Changes to AWS Certification Exam Focus in 2024
Introduction to AWS Certifications
Amazon Web Services (AWS) offers a range of certifications designed to validate individuals’ expertise in various cloud computing roles and technologies. These certifications are widely recognized in the IT industry and can enhance career prospects in cloud computing.
Categorized into foundational, associate, professional, and specialty levels, certifications in domains like Security and Machine Learning evaluate hands-on skills through exams. Globally acknowledged, AWS certifications elevate career opportunities for individuals in roles such as Cloud Data Architect, Solutions Architect, Developer, Systems Administrator, DevOps Engineer and more.
To stay in sync with the ever-shifting requirements of cloud computing, AWS regularly revises its certification portfolio. This involves the introduction of new certifications, retirement of older ones, and updates to existing exam content. These changes are implemented to seamlessly integrate the most recent features, services, and best practices of the AWS ecosystem. The primary objective is to ensure that AWS certifications consistently maintain their relevance and value in the dynamic realm of cloud computing.
In this article, we will explore the significant updates to AWS Certifications occurring in 2024 and examine their impact on fostering professional development.
Navigating AWS Certification Changes in 2024
In the year 2024, AWS certification program will encounter significant updates to align with the swiftly advancing landscape of cloud computing. The following highlights some of the notable modifications:
The primary and most significant update is the launch of the AWS Certified Data Engineer — Associate certification on March 12, 2024. The corresponding DEA-C01 exam assesses competency in executing data pipelines, reducing costs, and addressing performance issues. Assessed skills include data transformation, orchestrating pipelines, selecting data stores, modeling data, and ensuring data quality. Candidates are also evaluated on operationalizing, maintaining, and monitoring data pipelines, analyzing data, and implementing security measures such as authentication, authorization, encryption, and governance.
Several AWS certifications are set to retire, marking a notable change in the certification landscape. The AWS Certified Data Analytics — Specialty certification will be retired, with April 8, 2024, being the final chance to sit for this exam. In a similar development, both the AWS Certified Database – Specialty and the AWS Certified: SAP on AWS – Specialty certifications will be officially retired as of April 30, 2024. Consequently, April 29, 2024, will be the final day to take these exams.
Advancements in the AWS Training and Certification Program in 2024
Alongside the modifications to the certification process, AWS suggests various learning methods, and they have undergone certain changes this year as well. It’s essential to understand what AWS training approaches contribute to effective learning:
— Firstly, Digital Training involves utilizing self-paced courses and interactive AWS Skill Builder subscriptions for hands-on learning.
— Secondly, Classroom Training entails engaging with AWS-accredited instructors in person for interactive problem-solving and valuable feedback.
— Thirdly, AWS Certification Exam Preparation supplements hands-on experience with tailored training and materials through AWS Skill Builder to excel in certification exams.
— Lastly, registering for free online or in-person training events can significantly enhance skills and advance one’s career.
Role-Based and Domain-Based Training
The AWS Training and Certification program comprises Role-Based and Domain-Based Training. These training modules, which include digital and classroom courses, along with certifications, are strategically crafted to unlock the full value of AWS services for both individuals and organizations. Developed by AWS experts, the content undergoes regular updates to align with the latest advancements in AWS, ensuring an improved cloud Return on Investment (ROI) and accelerated business outcomes. The following presents the latest and trending examples.
— Role-Based Training focuses on role-specific cloud skills through learning paths such as Cloud Practitioner, Architect, or Developer. Cloud Practitioner training includes courses covering fundamental cloud concepts and best practices. Solutions Architect training is available to help individuals gain expertise in designing highly available systems. Developer Training offers courses to develop skills in creating cloud applications.
— Domain-Based Training concentrates on real-world challenges within areas like Advanced Networking and Machine Learning. On-demand courses covering machine learning and artificial intelligence enhance technical skills, providing guidance on applying machine learning (ML), artificial intelligence (AI), and deep learning (DL) to unlock fresh insights and value in a specific role. Leveraging Learning Plans significantly aids in preparing for the AWS Certified Machine Learning – Specialty certification exam.
The Essence of AWS Skill Builder and Its Changes in 2024
AWS Skill Builder provides both free and subscription-based preparation and training materials.
The free offerings include official Practice Question Sets, consisting of 20 questions each, mirroring the style of AWS certification exams. These questions come with detailed feedback and recommended resources for effective exam preparation. Additionally, there’s an Exam Prep course, offering 2-hour digital sessions exploring exam topic areas and reviewing sample certification questions for each domain.
