Guest Author
There is a debate raging in the IT community: Are Linux certifications worth it? The answer to this question is both yes and no. Most Linux advocates, who often demonstrate strong opinions about their software and support for all things open source, might disagree with the idea of paying and taking a test for a Linux related certification.
Despite their opposition, the purpose of a technical certification varies on the person, their interests, and career.
Depending on your professional career, a Linux certification can propel you forward. The knowledge attained in a certification course is an invaluable resource in itself.
Why would you take Linux training?
About two weeks ago, due to my fortunate position working for an IT training company, I enrolled in a week long Linux+ certification course. My intentions when taking this course did not involve earning the appropriate certifications. Most individuals who come in for training take the courses to prepare for the certification exams. Usually their employer or the government requires specific certifications or training for positions.
In this case, the other students in my Linux+ class came from private companies and government agencies. Their IT experience, particularly working with Linux, varied. Each person sought the knowledge from the course as well as the actual certification. Also, they individually expressed a desire for a job change. This type of certification could bolster their experience and resume.
“93% of employers plan to hire a Linux pro in the next six months”
Professionals with Linux experience are in high demand. According to the Linux Foundation, 75% of people with related experience received a call from a recruiting manager in the past six months. Experienced Linux professionals are highly sought as business leaders and hiring managers realize open source leads the technical field towards faster innovation. Even if you may complain about certification course and exam prices, but when you consider it as an investment, the return in potential salary substantially outweighs the initial cost. A certification may verify skills, but it does not replace experience.
Certification training courses are career driven. Don’t misunderstand my view about the necessity of certifications and investing in IT training. Not every training course instructor makes an impact. Similar to a college professor, high school teacher, or any person in the educational world, the exceptional and passionate teachers make the strongest impact.
Before signing up for any old training course within a 50 mile radius of your home, read reviews of instructors, programs, training centers, and relevant resources to make an informed decision. Whether you spend one thousand or forty thousand dollars, consider that money as a huge investment in your career.
For an individual such as myself, the certification means very little. I hold a background in literature. My intent for the course was simply to learn to benefit my technical writing. Does that mean a certification might mean nothing later in life, no.
Thinking about earning CompTIA Linux+ certification?
