I am currently an I.S. tech for a bank and started as an intern making $7.75/phr in the I.T. field in 2001. I’ve almost tripled my pay currently and I already have the B.S. in CIS. But I have no Certifications. And they tell me if I want to increase my pay more, then I should get certifications. I was wondering how I should taking advantage of my job situation where my employer will pay for up to $2,000 worth of education and training a year. I was thinking of getting the A+ first since many employers want their techs to have it and it’s pretty much an entry level certification. I have been building P.C.’s since I was like 14 years old. Now 10 years later and over 1,000 PC’s, 50+ servers, and 20+ routers, switches, firewalls, etc. later, would I be taking a step backwards in studying for the A+. Or should I go ahead and skip the A+ and try for the MSCE, CCNA or RHSE? Or should I pursue a Masters in IS?
Suggestions would help from everyone especially from ones in management.