KTEC Schools of Innovation logo
Information Technology2026-10-15T11:11:04-05:00

Information Technology

Every business, hospital, school, and manufacturer today runs on technology — and needs people who understand it. This pathway builds students for that role across every industry.

Careers in This Field

Information Technology is one of the most versatile pathways available — IT skills are needed in every industry, from manufacturing and healthcare to finance and government. Below is a look at where this pathway leads, organized by the education level each role typically requires.

With a High School Diploma2026-09-17T15:20:22-05:00

Tech-savvy students can enter the workforce in support and entry-level roles immediately after high school, especially with relevant certifications. These positions offer real exposure to the systems, tools, and environments that define more advanced IT careers.

Tech Support Technician

Diagnose and resolve hardware, software, and connectivity issues for end users in business settings.

PC Technician

Build, configure, maintain, and repair desktop and laptop computers for individuals and organizations.

Web Designer

Create and maintain website layouts, graphics, and user interfaces for clients and businesses.

Technical Writer

Translate complex technical concepts into clear documentation, manuals, and user guides.

With a Certification or Technical Diploma2026-09-17T15:22:13-05:00

The skilled trades are the backbone of the construction industry — and they’re in short supply. Electricians, plumbers, carpenters, and HVAC technicians are among the most consistently in-demand workers in the country. Registered apprenticeships in these fields typically pay while you learn and lead to wages that rival many four-year degree careers.

Carpenter

Frame walls, install flooring, build cabinetry, and finish interiors in residential and commercial construction.

Construction Electrician

Install and maintain electrical wiring, panels, and fixtures in new and existing structures.

Plumber

Run pipe systems for water supply, drainage, and gas in residential and commercial buildings.

HVAC Installer-Technician

Install, service, and repair heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems.

Sheet Metal Worker

Fabricate and install ductwork, structural components, and metal assemblies on construction sites.

Bricklayer

Lay brick, block, and stone to construct walls, facades, chimneys, and other masonry structures.

Ironworker

Erect structural steel, install rebar, and assemble precast components for commercial and industrial buildings.

Roofer and Waterproofer

Install and repair roofing systems, membranes, and waterproofing to protect building envelopes.

Painter and Decorator

Apply interior and exterior finishes to walls, ceilings, and surfaces in residential and commercial spaces.

Tile Setter

Install ceramic, stone, and specialty tile on floors, walls, and countertops.

Concrete Finisher

Pour, level, and finish concrete for slabs, foundations, sidewalks, and structural elements.

Cabinet Maker

Design and build custom cabinetry, millwork, and furniture for residential and commercial interiors.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Operate bulldozers, excavators, cranes, and other heavy machinery on construction sites.

Drafting Design Technician

Produce technical drawings and plans using CAD software under the direction of architects and engineers.

With a Registered Apprenticeship2026-09-17T15:24:12-05:00

Registered IT apprenticeships are a growing pathway into high-demand technical roles — combining on-the-job training with structured instruction in areas like data analysis, cybersecurity, and software development.

IT Service Desk Technician

Provide technical support and problem resolution across hardware, software, and network environments.

Data Analyst

Collect, process, and interpret data to help organizations make informed business decisions.

Cybersecurity Analyst

Identify vulnerabilities, monitor threats, and protect organizational systems and data.

Software Developer

Design, build, test, and maintain software applications for business, consumer, or enterprise use.

With an Associate Degree2026-09-17T15:25:48-05:00

Two additional years open up network administration, application development, and technical coordination roles — positions that combine hands-on technical skill with project and systems thinking.

Network Administrator

Install, configure, and maintain computer networks — LAN, WAN, and cloud-based systems.

Application Developer

Build and maintain software applications tailored to business workflows and user needs.

Cloud Administrator

Manage cloud-based infrastructure, services, and storage for organizations using platforms like AWS or Azure.

Information Security Analyst

Protect organizational networks and systems by identifying threats and implementing security measures.

Business Systems Analyst

Translate business needs into technical requirements and help teams implement technology solutions.

Software Quality Analyst

Test and validate software to ensure it functions correctly, securely, and as designed.

Robotics Technician

Program, maintain, and troubleshoot robotic systems in manufacturing and automation settings.

Augmented/Virtual Reality Developer

Build immersive digital experiences for training, entertainment, and industrial applications.

SCRUM Master

Facilitate agile software development teams — coordinating sprints, removing blockers, and ensuring delivery.

With a Bachelor’s Degree or Higher2026-09-17T15:28:08-05:00

Four-year IT programs lead to engineering, leadership, and research careers at the forefront of how technology is built, secured, and managed.

Cybersecurity Engineer

Design and implement security architecture to protect systems, networks, and data at an organizational level.

Data Scientist

Build models and algorithms that extract insight from large, complex datasets to drive business strategy.

Software Developer (Senior)

Architect and develop complex software systems and platforms for enterprise or consumer applications.

Network Architect

Design and build the large-scale networks that connect organizations, data centers, and cloud environments.

Artificial Intelligence Programmer

Develop machine learning models, AI systems, and intelligent applications for real-world use cases.

IT Project/Product Manager

Lead technology projects and product development from concept through delivery.

Computer & Information Systems Manager

Oversee an organization’s entire technology infrastructure, strategy, and team.

Chief Information Security Officer

Lead enterprise cybersecurity strategy, compliance, and incident response at the executive level.

Robotics Engineer

Design and develop robotic systems for manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, and emerging applications.

Computer Scientist

Conduct research and development at the intersection of theory and applied technology.

