How to Become a Cloud Architect: Step-By-Step Guide

In order to succeed in the field of cloud architecture, you must have extensive knowledge of computer systems, programming languages, networking, and security. Although no formal schooling is required, this is highly technical employment in the field of information technology (IT). While it’s not strictly necessary, having a degree may increase your chances of landing a job. Experience in the workforce is just one option; others include taking classes or earning certifications in a certain field. In this article, we will discuss how to become a cloud architect, the course to enroll in, salary, and certification.

What Is a Cloud Architect?

A cloud architect is a professional in information technology (IT) who sets up programs and protocols to help a company reach its overall goals. As part of a company’s IT team, cloud architects may work with people like help desk workers, quality assurance experts, database developers, and information security managers.

In a company’s IT area, a cloud architect is in charge of a lot of things. They are in charge of a company’s cloud database and come up with new cloud-computing solutions that can help the company reach its goals and work more efficiently. 

What Does a Cloud Architect Do?

An integral member of any organization’s IT team, a cloud architect is responsible for the planning, creation, deployment, and maintenance of cloud-based software and infrastructure. Cloud computing has many advantages for enterprises, including the possibility of lowering operating expenses, encouraging new ideas, and boosting security and compliance. 

It’s usual for cloud architects to report to IT directors, CTOs, or other C-suite executives. You will be in charge of the company’s cloud database and tasked with keeping up with industry developments and coming up with innovative ways to help the business achieve its goals. The following are examples of shared duties: 

• Getting together with the upper echelons of management to talk about the company’s long-term and short-term goals and explain how cloud computing services can help them be achieved
• Making cloud-based plans that are consistent with organizational objectives
• Organizational cloud planning, solution and strategy design, and application development in the cloud 
• Maintaining and assessing current cloud apps and fixing any resulting technical issues
• Protecting sensitive information and keeping sensitive data private in the cloud
• Security architecture design for the cloud, including the use of appropriate software
• Establishing a culture where cloud computing is widely used involves formulating a strategy for customized cloud solutions, documenting cloud processes and procedures, teaching others about cloud computing, and being flexible enough to adapt to new information.
• Organizational cloud usage policies, guidelines, and standards development and implementation
• Making decisions on cloud service providers in light of things like security, industry compliance, and the ease with which the new system may be integrated into existing firm structures and processes.

Required Skills for a Cloud Architect Role

Before getting started as a cloud architect, you’ll need a strong foundation in cloud computing. This involves understanding different cloud service providers, best practices in cloud security, and varieties of cloud service models and deployment architectures. However, a strong set of technical and workplace skills can help you get ready for this position. Some useful skills for a cloud architect are: 

#1. Basic Business Skills

In the role of a cloud architect, one is responsible for devising business solutions that align with the objectives of the organization. For this, you need to have a lot of business sense, including skills like ROI analysis, figuring out what financial statements mean, and knowing what top executives are most worried about.

#2. Networking

When you work as a cloud architect, you should know how to use the domain name system (DNS), the internet protocol (TCP/IP), a virtual private network (VPN), and the hypertext transfer protocol (HTTP). If you don’t know much about networking, it might be hard to make cloud-based solutions that work well, are flexible, and are safe.

#3. Leadership

Frequently, you will assume the role of team leader, overseeing a group of IT specialists, such as developers and engineers, collaborating with you in the construction of robust and optimized cloud infrastructures. Effective teamwork, strong leadership, and efficient communication are essential components of success. 

#4. Basic Programming Languages

Having a strong command of programming languages such as Python, C#, or Java might enhance one’s ability to develop effective solutions and generate prototypes that effectively showcase their functionality to top executives.

#5. Project Management

Cloud architects play a crucial role in the development and oversight of cloud computing initiatives. Consequently, it is imperative for cloud architects to possess project management capabilities that enable them to effectively lead and coordinate teams of IT professionals.

Is Cloud Architect Hard to Learn?

Becoming a cloud architect can be challenging, but the difficulty largely depends on your prior experience and dedication to learning. Proficiency in cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud is essential, along with understanding networking, security, and infrastructure concepts. Learning programming languages and automation ttoolsand staying updated on evolving cloud technologies is also crucial. Many resources, including online courses and certifications, can aid your learning journey. Practical experience through projects or work is invaluable. Continuous adaptation to industry changes is key, as cloud computing evolves rapidly. While challenging, the demand for skilled cloud architects makes it a rewarding field for those willing to invest time and effort in acquiring the necessary skills.

