To become a technical support consultant you should consider what area of technology you would like to work with and any specializations that may appeal to you. Technical support for computers can cover a very wide field of issues and areas of expertise, from hardware issues and software problems, to peripheral devices and basic user problems. You should consider some very basic education in electronics as a good place to start along with courses in computer science. It is also possible that you can find entry-level employment with a particular computer or device manufacturer that will then provide you with specific training.
You can find computer science courses at every place from major universities to online schools and technical colleges. These classes will help you learn the basics to become a technical support consultant, such as using various computer programs and dealing with hardware installation and replacement. Some of this knowledge can be gained on your own, but unless you are particularly self-motivated with access to equipment to learn on, you may find structured education preferable.
While you may wish to work in a call center and help people with their computer issues over the phone, rather than working in a storefront location or office, this can be difficult in the United States (US). Many such jobs have been sent overseas to other countries. This is something to consider as you move toward your desired career. The greatest opportunities for placement and advancement may come either from small technology repair stores or larger retailers that offer technical support to customers.
There is also the possibility of working for a major manufacturer and specializing in working on its specific equipment. To become a technical support consultant for such a business, you should look into any particular company you are interested in and find out what educational experience it requires from prospective employees. The company may provide further training once you are hired, but certain basic skills are typically expected.
You might also prefer to work in a field such as server maintenance or support, where you work less with individual customers and more with major corporations having technological breakdowns. The stresses involved with working on large servers and networks, with dozens or hundreds of connected systems and workers all waiting on you to continue doing their jobs, can be higher than other situations. If you thrive under such conditions, however, you might want to become a technical support consultant working on network systems and maintenance.
