7 Reasons an AWS Certification is Worth it in 2024

Amazon Web Services (AWS) has emerged as the world's leading cloud computing platform, offering over 200 fully featured cloud services across areas like computing, and cloud storage services, databases, networking, analytics, machine learning, and more. As businesses become more aware of the benefit of cloud computing, they increasingly adopt cloud services to accelerate innovation and cost savings. Cloud computing services skills - particularly AWS skills - have become essential for any IT professional.

Still, for many cloud computing professionals, the question remains: is getting an AWS certification a worthwhile investment in 2024? The answer is a resounding yes. AWS certifications validate your cloud computing expertise. They can make your resume stand out to potential employers, qualifying you for high-paying, cloud service providers roles, and future-proofing your career in the rapidly evolving technology industry.

As a leading training provider, ALX offers two AWS certifications as part of our AWS Cloud Computing programme - the AWS Cloud Practitioner and AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Associate certifications. Let's explore why these certifications are so valuable in 2024.

What is an AWS Certification?

Amazon Web Services (AWS) is a cloud provider that has created the underlying infrastructure to provide computing resources and cloud services to companies around the world. Cloud providers like AWS help companies store their data and host applications securely in a decentralised data centre. AWS is currently being used by technology giants, television networks, banks, and governments alike.

An AWS certification is an industry-recognized credential that validates your expertise in cloud-based services on the AWS platform. AWS certifications cover a wide range of roles in cloud computing, including cloud practitioner, solutions architect, developer, operations, and various specialties.

To earn an AWS certification, candidates must take an exam that tests their technical knowledge and skills in cloud computing, including deploying, managing, and operating AWS environments and applications.

Types of AWS Certifications

Foundational (Cloud Practitioner) Certification

The AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner is an entry-level certification that validates your overall understanding of AWS Cloud computing. It's ideal for non-technical professionals working with AWS cloud, or those new to AWS who want to demonstrate cloud fluency.

Architect Path Certifications

The AWS certification path for architects is tailored for professionals like solutions design engineers, solutions architects, and anyone looking to master building applications and systems on the AWS cloud platform. This path consists of two distinct sub-paths:

AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate

The AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate certification validates your ability to design and deploy scalable, highly available, and fault-tolerant applications on AWS cloud services. This certification is a great fit for solution architects, solution design engineers, and anyone working on distributed systems and cloud architecture. A year of experience designing scalable and fault-tolerant AWS systems is highly recommended, though not necessary.

AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Professional

The Professional level builds on the Associate by testing more advanced skills in migrating complex workloads to AWS cloud storage, as well as core AWS architectural best practices and trade-offs. Cloud technology professionals will need to demonstrate competency in complex AWS systems and the best practices thereof.

Other AWS Certifications

More specialised certifications include Operations, Developer, and Speciality. An AWS Operations certification is focused on operations roles, including the SysOps Administrator and DevOps Engineer credentials. The AWS Developer certification covers developing and maintaining applications on AWS at a higher level and in more detail. Beyond that, AWS offers a range of 5 specialty cloud computing certifications, including Advanced Networking, Alexa Skill Builder, Data Analytics, and Machine Learning. These are focused on more specific niches within the AWS ecosystem and are more advanced than the basic certifications.

The Top 7 Benefits of an AWS Certification in 2024

1. The demand for cloud computing and data storage skills is higher than supply

Companies across industries are investing heavily in cloud services, leading to surging demand for cloud computing skills and certifications. The onset of the pandemic in 2020 and the 'work from home' wave saw many businesses rely on cloud technologies to undertake their operations. However, there is a significant talent gap in cloud computing skills. A 2022 survey found there were over 600,000 open cloud computing job roles in the U.S., with not enough skilled workers to fill them. The cloud computing skills gap is expected to widen in 2024, with demand for cloud computing skills likely to triple in the coming years.

2. Cloud computing skills are necessary for any IT professional

Whether you're a systems administrator, developer, data analyst or cybersecurity specialist - cloud computing skills and certifications will be essential to advance your IT career in 2024 and beyond. The public cloud now runs a substantial portion of the world's top IT infrastructure workloads, with AWS having the dominant market share. In fact, AWS is the undisputed leader in cloud infrastructure globally, and shows no sign of ending its dominance any time soon. This is because AWS has shown:

• A diversity of cloud storage services
• A commitment to cost savings
• A robust response to security concerns & advanced security features
• A flourishing ecosystem of technology professionals and business partners
• A commitment to sustainability and environmental concerns

3. Employers value AWS certifications

AWS certifications are highly respected by employers as they prove your expertise on the world's leading cloud platform. A 2020 survey by State Of Cloud found that 82% of hiring managers found certified employees more attractive, and 87% find AWS certified hands on experience more attractive than tertiary qualifications.

