Information Technology in Colorado
Colorado's Information Technology pathway prepares students for diverse careers in IT support, systems administration, network management, and technical support roles. Colorado's growing technology sector, particularly in Denver, Boulder, and Colorado Springs, creates strong demand for IT professionals.
Students develop competency in networking, system administration, help desk support, IT troubleshooting, and security basics. They gain hands-on experience in IT labs and through partnerships with technology companies and corporate IT departments.
Graduates work as IT support technicians, help desk specialists, system administrators, or network technicians. Many pursue industry certifications like CompTIA A+ or Network+. Others continue studies in computer science or information technology at Colorado universities.
Information Technology at a Glance
3
Courses
8
Credentials
4
Career Paths
State Standards & Framework
Colorado's IT standards align with CompTIA certification objectives and industry best practices for IT support and systems administration. Standards cover networking, operating systems, security, and troubleshooting.
Students complete hands-on assessments in network configuration, system troubleshooting, help desk procedures, and security practices. Assessment includes preparation for CompTIA A+ and Network+ certifications.
Typical Course Sequence
| Course |
|---|
| IT Fundamentals and Networking |
| Operating Systems and Systems Administration |
| Advanced IT Support and Security |
Industry Certifications & Credentials
Career Opportunities
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2024). Growth projections from BLS Employment Projections (2023-2033). Cost-of-living adjustment uses BEA Regional Price Parities (2023). Entry-level salaries reflect the 25th percentile; experienced salaries reflect the median.
IT Help Desk Technician
Entry LevelSalary range: $55,210 - $85,210
System Administrator
ExperiencedSalary range: $82,830 - $124,450
Network Technician
ExperiencedSalary range: $82,830 - $124,450
IT Manager
ExperiencedSalary range: $86,660 - $188,290
Work-Based Learning Opportunities
Students intern with technology companies, corporate IT departments, schools, healthcare systems, and government agencies throughout Colorado.
Career & Technical Student Organization
Students in this pathway can participate in ICTM (Colorado CTE Association), gaining leadership experience and competing in career-related events.
How Sage Helps Colorado CTE Programs
AI-Powered Curriculum
Generate standards-aligned lesson plans in minutes, not months
Colorado Standards Built In
Pre-loaded with Colorado's CTE standards and frameworks
Teacher Customization
Teachers personalize content while maintaining standards alignment
Ongoing Updates
Curriculum stays current as Colorado standards and industry needs evolve
Related Pathways in Colorado
Computer Science
Colorado's Computer Science pathway develops foundational knowledge and skills in programming, algorithms, and computational thinking. Colorado's technology sector, particularly in Denver and Boulder, creates strong demand for computer science professionals. Students develop competency in programming languages, algorithm design, data structures, computational problem-solving, and software development. They work on real projects and gain experience through partnerships with technology companies. Graduates pursue careers as software developers, computer scientists, or technology professionals. Many continue studies in computer science at Colorado universities including CU Boulder, Colorado State, and others. Strong career demand ensures excellent prospects.
STEM, Arts, Design & Information TechnologyCybersecurity
Colorado's Cybersecurity pathway prepares students for careers protecting digital systems and data against cyber threats. Colorado's technology sector and growing cybersecurity demand create strong career opportunities. Students develop competency in network security, data protection, threat identification, security systems, and compliance standards. They gain hands-on experience in security labs learning defensive techniques through real-world scenarios. Graduates pursue roles as cybersecurity analysts, security technicians, or network security specialists. Many pursue advanced certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CEH. Strong demand and competitive salaries ensure excellent career prospects.
STEM, Arts, Design & Information TechnologyNetwork Systems & Administration
Colorado's Network Systems & Administration pathway prepares students for careers in network design, implementation, and management. Colorado's technology sector creates strong demand for network professionals. Students develop competency in network architecture, routing and switching, network security, troubleshooting, and systems administration. They work in networking labs and gain experience through partnerships with technology companies and corporate IT departments. Graduates work as network technicians, system administrators, or network engineers. Many pursue industry certifications like CompTIA Network+ or Cisco CCNA. Colorado's technology sector offers strong career opportunities.
STEM, Arts, Design & Information TechnologyReady to Build Information Technology Programs at Scale?
See how Sage can help you create standards-aligned curriculum for Information Technology in Colorado.