How to Become an IT Manager for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

IT managers ensure that the technology infrastructure of organizations is working efficiently and uphold the integrity of network security. Such an important role is rewarded handsomely by businesses regardless of industry. As such, 36% of these professionals are "extremely satisfied" and 40% are "somewhat satisfied" with their jobs.

This article presents a comprehensive step-by-step guide on how to become an IT manager and explores the chief responsibilities of the role. Useful for aspirants, it also navigates the ideal certifications, biggest challenges, job outlook, and possible salaries, among other key details.

Key Things You Should Know About Becoming an IT Manager

An IT manager is in charge of an organization's technology infrastructure and ensures that all systems, networks, and applications operate efficiently.
The journey to becoming an IT manager typically takes 5–10 years.
93% of IT managers and decision-makers have at least one certification.
31% of IT managers and decision makers cite resource and budget constraints as the biggest challenge they face; another 31% say heavy workloads, 27% state talent retention, and 26% believe talent recruitment is the largest concern.
The employment of IT managers in the United States is anticipated to increase by a remarkable 17% from 2023 to 2033.
The average annual salary for IT managers in the United States is $180,720, while their median annual salary is $169,510.

What does an IT manager do?
How to Become an IT Manager
How long does it take to become an IT manager?
Where do IT managers work?
What are the ideal IT management certifications to obtain?
What are the most important IT manager skills?
What are the biggest challenges IT managers face?
How can IT managers leverage emerging technology trends?
How can IT managers accelerate their professional development and networking?
Should I pursue a graduate degree to enhance my IT management career?
How can IT managers improve their cybersecurity skills?
Are affordable online IT degrees a viable pathway for advancing IT management careers?
Can pursuing specialized online degrees enhance IT management skills?
How can interdisciplinary technical degrees enhance IT management expertise?
How can affordable online educational programs support IT management careers?
How can IT managers effectively lead remote or hybrid teams?
What are the best entry-level jobs for aspiring IT managers?
What is the job outlook for IT managers?
What is the average salary of IT managers?
What are the best IT management software tools?
Other Things You Should Know About Becoming an IT Manager

What does an IT manager do?

An IT manager is in charge of an organization's technology infrastructure and ensures that all systems, networks, and applications operate efficiently. Their responsibilities include planning and managing the installation and maintenance of computer systems, developing IT policies related to security and disaster recovery, and leading a team of IT professionals. Additionally, IT managers analyze resource utilization, monitor the success of IT initiatives, and collaborate with other departments to align technology solutions with organizational goals.

Their key responsibilities include the following:

Team Leadership: Leading and mentoring IT staff, assigning tasks based on expertise, and fostering professional growth.
Strategic Planning: Aligning IT initiatives with company objectives, budgeting for IT, and ensuring cost-effective and scalable solutions.
Cybersecurity: Implementing security protocols, monitoring for threats, and ensuring regulatory compliance to protect company data.
IT Operations: Managing hardware, software, cloud services, and IT support for seamless business operations.
Project Leadership: Overseeing technology projects (upgrades, migrations, digital transformation) to ensure successful implementation.
Cross-departmental Collaboration: Working with other departments to align IT solutions with business needs and improve efficiency.

As technology continues to shape healthcare, professionals interested in combining IT and nursing may explore the cheapest online nursing informatics degree programs, which offer affordable pathways to bridge clinical expertise with data-driven healthcare solutions.

The chart below shows the US sectors that employ the most IT managers.

How to Become an IT Manager

The path how to become an IT manager requires a blend of earning a bachelor's degree, hands-on experience, leadership development, and strategic career progression. Professionals must continuously refine their technical expertise while cultivating management and communication skills to lead teams effectively.

Below are key steps that individuals can take to build a strong foundation for a successful career in IT management.

