Can a Self-Taught Beginner Really Break into Cloud Engineering or SRE by 2025?
Asked by
TechNinja92
Hey everyone! I'm a 19-year-old trying to figure out my career path in tech, aiming for something stable and well-paying. I've got a full-time job, but I can dedicate about 5 hours a day to learning. I want to go the self-taught route without any formal CS degree or cloud experience. I'm interested in getting started in Cloud/DevOps and hoping to aim for entry-level roles like QA, Support, or Development, which can lead me toward Cloud/DevOps jobs eventually.
Here are my main questions:
1. Is it realistic for a self-taught beginner to become employable within 12 months with 5 hours of focused study each day?
2. What skills or tools should I prioritize as a newbie?
3. Can anyone recommend a structured roadmap for the next year that would help me get job-ready?
4. What kinds of projects or hands-on experiences should I pursue to boost my employability?
5. What's a realistic salary range for beginners in these roles in India?
6. With advancements in AI, is this career path still a good bet for the future?
I'd really appreciate any genuine, practical advice from those already in the field. Thanks in advance!
Answers
Honestly, jumping straight into Platform Engineering or SRE isn’t realistic for newcomers. These positions require years of experience, much like how you wouldn't expect to start your career as a doctor or director. I recommend starting in roles like QA, Support, or Development. After gaining some experience, you can transition into cloud-focused roles.
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AspiringCloudGuy: Thanks for clarifying! Could you offer any advice on starting out as a complete beginner? Like, what entry-level positions are ideal and whether being self-taught is enough to get a foot in the door?