New Cloud Systems Administration Certificate Prepares Students for High-Demand Tech Careers

“The cloud” is a nickname for a network of powerful computers and servers in massive data centers. Cloud-based systems let companies use the internet to store, manage and access their data and programs, so they don't have to buy and maintain their own servers. IT professionals with knowledge of computer networking and the cloud are needed to keep things running, safe and cost-effectively. Throughout the certificate program, students gain hands-on experience with the foundational technologies that support these platforms, including virtualization, cloud infrastructure, storage and networking.

Job Opportunities and Competitive Salaries

Aims developed the Cloud Systems Administration program based on recommendations from the Computer Information Systems (CIS) advisory board, which identified cloud systems administration as a critical area of demand in the field. “Our advisory committee told us the biggest gap in our offerings was cloud computing,” said Zachary Smith, a CIS instructor at Aims. “That feedback is what started the development of this certificate. We built it to meet real workforce needs.”

Aims Academic Dean, Business & Technology, Jim Vernon, emphasized that Aims CIS instructors are deeply connected to the industry and stay current with evolving technologies. 

“This isn’t your grandparents’ IT department. The technology evolves rapidly and so do our certificates.”

The Cloud Systems Administration Certificate program prepares graduates for roles such as cloud engineer, administrator, IT analyst and systems support specialist. Smith believes the certificate “opens doors for students who want to work in IT or other industries requiring cloud expertise. Nearly every industry today relies on cloud technology.” 

Cloud computing plays a key role across many sectors, from healthcare and government to retail and manufacturing, often in ways people don’t immediately realize. “A student might be passionate about craft beer, but behind the scenes, those machines are connected to the cloud for storage, automation and data,” Smith said. “This certificate lets you combine your interests with tech skills that are in demand.”

A Versatile Program for a Wide Range of Learners

The Cloud Computing Certificate is designed both for newcomers to IT and for students already pursuing related degrees, such as programming or web development. “This is a great option for problem-solvers and tech-curious individuals who want to launch or advance a career in IT,” Smith said. “Whether you’re just starting or trying to move up in your company, this certificate will help give you skills employers are actively looking for.”

To learn more about the Cloud Computing Certificate Aims, visit aims.co/cloud-computing.