As the technology landscape continually evolves, one area that has seen unprecedented growth is cloud computing.
This transformative technology is reshaping businesses across industries as companies large and small begin to optimize their IT resources. Naturally, this is leading to an increasing demand for skilled cloud professionals.
One of the beautiful things about cloud computing is that it is not limited to just development. You could specialize in Security, content delivery, databases, or even something less technical such as sales or architecture.
If you want to break into this field, you will do yourself a huge favor by becoming certified. Of course, nothing in life is perfect or absolute, and certifications have pros and cons.
Below, we will delve into the significance of having cloud computing certifications, their advantages and drawbacks, and their impact on job prospects in the real world.
The Value of Cloud Computing Certifications
Cloud computing certifications validate an individual’s capabilities in handling cloud services and solutions.
These certifications, offered by major providers like AWS, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure, demonstrate a professional’s competence in utilizing these platforms, implementing solutions, and managing cloud architecture.
Disclaimer: Acquiring certifications does not guarantee competence.
As a professional, it is up to you to continue learning and getting hands-on experience to become masterful in your niche.
Pros of Having Cloud Computing Certifications
Skill Validation: Certifications verify that an individual possesses the technical skills and knowledge to handle cloud-related tasks from a high level. They serve as proof of your understanding and competence in the field.
Increased Job Opportunities: Certified professionals often have better job prospects. According to the Global Knowledge 2021 IT Skills and Salary Report, 76% of IT decision-makers reported critical skill gaps on their teams. This means you have bountiful opportunities to land at a company and immediately provide value.
Increased resume visibility: When applying to jobs, your resume is often scanned by a program that looks for specific criteria. Once those criteria are met, the resume is then passed onto some sort of hiring manager. Being certified allows you to get your resume in front of a human who can make decisions.
Higher Earning Potential: Certifications can lead to salary increments and promotions. According to the Global Knowledge 2021 IT Skills and Salary Report, certified IT professionals earn 7–8% more than their non-certified counterparts.
Professional Development: Studying for these certifications broadens your knowledge base, equipping you with the skills necessary to implement innovative solutions.
Competitive Advantage: Having these certifications gives you an edge over others who don’t have them, making you a more attractive candidate to potential employers.
Cons of Having Cloud Computing Certifications
Cost Factor: Acquiring these certifications can be costly. Fees for the exams, preparatory materials, and training courses can add up. Additionally, you must pay to retake the exam if you do not pass an attempt.
Time Commitment: Preparing for these certification exams requires significant time and dedication, which might be difficult for those with tight schedules or other obligations.
No Substitute for Experience: Certifications, while valuable, are no substitute for practical experience. Employers value real-world experience dealing with cloud services over purely theoretical knowledge.
The Job Market Impact
Cloud computing is no longer an optional technology — it’s a necessity for businesses seeking digital transformation.
This trend has led to a surge in demand for professionals skilled in cloud platforms. Certifications can be an essential stepping stone for individuals eyeing a career in this promising field.
So while the decision to pursue a cloud computing certification depends on individual career goals, the benefits they offer — especially in the context of job prospects — are considerable.
However, it’s crucial to note that certifications should supplement, not replace, hands-on experience. They’re a proven way to validate skills, increase earning potential, and open doors to new job opportunities.
If you want to take the simplified route to becoming certified, check out our currently available courses for getting AWS certified.
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