Formal Education: Begin with a bachelor's degree in a technology-related field (e.g., computer science, information technology). A master's degree (e.g., information systems, technology-focused MBA) or post-master's certificate can further enhance one's qualifications. Gaining an educational foundation serves as a strong base for understanding technical concepts and industry best practices. Distance learners can enroll in degrees like online MBA management information systems programs. Those looking into healthcare technology might also be interested in what are the requirements to be a military nurse, as this field involves specialized training, licensure, and potential IT applications in military healthcare.
Practical IT Experience: Gain hands-on experience through DIY projects, freelance work, industry certifications, internships, shadowing, and attending IT seminars. This practical experience allows aspirants to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios.
Leadership Development: Cultivate leadership skills by seeking roles that offer opportunities for growth, such as project manager, brand manager, or operational leader. Focus on developing soft skills like communication, empathy, creativity, and inspiration. These skills are essential for motivating and guiding teams effectively.
IT Support Role (Optional): Consider starting as an IT support specialist to gain valuable experience in customer support, system setups, issue resolution, user assistance, and training. Pursue certifications like Microsoft Technology Associate, CompTIA A+, and Apple Certified Support Professional. This role provides a valuable entry point into the IT field and exposure to diverse technical challenges. Those interested in working with specialized populations, such as older adults, may also consider affordable online gerontology master’s degree programs, which provide training in aging-related healthcare, policy, and administration.
Resume Enhancement: To make a strong impression on potential employers, IT professionals should regularly update their resumes, highlighting the relevant credentials, experience, and accomplishments that demonstrate their qualifications for IT management positions. A well-crafted resume is essential for showcasing professional strengths and capturing employer interest.
Transition to IT Management: To successfully transition into an IT management role, individuals should focus on developing strong interpersonal skills, fostering cross-functional relationships, and learning how to effectively manage direct reports. It is important for them to understand the company culture and be prepared to navigate the complexities of leadership, as this transition involves shifting their focus from technical tasks to strategic thinking and people management. Additionally, those exploring alternative career paths in healthcare may ask, what are the requirements to be an audiologist? Becoming an audiologist requires a doctoral degree, clinical training, and state licensure to diagnose and treat hearing disorders.

How long does it take to become an IT manager?

The journey how to become an IT manager typically takes 5-10 years, starting with a four-year IT-related bachelor's degree and experience in technical roles like systems analyst or network engineer. Advancement requires both technical expertise and leadership/project management skills, often developed through certifications, experience, or a master's degree (e.g., information systems, IT-focused MBA). Continuous learning and staying current with technology are crucial for long-term success.

Career progression varies; some advance quickly through high performance and networking, while others gain broader experience through a more gradual approach.

Where do IT managers work?

IT managers work in a variety of industries and settings, as nearly every modern organization relies on technology to operate efficiently. They are responsible for overseeing IT infrastructure, security, and business technology solutions to ensure smooth operations and innovation. Some of the most common workplaces for IT managers include:

Corporate: Large and midsized companies across various sectors (finance, healthcare, retail, manufacturing) employ IT managers to oversee internal IT infrastructure and ensure smooth operations.
Technology: Software developers, cloud providers, and tech startups need IT managers to manage operations, security, and product development support.
Government: Public sector organizations at all levels (federal, state, and local) hire IT managers to maintain secure and efficient IT systems.
Education: Universities, colleges, and school districts rely on IT managers to support learning technologies, manage digital infrastructure, and oversee cybersecurity. \
Healthcare: Hospitals, clinics, and medical research institutions require IT managers to handle electronic health records, cybersecurity, and regulatory compliance (e.g., HIPAA).
Finance: Banks, insurance companies, and investment firms employ IT managers to oversee data security, fraud prevention, and financial technology (FinTech) systems.
E-commerce/Retail: In e-commerce organizations, IT managers ensure online stores, inventory systems, and customer databases function properly and securely.
Consulting: IT consulting firms employ IT managers to help clients optimize IT strategies, implement new technologies, and improve cybersecurity.

What are the ideal IT management certifications to obtain?

Earning relevant certifications can enhance an IT manager’s expertise in project management, cybersecurity, IT service management, and leadership. These credentials validate essential skills, improve career prospects, and help IT professionals stay competitive in a rapidly evolving industry.

