Path to Becoming a Cloud Engineer

May 14, 2025

Becoming a Cloud Engineer from Scratch

In this presentation, the speaker discusses the process of becoming a cloud engineer from zero knowledge to landing a role in the field. The speaker draws from personal experience to provide a step-by-step guide.

Introduction

  • Objective: Guide individuals with no prior experience in cloud computing to become cloud engineers.
  • Personal Background: Speaker has been a cloud engineer for 2 years, sharing personal journey and insights.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Research Cloud Computing

  • Action: Use Google and YouTube to understand the basics.
  • Topics to Explore:
    • What is cloud computing?
    • Roles such as cloud engineer and cloud solutions architect.
  • Resources: Links to recommended videos included in the video description.

Step 2: Analyze Job Descriptions

  • Platforms: LinkedIn, Google, job boards.
  • Purpose:
    • Understand the skills required for cloud engineering roles.
    • Common requirements include familiarity with major cloud providers (Azure, AWS, Google Cloud), Linux, PowerShell, Terraform, and operating systems.
  • Advice: Identify necessary skills and begin learning them.

Step 3: Choose a Cloud Service Provider (CSP)

  • CSP Options: Microsoft Azure, AWS, Google Cloud.
  • Decision Factors: Choose based on personal preference and job market demand.
  • Additional Resources: Video explaining the speaker's choice of Azure.

Step 4: Obtain a Foundational Certification

  • Purpose: Gain basic understanding of chosen cloud provider.
  • Examples:
    • Azure: AZ-900
    • AWS: AWS Cloud Practitioner
  • Cost: Approximately £80-£110; look for free voucher programs to reduce costs.
  • Resources: Free online courses available, especially on YouTube.

Step 5: Execute a Cloud Project

  • Importance: Gain hands-on experience; projects can substitute formal work experience.
  • Resources: YouTube for project ideas and guides.
  • Note: Projects highlight interest and practical knowledge to potential employers.

Step 6: Pursue an Associate Certification

  • Purpose: Gain deeper, hands-on understanding.
  • Examples:
    • Azure: AZ-104 (Azure Administrator)
    • AWS: AWS Solutions Architect
  • Significance: More challenging and recognized by employers compared to foundational certifications.

Step 7: Learn Job-Specific Skills

  • Action: Review earlier job descriptions for specified skills (e.g., Linux, PowerShell).
  • Resources: Use YouTube and online courses to acquire these skills.

Step 8: Search for a Cloud Job

  • Focus: Target junior and entry-level roles, or roles requiring 1-2 years of experience.
  • Alternative Roles: Consider IT support or DevOps roles if necessary.

Bonus Tip: Specialize

  • Strategy: Focus on a specific area of cloud engineering to streamline skill development.
  • Roles to Consider: Cloud support engineer, cloud security engineer, cloud administrator.

Conclusion

  • Encouragement to apply these steps and skills to secure a cloud engineering role.
  • Engagement: Viewers invited to comment on their experiences and follow the speaker on social media.

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