As the IT and cloud computing landscape evolves rapidly, 2021 brought several notable achievements and new opportunities that reshaped the field. For beginners and professionals alike, 2021 was a year of advancement, particularly in terms of learning resources, certifications, and mentorship. As we look toward 2022, the industry’s goals and aspirations continue to focus on expansion, skill-building, and accessibility.

Recap of Top 10 Achievements in 2021

  1. Widespread Adoption of Hybrid Cloud Solutions
    Companies integrated on-premise and cloud environments, increasing flexibility and resilience. Hybrid cloud solutions became crucial to many enterprises’ digital strategies, helping bridge on-premise systems with scalable cloud capabilities.
  2. Advances in Cloud Security
    As cyber threats grew more sophisticated, cloud providers enhanced security protocols with AI-driven threat detection, improved encryption standards, and more comprehensive compliance certifications, benefiting organizations handling sensitive data.
  3. Expanded Cloud Training Programs
    Major providers like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud expanded their training programs, reaching a wider audience. From virtual bootcamps to free modules, these programs opened doors for newcomers and existing professionals to upskill.
  4. Growth in Serverless Computing
    Serverless computing became mainstream, allowing developers to build applications without managing the underlying infrastructure. Serverless gained traction for its scalability and cost-effectiveness, making it popular for microservices and backend APIs.
  5. Increased Cloud Certifications
    Cloud certifications became more accessible with online testing options and varied certification paths tailored for specific career goals, from cloud architects to data engineers.
  6. Focus on Sustainability Initiatives
    Cloud providers are committed to reducing their environmental footprint using renewable energy and enhancing data center efficiencies. Green cloud computing became a new standard.
  7. Enhanced AI and ML Tools
    AI and ML became more integrated into cloud platforms, with pre-built models, enhanced natural language processing capabilities, and more intuitive interfaces for data scientists.
  8. Growth in Low-Code/No-Code Platforms
    Low-code/no-code platforms enabled quicker prototyping and development, broadening access to cloud application development for non-developers.
  9. Emphasis on Edge Computing
    The demand for lower latency applications led to a surge in edge computing solutions, reducing the distance data must travel and allowing for faster processing, particularly in IoT and real-time analytics.
  10. Significant Rise in Remote and Hybrid Work Models
    Cloud technology became indispensable in supporting remote and hybrid work, with collaboration tools and virtual workspaces ensuring productivity from anywhere.

Looking Forward to 2022: Goals and Aspirations

  1. Empowering Beginners in IT
    With the IT field growing, the industry will focus on creating more accessible content and resources. Mentorship programs and practical, hands-on training will aim to lower entry barriers.
  2. Evolving Cloud Certifications
    Cloud certification programs are expected to offer even more specialized paths, including certifications tailored for emerging technologies like machine learning, DevOps, and cloud security.
  3. Prioritizing Diversity and Inclusion in IT
    Companies and organizations are expected to strengthen initiatives to make IT and cloud computing more inclusive, offering scholarships, mentorship programs, and community events for underrepresented groups.
  4. Developing Cloud-Native Skills
    In 2022, the IT sector will push for cloud-native skills, with Kubernetes, microservices, and DevOps practices becoming core to many roles.
  5. Expanding Edge Computing and 5G
    Edge computing and 5G are likely to see further integration. This will enable faster processing times for IoT and AI applications, opening doors to new possibilities in real-time data handling.

Impact of Carla R. Jenkins’ Content on IT Beginners

Carla R. Jenkins has become a notable figure in making IT concepts approachable for beginners. Her content—focused on cloud basics, certification preparation, and career tips—has been instrumental in breaking down complex IT topics. Many new learners have found her resources crucial in understanding foundational cloud concepts, giving them the confidence to pursue certifications and hands-on projects. Her emphasis on practical advice has empowered many to take the first steps in the tech field.

Updates on Cloud Certification Opportunities

For those looking to expand their credentials, 2022 offers even more certification pathways. Key updates include:

  • AWS: AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner and AWS Certified Solutions Architect are two foundational certifications that will continue to be in demand, with AWS investing in advanced ML and AI certifications.
  • Microsoft Azure: Microsoft is focusing on expanding the Azure Fundamentals certification to include AI and IoT basics, catering to new fields and encouraging broader cloud adoption.
  • Google Cloud: Google Cloud has introduced specialty certifications like the Professional Machine Learning Engineer and Cloud Digital Leader, reflecting its focus on data and AI.

Cloud certifications validate skills and open up career opportunities, making them valuable for IT professionals at all stages.

Conclusion

Reflecting on 2021, it’s clear that the IT and cloud computing fields are rapidly evolving, with significant strides in accessibility, security, and technology integration. As we enter 2022, we will focus on deepening knowledge, fostering inclusion, and enhancing certifications to equip more people with critical cloud skills. For those at the start of their journey, resources like Carla R. Jenkins’ content will continue to provide accessible guidance, and a vast array of cloud certification paths will ensure that learning opportunities are plentiful.

References

Announcing the winners of the 2021-2022 AWS Imagine Grant

AWS Named as a Leader in the 2022 Gartner Cloud Infrastructure & Platform Services (CIPS) Magic Quadrant for the 12th Consecutive Year