Here are some of the best certifications to consider:

Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM): Offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), CAPM is ideal for individuals looking to gain project management responsibilities or strengthen their resumes with foundational project management skills.
Project Management Professional (PMP): Recognized as the leading project management credential, the PMP certification, managed by PMI, certifies your ability to lead and successfully deliver complex projects across industries.
Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL): ITIL certifications promote best practices in IT service management (ITSM), helping IT managers improve business processes, service delivery, and strategy implementation.
Certified Information Technology Manager (CITM): Designed for IT professionals in leadership roles, CITM provides essential skills for managing IT teams, projects, and resources effectively.
Six Sigma Certification: Focused on process improvement methodologies, Six Sigma equips IT managers with the tools needed to enhance operational efficiency, streamline workflows, and reduce inefficiencies.
TOGAF 9: A globally recognized enterprise architecture certification, TOGAF 9 helps IT managers align IT strategies with business objectives and improve communication across cross-functional teams.
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP): A vendor-neutral cybersecurity certificate, the CISSP certification validates expertise in risk management, security operations, and compliance, making it essential for IT managers overseeing security programs.
CompTIA Project+: As an entry-level project management certification, CompTIA Project+ covers essential principles for planning, executing, and managing IT projects. It serves as an excellent foundation for professionals starting their careers in IT management or looking to enhance their project coordination skills.
Certified Information Security Manager (CISM): This certification values one's proficiency in managing enterprise security systems. It is particularly advantageous for IT professionals moving into leadership roles in information security, with a strong emphasis on risk management, incident response, and governance.
Information Technology Management and Leadership Professional (ITMLP): Designed for aspiring IT leaders, the ITMLP certification offers comprehensive training in both technical and leadership skills. It prepares professionals to manage IT teams effectively while aligning technology strategies with broader business objectives to foster organizational growth.

The importance of certifications has been underscored in recent times and has become a vital component in learning how to become an IT manager. According to Skillsoft's report, 93% of IT managers and decision-makers have at least one certification.

What are the most important IT manager skills?

IT Managers require a combination of technical expertise and soft skills to effectively lead teams, manage technology infrastructure, and align IT strategies with business objectives. Below are the most critical skills IT Managers need to excel in their roles.

Essential Technical Skills for IT Managers

Networking: A deep understanding of computer networks, including protocols (TCP/IP), architecture, subnetting, routing, switching, and troubleshooting, is crucial for designing and maintaining secure and efficient network infrastructures.
Cybersecurity: Protecting organizational systems, networks, and data from unauthorized access and cyberattacks requires expertise in security protocols, firewalls, intrusion detection, encryption, and user authentication. Aspirants who want to focus more on cybersecurity than IT in general can take some of the best and easiest cybersecurity programs.
Database Management: Proficiency in database management systems (e.g., MySQL, Oracle, SQL Server), data modeling, SQL, and database administration is essential for managing and optimizing data storage and retrieval.
Cloud Computing: Leveraging cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) requires skills in provisioning virtual machines, deploying applications, managing storage, and understanding scalability and cost optimization.
Project Management: Effective planning, tracking, and execution of IT projects rely on familiarity with project management tools (e.g., Microsoft Project, Jira, Trello, Asana) and methodologies. Students who want to focus more on project management for their graduate degree can pursue master in project management online programs.

Important Soft Skills for IT Managers

Leadership: Inspiring and motivating teams, providing clear direction, fostering teamwork, delegating effectively, and creating a positive work environment are key leadership skills.
Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication is essential for conveying technical concepts to non-technical audiences, facilitating collaboration, and presenting ideas effectively.
Problem-Solving: Analyzing complex problems, identifying root causes, and developing effective solutions using analytical thinking and technical expertise are critical for IT managers.
Decision-Making: Evaluating options, considering data, and making informed decisions aligned with business objectives, including assessing risks and benefits, are crucial for driving technology initiatives.
Strategic Thinking: Aligning technology initiatives with long-term business goals, considering the broader organizational context, and identifying opportunities for innovation are essential for strategic IT leadership.

According to recent data by Zippia, the most common skills on the resumes of IT managers in the United States are customer service (11.9%), project management (9.2%), database (4.3%), network infrastructure (4%), SAN (2.8%), SQL server (2.8%), and disaster recovery (2.7%).

What are the biggest challenges IT managers face?

According to a recent report by Skillsoft, as shown by the visual below, 31% of IT managers and decision makers cite resource and budget constraints as a key challenge they face; another 31% say heavy workloads, 27% state talent retention, and 26% believe talent recruitment is the largest concern. Let us explore why.