Cloud Architect Course

The concept of “cloud computing” will be familiar to anyone who has used a service like Dropbox or Google Drive. In layman’s terms, cloud computing is just a fancy name for storing information online. As a result of increased manufacturing and consumption, the need for trained experts to oversee the expansion of international trade arose. The cloud computing specialist everyone will want to hire is the one who has taken the time to learn about cloud architecture and software development.

Grid computing has replaced cluster computing since the 1990s, when the internet became the dominant global networking medium. Social networking sites like Google Maps, Twitter, and other foundational cloud designs all owe a debt to Web 2.0, which gained traction in 2004. Cloud architects are the innovators whose ground-breaking ideas have shaped the modern state of cloud computing. Did you know that Formula 1 motorsport leans so heavily on cloud computing that it generates 1.5 terabytes of data throughout a race weekend? There is little doubt that cloud computing removes geographical limitations, cuts expenses, and simplifies IT system maintenance. Also, it led to increased efficiency and flexibility in work.

Free cloud computing and cloud architecture courses abound to meet the needs of the market. This is because of the market demand for cloud-related professions. You will be in high demand as an employee if you have both IT experience and a solid cloud architecture certification course under your belt.

Here is a list of some of the best courses for cloud architects on the market.

#1. Cloud Architect Expert Combo Training Course

Cloud Architect Expert: AWS (SAP – C01 and SAA-C02) and MS Azure (AZ-303 and AZ-304) by Infosec Train allow learners to learn from the greatest trainers in the field. Through exercises and discussions, they will gain a deeper familiarity with AWS and Azure Cloud. The architecture of cloud-based systems is the topic of in-depth examination in this course and certification. In addition, this course and certification are excellent preparation for a job as a cloud solutions architect.

Training for both the Microsoft Azure Architect and AWS Solutions Architect credentials are included in the course. You can rest easy knowing that all the resources you need to prepare for your Azure solutions architect certification and your AWS certification are in one place.

• Available on: Infosec Train
• Duration: 82 Sections

#2. Google Cloud Architect Program

Those aspiring to fill the jobs of enterprise architects or cloud solution architects will find this course and certification useful. In addition, it’s a great resource for anyone planning to take the Google Professional Cloud Architect test. The fundamentals of using Google in the workplace will be covered in this course. 

Also, templates for data analysis and dataflow in the cloud will be covered. You will investigate numerous cloud services, including Load Balancers, Kubernetes, and Terraform, and learn about their advantages and disadvantages. In addition, you’ll learn how to use other cutting-edge components of the Google Cloud Platform, such as infrastructure as code, cloud security, auto-scaling, and continuous delivery.

• Available on: Google Cloud
• Duration: 6-7 hours per week

#3. Become a Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)

The CCSP is a certification and course for cloud architects. To prepare for this cloud architecture certification, you can train using the CCSP certification prep course. The CCSP is a popular alternative to the CISSP. CISSP is more abstract than the more technical CCSP. It takes a lot of effort to accomplish either one of them. The bar has been set at 70%, or 700 out of a possible 1000. 

There are many great CCSP-related opportunities at companies like IBM, Oracle, VMWare, and Wells Fargo. This cloud architect program requires a minimum of five years of professional IT experience, including one year of cloud security experience. The Association of ISC is a good place to start for newcomers or those who don’t otherwise fit the aforementioned requirements.

• Available on: LinkedIn Learning
• Duration: 14 hours 14 minutes

#4. Amazon Web Service Cloud Architect

The ability to efficiently manage software and data storage in modern environments is essential. That’s where the AWS Cloud Architect training course and certification by Udacity comes in. This training is meant to improve the technical side of running a business. Accessing cloud services and developing scalable architectures are covered in depth, making this an excellent resource for programmers, organizers, and managers.

• Available on: Udacity
• Duration: 10 hours per week

#5. AWS Certified SysOps Administrator Associate

A SysOps manager is responsible for all aspects of AWS system administration, including control, direction, use, and operation. You should be familiar with AWS SDKs, virtual network technologies, security principles, virtual technology, and the process of converting architectural requirements before beginning this cloud architect course. With the help of knowledgeable instructors, Simplilearn provides access to a wealth of study resources. IBM, Dell, and Tata Motors are just a few of the companies that seek out AWS-certified candidates.

