Cloud Computing Certifications for Veterans

The Oxford dictionary defines cloud computing as “the practice of using a network of remote servers hosted on the internet to store, manage, and process data, rather than a local server or a personal computer.”

Cloud Computing Certifications for Veterans

This can include data storage, networking, and online collaborations. Organizations move their operations to the cloud to increase efficiency and reduce costs, but doing so requires specific expertise. Major companies like Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Microsoft Azure are players in the cloud computing market, and each requires its own set of certifications to validate skills.

Cloud computing jobs have been on the rise since the 1990s, and demand for skills in this field is higher than ever. Cloud certifications are “now essential for software professionals” to stay updated with current technology and “showcase their expertise,” according to one Cisco company, Splunk.com.

Getting Started

The cloud computing industry values experience as much as certifications. You may not realize that you have on-the-job training in this area, and some veterans struggle to translate their military duties into civilian terms that make sense on a cloud computing job application.

In addition to getting help translating those skills, documenting projects and cloud-based experience on platforms like GitHub helps candidates show their work to potential employers.

Networking with professionals in this field through virtual job fairs, industry mixers, and related events can help you get closer to your new career.

Choosing the Right Cloud Platform

There are many credentials to choose from, but the right one for you may depend on which company you end up working for or what specific applications may be an option. Are you planning on working in cloud security?

Your learning curve may differ greatly from that of someone who wants to build cloud computing platforms. Research the type of work that appeals to you and the specific credentials needed to break into that part of the industry.

Some believe AWS holds the largest market share, and obtaining AWS-credentialing for roles that require AWS expertise may require multiple levels of certification.

AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner covers basic cloud concepts and security. Students with more experience may opt for the AWS Certified Solutions Architect Associate level, which is relevant to working on scalable systems.

The Microsoft Azure Fundamentals exam introduces the Azure platform to beginners, and there are more advanced certifications like Azure Solutions Architect Expert. These are intended for more experienced professionals. If you are interested in Google Cloud, there are options for cloud engineers and architects, each with its own strengths and focus areas.

Security and Administration in the Cloud

Cloud security is another area of potential career growth. Working in this field means ensuring the security of data in the cloud. Security Admins implement access controls and encryption. Cloud computing creates new roles for existing systems administrators and developers, such as managing virtual servers and automating tasks that were previously manual.

What to Know about Careers in Cloud Computing

The Department of Veterans Affairs will compensate veterans for approved cloud certification exam fees. One example? Veterans can receive up to $2,000 in Department of Veterans Affairs financial support per test for approved exams from AWS, Microsoft, and Google Cloud.

This VA benefit covers the cost of the exam. It does not cover the cost of training materials. Veterans can submit VA Form 22-803 after completing the test to receive reimbursement for the test fee, regardless of the test’s outcome.

Microsoft Software and Systems Academy

Microsoft operates a dedicated 17-week training program, the Microsoft Software and Systems Academy. This program provides transitioning service members and veterans with technical paths in Cloud Application Development or Server and Cloud Administration. Microsoft fully funds tuition for this program, so students do not use their GI Bill entitlement.

Graduates are connected to a network of 1,000 hiring partners and are eligible to receive mentorship from Microsoft employees.

Free Google Career Certificates

Student Veterans of America partners with Google to offer professional certificates at no cost. The online, self-paced programs cover IT Support, Cybersecurity, and Data Analytics.

Completion of the IT Support certificate takes approximately three to six months. The program prepares students for the CompTIA A+ credential, providing a starting point for veterans with no prior technical experience before they pursue advanced cloud architect programs.