Research and Budget Constraints: Limited budgets often prevent IT managers from investing in essential tools, emerging technologies, and employee training programs. Without sufficient funding for research and development, organizations struggle to keep pace with industry advancements, reducing their ability to implement innovative solutions. Companies that lack investment in new technologies risk falling behind competitors who use modern IT systems to enhance efficiency, productivity, and service delivery.
Heavy Workloads and Operational Pressure: IT professionals face growing workloads as organizations increase their reliance on technology. High expectations, limited resources, and the need to manage daily IT operations, security threats, and strategic projects create a demanding work environment. When IT teams are stretched too thin, it leads to burnout, decreased performance, and compromised productivity. Ensuring a balanced workload while meeting business objectives remains a critical challenge.
Talent Retention and Employee Satisfaction: Retaining skilled IT professionals is a top concern, as high turnover disrupts team dynamics and delays critical projects. Factors such as limited career growth opportunities, poor work-life balance, and lack of recognition contribute to dissatisfaction and attrition. IT managers must develop engagement strategies, career development initiatives, and employee retention programs to maintain a stable and motivated workforce.
Talent Recruitment and Skills Shortages: The competitive job market for IT professionals makes it difficult for organizations to attract and hire qualified candidates. With a shortage of skilled IT workers, managers must invest time, effort, and resources in recruitment while also upskilling existing employees to address talent gaps. Building a competent and adaptable IT team is essential for meeting an organization’s growing technology demands.
Innovation and Change Management: The rapid evolution of technology requires IT managers to embrace innovation while ensuring smooth transitions for their teams. Successfully adopting new tools, systems, and methodologies depends on effective change management strategies that prepare employees for transformation. The challenge lies in balancing innovation with operational stability, as abrupt changes without proper planning can lead to resistance, inefficiencies, and disruptions.
Developing Stronger IT Teams: Challenges such as unclear role definitions, communication barriers, and skill disparities can slow progress and reduce productivity. IT managers must take a proactive approach by clarifying responsibilities, improving communication channels, and investing in employee development. Encouraging a culture of collaboration, trust, and continuous learning strengthens team dynamics and ensures long-term success in a rapidly evolving technology landscape.
Executing with Urgency and Excellence: IT managers are under pressure to deliver projects quickly while maintaining high-quality standards. The need for speed and efficiency in cybersecurity initiatives, infrastructure upgrades, and system deployments can sometimes lead to rushed decisions and overlooked risks. Implementing strong project management practices, risk assessments, and structured execution strategies is vital for ensuring that IT initiatives are completed on time and with excellence.

How can IT managers leverage emerging technology trends?

IT managers are increasingly integrating emerging technology trends such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and automation to drive operational excellence and competitive advantage. By evaluating innovative solutions and adopting advanced analytics, these professionals align technology investments with business objectives while ensuring cybersecurity and compliance. They utilize data-driven insights to optimize resource allocation and enhance process efficiency. Additionally, many IT leaders are supplementing their expertise by pursuing further education, such as an online AI degree, which supports a deeper understanding of sophisticated digital transformation tools.

How can IT managers accelerate their professional development and networking?

Investing in continuous learning is essential for IT managers to remain competitive. They should consider pursuing advanced certifications, specialized training programs, and industry conferences to expand their expertise. Joining professional associations and online communities fosters meaningful mentorship and networking opportunities, which can lead to collaborative projects and career advancements. For additional insights on lucrative career paths in technology, explore the highest paying computer science jobs.

Should I pursue a graduate degree to enhance my IT management career?

Graduate-level education can act as a strategic lever in developing advanced technical and leadership skills while strengthening your capability to manage complex projects. A targeted postgraduate program refines expertise in both emerging technologies and managerial strategies, thereby increasing competitive advantage in senior roles. For instance, earning an online master computer science can offer the practical exposure and theoretical foundation required to excel in today’s dynamic technological environment.

How can IT managers improve their cybersecurity skills?

In today’s digital environment, enhancing cybersecurity proficiency is critical for IT managers. They must adopt targeted strategies to guard against sophisticated cyber threats by integrating specialized training into their professional development. Pursuing a cyber security degree online and similar educational programs can provide advanced methodologies for threat prevention, detection, and incident response. Focusing on continuous, practical learning and participating in industry-specific discussions helps IT managers reinforce their security frameworks while ensuring their organizations remain resilient against evolving risks.

Are affordable online IT degrees a viable pathway for advancing IT management careers?

Investing in a strong educational foundation is essential for bridging technical proficiency with leadership excellence in IT management. Many professionals have found that structured online programs not only bolster core IT competencies but also sharpen strategic and managerial skills crucial for overseeing complex technology environments. Pursuing affordable online IT degrees can provide a flexible and cost-effective route to gaining up-to-date technical knowledge and real-world insights tailored for aspiring IT leaders, ensuring a competitive edge in today's dynamic job market.

