High School

There are a number of classes you can take in high school to help get ready for this career. Improving your computer skills should be a priority; therefore, take as many computer classes as possible. Develop your analytical and problem-solving skills by taking mathematics classes such as algebra, geometry, and precalculus, and science classes, such as chemistry and physics. To get an idea of how companies function, take business and economics classes. English classes are essential and will help you develop your communication, research, and writing skills. Many high schools also offer technology classes that give you good experience working on a Web site.

Postsecondary Training

In the early days of Internet and computer development, many people without college degrees were able to find jobs in the field if they had computer experience. However, as this field has matured and the market has grown tighter, many companies now require new hires to have college degrees. In addition, a college degree may help you to advance professionally. Typically, people entering this field have degrees in computer science; some have degrees in other areas such as computer engineering, e-commerce, business, or mathematics. Most colleges offer at least one or more classes in e-commerce, and some community colleges offer associate degree or certificate programs especially for people interested in becoming an Internet transaction specialist.

The most important aspect of your education is to gain a thorough knowledge of computers and programming. It will be to your benefit to complete an internship or do summer work in programming at a computer company or a company with a computer/technology division. When you are deciding on a college to attend, find out if the college has classes on e-commerce and the career services office has information on internships or jobs and will help you find one.

People working in some advanced positions, such as architect, may be required to have extensive computer and business experience as well as an undergraduate or graduate degree.

Other Education or Training

Continuing education classes, webinars, and seminars on topics such as e-commerce, Internet marketing, and information security are provided by professional organizations such as the SANS Institute and CompTIA. Contact these organizations for more information.

Certification or Licensing

There are numerous certifications available in programming languages, software, and network administration. Some employers may require that you have certain certifications although most employers are more interested in your skills and experience. Nevertheless, certification will enhance your professional standing and show your commitment to the field. The certification process usually involves taking a training program and passing a written exam. 

In the IT and Internet industry, the more you know and the more experience you have, the more likely youll be able to find a job. However, if you are able to complete a certificate class as an e-commerce specialist, you should be able to get a job in the field without having a great deal of experience. Without any kind of training, certificate, or a year or two of on the job experience, you will have a difficult time getting a job. Experience as an intern can make you a more attractive candidate. You will need at least two to four years experience for top-level positions. 

You should enjoy learning about new technology and be able to learn on your own as well as through organized classes. People in this field constantly improve their skills by reading about the latest developments and teaching themselves new techniques. Youll need the desire and initiative to keep up on new technology, software, and hardware. You must also have good verbal and written communication skills because you will often have to communicate with a team or with the end user. Because you will deal with many different problems, you must be flexible and patient. Depending on what area you want to specialize in, you may need strong customer service skills or design ability.