How to Get Ahead in Cloud Computing

Cloud computing is growing rapidly, so the number of jobs available in the sector is on the increase. For anyone looking to get ahead in tech, looking for a job in cloud computing could be the way forward. So how can you ensure you have the right skills to progress in your chosen career?

The tech world is vast and varied. There are thousands of different jobs in tech, so it is important to select the right career path if you have a specific job in mind. Clearly this is easier said than done if you are still in education, but the skills you learn at the start of your career will play a big part in where you eventually end up. 

The Best Route into Cloud Computing

For many people, the most obvious route into an IT career is via a university degree and, perhaps, a post-grad qualification. There is no doubt that a good degree from a recognised university will help your cause, but a degree is not the be all and end all, particularly in a specialised field such as cloud computing.

Certification in Cloud Computing

You will undoubtedly find that more specific training courses (check this site for CCNA courses) are necessary if you are applying for certain jobs. Many of the big technology providers offer certification based on their own products, so depending on your job aspirations, you might need to pick up some certification. You may also have the opportunity to learn ‘on the job’ if you are taken in a junior IT position and end up working with a cloud expert.

Cloud Computing Roles

There are different cloud computing career paths. Cloud architects oversee a company’s cloud computing strategy. They manage the design of the cloud and monitor its development. To be a good fit for this job, you need to have a strategic knowledge of the main cloud computing technologies and the ability to understand how these applications fit enterprise goals. You should find plenty of job opportunities in a consultancy role if you are interested in becoming a cloud architect. However, this type of role won’t suit everyone, as it typically involves a lot of travel.

Cloud developers are more closely involved in the development and testing of cloud computing systems. If you take a role as a cloud developer, you can expect to spend your time configuring and developing cloud technology. Many of the current job openings are with tech giants such as Microsoft and Google.

Cloud Employers

The main employers right now are Microsoft, Google, Amazon, Oracle and IBM, but there are plenty of smaller companies with openings for IT professionals with cloud computing skills. Typical skills in demand for this type of role include SQL, Java, Linux, JavaScript, and more general software development skills. Cisco Certified Network Associate and AWS qualifications are very much in demand, but there are other qualifications you may find useful to have once you start looking for jobs in the sector.

Cloud computing is growing fast, so if you want to get ahead in IT, you need to stay ahead of the game.