• Available on: Udemy
• Duration: 16 hours

How to Become a Cloud Architect

Here are steps you can follow to begin your career as a cloud architect:

#1. Complete Your High School Education

Earning your high school diploma is crucial if you want a career as a cloud architect. Get ahead in your chosen field by concentrating on math, physics, and computer programming as electives during your time at school.

Also, think about enrolling in some AP classes to get ahead in college credit requirements. To supplement your income while attending school, you could try finding an entry-level IT career with a company that offers part-time work.

#2. Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Your Field

A bachelor’s degree is the next logical step after high school for someone interested in becoming a cloud architect. While most cloud architects have a background in IT or CS, some universities now offer cloud computing as a major or minor due to the industry’s rapid expansion.

Data center computing, backup and recovery strategies, and courses on managing network infrastructures are all available. While you’re in school, investigate how you may support your schooling with hands-on experience and training. For example, you may be interested in working at your college or university’s computer lab or tutoring other students in these fundamental areas.

#3. Get Some Real-World Experience

You may learn a lot about the IT field and the abilities necessary to succeed as a cloud architect by getting some actual work experience. An entry-level position is a great way to break into a subject and meet other experts in your field. These certifications are not only useful in the job market but may also be required by universities for admission to master’s degree programs.

#4. Make Sure You Obtain a Master’s Degree

Master’s degree holders are often favored by companies, though this need varies by industry and position. As a result, you can polish your technical abilities and expand your role-related expertise. To set yourself apart from other candidates and demonstrate your dedication to your profession, earning a master’s degree may be a good idea.

#5. Obtain the Appropriate Credentials

You can demonstrate your expertise and knowledge to a potential employer by earning one or more of the many available certifications in architecture. Some certification programs are sector-specific while others provide instruction in the use of particular cloud services. If you want to work as a cloud architect or in a similar senior IT role, getting certified is a good first step.

Do Cloud Architects Work Remotely?

Yes, remote work is common for cloud architects. The nature of cloud computing allows professionals in this field to collaborate and manage infrastructure from anywhere with internet access. Many organizations embrace remote work, especially in the tech industry, making it feasible for cloud architects to work from different locations. Remote work offers flexibility, allowing professionals to balance work and personal life effectively. However, communication and collaboration skills become vital in a remote setting, as cloud architects often need to coordinate with cross-functional teams. Video conferencing, collaboration tools, and virtual meetings help bridge the gap.

While some tasks may require on-site presence, the trend toward remote work in the tech sector, including roles like cloud architecture, continues to grow. Ultimately, the remote work aspect can vary depending on the specific company’s policies and the nature of the projects being undertaken.

Can a Non-IT Person Become a Cloud Architect?

Yes, a non-IT person can transition to become a cloud architect, but it requires a dedicated effort to acquire the necessary skills and knowledge. Start by gaining a foundational understanding of IT concepts, networking, and basic programming. Explore online courses and certifications related to cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud. Practical hands-on experience is crucial, so consider working on personal projects or collaborating with others.

Develop proficiency in infrastructure as code (IaC), automation tools, and security practices relevant to cloud environments. Networking skills, system administration, and an understanding of enterprise IT are beneficial. Soft skills such as problem-solving, communication, and adaptability are also essential for success in this role.

While the transition may take time, many resources are available to support learning, and networking with professionals in the field can provide valuable insights. Consider pursuing certifications like AWS Certified Solutions Architect or Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect to validate your skills. It’s a challenging journey, but with determination and continuous learning, a non-IT person can become a successful cloud architect.

Cloud Architect Salary

In the United States, cloud architects can expect to make an hourly average salary of $70.24.

Cloud architect salaries in the United States range from the 25th percentile ($58.17) to the 75th percentile ($80.53) per hour, according to data collected by ZipRecruiter. There appears to be a lot of room for growth and progress in a Cloud Architect’s career, as the average salary range is rather wide (by as much as $22.36).

Based on recent job posting activity on ZipRecruiter, the Cloud Architect job market in both Port Harcourt, NG and throughout the entire state is not very active since few organizations are actively hiring. If you’re a Cloud Architect in your location, you can expect an average hourly wage of $71. This is an increase of $0.55 (7.782%) over the median wage of Cloud Architects across the country. pays the highest median salary for Cloud Architects of any of the 50 states.