Can pursuing specialized online degrees enhance IT management skills?

In today’s dynamic IT environment, targeted online education can provide IT managers with specialized skill sets for emerging industry demands. Advanced programs that offer niche curricula—such as those in game development for managers working in entertainment or interactive media sectors—can foster creative problem-solving and innovation in technology strategy. For instance, enrolling in the best program for game development may deepen practical insights into software design and user engagement, ultimately enhancing managerial decision-making in projects that intersect with digital media.

How can interdisciplinary technical degrees enhance IT management expertise?

Advanced technical degrees provide a distinct advantage by reinforcing analytical problem-solving and systems-thinking skills. Integrating courses in fields such as electrical engineering deepens understanding of complex technologies and enhances the ability to manage evolving IT infrastructures. This cross-disciplinary approach not only refines technical expertise but also strengthens strategic decision-making, enabling IT managers to adapt to innovative solutions more effectively. Exploring opportunities like the cheapest online master's electrical engineering can further diversify and bolster one’s managerial toolkit.

How can affordable online educational programs support IT management careers?

Affordable online programs offer IT professionals a cost-effective way to build a robust technical foundation and enhance managerial competencies. These programs combine updated curriculum with flexible learning schedules and practical projects designed to simulate real-world scenarios. By pursuing well-structured educational pathways, aspiring IT managers can gain critical insights into emerging technologies, process optimization, and cybersecurity without compromising on quality. For example, exploring the cheapest online colleges for engineering can provide a rigorous technical backdrop that complements leadership training and strategic thinking required in IT management.

How can IT managers effectively lead remote or hybrid teams?

In today’s evolving work landscape, IT managers must tailor leadership strategies for geographically dispersed teams while upholding robust cybersecurity and seamless collaboration. They should implement advanced digital communication platforms, cloud-based project management solutions, and clear performance metrics to ensure accountability and productivity. Emphasizing proactive engagement and continuous feedback minimizes potential gaps in virtual settings. Additionally, pursuing specialized training in remote management can sharpen these skills and better position leaders in emerging sectors, such as jobs in biotech, where flexible work arrangements are increasingly common.

What are the best entry-level jobs for aspiring IT managers?

Aspiring IT managers should begin their careers in roles that build technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and leadership experience. Below are some of the best entry-level jobs that provide a strong foundation for IT management.

IT Support Specialist

IT support specialists handle technical issues, troubleshoot software and hardware problems, and assist end-users. This role helps build customer service skills, problem-solving abilities, and technical troubleshooting expertise, all of which are essential for IT management.

Key Skills Gained:

Help desk support and troubleshooting
Communication and problem-solving
User training and technical documentation

Systems Administrator (Junior Role)

A junior systems administrator is responsible for maintaining and configuring IT systems, managing servers, and ensuring network security. This role provides hands-on experience with IT infrastructure, security protocols, and system maintenance—critical knowledge areas for IT managers.

Key Skills Gained:

Server and network administration
System monitoring and performance tuning
IT security and compliance

Network Administrator (Entry-Level)

Entry-level network administrators support network configuration, security, and troubleshooting. They work with routers, firewalls, and cloud networking tools, gaining essential knowledge in IT infrastructure that is useful for management positions. Aspirants who would rather focus on network administration can pursue 1 year computer science degree online programs.

Key Skills Gained:

Network setup and maintenance
Security monitoring and troubleshooting
Cloud networking fundamentals

IT Technician

IT technicians focus on hardware and software troubleshooting, system repairs, and infrastructure maintenance. This hands-on role helps professionals understand the physical components of IT systems, making it a great stepping stone toward IT management.

Key Skills Gained:

Hardware diagnostics and repair
Operating system and software troubleshooting
IT asset management

Business Analyst (IT Focus)

Business analysts in IT work on technology-driven projects, gathering requirements, analyzing data, and helping improve business processes through IT solutions. This role bridges technical expertise and business strategy, a key competency for IT managers. Aspirants who wish to shift to analytics can pursue online MBA business analytics programs.

