Hey everyone! I've been a sysadmin at an MSP for about seven years now, and while I enjoy my job, I feel like my skills have gotten stagnant. My workplace isn't really focused on cutting-edge technologies, and because of our client base, tools like Terraform and Ansible aren't very applicable.
Here's what I'm decent at:
- Windows administration and troubleshooting
- VMware administration (including NSX)
- Backup setup with various vendors
I can also handle some basic Linux administration, Powershell scripting, and SQL, but that's about it.
I understand that this is enough for my current role, but I'm aware that the industry expects more from sysadmins these days. When I try to ask what I should learn next, I often get the 'what do you WANT to do?' response, and honestly, I don't know! I just want to acquire a skill that's transferable and makes me more appealing for future job opportunities.
I've dabbled in learning Python, but I found the tutorials pretty boring, so I lost interest. My experience with Terraform was similarly dull. I also want to avoid things like Oracle because, well, it just isn't for me. So, I'm looking for guidance on where to start! Thanks for any tips you can share!
5 Answers
Sounds like you might not have had the best luck with Python tutorials! It's actually a super useful langauge and pretty easy to pick up. For example, I created a Python script that queries our RMM and sends an email to billing about how many agents we have deployed. You can do a lot with it that translates nicely to Linux as well.
If you're looking for certifications, maybe consider studying for CISSP or MS-102. I'm currently building a Proxmox cluster in my own lab, which is another interesting avenue! It's all about finding what sparks your interest and where you want your career to go.
You don't need a specific goal to start learning! Focus on jobs that require skills you already have, and tailor your resume around those abilities. I transitioned from a general admin role to M365 by highlighting relevant skills I already had. Don't be shy—sell yourself!
Oracle does indeed have its downsides! How's your networking knowledge? If it's a bit patchy, maybe aim for CCNA level training. You don't necessarily need the cert itself, but the foundational knowledge will be really beneficial.
Containers could be a great new skill to learn, but be prepared—there's a lot to absorb. Kubernetes is another solid choice, but it does require solid understandings of containers first. If you're interested in automation, Ansible is also worth looking into, but learning shell scripting beforehand can help you understand it better. Just a heads up, shell scripting can be a bit tricky with its quirks!
Have you considered going into management? With your experience, that could be a lucrative path! Management roles often come with better compensation!
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