What skills and tools do I need to become a sysadmin besides Linux knowledge?

If you’re already familiar with Linux, consider getting Red Hat certifications like the RHCSA and maybe even the RHCE if you want to aim higher. You could also explore Kubernetes if you’re interested in containerization, which is highly relevant in today’s job market. This would integrate nicely with your Linux experience and open doors in both Amazon and Red Hat environments.

To get started, you should look into both Linux and Windows administration, especially Active Directory and PowerShell for Windows. It's also helpful to grasp desktop management tools like InTune and JAMF. Familiarizing yourself with cloud platforms such as Azure and AWS will make you more versatile, and learning automation tools like Chef or Puppet can set you apart. Additionally, consider diving into AI agents as they are gaining traction in the field.

In larger companies, breaking into a sysadmin role without a Computer Science degree can be tricky. They're often looking for experienced pros. You might have better luck at smaller companies where they often use a mix of Windows Server and Linux. Starting there could be a better stepping stone for your career advancement.