Celebrate System Administrator Appreciation Day 2025 & Launch Your IT Career

Every workplace relies on technology, but behind every seamless network, secure system, and efficient IT environment is an unsung hero – the System Administrator. On the last Friday of July (this year, July 25, 2025), we celebrate System Administrator Appreciation Day to honour these silent guardians of our digital world.

Those who don’t work closely with the technology side of their business might wonder, What is a System Administrator? What is a Network Administrator? Are they the same thing? What do they do?

The answers, much like the roles themselves, are intertwined…

Why Network & System Administrators Matter 

Both roles involve troubleshooting, security, and user support for computer networks. In smaller organizations, both roles are often handled by the same person or group. In larger, more specialized organizations, those duties can be more segregated.

A specialized System Administrator focuses on maintaining and managing computer systems, including servers, operating systems, and software applications. A specialized Network Administrator, on the other hand, manages the network infrastructure, including the connections between devices, routers, switches, and network protocols.

Some of the core responsibilities they share are the following:

• Uptime & Reliability: Sysadmins monitor and maintain IT systems to prevent outages and data loss.
• Security: They apply patches, configure firewalls, and implement best practices to defend against cyber threats.
• Scalability & Innovation: From rolling out new technologies to building robust infrastructure, sysadmins support businesses as they grow.
• User Support: They configure networks, manage access, and ensure smooth communication across organizations.

Without System and Network Administrators, businesses, schools, and essential services would face major disruptions.

Becoming One with the Network: The ABM Advantage

Are you driven by technology, problem-solving, and the thrill of keeping systems running smoothly? Are you considering a new career? Want to know how to become a Network Administrator?

ABM College’s Network Administrator Diploma is available to study online or in person at our Calgary Campus. We offer:

• Hands-on training in network setup, virtualization, security, and cloud technologies.
• Practical, industry-aligned coursework to excel in real-world scenarios.
• Flexible study formats to fit your schedule.

Tips for Network Students

Consider these tips as you work towards ABM’s diploma:

• Get Certified Early – Aim to earn your supplementary certifications while studying.
• Build a Home Lab – Practice using virtualization tools like VirtualBox, VMware, or Hyper-V.
• Join Online Communities – Forums like Spiceworks or StackExchange help you learn from a variety of real-world issues.
• Seek Internships or Co-Ops – Hands-on experience is always a powerful resume-enhancer.

These steps all show initiative and stack with theoretical learning, proving market-ready skills.

Career Titles You Can Pursue

Graduates of the ABM diploma can move into roles such as:

• Network Administrator
• System Administrator
• Network Technician
• IT Support Specialist or Help Desk Analyst
• Cloud Support Technician

You’ll find opportunities in corporate, public, healthcare, and education sectors – consulting is also an option if you prefer more flexibility and variety.

Strong Salary Potential for 2025 and Beyond

According to Job Bank Canada (updated Dec 2024):

• Median wage for Network Administrators is $33.65/hour nationally; Alberta median is $38.46/hour.
• System Administrators earn an average of $79,997/year (median in Alberta).
• Across Canada, network admins earn between $20.19–$52.88/hour, with Alberta at $20.92–$52.20/hour.

Indeed and Coursera report average annual salaries ranging from $70K–$85K CAD for these roles.

Job Demand & Growth Potential

Are Network Administrators in demand? They certainly are, and it’s a trend that is forecast to continue. Alberta currently employs around 4,600 network administrators, with 248 additional positions forecast over the next 5 years. 

The combination of digital transformation and retirement will open numerous positions in the future. Employment prospects are projected to stay strong across Canada over the next three years at least. The strongest demand is expected across the prairie provinces, particularly Manitoba and Saskatchewan.

Conclusion

On System Administrator Appreciation Day, we celebrate the problem-solvers, protectors, and enablers behind every wired and wireless connection. Their role is critical – and rewarding, both personally and financially.

If you’ve ever experienced the satisfaction of solving a tech puzzle or want to play a role in keeping organizations secure and efficient, ABM College’s Network Administrator Diploma is your launchpad. With hands-on learning, recognized credentials, and strong demand across Alberta and Canada, you’re entering a career with purpose, growth, and stability.

Contact us to learn more.

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