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6 Steps to Become a Cloud Architect
A cloud architect is responsible for designing and implementing cloud servers that meet the needs of businesses and consumers. Additionally, they may need to revise the current architecture of a system or transfer a previous system to the cloud. Now that Google, Amazon, and Microsoft offer cloud hosting, this technology is quickly becoming the future of IT.
As companies grow, their servers may also need to change size and capabilities. An architect has the skills to make this happen. These professionals also ensure that legal contracts for service are being upheld.
Because this technology is relatively new and constantly changing, workers in this field must keep up with trends in order to remain experts in the technology and act in a consulting role for companies. These architects must determine a company’s needs and design a plan and timeline for software installation, creation, and the transferring process. They also are responsible for communicating the plan with all stakeholders and ensuring that the process is executed properly and efficiently.
This job requires a variety of hard and soft skills including:
Most employers require a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as computer science, computer engineering, or mathematics. Generally, this role is not entry-level and hands-on experience through IT roles is also encouraged.
Some employers require certifications in the type of hosting server they use. Certifications include Google Certified Professional Cloud Architect, Microsoft Certified Azure Solutions Architect Expert, AWS Certified Solutions Architect (Associate or Professional), AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner, and Microsoft Certified in Azure Fundamentals. Certifications like these prove to employers that you are proficient in the tools needed to complete the job.
Bootcamps and certification courses are a great way to learn the skills required to successfully complete the certification exams. Bootcamps are available in a variety of formats and areas of focus so that you can choose the one that is best for your goals and schedule.
A list of bootcamps is included below for you to compare the offerings and find the one that meets your particular needs.
Depending on your background, the time it takes to enter this field varies. A bachelor’s degree requires four to five years on average to obtain. If you already have a bachelor’s degree in a related field, a bootcamp is a great option to focus on skills needed for this particular career. Most bootcamps are eight to 36 weeks long, depending on their curriculums and learning formats.
Now that you know what the job entails and the demand for these professionals, how can you become a cloud architect? While no pathway is identical, listed below are 6 suggested steps to help you enter this coveted field.
In 2006, Amazon introduced its first product that incorporated “server virtualization.” Since then, cloud technology has continued to evolve and become more appealing to businesses in a plethora of industries. This is creating a promising outlook for the field in the future.
The demand for cloud architects is expected to continue to grow. The Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates growth of 5% from 2020-2030 for computer network architects, which includes these workers. This technology is especially attractive to businesses because it can greatly cut expenses, introduce new capabilities, and create a simpler platform. According to CompTIA, cloud computing is one of the top IT skills, creating a greater demand for this professional in the IT world.
According to Glassdoor.com, a variety of industries need these specialists. Microsoft (computer hardware and software), IBM (IT services), Amazon (internet services), Oracle (network solutions), Deloitte (accounting), J.P. Morgan (investment banking), Insight Global (staffing), and Verizon (telecommunications) are some of the companies and industries currently hiring these professionals.
Because of their specialization and expertise, cloud architects are well compensated for their skills. Glassdoor estimates the average salary to be $137,244. Of course, salary depends on experience, as well as geographical location, and the salaries of these professionals for some of the main U.S. tech hubs, are listed in the chart below.
City | Average Salary |
---|---|
New York City | $147,604 |
Washington, D.C. | $157,609 |
San Jose | $181,230 |
Atlanta | $128,832 |
Austin | $129,171 |