To estimate the most accurate hourly salary range for Cloud Architect jobs, ZipRecruiter continuously scans its database of millions of active jobs published locally throughout America.

Cloud Architect Career Trajectory

As you can see, there’s no set path to becoming a cloud architect. There is also no predetermined next step once you’ve achieved that status. As a cloud architect, however, you may find yourself eligible for a number of promising openings.

However, suppose you want to continue your career in cloud computing architecture. In that case, your career trajectory could look something like this:

#1. Senior Cloud Architect

Senior cloud architects, as you might expect, do not deviate too greatly from the standard cloud architect role. However, this is most certainly the first time a cloud architect has been promoted.

Nevertheless, a senior cloud architect would likely be required to assume more of a leadership role in their cloud computing teams, help educate new members of the group, or be the ones asked to meet with members of higher management or other departments.

#2. Principal Cloud Architect

After some time as a cloud architect or senior cloud architect, you can be promoted to principal cloud architect. These individuals are regarded as the primary voices of the cloud computing architectural team. The most complex and crucial cloud computing solutions for their companies will nearly always fall on their shoulders.

Principal cloud architects will not oversee staff, unlike senior cloud architects and other “principal” titles. Instead, they are the team’s most experienced and influential individuals in the realm of cloud computing.

Therefore, becoming a lead cloud architect could take as much as 10 years of experience in the field.

#3. Director/Head of Cloud

It’s conceivable to reach the pinnacle of your profession as a senior cloud architect and then strike a dead end. After all, the job responsibilities, the compensation, and the length of time it takes to get there may make most individuals feel pleased.

It is still feasible to advance in one’s chosen field. Things could get trickier from here on out. That’s because promotion opportunities are next to be found in executive or high management.

For cloud architects, this entails taking on the role of Director or Head of Cloud.

The cloud computing strategy, direction, architecture, and standards for a corporation and its cloud team are all the responsibility of these personnel. The Directors of Cloud Infrastructure will report directly to the CEO or CTO as members of the executive team.

To become the Director/Head of Cloud Infrastructure, you’ll need to have a deep understanding of cloud technology and work in the field for at least 15–20 years.

#4. Chief Technology Officer

There just isn’t much of a need to provide context for this role. So, if you work in tech, you surely know what a Chief Technology Officer is.

If a C-suite job is what a cloud architect wants, this is likely the top position to which they can aspire. The Chief Technology Officer (CTO) is the executive in charge of the organization’s R&D and technical initiatives.

Chief Executive Officer of the company’s IT department. As a member of the C-Suite, CTOs will work alongside and report directly to the CEO. In addition, they may be required to communicate often with the company’s top shareholders and board of directors.

Despite the technical nature of the position, a Chief Technology Officer is not likely to get their hands dirty. For instance, they probably wouldn’t do any coding or other hands-on IT work. This, however, is not necessarily true of startups and growing businesses.

Having a job as a cloud architect sounds fantastic. Even if you had the chance to serve as chief technology officer, you might not want to. CTO is a C-suite position, hence the salary may be higher than that of the primary cloud architect. This indicates that the position is strategic and business-focused. Instead of completing the work themselves, CTOs would direct senior engineers in the right direction.

However, the career path for a cloud architect ends with the Chief Technology Officer post.

Do Cloud Architects Do Coding?

Yes, cloud architects often engage in coding to some extent. While they may not be writing large applications, they need proficiency in scripting and programming languages to automate processes, manage infrastructure through code, and create efficient solutions in the cloud environment. Infrastructure as Code (IaC) is a key aspect of cloud architecture, and professionals in this role commonly use tools like Terraform, Ansible, or AWS CloudFormation to define and manage infrastructure.

Coding skills enable cloud architects to design scalable, flexible, and automated systems, facilitating efficient deployment and management of resources. Additionally, understanding programming concepts helps architects collaborate effectively with developers and other IT professionals. While coding is not the primary focus of their role, it is an essential skill that enhances the ability of cloud architects to design and maintain dynamic cloud solutions.

Bottom Line

Taking an online course or earning a Professional Certificate in Cloud Architecture will help you get started in the field. By doing so, you might become familiar with concepts and techniques relevant to your field of work.

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Reference

• coursera.org
• indeed.com
• intellipaat.com
• tryexponent.com
• careers360.com
• ziprecruiter.com