How to Improve Your Cloud Computing Skills While Working Full Time
Cloud computing is one of the most sought-after skills in the IT industry. Developing expertise in cloud computing can significantly boost your career opportunities and professional growth. Here are some effective ways to enhance your cloud computing skills while managing a full-time job:
1. Set SMART Objectives
One of the first steps to improve your cloud computing skills is to define what you want to achieve and how you will measure your progress. Setting Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound (SMART) objectives will provide you with a clear roadmap for skill enhancement.
Additionally, obtaining relevant certifications such as AWS Certified Solutions Architect, Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator, or Google Cloud Professional Cloud Architect can further validate and enhance your cloud computing skills. These certifications not only demonstrate your expertise to potential employers but also provide structured learning paths to help you gain in-depth knowledge and practical experience in cloud technologies.
2. Learn from Online Resources
Take advantage of online resources such as courses, tutorials, and webinars focused on cloud computing. There are several reputable training programs available and here are some of the best ones to consider (you can find all of them via Google):
- On-demand Training Courses by Digital Cloud Training
- Post Graduate Cloud Computing Program (PGP-CC) by Great Learning
- Cloud Computing: The Big Picture by Pluralsight
- Cloud Computing Concepts by Coursera
- Introduction to Cloud Computing by IBM
- Cloud Computing Basics by LearnQuest
These programs offer a range of learning paths, hands-on lab sessions, and certifications to help you build and validate your cloud computing skills effectively. Whether you’re new to cloud computing or looking to deepen your understanding, these training programs are designed to cater to various skill levels and learning objectives.
3. Practice with Hands-On Projects
Apply your knowledge by working on hands-on projects. Set up your own cloud environment, experiment with different cloud services, and tackle real-world challenges to gain practical experience.
By the way, Digital Cloud Training also offers an array of hands-on labs tailored to enhance your cloud computing skills.
4. Seek Feedback and Mentorship
Engage with experienced professionals in the field of cloud computing. Seeking feedback on your work and finding a mentor who can provide guidance and advice can accelerate your skill development.
5. Take part in Cloud Computing Bootcamps
Improving cloud computing skills can be achieved through participation in reputable cloud computing bootcamps. These bootcamps offer comprehensive training in various cloud technologies and prepare individuals for valuable industry certifications. Some of the best online cloud computing bootcamps available include:
- Digital Cloud Training – Cloud Mastery Bootcamp
- Amagi Academy – DevOps Live Course
- DevOps University – Workshop on Certified DevOps Foundation
- Qwasar Silicon Valley – Elite Cloud Engineering
- Clarusway – AWS & DevOps
- CloudInstitute.IO – Cloud Master Bootcamp
- Cognixia – Cloud Computing with AWS Training
- QuickStart – Online Cloud Computing Bootcamp
- Trainingcamp – CompTIA – Cloud+ Boot Camp
- The Linux Foundation – Cloud Engineer Bootcamp
- Coding Bootcamps – Enterprise Cloud Technology Bootcamp
These bootcamps cater to different learning preferences and skill levels, providing a range of options suitable for beginners and experienced IT professionals. Each bootcamp offers unique features such as flexible scheduling, certification preparation, and career support services, ensuring that participants receive high-quality education tailored to their specific needs. By enrolling in these bootcamps, individuals can gain practical experience, build a professional portfolio, and enhance their cloud computing skills, ultimately increasing their prospects in the fast-growing and high-paying field of cloud computing.
6. Additional Considerations
Stay updated with the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in cloud computing. Networking with peers in the industry, attending relevant conferences and webinars, and participating in relevant forums can provide valuable insights and keep you abreast of industry developments.
By following these strategies, you can effectively enhance your cloud computing skills and advance your career prospects in the IT industry.