For those with a subscription, AWS Skill Builder offers access to extra exam preparation, digital training resources, and game-based learning through AWS Cloud Quest. Furthermore, new AWS Digital Classroom courses are available for building in-depth skills in a flexible, self-paced format.
In January, AWS introduced 24 new digital training products on AWS Skill Builder. This release includes three additional learning plans for Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), along with a version of AWS Card Clash tailored for Solutions Architects.
So, to sum up, preparing with AWS Skill Builder provides various benefits:
— Self-Paced Learning: AWS Skill Builder utilizes Exam Prep digital courses for flexible exam preparation. These courses explore topic areas and review sample certification questions for each domain. Subscribers gain access to enhanced courses with additional practice questions and labs for a more comprehensive learning experience.
— Hands-On Practice: AWS Skill Builder reinforces understanding through hands-on labs. Engage in a fun learning experience with AWS Cloud Quest, where customization of avatars, zapping drones, and solving puzzles contribute to practical insights into AWS technology concepts.
— Assessment Tools: AWS Skill Builder offers free Practice Question Sets to familiarize candidates with the exam format. Once prepared, candidates can take a full-length Official Practice Exam, review answers, and receive a scaled score. This step is highly recommended before attempting the actual exam, providing a valuable self-assessment and boosting confidence.
AWS Classroom Training
AWS Classroom training has undergone updates too, and concurrently, the new AWS Digital Classroom courses have been introduced to cultivate versatile skills in a self-paced format. AWS Training and Certification initiated these courses to enable individuals to acquire knowledge and skills equivalent to traditional instructor-led classrooms. The Digital Classroom courses offer flexibility, allowing learners to study at their preferred time and location, while still benefiting from expert AWS instructors.
These courses are built upon the structure of single- or multi-day AWS Classroom courses, providing in-depth exploration of integrated topics and solutions. They feature video recordings of skilled AWS instructors, hands-on lab exercises, and various learning materials, creating a dynamic learning experience. Users can access transcripts, video demonstrations, and engage in assessments to identify strengths and areas for improvement.
The digital nature of AWS Digital Classroom courses empowers learners to control the pace of their learning, with the ability to pause, rewind, or fast-forward through specific content. Regular updates to the courses keep learners informed about changes in AWS products and best practices.
AWS Digital Classroom courses offer the flexibility for learners to design their learning schedules, whether completing the content in one sitting or spreading it over days, weeks, or months. This adaptable approach is especially advantageous for organizations with a global workforce, facilitating simultaneous learning and skill enhancement in the realm of cloud computing.
The Influence of Modifications to AWS Certifications on Professionals.
For professionals pursuing AWS certifications, the changes to AWS certification present both challenges and opportunities. On one hand, staying current with the evolving standards demands continuous learning and adaptation to new technologies and practices. On the other hand, embracing these changes provides professionals with the chance to broaden their skill set, ensuring they remain at the forefront of AWS advancements.
Moreover, AWS certification changes can enhance the credibility and relevance of these credentials. By aligning the certifications with the latest industry trends and AWS service updates, professionals can demonstrate their proficiency in contemporary cloud computing solutions. This not only boosts their individual standing in the job market but also contributes to the overall advancement of cloud technology.
In summary, the modifications in AWS certifications necessitate ongoing commitment to learning for professionals. Embracing these changes can lead to a more comprehensive skill set, increased professional credibility, and a stronger positioning in the consistently progressing field of cloud computing.
Selecting the Appropriate AWS Certification: A Critical Decision
The choice of an AWS certification holds significant importance in a successful career in cloud computing. A well-informed decision involves considering career goals, evaluating current skill levels, and exploring AWS certification tracks like Architect, Developer, Engineer, and Specialty. Taking industry relevance into account, staying updated on AWS services, and seeking advice from peers and mentors are valuable steps. Assessing readiness through practice exams, exploring specializations such as security or machine learning, and remaining aware of recertification requirements contribute to a comprehensive approach. By thoughtfully considering these factors, individuals can confidently navigate the AWS certification landscape, ensuring alignment with career goals in the always-developing field of cloud computing.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the rapidly changing landscape of AWS certifications in 2024 reflects the commitment to staying current with the always-developing cloud computing industry. Noteworthy updates include the introduction of the AWS Certified Data Engineer — Associate certification and the retirement of the AWS Certified Data Analytics — Specialty. The AWS Training and Certification program has evolved with the addition of AWS Digital Classroom courses, providing flexibility for learners globally. AWS Skill Builder remains a valuable resource for exam preparation, offering diverse benefits like self-paced learning, hands-on practice, and assessment tools. These changes underscore the importance of continuous learning for professionals, providing opportunities to enhance skills and credibility in the continually advancing field of cloud computing.