Training on My AWS Rocks!

AWS Golden Jacket; Is it worth the race?

Thu, 17 Aug 2023 00:00:00 +0000

So, I’ve just completed my AWS Machine Learning Specialty certification. This now brings my total active certifications to 12, the “full suite” of achievable certification. In doing so I’m now eligible for the elusive “golden jacket” awarded by AWS to holders of all certifications.

I’ve had a few people ask my about my certification journey and as often as the how did I do it, is they why did I do it.

Cheat Sheet or Quick Reference?

Sat, 02 Apr 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Cheat Sheet, Quick Reference, Key Facts, Quick Start Guide, the list of names for similar types of reference documents are as varied as the topics they cover. So why do Cheat Sheets seem to be the most popular name and format?

In this post I’ll give my view on the use of cheat sheets, and the term in general, and why I think they’ve become popular. I’ll also explain why I hate them (cheat sheets) and the misuse of term.

Useful AWS Training Resources

Fri, 24 Dec 2021 00:00:00 +0000

One thing I think is important in technology is to never stop learning. For me change in technology is like a river, it never stops flowing, and at times such as re:invent it can feel like a flood. Things are changing so rapidly if you don’t keep up to date you will drown in all the announcements and changes.

Hopefully you have all heard about the AWS SkillBuilder website that has over two and a half thousand digital courses in 16 languages. What you may not know is that there is a raft of other training material out there either direct from AWS or others that can help with your learning journey.

4x or 1x Certified - Does it matter?

Mon, 20 Sep 2021 00:00:00 +0000

I often see in peoples LinkedIn headline is stats around how many certifications they hold such as 6x AWS | 4x AZURE | 2x GCP. The question is what does this actually show? Does someone with 7 certificates have more knowledge than someone with 4? What about those without any certifications?

Numbers don’t always add up.

The problem with just comparing the numbers mathematically is that not all certifications are equal. 4x does not always equal 4x!

Career Routes

Mon, 03 May 2021 00:00:00 +0000

There is always a huge debate on which certificates and skills are required for which role, or which certification someone should do next. So I thought I’d pitch in with my view on the matter. Please note the following is based on planning at the beginning of your cloud career. If you are changing roles later in your career the order and certifications could change drastically.

For me there are three categories of AWS roles; Architect, Engineer and Specialist. Bear in mind roles will always have overlaps and depending on the company there will be nuances. In addition, as you move up from an entry level role to a lead role it is normally expected that your depth in knowledge increases.