Top IT Certifications In-demand Globally for IT Executives and Aspiring CIOs

The fast-growing demand for high-level technical skills by modern organizations is one of the main drivers challenging organizations in sourcing and remaining competitive. With organizations increasingly interested in maintaining leading-edge technical capabilities in their workforce, the most important IT skills gap is leading to a level of demand for which organizations are currently ill-prepared. A CIO report by Nimini Street highlights that 86% of organizations predict difficulties in hiring on-premises technologies. In addition, 75% of IT decision-makers report IT skills gaps, which marks a stunning 145% increase compared to 2016.

This growing problem increases stress, longer timescales, higher running costs, and decreased business objectives. For example, the United States is expected to waste more than $162 billion by 2030 in productivity due to skills shortages in sectors. With the fast-paced technological advancement, companies must keep up with the demand for more technically qualified personnel. This has created an urgent requirement for organizations to develop appropriate techniques to fill the void between desired technical skills and the real potential of their workforce.

From this perspective, IT certifications are a key solution for the IT team and aspiring CIOs to learn how to steer and excel in the changing dynamics of technology.

Also Read: How CIOs Can Simplify CRM Transformation

What are IT certifications?

IT certifications are professional certificates the awarding body gives to signify qualification in certain skills, tools, and IT knowledge. The candidate must pass an examination and fulfill other conditions to achieve these certifications. IT certifications in the relevant area of one’s role and industry will uplift one’s career.

Certifications are great vehicles for IT professionals to accelerate their careers and develop expertise in specific IT domains. They enhance the skills: a promotion within the organization, a lateral move, or a move toward a new career. Certification can help one achieve all one has set goals for.

Factors in Choosing an IT Certification

Even if a certification is good, the right one for you will make the difference in moving toward career growth within the IT domain.

1. Relevance of Skill Sets and Industry Trends

Most IT certifications are based on skills and knowledge required for a certain job role. Assess the skills available today and what skills need to be built. In addition, scan the trends and changes pertaining to the IT sector to make a decision about which certification to pursue. Advanced certifications in cloud computing, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and data analysis are on the rise.

Even though passion is important, consider the job market demand for certain certifications. Look at the industry scenario that tells you what certifications are in greater demand. Look at job postings and requirements similar to those you would love to land and note the certifications that give individuals an edge over others in the workforce.

2. Demand for Specific Certifications – Regional or Global

Some qualifications are more of a degree in some geographical areas or are more precious to some industries than other mines. That means you have to understand the dynamics to be able to choose the Certification that resonates with or maximizes your career.

Choosing the Right Certification for Your Career

Below is a list of actionable steps that will help to determine the right certification for your career objectives.

1. Research and Self-assessment

Research certifications pertinent to your career. You may want to consider industry trends, demand in the job market, skills needed to get a particular certification, and those needed by the industry. Now, look at the level of knowledge and skills and determine where you need to develop further. Make sure the certification you choose will add value to your strengths and provide a solution to the skills gap you have. Make clear what your long-term career goal is so that you know which certification is accepted for your goal position.

2. Assess the Value of Professional Development and Growth Opportunities

Look beyond the immediate benefits and the long-term value creation provided by that certification in professional development. Some certifications provide long-term growth opportunities in terms of developing exclusive networks, continuing education programs, specialized training, etc. This set of resources makes you more knowledgeable and more skillful. Therefore, you are more relevant to the fast-changing industry. Make sure that particular certification aligns with your career path and provides advancement, promotion, and more earning opportunities.

3. Advice and Guidance

Consult with onboard experienced professionals who hold some or all of the certifications that you are considering. Contact active experts in the industry, mentors, or network professionals to gain insight from experience; this advice will go a long way in giving the right direction. A number of websites offer help through online forums, discussion boards, and professional communities to get into direct talks; it is worthwhile getting valid information about which certification is valuable enough concerning the industry.

Also Read: How CVSS Score Metrics Help Improve Security?

Top 10 IT Certifications

#1 Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) – (ISC)²

#2 Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) – ISACA

The CISM is an advanced-level certification that can determine the experience and competence of an individual in developing and managing enterprise information security programs. CISM is provided by ISACA, a non-profit association used for infosec professionals’ advocacy. It is accredited by the American National Standards Institute under ISO/IEC 17024:2003.

Examination:

The CISM certification process includes a 150 questions multiple choice exam scored on a 200-800 scaled method. A passing score of 450 reflects the minimum knowledge standard as established by the ISACA Certification Committee. The exam covers four content areas:

• Information Security Governance
• Information Risk Management
• Information Security Program Development and Management
• Information Security Incident Management

Prerequisites:

The applicants qualify for the exam provided they have five years of verified infosec experience, with at least three years of experience in infosec management within not fewer than three content areas of CISM. The experience should have been obtained in the ten years preceding the date of application, not later than five years beginning from the exam pass date.

