Cloud computing has revolutionised the way we store, access, and analyse data, making it an indispensable part of many industries. Whether you're interested in tech or not, having a solid understanding of cloud computing will open doors to exciting career opportunities.
In this article, we will explore the top 23 cloud computing skills that will shape the industry in 2024.
1. Cloud Infrastructure
Cloud infrastructure refers to the hardware and software components required to support cloud computing services. To develop this skill, you can start by gaining a strong understanding of virtualization, networking, and storage technologies.
2. Cloud Architecture
Cloud architecture involves designing and building scalable and secure cloud-based solutions. To develop this skill, learn about different types of cloud architectures, like public, private, and hybrid clouds.
3. Cloud Applications
Cloud applications are software programmes that run on cloud infrastructure. To develop this skill, learn programming languages like Java, Python, or .NET along with frameworks like Spring Boot or Node.js for building cloud-native applications. Understand concepts like serverless computing, microservices architecture, and containerization using technologies such as Docker and Kubernetes.
4. Cloud Services
Cloud services are pre-built functionalities provided by cloud platforms that developers can leverage in their applications. To develop this skill, explore different categories of cloud services.
5. Data Management
Data management involves storing, organising, and retrieving data effectively in the cloud environment. To develop this skill, learn about different database technologies used in the cloud such as relational databases, NoSQL databases, and data warehousing solutions.
6. Data Analytics
Data analytics involves extracting meaningful insights from large datasets stored in the cloud. To develop this skill, learn about data analytics tools and technologies like Apache Spark, Hadoop, or Google BigQuery.
7. Cloud Security
Cloud security focuses on protecting cloud infrastructure, applications, and data from unauthorised access or breaches. To develop this skill, learn about cloud security best practices such as identity and access management (IAM), encryption methods, network security configurations, and security audits.
8. Cloud Compliance
Cloud compliance refers to adhering to industry-specific regulations and standards while using cloud services. To develop this skill, familiarise yourself with regulations like GDPR or HIPAA and understand how they apply to cloud environments.
9. Cloud Migration
Cloud migration involves moving applications and data from on-premises systems to the cloud. To develop this skill, understand different migration strategies like rehosting, replatforming, or refactoring applications for the cloud environment.
10. Cloud Management
Cloud management focuses on monitoring, optimising, and controlling resources within a cloud environment. To develop this skill, learn about cloud management platforms (CMPs) that provide centralised management of multiple clouds.
11. AI/ML
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) involve creating intelligent systems that can learn from data without explicit programming instructions. To develop this skill in the context of cloud computing, learn about cloud-based AI/ML services like AWS SageMaker or Google Cloud AutoML.
12. IoT
Internet of Things (IoT) involves connecting physical devices to the internet to collect and exchange data. To develop this skill, understand how to build IoT solutions leveraging cloud platforms' capabilities. Learn about IoT protocols, device management, data ingestion, and processing using services like AWS IoT or Azure IoT Hub.
13. Blockchain
Blockchain is a distributed ledger technology that ensures secure and transparent transactions. To develop this skill in the context of cloud computing, learn about blockchain platforms like Ethereum or Hyperledger Fabric. Understand smart contract development, consensus mechanisms, and decentralised application (DApp) deployment on the cloud.
14. Cloud Integration
Cloud integration involves connecting various applications and services within a cloud environment or across multiple clouds. To develop this skill, learn about integration technologies like API gateways, message queues, or event-driven architectures.
15. Cloud Governance
Cloud governance focuses on defining policies, procedures, and controls for effective management of cloud resources. To develop this skill, understand regulatory compliance requirements, cost management strategies, performance monitoring techniques for governing cloud deployments.
16. Cloud Strategy
Cloud strategy refers to developing a roadmap for adopting and maximising the benefits of cloud technologies within an organization. To develop this skill, gain knowledge of business case development for migrating to the cloud, cost-benefit analysis methodologies, and aligning business objectives with cloud adoption plans.
17. Cloud Platforms
Cloud platforms are providers such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud Platform (GCP), or IBM Cloud that offer a range of services for building and deploying applications in the cloud environment. To develop this skill, gain expertise in using specific cloud platforms by exploring their documentation, training resources, and hands-on labs.
18. Infrastructure as Code (IaC)
Infrastructure as Code (IaC) involves managing and provisioning infrastructure resources through code rather than manual configuration. To develop this skill, learn about tools like AWS CloudFormation or Azure Resource Manager Templates for automating infrastructure provisioning and management.
19. DevOps for Cloud
DevOps is a set of practices that combine software development (Dev) and IT operations (Ops) to enable faster and more reliable software delivery. To develop this skill in the context of cloud computing, learn about DevOps principles, continuous integration and continuous deployment (CI/CD), and infrastructure automation using tools like Jenkins or AWS CodePipeline.
20. Database Administration for Cloud
Database administration involves managing and maintaining databases in the cloud environment. To develop this skill, learn about database administration tasks such as performance tuning, backup and recovery strategies, and security configurations for cloud databases like Amazon RDS or Azure SQL Database.
21. Big Data Analytics
As companies generate massive amounts of data, the ability to analyse and derive insights from it becomes invaluable. Upskilling in tools like Apache Hadoop or Apache Spark will enhance your proficiency in big data analytics.
22. Cloud Data Engineering
Cloud data engineers design and build scalable data pipelines, ensuring smooth data integration and processing in cloud environments. To excel in this skill, explore cloud computing courses such as Google Cloud Certified - Professional Data Engineer.
23. Analytical Thinking
While not specific to cloud computing, analytical thinking is a crucial skill needed to make informed decisions based on data analysis and problem-solving. Develop this skill by challenging yourself with puzzles, logic problems, and critical thinking exercises.
Embrace a Future-Proof Career
In the fast-paced world of technology, staying ahead is crucial. By mastering the top 23 cloud computing skills, you can future-proof your career and open up exciting opportunities in one of the most in-demand industries. Start your journey today by exploring upskilling and reskilling opportunities through expert guidance on WiZR.
FAQs
1. What are the upskilling certifications in cloud computing?
Upskilling certifications in cloud computing include AWS Certified Solutions Architect, Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator, and Google Cloud Certified - Professional Cloud Architect.
2. What are some high-paying job roles in cloud computing?
High-paying job roles in cloud computing include Cloud Architect, Cloud Engineer, DevOps Engineer, Data Engineer/Analyst, and Solutions Architect.
3. What are the reskilling certifications in cloud computing?
Reskilling certifications in cloud computing include CompTIA Cloud+, AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Associate Level, and Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals.
4. What degree is mandatory for a career in cloud computing?
While no specific degree is mandatory for a career in cloud computing, degrees such as computer science or information technology can provide an advantage.
5. Who are the leading employers in the cloud computing industry in India?
Leading employers in the Indian cloud computing industry include Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud Platform (GCP), and IBM Cloud.
