IT Certifications for Career Changers in 2015

A common observation from experienced IT/IS industry veterans is that the only constant in their profession is change. The statement is usually in reference to the creation and adoption of new technologies, which almost always results in new capabilities, new processes and new risks.

Change, however, is also a constant for IT industry workers when it comes to their jobs, particularly when it comes to the type of work they are doing and who they are doing it for. Sometimes the change experienced by IT professionals is compulsory; this industry is no stranger to layoffs, restructuring and off-shoring. This volatility requires an IT worker to keep old skills fresh, while adding new skills based on the evolving requirements of their current (or future) employer.

That said, a lot of the employment volatility in the IT industry is attributable to career changers. IT professionals have a reputation for looking for different work opportunities regularly, sometimes in related but unfamiliar disciplines, within the industry. In particular, IT workers are not prejudiced against so-called "lateral moves," taking a new job that is on par with a current position in terms of compensation and corporate standing. For IT pros, a lateral job move that gives them an opportunity to learn new skills and use previous talents in a new way, is a win.

Which IT certifications for which IT professional?

IT certifications can offer career changers a way to gain knowledge and accreditation in a new technology field, without the time and financial commitments demanded by a full degree program. Earning a certification acts as a statement of intent to a hiring manager or the head of a different internal department, that a candidate is serious about making a professional transition.

Since career changers likely won't have significant experience in the field they want to move to, they should start by looking at relevant foundation-level certifications. Many mid-level and higher certifications have specific job experience requirements that career changers are unlikely to meet. These higher credentials should be bookmarked for later consideration.

Of course, the best IT career change is one that transitions the switcher into a thriving technical field. A lateral move into an area of information technology that has become stagnant, or (worse yet) is in decline, isn't a sound strategic decision.

Using the "2014 IT Skills & Salary Report" from Global Knowledge, and Windows IT Pro as a guideline, we've identified three highly active IT areas, and linked one or more relevant industry certifications to each. If you're considering a career change within the industry (or looking at entering the IT industry from another career path), the following information can help you narrow down which certifications are associated with the functional area you wish to join.

Another point of interest: most of the certifications listed in the following sections were cited in the "Top Paying Certifications" table in the "2014 IT Skills & Salary Report", linking them to potentially stronger earnings potential.

Microsoft Specialist

Microsoft has its own server virtualization solution and a related certification for it. The Microsoft Specialist certification in Server Virtualization covers the creation and management of virtual servers using Windows Server Hyper-V and System Center. As with other Microsoft Specialist certifications, the Server Virtualization designation can be earned by passing a single exam.

IT infrastructure

The structure and management of IT departments has undergone significant change over the last decade. Businesses and governments have both looked to achieve a balance between reducing costs, and maintaining an established level of productivity and quality of service.

Sources:
"2014 IT Skills & Salary Report," Global Knowledge and Windows IT Pro, January 2015,

 

About the Author:

Adeyelu Oluwaseun is a technology writer/editor and knowledge management specialist based in Lagos, Nigeria.