Management positions and career tracks fall into a number of different sectors. In the first place, finding the appropriate training and certification will be paramount. Then you should expect to spend quite a few years in various intermediate positions, building your CV and probably taking further short courses to boost your knowledge.
Let's Focus on Three Managerial Roles - Managing Databases, Human Resources Manager and IT Systems Management.
Finding out about the various learning and exam criteria for each of these professions can take a good deal of investigation.
This site always has a cross-section of learning institutions that might offer the training you're looking for - check some out to get a feel for what they provide. You might find it useful to revisit this page a few times, in which case type 'CTRL-D' and have it Bookmarked.
Database management will involve running a team of admin clerks who collate company data. The work is highly detailed and specific and calls for someone who has a clear head for accuracy. The Database Administrator (DBA for short) is responsible for everything to do with the company's database management system.
An individual looking to become a DBA will have to undergo a series or package of training programmes to take them to the Microsoft MCITP DBA, and have served their time in industry prior to making this grade of management.
If you're new to IT and databases, a good starting course is the Microsoft Certified Desktop Support Technician, also known as MCDST. This will get you into a job, which will help you to understand how operating systems and software are used commercially.
Another essential will be an understanding of the database computer language 'Structured Query Language' or SQL for short. The most widely recognised training for this is SQL Server training in MCTS (from Microsoft).
The job of managing a database system is extremely complex. In addition to the in-depth attention to detail that a Database Administrator must have, a good understanding of business processes will be expected. The work often involves discussions with senior managers. If you're prepared to put the work in and feel able to match the requirements, you could build a very satisfying and lucrative career in Database Management.
To progress to management in the field of Human Resources you should have good communication skills for dealing with staff members, and a detailed knowledge of the practices and procedures of employment legislation. The duties of an HR department include recruiting and training staff members, monitoring numbers and encouraging opportunities for developing talent. Plus of course Human Resources has to check that the company's employment regulations and policies are in line with current laws. It is the right of any worker to be told about all internal practices that concern employees - and HR are obliged to make them known. Redundancy and unfair dismissal procedures are also the responsibility of the HR manager.
A career track to HR management will provide you with a stimulating and gratifying working life. In the twenty first century our working practises are significantly different to those of our forefathers. That is what makes HR management so interesting. The workplace environment created by the HR management has a key influence on a company's performance.
There are a range of study programmes for students who would like to work in Human Resources. You may already be working in an HR department, or looking to join one following time at university. In both cases you should look into becoming a member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development. There are training companies that specialise in administrative management roles. They will be able to help you work out the right CIPD career structure for you.
An Information Systems Manager is accountable for the smooth running of a company's computer systems and networks. In real terms they need budgeting skills; an understanding of hardware and software needs; an understanding of licence, server, security and storage requirements and the ability to manage change. It's normal for all major companies to have a Systems Manager, as the work they do is so crucial to on-going activity. They will play a key role in policy decisions.
Reaching this position will take many years in industry working up the career ladder in one aspect of IT or another. Management training will also have been a necessity. Reporting to the Systems Manager will be a team of specialists who work on network support, security issues, development work and databases.
There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to the training and certifications for systems management. Discuss your ambitions with several different IT training companies, and start in the area of IT that interests you the most. Clearly you'll need an in-depth understanding of Microsoft (and perhaps Oracle) operating systems and a knowledge of SQL (which, as mentioned above is the 'language' of databases). It's a step by step process. A professional certification will get you into the industry, and then further accreditations as you build your experience will take you to a senior level.