Key Skills Gained:

IT project analysis and process improvement
Communication between IT and business teams
Data analysis and reporting

IT Project Coordinator

IT project coordinators support IT project planning, tracking, and execution. They assist with scheduling, budgeting, and coordinating teams, making this role an excellent entry point for those aiming to transition into IT project management and leadership roles.

Key Skills Gained:

Project management methodologies (Agile, Scrum)
IT budgeting and resource allocation
Collaboration and leadership development

Cybersecurity Analyst (Junior Role)

Aspiring IT managers interested in security can start as junior cybersecurity analysts, where they monitor systems for threats, enforce security policies, and respond to incidents. This role provides a strong foundation in IT risk management, which is essential for leadership in IT security.

Key Skills Gained:

Security monitoring and risk assessment
Incident response and compliance
Network security and access management

Database Administrator (Entry-Level)

Entry-level database administrators help manage data storage, security, and backups. Since IT managers often oversee database operations, this role provides valuable experience in data integrity and system efficiency.

Key Skills Gained:

Database management and optimization
SQL and data security principles
Backup and disaster recovery planning

Cloud Support Associate

Cloud support associates work with cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud to help businesses manage cloud-based infrastructure and applications. Since cloud computing is a major IT trend, this role is a great stepping stone for future IT leaders.

Key Skills Gained:

Cloud computing fundamentals
Virtualization and scalability
Security and compliance in cloud environments

Software Developer (IT Management Track)

For those with a programming background, an entry-level software developer role can lead to IT management, especially in development-heavy environments. IT managers in tech companies often need an understanding of software development lifecycles, coding best practices, and team collaboration.

Key Skills Gained:

Software development methodologies (Agile, DevOps)
Coding and debugging
Team collaboration and project coordination

What is the job outlook for IT managers?

Holding one of the highest paying business jobs, IT managers have high demand in the United States. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of IT managers is anticipated to increase by a remarkable 17% from 2023 to 2033, outpacing the growth rate over the same period of operations specialties managers (12%). Their numbers are set to grow from 613,500 in 2023 to 720,400 by 2033. This underscores their growing importance in the corporate realm as technology continues to revolutionize the business landscape.

In the same period, aspirants and other job seekers can expect 54,700 openings for IT management positions annually. Indeed reports over 9,000 current job openings for IT management roles across the country. Aspiring IT managers will not have a lot of trouble finding worthwhile jobs.

As for the regions they can prioritize, the US states that employ the most IT managers are California (98,430), Texas (62,620), New York (39,190), New Jersey (27,890), and Florida (27,110).

What is the average salary of IT managers?

According to the BLS, the average annual salary for IT managers in the United States is $180,720, while their median annual salary is $169,510, making them highly paid professionals. Their average salary can go even higher if they are working in bustling states and high-demand sectors. In fact, working in certain states and industries can drive one's yearly salary to go north of $200,000.

The US states that furnish the highest average annual salaries to IT managers are California ($217,030), New York ($213,930), Washington ($207,390), New Jersey ($205,120), and Delaware ($196,630).

Meanwhile, the industries that offer the highest average yearly salaries, as shown in the chart below, are web search portals and other information services ($270,580), computer and peripheral equipment manufacturing ($250,170), taxi and limousine services ($246,010), local messengers and delivery services ($228,650), and motor vehicle manufacturing ($223,800).

What are the best IT management software tools?

IT managers use a variety of software solutions to enhance service delivery, monitor systems, manage projects, and track assets. Adding any or a combination of these to one's tech stack improves operational and network efficiency. Below are the core categories of IT management software and their functions.

