Tech Topic Connection - IT Certifications for IT Careers

IT certifications are an integral part of the IT industry, providing professionals with proof of their knowledge and skills. They connect to the fundamentals of information technology by validating an individual's understanding of core IT concepts, tools, and technologies. Since the IT field is broad with many areas of expertise, one would choose certifications based on which “fundamental” area they decide to pursue. Obtaining a certification signals to an employer that the candidate is committed to staying up to date with the ever-changing advances because they require re-certification (Mardis et al. 2018).

• Hardware: Covered by certifications like CompTIA A+ and Network+.
• Software: Explored in certifications such as Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals and CompTIA IT Fundamentals.
• Networking: Focused on Cisco's CCNA and CompTIA Network+ certifications.
• Data Management: Emphasized database certifications like Microsoft SQL Server and Oracle Database.
• Cybersecurity: Addressed by certifications such as CompTIA Security+ and CISSP.
• Programming and Development: Relevant to certifications like CompTIA IT Fundamentals+ and Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate.
• Cloud Computing: Vital for cloud professionals, with certifications like AWS Certified Solutions Architect and Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator.
• IT Support and Service Management: Highlighted in CompTIA A+ and ITIL Foundation certifications.
• Emerging Technologies: Addressed by certifications like AWS Certified Machine Learning Specialty for AI and machine learning.
• Project Management: Beneficial for project management roles, with certifications like CompTIA Project+ and PMP.
• Governance and Compliance: Core topics in certifications such as CISA and CISM.
• Ethical Considerations: An essential aspect of IT professionalism reflected in IT certification codes of ethics.

The history of IT certifications dates to the 1960s and 1970s when the field of information technology was still in its early stages. During this time, the computing industry began to see the need for standardized ways to assess the skills and knowledge of individuals working with computer systems and technology. However, formal IT certification programs as we know them today really started to take shape in the 1980s and 1990s.

One of the pioneering IT certifications was the Certified Novell Engineer (CNE) program, introduced by Novell in 1989. This certification focused on network administration and was one of the first widely recognized IT certifications.

In 1993, the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) launched the A+ certification, which aimed to assess the skills of computer service technicians. This certification played a significant role in establishing the concept of IT certifications.

However, it was the introduction of the Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP) program in 1992 and the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) program in 1998 that further popularized IT certifications. These programs focused on Microsoft and Cisco technologies and became highly sought after in the IT industry.

In 2005, the International Information System Security Certification Consortium (ISC)² introduced the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification, establishing it as a globally recognized credential for information security professionals.

In 2011, Amazon Web Services (AWS) responded to the growing significance of cloud computing in IT by launching its certification program, which included the prestigious Solutions Architect certification.

In 2019, CompTIA addressed the needs of individuals new to IT by introducing the IT Fundamentals+ (ITF+) certification, designed to provide a foundational understanding of fundamental IT concepts.

Finally, in 2020, Google recognized the rising adoption of cloud technologies and expanded its certification offerings with the Google Cloud Professional Certifications. Mardis et al. (2018) noted, “Keeping CS (computer science) curricula current is challenging. Not only is computing increasingly integrated into other disciplines, but also the CS workforce is expected to have a blend of technical expertise, soft skills, and personal attributes”.

The knowledge of how computers operate is foundational to any IT certification because these are specialized fields that build upon that information. To pass the certification, one would not be given the basic information of how computers operate but they would still be expected to know it since it’s one of the first things learned.

IT Certifications go together with a profound understanding of the major hardware components and functions of contemporary computer systems. For instance, IT professionals are required to comprehend the intricacies of the Central Processing Unit (CPU) and its architecture, ensuring optimal performance and troubleshooting capabilities. Memory management, encompassing concepts like virtual memory and RAM optimization, is another critical aspect often examined in certification exams. Furthermore, storage technology, motherboard architecture, input and output devices, network interfaces, power supply units, cooling systems, BIOS/UEFI settings, and even graphics processing units (GPUs) may be evaluated within certification programs. Additionally, security certifications delve into hardware-level security features such as Trusted Platform Modules (TPM), safeguarding data and system integrity.

For IT certifications, programming languages and program execution methods play a pivotal role. Candidates are often assessed on their proficiency in various programming languages, including languages like Python, Java, and JavaScript, through coding exercises, scripting tasks, and web development challenges. Additionally, they must grasp program execution methods, which involve debugging, optimizing performance, and ensuring security. These skills are essential for troubleshooting software systems, automating tasks, and managing databases effectively. Furthermore, in the context of virtualization and cloud computing, understanding program execution within these environments is crucial. Overall, IT certifications demand a strong grasp of programming and program execution techniques, tailored to the specific domain of the certification.

Application software plays a crucial role in IT certifications by serving as a practical component in assessing candidates' expertise. IT certifications often require candidates to demonstrate their proficiency in using specific software applications, whether it's Microsoft Office for general IT skills or specialized platforms like AWS or Azure for cloud-related certifications. Some certifications revolve entirely around particular software, such as programming languages or database management systems, emphasizing practical skills. Additionally, application software is integral to IT security certifications, project management certifications, and IT support certifications, where candidates must showcase their ability to work with and troubleshoot software effectively.

IT certifications are directly linked to the fundamentals of database and database management. They provide specialized training and in-depth knowledge in areas such as data modeling, SQL, and database design. These certifications are often platform-specific, covering database systems like Microsoft SQL Server, Oracle, MySQL, and PostgreSQL, allowing professionals to become experts in their chosen platform. IT certifications also address crucial aspects like performance optimization, security, backup and recovery, data modeling, compliance with regulations, and career advancement. They are highly valuable for IT professionals as they enhance expertise and job opportunities in the field of database management.

Network architecture, management, and security have a profound influence on IT certifications. These concepts shape the content and requirements of certification programs, ensuring that IT professionals are well-prepared for the complexities of modern technology environments. Network architecture-focused certifications like Cisco's CCNA and CCNP emphasize designing and managing network infrastructures. Network management certifications such as CompTIA Network+ cover monitoring and troubleshooting aspects. Certifications like CompTIA Security+ and CISSP prioritize network security skills. Some certifications encompass all three areas, providing a holistic understanding. Continuous updates to certifications reflect evolving technology trends, while alignment with industry standards ensures compliance and best practices.

Most students acknowledge the importance of having gained these certifications to show prospective employers. Since universities and colleges are covering a large amount of the same information, a new system of “badging” is being implemented to help students showcase their skills in a visual way, like certifications (Bell et al. 2022). Maybe this will be an evolution to IT education however, I can see how traditional certifications would be seen as preferable, at least initially, to employers.

References

Bell, N., Liu, M., & Murphy, D. (2022). A framework to implement academic digital badges when reskilling the IT workforce. Information Systems Education Journal, 20(1), 36–46.


Mardis, M. A., Ma, J., Jones, F. R., Ambavarapu, C. R., Kelleher, H. M., Spears, L. I., & McClure, C. R. (2018). Assessing alignment between information technology educational opportunities, professional requirements, and industry demands. Education and Information Technologies, 23(4), 1547. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10639- 017-9678-y


Vahid, F., & Lysecky, S. (2019). Computing technology for all. zyBooks.