Is moving from solar technical support into DevOps or cloud a good career move?
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MellowBirch27
I graduated with an Electrical and Electronics Engineering degree in 2024 and have been working as a technical support engineer in the solar industry. I'm considering switching careers into DevOps or cloud engineering and want to understand whether this is a sensible long-term move. I've studied Linux, networking, AWS, Git, Maven, and Jenkins, and I've earned the AWS Solutions Architect Associate certification with a score of 871/1000. I'm currently learning Docker, Kubernetes, and monitoring tools. How realistic is this transition, and should I be concerned that AI will reduce opportunities in cloud and DevOps compared with staying in the solar industry?
Answers
AI is likely to automate repetitive tasks, but it won’t eliminate the need for people who understand systems, security, reliability, networking, and business requirements. DevOps work is also changing toward platform engineering and automation, so keep learning those areas. Solar may be a strong field too, especially if you enjoy it, but the better choice depends on which work you actually want to do and where you’re willing to build real experience. Compare both paths based on interest, available entry-level opportunities, salary, and your willingness to keep learning.
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The switch is possible, but certification alone won’t be enough. Build a few practical projects that show you can use Linux, networking, AWS, CI/CD, containers, infrastructure as code, and monitoring together. For example, deploy an application on AWS with Docker, automate its tests and deployment through Jenkins or another CI tool, and add logging and monitoring. Your support background can also help because troubleshooting and communication are valuable in operations roles. Apply for junior cloud, DevOps, infrastructure, or cloud-support positions rather than targeting senior DevOps jobs immediately.
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MellowBirch27: That makes sense. I’m planning to focus on hands-on projects with Docker, Kubernetes, monitoring, and infrastructure automation rather than collecting more certificates.