IT Service Management (ITSM) Software: ITSM software manages and optimizes IT service delivery, streamlining key processes like incident, problem, and change management, and service requests to improve efficiency and service quality.
Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM) Software: RMM tools offer real-time insights, remote troubleshooting, and proactive maintenance. This leads to more efficient IT infrastructure management and reduced downtime, especially for distributed teams.
Project Management Software: Project management solutions help IT teams plan, execute, and track IT projects effectively. These tools enable task management, resource allocation, deadline tracking, and progress monitoring, ensuring smooth project execution. Integrated collaboration and reporting features allow IT Managers to coordinate teams and manage risks.
Help Desk and Ticketing Systems: These platforms streamline IT support and issue resolution by organizing user requests within a centralized system. They allow IT teams to efficiently track, prioritize, and address technical issues, ensuring timely and effective responses.
IT Asset Management (ITAM) Software: ITAM software tracks and manages IT assets throughout their lifecycle, providing visibility into inventories, monitoring performance, and supporting compliance reporting to reduce costs and optimize resources.
Network Management Software: Network management software enables IT teams to efficiently manage and secure their network infrastructure, providing real-time insights into network performance and health for proactive issue resolution and enhanced security.
Configuration Management Tools: Configuration management tools ensure consistency and standardization across IT environments by tracking changes in systems, applications, and infrastructure components. These solutions support automated deployments, version control, and compliance enforcement, helping IT teams maintain reliability and prevent misconfigurations.
Cloud Management Platforms: Cloud management platforms provide IT teams with the ability to monitor, optimize, and automate cloud resources across multiple providers. These tools help organizations manage costs, ensure compliance, and streamline deployments in hybrid and multi-cloud environments. By centralizing cloud operations, IT managers can maximize efficiency.
Collaboration Software: Collaboration tools enhance team communication and coordination by providing platforms for real-time messaging, document sharing, and project management. These solutions are particularly valuable for IT teams working remotely or across multiple locations, enabling seamless collaboration.
Business Intelligence (BI) Tools: BI software helps IT teams analyze data, generate reports, and make data-driven decisions. These tools provide visual dashboards, trend analysis, and performance tracking, allowing organizations to identify inefficiencies and optimize IT strategies. By leveraging analytics, IT managers can improve operational efficiency.

Here's What IT Managers Say About Their Jobs

"I love the fast-paced nature of IT management and the constant learning. Every day brings new problems to solve, and I get to work with cutting-edge technology while leading a team of brilliant individuals. It's a demanding role, but the intellectual stimulation and collaborative environment keep me energized." - Cory

"For me, IT management is about empowering others. Whether it's mentoring junior team members or ensuring our systems run smoothly so everyone can do their best work, I find fulfillment in enabling success. It's a privilege to contribute to both individual and organizational growth." - Anthony

"The best part of being an IT Manager is the constant evolution—there’s always something new to learn. From integrating emerging technologies to optimizing cybersecurity, I thrive on staying ahead of the curve. Knowing that my leadership helps keep businesses secure and efficient gives me a great sense of accomplishment." – Nico

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming an IT Manager

Is a doctorate degree necessary for IT managers?

A doctorate degree is not necessary for IT Managers, as most professionals in this role advance through experience, certifications, and leadership development rather than academic research. A bachelor’s or master’s degree in IT, computer science, or business administration, combined with industry certifications like PMP, CISSP, or ITIL, is typically sufficient for career growth. However, a Ph.D. may be beneficial for those pursuing research, academia, or executive-level positions in technology strategy and innovation.

What is the difference between an IT manager and an IS manager?

An IT manager focuses on overseeing technology infrastructure, network systems, cybersecurity, and software development to ensure smooth IT operations within an organization. In contrast, an IS (information systems) manager is responsible for managing data, business applications, and information flow, ensuring that technology solutions align with business processes and decision-making. While IT managers handle hardware, software, and IT support, IS managers focus on data management, analytics, and optimizing information systems for business efficiency.

What is the difference between ICT manager and IT manager?

An ICT (Information and Communication Technology) manager oversees both IT infrastructure and communication technologies, including networking, telecommunications, and digital communication systems such as VoIP, email, and cloud collaboration tools. In contrast, an IT manager primarily focuses on managing IT systems, software, cybersecurity, and hardware infrastructure within an organization. While both roles involve technology management, ICT managers have a broader scope that includes communication technologies alongside traditional IT functions.

Who does an IT manager report to?

An IT manager typically reports to a chief information officer (CIO), chief technology officer (CTO), or director of IT, depending on the organization's structure. In some companies, they may report to the chief operations officer (COO) or chief executive officer (CEO) if IT is a core function of the business. Their reporting line is usually determined by the size of the company, the complexity of IT operations, and the role of technology within the organization.

References:

BLS (2024, April 3). 11-3021 Computer and Information Systems Managers. BLS
BLS (2024, December 17). Computer and Information Systems Managers. BLS
Indeed (2025, February 6). IT Manager United States. Indeed
Skillsoft (2024). 2024 Skillsoft’s It Skills and Salary. Skillsoft
Skillsoft (2024). The C-suite Perspective. Skillsoft
Zippia (2025, January 8). Information Technology Manager skills for your resume and career. Zippia