Data centre certifications for newcomers experts and sustainability professionals

Driven by advances in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and sustainability, the data center industry is growing rapidly.

Despite these changes, certification remains critical to IT career advancement. according to online worldcertification emerged to meet the needs of cutting-edge technology.

For IT professionals, the appeal of certification is obvious—improved career prospects, higher wages and greater job security. the latest one Information Technology Survey It was revealed that 77% of data center professionals received a salary increase last year, with the median annual salary being $130,000. However, these achievements also come with increasing challenges. Managers are taking on additional responsibilities, overseeing larger teams and expanding into areas such as finance and sustainability, reflecting the broader role of data centers in today’s digital economy.

Artificial intelligence has a particularly profound impact on the data center landscape. “Artificial intelligence is a transformative technology that requires massive amounts of power, intensive computing and fast networks,” explained Robert Beveridge, professor and technology manager at Carnegie Mellon University. “And they are very resource intensive. — Artificial intelligence will increase power demand. “The growing demand highlights the need for skilled professionals with the right certifications to guide data center operations.

Why certification is important

Certifications are more than just professional credentials; they validate expertise, build confidence, and open doors to new opportunities. For individuals, they represent practical ways of demonstrating knowledge and abilities. “But also, about their current job, career aspirations and career progression,” added Matt Hawkins, director of Uptime Education.

Employers view certification as a valuable tool for managing risk through talent retention and professional development. “How do we ensure we retain the people we have? One way to do that is to invest in individuals to help them grow in their roles and careers, and certification is one way to do that,” Hawkins asked. .

Certification also delivers measurable financial value. according to a Skillsoft Survey96% of IT leaders believe certification provides quantifiable benefits, and nearly half estimate that certified employees contribute $20,000 or more of additional value to their organizations.

The link between certification and salary growth

Certifications have long been associated with salary increases. Latest analysis from Foote Partners Highlighting the rebound in the value of IT certifications, average industry salaries will see their most significant positive swing in more than a decade in 2024.

However, data center-specific certification is entering a transitional phase. “Significant changes in the data center landscape are impacting compensation for related technical talent,” said David Foote, principal analyst at Foote Partners. “Currently, the cash premium for these certifications has stagnated. But. [they] A rebound is likely within 6 to 12 months as companies solidify their AI strategies.

This shift provides professionals with the opportunity to upskill and prepare for the next wave of demand.

in conclusion

Certification is a powerful tool to maintain DC’s operational competitiveness. In addition to employees’ technical skills, they demonstrate personal initiative and a commitment to continuous learning—traits highly valued by recruiting managers. “From a recruiting manager’s perspective, I found [them] Very valuable. It tells me that employees are motivated and they want to learn,” Beveridge said.

(photography: Christina Morillo)

See also: Revolutionizing data center sustainability with power capping

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