Cloud computing is one of the most in-demand and lucrative skills in the IT industry today. As a cloud engineer, you can design, develop, and manage cloud-based applications and infrastructure for various clients and organizations. But how do you become a cloud engineer? Here are some steps you can take to start or advance your career in this field.
Before you dive into the cloud, you need to have a solid foundation in computer science, programming, and networking. You should be familiar with common operating systems, data structures, algorithms, databases, web development, and security principles. You should also be able to write code in at least one of the popular languages for cloud development, such as Python, Java, or C#. You can learn these skills through formal education, online courses, or self-study.
I've found it beneficial to begin with a practitioner certification, regardless of the specific cloud domain. Acquiring a comprehensive understanding of various infrastructure aspects, including legacy systems, has proven instrumental in gaining a deeper insight into cloud technologies. Exploring diverse services and understanding how various businesses leverage them can provide valuable insights. I recommend starting on online platforms to access a wealth of resources and practical knowledge.
There are many cloud service providers in the market, such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud Platform (GCP), and IBM Cloud. Each one has its own features, tools, and certifications. You should choose a cloud platform that suits your interests, goals, and needs. You can start by exploring the free or low-cost options offered by each provider, such as AWS Free Tier, Azure Free Account, GCP Free Trial, or IBM Cloud Lite. You can also compare the pros and cons of each platform, such as pricing, scalability, compatibility, and support.
In my experience, it's crucial to be extremely conscious of the resources you aim to build on any platform. Understand the costs involved and explore the resources available on the free tier. Each cloud platform has its unique way of executing actions, so take advantage of free trials from various providers to find the best fit. As a visual person, I appreciate being able to see my actions. AWS has been the ideal choice for me, offering flexibility with both the CLI and GUI for performing the same tasks. Keep in mind that other cloud providers may have evolved in this regard since my last assessment.
One of the best ways to demonstrate your cloud skills and knowledge is to get certified by a reputable cloud service provider. Certifications can help you stand out from the crowd, boost your credibility, and increase your chances of landing a cloud engineering job or project. Depending on your level of experience and expertise, you can choose from different types of certifications, such as foundational, associate, professional, or specialty. You can prepare for the certification exams by taking online courses, reading books, watching videos, or practicing with mock tests.
While pursuing my certifications, I delved into AWS, GCP, and Azure. Although I explored all three, my hands-on experience was more extensive with AWS. To streamline my certification path, I conducted independent research and opted to continue certifying with AWS. Navigating the decision-making process, I found clarity by outlining which business domains align with my career goals and identifying the cloud providers predominantly used in those sectors. For certification preparation, I utilized two learning platforms, AWS whitepapers, and practice exams to ensure comprehensive coverage of exam topics. Familiarizing myself with the exam format was key, allowing me to plan and optimize my study approach accordingly.
Another way to showcase your cloud skills and knowledge is to build a portfolio of cloud-based projects that you have created or contributed to. A portfolio can help you demonstrate your creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration abilities. You can build your portfolio by working on personal projects, freelance gigs, open source contributions, or hackathons. You can also use platforms like GitHub, Bitbucket, or CodePen to host and share your code and documentation.
Building a portfolio is a crucial part of the cloud learning process. While understanding applications theoretically is one aspect, applying that knowledge in real-world scenarios reveals a substantial learning curve. Personally, navigating the intricacies of building architectures for different businesses, and choosing among numerous services, has been a challenging yet enriching experience. Being a cloud engineer involves more than just technical proficiency. It requires a deep understanding of what aligns with a business, recognizing its values, and understanding business priorities to make informed decisions. The ability to integrate technical expertise with a business-centric approach is what distinguishes a standout cloud engineer.
To bolster your cloud skills, consider building a portfolio showcasing cloud-based projects. Begin with cost-effective platforms like Heroku, deploying applications with interactive features like "Try Yourself" or "Demo" buttons. Progress to larger clouds such as AWS or Azure, demonstrating automation skills to optimize cost efficiency. This not only highlights your cloud proficiency but also showcases your ability to automate processes, emphasizing both knowledge and practical application. Use platforms like GitHub for code hosting and documentation sharing to make your portfolio easily accessible for review.
The final step to becoming a cloud engineer is to network and apply for cloud engineering jobs or projects. You can network with other cloud professionals, mentors, or recruiters by joining online communities, forums, blogs, podcasts, or events related to cloud computing. You can also use platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, Glassdoor, or Upwork to find and apply for cloud engineering opportunities that match your skills, experience, and interests. You should also prepare your resume, cover letter, and interview skills to impress potential employers or clients.