roles
Take the first step
Start your quest to gain hands-on experience through entry-level IT support roles, even though completing your degree should not be the point where your hands-on experience begins. You should have experience and projects under your belt long before you graduate.
Be sure, too, to research relevant IT management certifications that will enhance your qualifications. Every industry is different and some certifications are more valuable than others in certain sectors.
With dedication, curiosity and a commitment to leadership, you can embark on a fulfilling career as an IT manager, shaping the future of technology within your chosen field.
If you're ready to start your journey towards a rewarding and well-paid career in IT management, there's no better time to start than now. Explore bachelor's degree programs in computer science or information technology. You can begin your search here on this page using the Find Schools button.
Published: May 2, 2024
Written and reported by:
Mariah Beckman
Contributing Writer
With professional insights from:
Vit Koval
Co-founder, Globy B2B Market
Jon Morgan
IT Manager, Venture Smarter