Cloud computing is revolutionizing the way we store data and access services. With the growing popularity of cloud technology, the need for skilled professionals in this field is also on the rise. If you’re looking to kickstart your cloud career in 2024, earning a cloud certification can give you a competitive edge and open doors to exciting job opportunities. In this article, we’ll explore five cloud certifications that can help you launch your cloud career with confidence.
Should you get a cloud certification?
While hands-on experience is invaluable in the IT industry, a cloud certification can demonstrate your expertise to hiring managers and help you stand out from the crowd. Cloud computing is a sought-after skill, and professionals in this field can earn attractive salaries. According to ZipRecruiter, the average salary for cloud computing professionals in the United States was $118,669 [5]. If you have a background in IT or computer programming and want to dive into cloud computing or integrate it into your career, a certification can be a game-changer.
Cloud Certifications
Here are five highly regarded cloud certifications that can kickstart your cloud career:
1. Amazon Web Services (AWS) Solutions Architect – Associate
The AWS Solutions Architect – Associate certification is designed for individuals who want to demonstrate their ability to deploy, manage, and use various services in the AWS cloud. AWS is the leading cloud platform, and this certification showcases your proficiency in basic technical concepts of AWS cloud engineering. If you’re new to AWS, you can start with the AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner certification before pursuing the associate level.
- Cost: $150
- Key areas tested: Compute, networking, storage, database AWS services; deployment and management; basic architectural principles; global AWS infrastructure; and more.
2. Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals
Microsoft Azure is a major player in the cloud space, making the Azure Fundamentals certification highly valuable. This certification, achieved by passing the AZ-900 exam, is suitable for individuals with technical and non-technical backgrounds. It provides a solid foundation in Azure knowledge and can be a stepping stone to more advanced certifications like Azure Administrator Associate or Azure Developer Associate.
- Cost: $99
- Key areas tested: Cloud services (IaaS, PaaS); benefits of cloud services; core Azure services; Azure solutions and management tools; basic security and network security; and more.
3. Google Associate Cloud Engineer
If you’re keen on working with Google Cloud, the Google Associate Cloud Engineer certification is a must-have. This certification demonstrates your competence in essential aspects of working with Google Cloud, such as setting up a cloud solution environment, managing storage and databases, and configuring access and security measures.
- Cost: $125
- Key areas tested: Cloud solution setup; user and billing management; compute resources and network resources; deploying Google Kubernetes Engine and applications; managing virtual machines (VMs); and more.
4. IBM Certified Technical Advocate – Cloud v3
Although IBM cloud services have a smaller market share, they are widely used in specific industries. The IBM Certified Technical Advocate – Cloud v3 certification is ideal if you work with IBM cloud platforms or plan to do so in the future. This foundational certification covers cloud concepts, IBM Cloud components, architectural principles, networking and security, Cloud Native practices, and more.
- Cost: $200
- Key areas tested: Cloud concepts; IBM Cloud components; architectural principles and patterns; networking and security; cloud deployment; and more.
5. Cloud Security Alliance: Certificate of Cloud Security Knowledge (CCSK)
For those interested in cloud security, the Certificate of Cloud Security Knowledge (CCSK) issued by the Cloud Security Alliance is highly regarded. This vendor-neutral certification covers the fundamentals of cloud security and can be applied to different cloud platforms. It equips you with knowledge on cloud computing concepts, governance, risk management, legal issues, data security, and more.
- Cost: $395
- Key areas tested: Cloud computing concepts and architecture; governance; risk management; legal issues and contracts; data security; virtualization and containers; and more.
Getting started on Coursera
If you’re new to cloud computing and want to gain a solid foundation, Coursera offers a range of cloud-related courses. Whether you’re interested in Google Cloud, IBM Cloud, or AWS, you can find introductory courses like “Infrastructure and Application Modernization with Google Cloud,” “Introduction to Cloud Computing by IBM,” or “Starting Your Career with AWS Cloud Specialization.” Completing these courses will earn you a shareable certificate, enhancing your resume and professional profile.
Now that you’re aware of these five cloud certifications and the potential they hold for your cloud career, it’s time to map out your learning journey. Choose the certification that aligns with your interests and goals, invest in the necessary resources, and start your cloud career on a strong footing. Good luck!
FAQs
Q: Are cloud certifications worth it?
A: Yes, cloud certifications are worth it as they provide tangible proof of your expertise in cloud computing and can significantly boost your career prospects.
Q: How much do cloud professionals earn?
A: Cloud professionals earn competitive salaries, with the average salary for cloud computing professionals in the United States being $118,669 [5].
Q: Do I need prior experience to earn a cloud certification?
A: While prior experience can be beneficial, many certifications cater to individuals with varying levels of experience, including entry-level certifications that can kickstart your cloud career.
Q: Can I earn cloud certifications online?
A: Yes, many cloud certifications offer online training and exams, allowing you to learn at your own pace and convenience.
Conclusion
Cloud technology is rapidly transforming the IT landscape, and skilled cloud professionals are in high demand. By earning a cloud certification, you can position yourself for exciting career opportunities and stay ahead in this dynamic industry. Whether you choose AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, or IBM Cloud, these certifications can boost your credibility and open doors to new possibilities. Invest in your cloud career today and become a sought-after cloud professional.
Sources:
- Gartner: Gartner Predicts Public Cloud Spending Will Reach $332.3 Billion in 2021
- Global Knowledge: IT Skills and Salary Report
- Global Knowledge: Top 10 Recession-Proof IT Jobs
- ZipRecruiter: Cloud Computing Professional Salaries