I've spent 20 years as a senior technical support engineer and have a solid background in IT, including networking, Linux, Docker, Azure, Cisco, and Palo Alto technologies. I also dabble in SQL and a bit of Python. While I'm not a fan of certifications, I do hold AZ900 and Sec+, but I feel my experience and degree are more important. I'm really interested in shifting to DevOps, and I'm curious about what additional skills I should focus on mastering to make this transition. Should I learn more Python? Will I have to start with junior DevOps positions, or can my extensive experience in IT help me secure something more senior?
3 Answers
Honestly, it sounds like you're in a good spot to transition. I would recommend diving deeper into development, especially if you can pick up more Python. The more programming experience you have, the more valuable you'll be in DevOps. Also, look into CI/CD processes—it’s crucial for the workflow in DevOps.
I’d suggest starting with AWS if you’re already familiar with Azure. They have similar functionalities, just different terms. Build out a 3-tier architecture on AWS to practice making it elastic and highly available. Being able to design and implement infrastructure as code (IaC) is huge in this field!
You should definitely start applying for DevOps roles to see what offers come your way! Check out what skills are in demand in job postings and focus on bridging any gaps. Remember, tech stacks can differ widely, so be selective about where you invest your time in learning.
Yes! Building your projects can really help you understand the core concepts better. Don't underestimate using IaC—it's a game changer in scaling and managing deployments.