The cloud is entering the mainstream, and a popular U.S.-based certification program for the IT workforce, with strong ties in Canada, is introducing a new version of its cloud program to reflect that.
CompTIA, a vendor-neutral skills certifications program, announced a its CompTIA Cloud + certification course, which now covers cloud skills in the areas of advanced IT systems and operations. Hybrid and multi-cloud systems are quickly becoming the norm, CompTIA’s chief technology evangelist said in a statement, which is why updating the cloud certification course was important.
“Cloud computing does not happen in vacuum as an end unto itself,” said James Stanger. “IT professionals must weave these pieces together into secure solutions that run mission-critical systems and meet specific business needs.”
According to its website, CompTIA is the only certifying body that incorporates performance-based questions and hands-on simulations in its cloud certification exam. People in the program must demonstrate their skills in five areas: configuration and deployment, security, maintenance, management and troubleshooting. The CompTIA Cloud+ exam is accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), signifying its compliance with the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 17024 Standard.
Recognized in Canada
All of CompTIA’s certifications are available to the IT community, a spokesperson told CDN. For example, since 2003, Lambton College has combined its postgraduate project management degree with national and industry IT certifications. Those who complete the program, according to CompTIA, leave with a Lambton College diploma, Canada’s Information and Communications Technology Council (ICTC) certification and a CompTIA Project+ certification.
A former computer science instructor from Sherwood Park, Alta., prepared his students for industry certification exams such as CompTIA A+ and CompTIA Network+ at Bev Facey Community High School. The school integrated its IT education program with CompTIA certifications, the company mentioned in a blog post.
“Everyone looks at [a CompTIA certification] as a true certification. I think it’s a legitimate way of students proving to the industry that they have passed a certain standard,” said Gerald Chung.