Intro to Cloud Computing
Note: This story was written by Miranda Scardina
Cloud computing is a blossoming field to get into right now, with it’s high demand in the market and hundreds of companies searching for trained cloud practitioners. With over 90% of companies worldwide already using or wanting to convert to cloud computing services, it is one of the fastest growing jobs in the world. If you like programming and/or computer/data science, cloud computing may be perfect for you!
What is Cloud Computing?
Cloud computing is the distribution of computer services/resources — such as storage, servers, databases, networking, and software — over the Internet, or ‘the cloud.’ Most companies that deal with many different fields all use cloud computing services to boost their efficiencies and have a secure place to store all their data and files. It also is because of cloud computing that you can store/backup data on iCloud Drive. People who work in cloud computing work with programmers/computer scientists to develop cloud software. They also maintain and keep secure the VM (virtual machines) that are used to replace dated and old physical servers. These jobs also include updating and keeping the software they develop and databases they power in good shape. Common jobs available in the cloud computing field are Back-End Developers, Data Engineers, Data scientists, Java Developers, and much more.
Cloud Computing Companies
There are many companies whose main service is providing cloud computing services to other companies, and many that focus on making cloud software. Some of the main companies to know about are Google, AWS, Microsoft, Oracle, IBM, Intel, Blackbaud, JumpCloud, and Procore.
The Advantages of Cloud Computing
Cloud computing allows everyone on the planet to utilize any of their device’s potentials to the fullest. Cloud computing gives access to many functions, services, and resources that every device needs to be optimal, and it also makes data sharing and retrieving more efficient. It reduces complexity and aims to eliminate the effects of human error in computing and dealing with files. Cloud computing also includes services that protect from malware and hacker attacks + data stealing/loss. A good job in cloud computing could lead to a salary as large as $176,000!
How to Start Preparing for a Career in Cloud Computing
If after reading this article you are interested in cloud computing, here are some things you can do to start prepping yourself to enter this growing field:
- Learn a programming language or two. The most beneficial ones to learn would be Java, PHP, NET, and Python. If you know any others, don’t worry! Knowing more is better than knowing less, and it will most likely still help you.
- Learn about data analysis and storage. A great way to do this is to learn SQL, the language used to communicate with a database. SQL is used extensively in many cloud computing jobs as it is a surefire way to secure and maintain cloud databases with ease.
- Choose which type of cloud computing job you’d like: Software-as-service Platform-as-service, or Infrastructure-as-service and you could start your pathway into becoming a Cloud Software Engineer or Architect.
Conclusion
Considering a career in cloud computing puts a whole new meaning to the old phrase, ‘get your head out of the clouds.’ Now, moving into the future, the cloud is where we’re striving to be. If something from this article resonates with you, you should consider putting your head into the clouds and think about becoming part of this fast evolving STEM field.
Resources:
https://www.geeksforgeeks.org/5-programming-languages-for-every-cloud-engineer-to-learn/
https://aws.amazon.com/what-is-cloud-computing/
https://builtin.com/cloud-computing/cloud-computing-companies