003 - Are certifications worth it?
So are certificates like Comptia A+ or Certified Scrum Master worth it?
Well, It depends.
The value of certifications depends on various factors, such as the industry, job role, and specific certification.
It is not a silver bullet to get a job but a way to demonstrate acumen in a specific field.
Here are some points to consider when getting a certification.
1. Job Requirements
In some industries, certifications are essential and even required for specific job roles. For example, certifications like CompTIA Network+ and CCNA are strongly and highly valued in the security field.
2. Career Advancement
Certifications demonstrate your knowledge and skills to potential employers and help you stand out from other candidates.
3. Learning and Development
Pursuing a certification can be a valuable learning experience and help you stay up-to-date with industry trends and best practices.
4. Cost and Time Commitment
It can be costly both in terms of time and money. It's crucial to weigh the cost and time commitment against the potential benefits and whether the certification is worth it for your career goals.
Certifications can be worth it depending on your career goals and the specific certification you pursue. If you don't have the experience or a portfolio to demonstrate your skills, a certificate can be another way to show proficiency in that area.
Tech Transition Resources
IBM has a couple of USA-based apprenticeships specifically in cybersecurity. The majority of openings remain in Europe still.
For the military community, MSSA is open for applications in their May 2023 Cohort, so you should apply! (I personally went to this program, so I might be a bit biased 😊)
Apprenticeships
Accenture (USA)
Amazon (UK)
- Automation Engineering Apprentice, UK Apprenticeship Team - Job ID: 2297716 | Amazon.jobs
- Software Development Degree Apprentice - 36 months + EPA - Job ID: 2324380 | Amazon.jobs
Barclays (EU)
Cisco Apprenticeship Programs (UK)
- Sales Apprentice Program Location: Greater London - Bedfont Lakes, Feltham / Manchester
- Customer Experience Apprentice Program Location:Greater London - Bedfont Lakes, Feltham / Manchester
Expedia (UK)
IBM (USA)
Google (UK)
- Software Development Apprenticeship, Engineering, 2023 September Start - Google - London, UK - Google Careers
- Information Communications Technician Apprenticeship, Engineering, October 2023 Start - Google - London, UK - Google Careers
Training Programs
- Data Skills for All / Data Engineering | Correlation One (correlation-one.com)
- Vets in Tech - Front End Web Dev Cohort - (March Cohort - Free for Veterans and Military Spouses Only)
- VetsinTech Python Fundamentals for Data Science - (March Cohort - Free for Veterans and Military Spouses Only
- Microsoft Software and Systems Academy (Active Duty Military and Veterans)
And as always, the entire resource list is in for you to check out. Best List of Free Programs and Resources for Non-Traditional Tech Transitions