Hey everyone! I'm currently working as an Automation Architect/SDET and I'm considering a shift towards DevOps. I've always found DevOps tooling intriguing, and it feels like a natural evolution in my career. Here's a bit about my background: I've got decent coding skills from writing automation tests, some familiarity with Docker (I can build Dockerfiles and run basic commands), and a bit of CI/CD experience primarily with GitLab. I've also been learning through KodeKloud but took a little break. I'm left with about 4-5 months on my subscription.
I have two main questions:
1. Is it realistic for someone with a QA background to transition into DevOps? Is this role still in demand?
2. What's the best way to approach this shift? I got a study plan from a chatbot that outlines a 3-month AWS learning journey for SDETs moving into DevOps, focusing on AWS core foundations, automation, and CI/CD integration. My company also relies heavily on AWS, so I'm wondering if that should be my starting point. Any advice on where I should prioritize my learning would be super helpful! I even have a basic home lab set up for hands-on projects. What do you think?
3 Answers
Transitioning from QA to DevOps is definitely achievable! You already have some relevant skills, especially in automation, which is a big plus. Just keep in mind that DevOps involves a broad range of knowledge beyond just AWS. It's good to get a solid grasp on various tools and practices, not just deployment. Real-world experience is crucial, so maybe focus on practical projects in your home lab to build that experience. You might find that hands-on learning accelerates your transition more than just theoretical courses!
Just a heads up, DevOps can get deep! It goes beyond just deploying applications; you'll need to understand infrastructure, automation, and collaboration tools. It’s great that you're doing KodeKloud, but also look into hands-on projects and maybe get involved in some simple open-source contributions to really understand the ecosystem better.
Yeah, I've been considering that too! Involving myself in open-source projects sounds like an awesome way to gain real experience while helping out the community!
I've heard that AWS skills and certifications are pretty valuable in DevOps roles. While local alternatives exist, understanding AWS can really set you apart since many companies are moving towards cloud solutions. If you're leaning towards AWS, I’d recommend starting with its core services and getting some certifications. It can be a key asset in your career shift!
Absolutely! Using your home lab for projects is a great way to gain practical experience. Maybe try deploying a simple application using Docker and set up some CI/CD pipelines to see how everything works together!