#3 AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate – Amazon Web Services

An AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate validates advanced-level knowledge and experience in the design of distributed systems and can put into managed solutions and automate for security, cost, and performance. This also helps an organization to spot and nurture talent that has the important skills necessary to enable the use of the cloud.

The AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate certification is intended for individuals with two or more years of relevant experience in the design of distributed systems. Before sitting the exam, the candidate:

• Should be able to use and be experienced in the AWS CLI, APIs, CloudFormation templates, Billing Console, and Management Console.
• Should be able and experienced in using scripting languages and Windows/Linux environments.
• Can deliver best-practice guidance on architectural design across multiple applications and projects.
• Can map business objectives to application/architecture requirements.
• Proficiency in reviewing and evaluating cloud application requirements and producing architectural recommendations for implementation, deployment, and provisioning on AWS.
• Design experience with making architectural decisions based on best practices, customers’ requirements, and recommendations.
• Working knowledge with key AWS technologies to design hybrid architectures (eg: VPN, AWS Direct Connect) and implementing continuous integration and deployment processes.

Requirements:

• AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate
• Real hands-on experience with AWS
• AWS Certified Developer, SysOps & DevOps Professional to gain additional hands-on experience.

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#4 Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert – Microsoft

Achieving the Azure Solutions Architect Expert certification signifies efficiency in designing cloud and hybrid solutions on Microsoft Azure. This includes computing, network, storage, monitoring, and security proficiency. Candidates exhibit advanced expertise in IT operations, spanning networking, virtualization, identity, security, business continuity, disaster recovery, data platforms, and governance.

Candidate Profile:

The candidate shall possess an advanced level of experience and knowledge in IT Operations involving and not limited to networking, virtualization, identity, security, business continuity, disaster recovery, data platforms, and governance. They should also understand how each area’s decisions impact an overall solution. The candidate should have experience in Azure administration, development, and DevOps processes.

This certification exam measures the candidate’s ability to:

• Design identity, governance, and monitoring solutions
  
• Design data storage solutions
  
• Design business continuity solutions
  
• Design infrastructure solutions

#5 Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) – Cisco

CCNA, or Cisco Certified Network Associate, is an entry-level IT certification awarded by the leading networking hardware company, Cisco. With this certification, one gains knowledge of networking and is thus recommended for jobs such as Network Specialist, Network Administrator, and Network Engineer.

Key points: 

• The CCNA certification can be acquired through the successful completion of the 200-301 CCNA exam.
• The exam does not have any specific prerequisites, though taking some training and working experience with computer networks will be useful.
• CCNA is a widely known certification. More than 18,500 jobs posting refer to the CCN credential for Linkedin in India around May 2023.

Exam details:

The exam 200-301 CCNA is 120 minutes long and available in English and Japanese.

The following areas of expertise will be tested for the candidate:

• Network fundamentals (20%)
• Network access (20%)
• IP connectivity (25%)
• IP services (10%)
• Security fundamentals (15%)
• Automation and programmability 10%

CCNA exams must-haves include:

• Having at least one year of experience in using and implementing Cisco solutions and products.
• Having knowledge in IP addressing, which is very basic
• Having an understanding of the network fundamentals.

#6 Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) – Cisco

A candidate with CCNP training can develop, implement, verify, and troubleshoot Local Area Networks (LAN) and Wide Area Networks (WAN) at an enterprise level. They can work collaboratively and offer support in regard to the deployment of advanced security, voice, wireless, and video solutions. Such certified individuals can take up positions such as a network administrator, network engineer, network technician, or systems engineer in enterprise-level networking.

Candidates must hold a bachelor degree in Information Science, Computer Science, or Engineering to apply for CCNP certification. Although there are no formal prerequisites, candidates having obtained the Cisco Certified Entry Network Technician (CCENT) certification or having completed the first part of the interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices exam (ICND1) are recommended as preparation for advanced CCNA certification. CCENT is the first step toward CCNA certification.

Entrance Tests:

There is no need for an entrance test to be passed for the certification of CCNP. The applicant must have a graduation degree in related fields, experience of 3 to 5 years, although experience is not a must, before he appears for the examination. Applicants generally prepare for such online entrance tests after studying the basic networking concepts that are part of the beginner level of certifications like CCNA.

#7 Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) – ISACA

CISA is a generally recognized standard for assessing the skills, knowledge, and expertise of an IT auditor to find vulnerabilities and develop information technology controls within the organization. The CISA observes, manages, and ensures the protection of an organization’s information systems. They ensure the technical requirements are met without making the systems vulnerable. With risk mitigation methods, they ensure reduced cyber threats and breaches.