4. AWS is the first choice for businesses in Cloud Adoption

Nearly two-thirds of enterprises now run applications on AWS. Businesses ranging from small startups to massive corporations are rapidly adopting AWS as their go-to cloud platform. The ability to seamlessly scale resources up or down, the exceptional uptime and dependability, and the robust security measures of AWS make it an enticing solution for enterprises aiming to bring their IT infrastructure into the modern age. As companies migrate more workloads to the cloud in 2024, AWS certified professionals will be in high demand to architect, build and operate these hybrid cloud environments.

5. Companies are increasingly migrating to AWS

As 2024 progresses, more and more of the world's largest and most successful companies are turning to AWS to power their digital transformation strategies, optimise their operations, and establish a competitive edge over rivals. The global cloud computing industry had a massive valuation of $552.3 billion back in 2021. Analysts predict this market will experience rapid expansion over the next two years, projecting a compound annual growth rate of 15.2% between now and 2026. This represents an extremely fast pace of growth as businesses and organisations around the world continue to embrace cloud-based services and solutions at an accelerating rate. As more companies make the leap private cloud in 2024, certified AWS architects and specialists will play a crucial role.

6. AWS certifications validate your skills and look good on your CV

Passing an AWS certification exam is a challenging process that tests your deep technical knowledge through hands-on, production-scenario based questions. Having these certifications highlights your expertise to potential employers and boosts your CV among the crowd.

7. Jobs that require AWS skills pay well

It goes without saying that in the midst of the current cloud service provider talent crisis, having AWS skills can prove very lucrative. AWS certifications in the current climate can be the key to unlock some of the most well paying roles in IT. Positions like AWS Solutions Architect or Cloud Engineer have average salaries between $120,000 - $150,000 USD per year, for example.

Learn AWS Cloud Computing with ALX

As an AWS Academy member institution, the ALX AWS Cloud Computing program is designed to provide you with the in-demand AWS skills and certifications to accelerate your career. Over 6 months of supported, online training, you'll develop practical, hands-on experience with AWS services and solutions.

The first two months comprise the ALX Foundations module, where you'll develop essential abilities in communication, leadership, and career advancement - skills that will enable you to excel in digital-focused roles.

After that foundation, the curriculum will dive deep into Amazon Web Services (AWS), honing your expertise in solutions architecture, storage & databases, cloud architecture principles, and security best practices. These specialised modules align with potential career trajectories for AWS-certified professionals.

Upon finishing the full program, you'll earn recognised AWS certifications as both a Cloud Practitioner and Solutions Architect, directly from Amazon Web Services themselves.

The AWS Cloud Practitioner Certification

During your programme, you will start by earning your AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner certification. This foundational certification validates your overall understanding of AWS, and is ideal for professionals new to the benefits of cloud computing.

Cloud Practitioner roles you'll qualify for include:

• Cloud support associate
• Digital marketing specialist
• Cloud financial analyst
• Technical program manager

The AWS Solutions Architect Certification

The programme culminates in the AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate certification. This in-demand certification validates your ability to design and deploy secure, scalable, and highly available solutions on AWS.

Solutions Architect roles you'll qualify for include:

• Cloud Solutions Architect
• Cloud Infrastructure Architect
• Cloud Migration Specialist
• Cloud Consultant

With these two AWS certifications under your belt, you'll have the credibility and skills for cloud roles across architecture, operations, data security, development, and more.

Summary

As the benefits of cloud computing continue to reshape the world of IT, AWS certifications will be essential in 2024 and beyond. Not only do they validate your expertise on the world's leading cloud platform, but AWS-certified professionals are in high demand as enterprises migrate more workloads to AWS.

Get ahead of the curve and invest in the cloud based your future by enrolling in ALX's AWS Cloud Computing program today. Earn two highly valuable AWS certifications - the Cloud Practitioner and Solutions Architect Associate - while developing the practical skills for cloud architecture and operations roles.

Applications for the next cohort starting June 3 close on May 21. Apply now to reserve your spot!

FAQs

1. What is an AWS Cloud Practitioner?

This entry-level certification validates a foundational understanding of AWS cloud services, terminology, and basic security principles. It's ideal for anyone new to cloud computing or those who want to build a foundation for further AWS certifications and work for cloud service providers.

2. What is an AWS Solutions Architect?

This intermediate-level certification focuses on designing the underlying infrastructure for secure, cost-effective, and scalable solutions on the AWS platform. It assesses your ability to architect solutions for different use cases and ensure they meet best practices.

3. Does having an AWS certification qualify me for any jobs?

While certifications alone don't guarantee a job, they demonstrate your commitment to cloud skills and knowledge, making you a strong candidate. The specific jobs you qualify for will depend on the certification level and your combined experience with computing resources and cloud storage.

4. What is cloud computing?

Imagine accessing computing resources (servers, storage, databases) over the internet, on-demand, and without managing physical infrastructure. That's cloud computing! It offers scalability, flexibility, and cost-efficiency, making it a popular choice for businesses of all sizes.