GIS Specialist

Analyze and visualize geographic data to support planning, research, and decision-making.

Why This Field in Kenosha County

~400

IT positions currently open in the area

$22–29/hr

typical hourly wages depending on the role — higher for specialized or remote work

Kenosha County sits at the edge of one of the country’s most active technology corridors. With Foxconn/FII USA’s regional presence and a growing base of tech-forward manufacturers, logistics companies, and healthcare systems all requiring IT infrastructure, local demand for skilled IT workers continues to expand.

Information Technology at KTEC

Courses at KTEC

Every KTEC student builds a foundation in our dedicated technology labs before moving into pathway-specific coursework. For IT students, that foundation is directly relevant — from day one, students are working with real systems, real tools, and real problem-solving that mirrors what they’ll encounter in the field.

KTEC Core Courses

Tech 1

Introduction to technology systems, tools, and problem-solving in a hands-on lab environment.

Tech 2

Advanced application of technology concepts, with increasing focus on precision and project work.

Tech 3

Specialized technology applications with deeper emphasis on pathway-relevant skills and independent projects.

Digital Art

Design fundamentals and digital production skills — directly applicable to UI/UX, web design, and media roles.

Industrial Safety

Workplace safety standards, hazard identification, and safe equipment operation practices.

Gateway Technical College Courses

IT students at KTEC can begin earning college credit in programming, networking, and security before they graduate — through our partnership with Gateway Technical College. These aren’t introductory survey courses. Students cover IBM enterprise systems, Python, Java, IoT, and network security — the same coursework Gateway delivers to students in its full IT programs.

IT & Programming Courses2026-09-17T15:31:26-05:00

152-105 IBM Enterprise System Concepts

Introduction to IBM mainframe systems — architecture, operations, and enterprise computing fundamentals.

152-126 Intro to Programming & Database Concepts

Core programming logic and relational database fundamentals using structured query language.

152-133 IBM Control Language

Command-level scripting and job control for IBM enterprise systems.

152-141 Java Programming – IBM Systems

Object-oriented programming in Java within an IBM enterprise environment.

152-081 Programming in Python

Python fundamentals — syntax, data structures, functions, and practical scripting applications.

107-193 IT Essentials

Hardware, software, networking, and security fundamentals aligned with CompTIA A+ preparation.

150-182 IoT Connecting Devices

Connecting, configuring, and securing smart devices and sensors in networked environments.

150-194 Network Security

Threats, vulnerabilities, and defensive strategies for protecting networked systems and data.

Start College Now (Gateway Campus)2026-09-17T15:34:36-05:00

KTEC students may also enroll directly at Gateway Technical College for general education credit.

809-198 Introduction to Psychology

Foundational principles of human behavior, cognition, and psychological science.

809-195 Economics

Overview of micro and macroeconomic principles and their application to business and society.

801-197 Technical Reporting

Professional technical writing and documentation skills for IT and engineering environments.

Certifications & Credentials

KTEC IT students graduate with both college credit and a portfolio of technical certifications — the kind that hiring managers and IT apprenticeship programs look for when evaluating candidates who are newer to the field.

Pathway-Specific Certifications

OSHA 30

OSHA

Certifications Available to All KTEC Students

504f

NC3 Snap-on Multimeter

Snap-on / NC3

Torque Theory

NC3 Snap-on Torque

Snap-on / NC3

NC3 Snap-on Precision Measurement

Snap-on / NC3

Tool Id 1

NC3 Snap-on Tool Identification

Snap-on / NC3

Tornach Cnc Fundamentals

Tormach CNC Fundamentals

Tormach

Festo Intro To Cad

Introduction to CAD

Festo

Dremel 3d Printing

Dremel 3D Printing

Dremel

Dremel Lc 40 Laser

Dremel Laser Cutter

Dremel

Data Analytics I

Data Analytics I — Harnessing the Power of Data

Trane

OSHA 10

OSHA

3m Fall Protection

3M PPE

3M

3M Professionalism

3M

Work-Based Learning & CTSOs

KTEC students don’t have to wait for graduation to start building a career. Paid work experience with local employers and hands-on trade competitions give them a real head start while they’re still in high school.

Youth Apprenticeship

Technology skills are sharpened in real environments. Through Wisconsin’s Youth Apprenticeship program, Information Technology students can earn paid work experience with a regional employer while still in high school — applying programming, network, or support skills in an actual business setting. YA hours count toward graduation requirements and give students a professional reference before they ever apply to a tech program or entry-level role.

SkillsUSA

Every KTEC pathway is anchored by SkillsUSA — a national career and technical student organization where students develop leadership, teamwork, and professional skills alongside their technical training. SkillsUSA members compete at local, state, and national levels in hands-on contests tied directly to their field.

Post-Secondary Options

Information Technology graduates leave KTEC with something that most entry-level applicants don’t have: demonstrated technical skills, real-world experience, and college credit already on the books.

1

Enter the Workforce

Enter IT support, web development, or tech roles with Gateway college credit, programming experience, and a professional portfolio from your KTEC coursework.

2

Continue at Gateway

Continue Gateway’s Information Technology, Cybersecurity, or Software Development programs with KTEC credits already applied toward your degree.

3

Transfer to a 4-Year College

KTEC coursework and Gateway credits transfer toward computer science, information systems, and cybersecurity programs at Wisconsin universities and beyond.

Ready to start this pathway?

Enrollment at KTEC is open to all students in grades 4K–12. No application fee. No academic requirement.