5 Most Popular Cloud Computing Skills to Learn and Acquire in 2024

The rapid adoption of cloud computing by businesses is driving a surge in demand for cloud engineers. For instance, Gartner, a research consulting firm, predicts that more than 70% of enterprises will use cloud platforms to accelerate their business initiatives by 2027. This is likely to drive up the hiring of professionals with cloud computing skills and allow them to fetch a lucrative pay package. In fact, a cloud engineer earns an average salary of $124,868 annually in the US. Now, there are many skills for engineers and data scientists in cloud computing. It is, therefore, essential to identify which cloud computing skills will be in demand during 2024 so one can begin to master them accordingly.

1. What Skills are Currently In-Demand in the Field of Cloud Computing?

Expertise Across Platforms

Currently, three players dominate the cloud computing market: Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform (GCP). Each of these platforms offers a range of services. As a result, there is a growing demand for professionals with cloud technology expertise across the board.

Proficiency in Technologies 

It is important to know how to use containerization and orchestration technologies, which are essential cloud computing skills. A cloud engineer must know how to deploy and scale applications using containerization tools like Docker. They must also manage containerized applications with orchestration tools such as Kubernetes.

Knowledge of Cloud Security Practices

Organizations prioritize a secure cloud network. This is why security is one of the most in-demand cloud skills 2024. A person with cloud computing skills must know best practices in cloud security. For example, they should have a grasp of concepts like identity and access management (IAM), encryption, and regulatory compliance.

Familiarity With DevOps

A person must have an understanding of  DevOps principles, which emphasize automation, collaboration, and scalable software development and deployment. It is among the most palpable cloud computing trends. So, companies opt for professionals who can deploy these principles in the workflow seamlessly.

Fluency in Programming Languages

A candidate must possess strong scripting skills in languages like Python, Java, or Shell. In fact, Python is widely used for automation in the cloud. Additionally, it is valuable to be proficient in programming languages such as Java, Linux, C#, or Go for developing cloud-native applications.

How is the Demand for Cloud Computing Skills Expected to Change by 2024?

1. The demand for cloud computing skills will likely surge further in 2024 because spending on cloud computing is projected to grow by 20.4% to $679 billion, up from $563.6 billion in 2023, according to Gartner.
2. The adoption of hybrid cloud models will be among the dominant cloud computing trends in 2024, which will, in turn, guide demand for cloud computing skills.
3. The pace of cloud adoption will likely attract cybercriminals looking to prey upon inexperienced businesses. Hence, companies need to hire people to strengthen security.
4. A company will look to hire people with cloud technology expertise, especially in networking, such as Virtual Private Clouds (VPCs) and load balancing.
5. An uptick in the integration of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and edge computing with cloud technologies is on the cards in 2024.

ALSO READ: Gain Cloud Computing Salary Insights and Learn How to Earn More

What Factors Contribute to the Growth of Specific Cloud Computing Skills?

1. Market Forces

The demand from the industry plays a vital role in driving demand for professionals. For instance, sectors such as finance, health care, and technology rely heavily on cloud platforms.

2. Adoption of New Cloud Strategies

Many organizations are looking to move to a hybrid or multi-cloud strategy with multiple cloud providers or a combination of on-premises and cloud resources.

3. Evolution of Technology

Containerization technologies like Docker and orchestration tools like Kubernetes are gaining prominence. Hence, knowing how to utilize and leverage these technologies will be one of the most in-demand cloud skills 2024.

4. Emergence of Serverless Computing

The use of serverless computing models that let developers build and run applications and servers without having to manage the underlying infrastructure will increase in 2024. It will, thus, spur demand for professionals with skills in serverless platforms like AWS Lambda, etc.

ALSO READ: How to Select the Best Cloud Computing Model for Your Business

How Can Engineers and Data Scientists Acquire the Necessary Skills in Cloud Computing?

1. There are several skills for engineers and data scientists in cloud computing but they must prioritize relevant ones, such as learning programming languages like Python, Java, etc.  
2. A professional can opt for recognized certifications and reputed training programs from cloud service providers to acquire cloud computing skills.
3. They should incorporate the use of cloud platforms on personal projects like websites to gain practical experience.
4. One can also acquire skills by getting active on online forums, groups, and communities dedicated to cloud computing.

ALSO READ: A Complete Guide to the Pros and Cons of Cloud Computing

What Career Opportunities are Available for Professionals With Expertise in Cloud Computing?

A skilled professional has a lot of opportunities for cloud computing career growth. They can select from a bunch of diverse roles, such as:

1. Cloud Architect

A cloud architect develops and implements cloud infrastructure solutions besides optimizing cloud workloads. They draw an average salary of $136,136 annually, as per Glassdoor.

2. Cloud DevOps Engineer

Their job involves automating cloud infrastructure and application deployments and managing CI/CD pipelines. They earn an average salary of $121,342 annually.

3. Cloud Security Analyst

A security engineer secures cloud infrastructure and applications by identifying and mitigating security vulnerabilities. They command an average salary of $118,154 a year.

4. Cloud Engineer

Their responsibilities include developing, implementing, and maintaining cloud-based solutions. They generally get paid a median salary of $105,553 every year.

5. Cloud Data Engineer

They design, build, and manage cloud data solutions. They also develop data pipelines and look after data security. Their average salary stands at $101,934 a year.

These are just a few examples that explain the options available for professionals looking to boost their cloud computing career growth.

Boost Your Career With Emeritus

In conclusion, the world is on its way to accelerating the adoption of cloud technologies. It is set to impact the demand for cloud engineers. So, the only way to stay ahead of the curve is to embrace continuous learning to remain relevant. Acquiring expertise in cloud computing in today’s digital world is imperative. Emeritus offers a reliable avenue for professionals to upskill through its IT courses. Furthermore, designed by domain experts, these courses provide you with the necessary skills to navigate the complexities of cloud technology. So, sign up with Emeritus today and take the first step toward securing your future.

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