Are you stuck in an endless cycle of job applications with nothing to show for it? When hundreds of resumes flood hiring managers’ inboxes for a single position, how do you make sure you stand out?
The answer is combining experience, hard work, and the right certifications.
IT certifications are more than just acronyms on your resume. They act as visual proof that you’ve invested in yourself and mastered specific skills employers are willing to pay top dollar for.
The right certification can significantly boost your earning potential and open doors to opportunities you didn’t know existed.
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So, which certifications should you consider earning? Here’s our list of the best IT certifications this year:
Cloud Computing Certifications
1. AWS Certified Solutions Architect
The AWS Certified Solutions Architect certification (particularly at the Associate level) validates your expertise in designing scalable systems on Amazon Web Services, the leading cloud platform.
AWS is used by organizations of all sizes, from startups to Fortune 500 companies. Landing a role with this certification practically pays for itself.
2. Google Cloud Professional Cloud Architect
This certification demonstrates your ability to design, develop, and manage robust solutions using Google Cloud technologies. This can lead to lucrative careers in top companies, making it one of the highest-paying certifications in the IT field.
3. Microsoft Azure Administrator Associate
As Microsoft expands its cloud services, professionals who can implement, monitor, and maintain Microsoft Azure are in high demand. Microsoft recommends having a solid understanding of core IT infrastructure, networking, and virtualization before attempting it.
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Cybersecurity Certifications
4. CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional)
The CISSP is often called the “gold standard” in cybersecurity certifications and covers eight domains of information security.
Security professionals with this certification earn an average of $150,000+ annually, and it’s particularly valuable for security managers and directors.
5. CompTIA Security+
CompTIA Security+ is an excellent entry point into cybersecurity. Many government and defense contractor positions require it, and it can lead to well-paying career opportunities.
6. Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
With an average salary of $146,260, ethical hackers are in high demand as organizations seek to identify and address vulnerabilities before they become dangerous.
The CEH certification exam typically costs between $950 and $1,199, depending on your training path.
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Networking Certifications
7. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
This certification validates your ability to install, configure, and troubleshoot medium-sized networks. The CCNA opens doors to connect with other professionals who are earning competitive salaries.
8. CompTIA Network+
CompTIA Network+ certification covers networking concepts, infrastructure, and troubleshooting, giving you a good foundation in networking principles and complementing other IT certifications. It’s particularly valuable for those in IT support roles looking to advance.
CompTIA recommends having their A+ certification and at least 9-12 months of networking experience before attempting it.
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Foundational IT Certifications
9. CompTIA A+
With this certification, you validate your troubleshooting skills and understanding of common hardware and software tech. The A+ certification is often the first step into IT, opening doors to help desk and technical support roles.
10. Microsoft Fundamentals Certifications
These entry-level certifications cover Microsoft technologies like Azure, Microsoft 365, and Dynamics 365. It can be a stepping stone to more advanced Microsoft certifications. Each exam costs $99, making them affordable entry points into IT certification.
Data & Analytics Certifications
11. Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate
Companies are increasingly relying on data for decision-making, and this Google certification demonstrates your ability to use data to solve problems and make decisions.
This certification can help you break into this growing field. No prior experience is required, making it accessible to even beginners.
12. Database Certifications (Oracle, Microsoft SQL)
Database professionals are key to managing and optimizing data resources. A database certification can land roles like database administrator or database developer.
AI and Machine Learning Certifications
13. AWS Certified Machine Learning – Specialty
AI and machine learning specialists are among the highest-paid IT professionals, and this certification validates your ability to design, implement, deploy, and maintain machine learning solutions on AWS.
14. Microsoft Certified: Azure AI Engineer Associate
This certification demonstrates your ability to implement AI solutions using Microsoft Azure.
The demand for professionals who can implement and manage these solutions is exploding. Those who can demonstrate an ability to implement AI solutions using Microsoft Azure stand to land great roles. Experience with AI workloads and data science — as well as Azure services –— is recommended.
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Project Management Certifications
15. Project Management Professional (PMP)
This globally recognized certification validates your ability to manage complex projects across various methodologies.
Project managers with the PMP certification often command higher salaries and have greater job opportunities across industries. The certification requires significant project management experience: 36 months leading projects with a four-year degree or 60 months with an associate degree.
16. Certified ScrumMaster (CSM)
This certification demonstrates your understanding of Agile project management using the Scrum framework. Agile methodologies are widely used in software development and IT projects, making this certification valuable for those working in these environments.
Make Your Certification Count with BravoTECH
This list is a great place to get started, but remember: a certification alone can’t guarantee you a job. You need to know how to leverage your credentials effectively:
- Update your LinkedIn profile and resume: Make sure you clearly post and display your certifications and the skills they show you’ve mastered.
- Build practical experience: Use your knowledge in useful ways, such as projects, volunteer work, or lab environments that complement your expertise.
- Network with other certified professionals: Get involved in online communities and attend events that connect you with others in your field.
- Prepare to discuss your certification journey: Always be ready to explain clearly how your certification has prepared you for a role as you interview — and make it personal to the specific job at hand.
- Stay current: Technology is constantly changing. What was certified today may be obsolete tomorrow. Don’t let yourself slip behind by not staying ahead of changes!
Which certification will you pursue first? Whatever your choice, taking that step demonstrates your dedication to professional development — and that’s a quality employers always value.
Work With Us
BravoTECH’s experienced recruiters are here to help you navigate the market and connect with opportunities that match your skills and aspirations. Let’s partner together to find your next great role.
Head to jobs.bravotech.com to see our open opportunities.