The steps to be taken to acquire the certification are as follows:

1. Successfully clear the CISA examination
2. Agree to adhere to ISACA’s Code of Professional Ethics
3. Agree to follow ISACA’s Continuing Professional Education Program
4. Accept to comply with ISACA’s Information Systems Auditing Standards

About the CISA Exam

The CISA program is specially designed for individuals interested in IS audit Control and Security. The CISA exam contains 150 multiple-choice questions, which are based on five job practice domains;

•  Information Systems Auditing Process
• Governance and Management of IT
• Information System Acquisition, Development and Implementation
•  Information Systems Operations, Maintenance, and Support
•  Protection of Information Assets
• Information Systems Operations and Business Resilience

Protection of Information Assets

The examination is only cleared with a score of 450 and above, scaled in a range of 200 – 800. It is offered both in the testing centers globally and remotely online in numerous languages, including English, Chinese Mandarin Simplified, Chinese Traditional, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Spanish, and Turkish.

#8 Project Management Professional (PMP) – PMI

The PMI certifications are the credentials the respected professional body, Project Management Institute, manages. Ranges from entry-level to very high level, from broad to very narrow in specialization; a PMI certification is really a good asset for a professional just starting his career and for a project manager to strengthen himself with knowledge in the area.

PMP certification verifies one’s knowledge in:

• Motivating people and teams through all phases of these projects.
  
• Using predictive, agile, and hybrid tools and techniques, to select the appropriate method based on the project.
  
• Demonstrating project success, where success is measured by the application of the project to organizational strategy.
  

PMP Examination Eligibility:

Being recognized as PMP certified is no small feat; dedication to and practical experience in project management are the ultimate conditions. Two sets of eligibility requirements are stated below:

• 8Bachelor/College Degree;
  
• Not less than 36 months of project leadership experience in the last eight years.
  
• 35 contact hours of education in project management or CAPM certification
  

Or

• High School Diploma
  
• 60 months of leading project works at the market, with the last 8 years.
  
• 35 contact hours of project management education or training or CAPM certification.

#9 Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) – Scrum Alliance

The Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) certification from the Scrum Alliance is an entry-level credential meant to help and understand the methodologies and values of Scrum. As the application of Agile practices is increasingly popular for project and product management, the role of a ScrumMaster is key. This will enhance leadership, improve workflow, and increase career value in environments that utilize Agile practices.

Benefits of Becoming a CSM

• More job opportunities and more money
• Scrum professionals have a significant advantage in handling projects more effectively
• Ability to reflect the Scrum values and principles as a practicing Scrum professional
• Showcases one’s knowledge of Scrum principles

Who Should Apply:

• Professionals who deliver software products using the Scrum framework
  
• ScrumMasters across teams
  
• People responsible for the right usage of the Scrum process
  

CSM Certification Exam:

• Format: 50 multiple-choice and true/false questions
  
• Duration: 60 minutes
  
• Passing Score: 37 correct responses (74%)
  
• Category: General Scrum knowledge, Scrum roles, Scrum meetings, and Scrum artifacts
  
• Re-examination Policy: Two free opportunities to retake the examination within 90 days from when the two-day mandatory class is completed; for every other retake after that, the price is $25

#10 VMware Certified Professional – Data Center Virtualization (VCP-DCV)

The VMware Certified Professional – Data Center Virtualization 2024 (VCP-DCV 2024) certification determines one’s capability to handle VMware vSphere solutions in virtual machines, networking, and storage. Applicable job titles include a virtualization administrator, system engineer, and consultant.

Core Knowledge Areas

• vSphere 8 Components, Features, and Architecture Management: Gain a comprehensive understanding of vSphere 8 components and its architecture.
• Deploy, Configure, and Manage Virtual Machines: Learn how to effectively deploy, configure, and manage virtual machines in the vSphere environment.
• Configure and Troubleshoot vSphere 8 Storage and Networking: Discover how to use vSphere 8 to configure and troubleshoot both storage and networking.
• Identify and Resolve vSphere 8 Operation Issues: Master how to identify and resolve operational issues associated with vSphere 8.

Digital Badge Benefits:

Centralized Credential Overview: Your credentials are thus centralized and available from one source, enabling an individual to view all his/her competencies in a single overview.

Easy sharing: Share your accomplishments easily across social media platforms. Employer verification: Give employers an easy and valid way to verify your VMware credentials.

Finally

IT certifications play a key role in the IT industry by raising the standards for individual career development and enhancing overall organizational capability. IT teams and prospective CIOs must be relevant in their certifications relative to new technologies and prevailing industry practices. Doing so helps close a skills gap since such documentation ensures these individuals are equipped to execute complex challenges. They are benchmarks for skills and competencies, ensuring organizations can easily access talent.

Besides, they create a culture of inexhaustible learning and development, virtues in a shifting IT environment, among other facets. In essence, investing in certifications enhances the skills of IT teams, making them efficient, innovative, and competitive. As such, CIO role models represent an elevated professionalism that reflects a deep understanding of strategic IT management and, therefore, are considered real, competent leaders in their field.

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