Hey everyone! I'm based in New York and I'm eager to kickstart my career in cloud computing. I've recently obtained my AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner certificate, but I've noticed many people mention starting with the AWS Solutions Architect Associate certification instead. I've heard that just having the SAA isn't enough either. Can anyone provide some step-by-step guidance on how I can secure a well-paying job in this field? Any tips would be greatly appreciated! For context, I've already completed a Terraform course, a Python programming course for AWS, and I've taken Stephane's training for both the SAA and CCP, along with practice exams.
4 Answers
Just dive in and start building projects! Create a scalable platform and optimize it for efficiency. By working on real projects, you'll gain much more practical experience than through studying for certifications. Focus on building things that challenge you; that's what employers look for—experience over paperwork.
It's great that you're starting with your certifications! However, having no prior experience in IT means you might need to focus on gaining foundational skills first. Most people begin their careers in IT through helpdesk or support roles, which can help you build essential IT knowledge. Just remember, cloud roles are limited for entry-level positions, so establishing a good base in IT fundamentals is key. Additionally, while certifications are valuable, hands-on experience is what truly makes you stand out.
I recommend pursuing the SAA as it's a structured path for learning AWS. But don't get too hung up on the certification itself! Instead, focus on mastering the basics, like compute, networking, and storage. Start building practical applications; for instance, deploy a three-tier app through the console and then automate it with Infrastructure as Code (IaC) like Terraform. Documenting your learning journey on LinkedIn or a blog can also be a great way to showcase your skills.
It’s tough out there right now! The job market can feel overwhelming, especially after recent layoffs in large tech companies. Focus on continuously improving your skills and don't hesitate to take on real projects, even if they're simple like a 3-tier web app. Make sure to include these projects on your CV to show potential employers your hands-on experience. Keep pushing forward, and don't get discouraged!
Thanks for the encouragement! I’ll make sure to showcase my projects and keep learning.