It’s a tough job market out there. Some might even call it…certifiably insane?

Maybe not.

One thing’s for sure: if you’re looking for a career change right now, you need an edge. And if you’re in IT, that means getting the right tech certifications to show you’re up on the most in-demand technical skills.

At Concero, we spend all day, every day, finding great work for good humans in IT. So it’s in our best interest to stay up-to-date on the most impactful IT certifications that promise to get candidates like you hired as quickly as possible. That’s the idea behind our new feature: The IT Certification Leaderboard.

So what IT certifications are in demand in 2024? Below, we break down everything you need to know.

Let’s get to it:

1. Project Management Professional (PMP)

The equation here is simple: projects don’t get done without proper management. And PMP certification shows the world that you meet the global standard for someone who gets things done in IT. This is perhaps an oversimplification, but as digital transformation accelerates, PMP-certified professionals become increasingly invaluable. They bring proven expertise in finishing projects on time and on budget. If you want to tell the world you’re a go-getter without saying it, consider this IT certification.

2. Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)

Cyberthreats are getting scary. For a recent example, look no further than the massive data breach at Ticketmaster, which took parent company Live Nation 11 days to confirm. It stands to reason, then, that CISM-certified professionals would be in high demand. CISM-holders can manage and govern enterprise-level information security programs, so organizations aiming to safeguard digital assets and critical systems are on the hunt for them. This certification is particularly sought after in industries that handle sensitive data, ensuring compliance and robust security postures. It’s a hot ticket in the 2024 job market and will continue to be seen as such.

3. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

CISSP is similar to CISM, but it’s more focused on operational and technical aspects than business goals. It’s a gold standard for IT security professionals, validating their ability to design, implement, and manage top-tier cybersecurity programs. Our digital infrastructure needs protection, and with a CISSP in your back pocket, you could very well become the proud Cyber Sheriff of a dynamic enterprise in need.

4. Google Professional Cloud Architect

Wondering where your data’s going? Look up! Cloud technology dominates the IT landscape, so this certification from Google is growing exponentially in value. Folks with this credential demonstrate the ability to design and manage secure, scalable cloud solutions. Companies migrating to cloud platforms (yes, some still aren’t “up there” yet) or optimizing their existing cloud infrastructure prefer professionals with this certification, ensuring they stay competitive in a tech-driven market​.

5. AWS Certified Solutions Architect

You can’t throw a rock without hitting someone who uses Amazon’s many cloud-computing tools (for example, S3, EC2, RDS, and so on). The AWS Certified Solutions Architect certification is essential for IT professionals looking to master these in-demand services. AWS is arguably the top dog among cloud service providers, so any certification that validates skills in designing and deploying scalable systems on AWS is a winner.

6. CompTIA A+ Certification

Sometimes getting ahead in your professional life takes a firm grasp of the basics. That’s where CompTIA A+ certification comes in. It remains a foundational certification for IT professionals, proving competency in essential skills, including hardware and software troubleshooting, networking, operating systems, mobile devices, security, and basic IT infrastructure maintenance​. As tech becomes more and more ingrained in every conceivable workplace, the need for proficient support specialists has truly hit critical mass. This certification provides an indispensable working knowledge of the building blocks of IT, making it a great option for anyone starting out or brushing up on essential skills.

7. Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE)

Cisco and business go together like peanut butter and jelly. And with the CCIE certification on your resume, you’ll be seen as a Michelin star sandwich-maker. Earning this cert will put you through rigorous testing, which will earn you respect in the field of networking. As network infrastructures grow in complexity, the expertise of CCIE-certified professionals in managing, securing, and optimizing these networks is taking off like a rocket. Signal your advanced knowledge and skills by grabbing this certification today.

8. Microsoft Fundamentals Certifications

It’s easy to take Microsoft’s omnipresence for granted. Their stuff is just…everywhere. But imagine if you could master all or most of it? You’d basically be the captain of whatever enterprise vessel that hires you. That’s the colorful way we’ve chosen to describe Microsoft Fundamentals certifications, which provide a solid foundation in various Microsoft technologies and solutions, from cloud services to security fundamentals. These certifications are ideal for those beginning their IT careers or transitioning into new technology roles.

9. Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

Again, cyberattacks are scary. But for every bad actor that aims to torpedo someone’s IT department, there’s an ethical hacker—a digital white knight—that can identify and mitigate vulnerabilities before it’s too late. If you’re feeling particularly heroic, pursue the CEH certification and equip yourself with the knowledge to think like a hacker (do people still really call them that?). You’ll be seen as a responsible digital steward of your org’s IT environment.

Let’s Get Connected!

See any certifications you like? If you’re feeling stuck in your job search at the moment, you owe it to yourself to invest in your professional growth. You’ll differentiate yourself—in meaningful, gainful ways—if you take the time to earn any of the certifications mentioned above.

Once you’re certifiably better at your IT profession, be sure to get in touch with Concero. We’ll be here when you’re ready to level up your career and spark a connection with one of our dynamic clients.

If you’re ready to find your dream job in IT, we’ll be here.

 

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