How to Become a Cloud Architect
Learn who cloud architects are, how much they earn, their role, skills needed, and how to become a cloud architect.
The cloud, a subsect of the internet, connects several networks across several devices. Without it, we wouldn't be able to enjoy some conveniences of life, like instant messaging services(for example Gmail and WhatsApp) that rely heavily on it.
Many businesses today rely on the cloud for most of their operations. It boosts efficiency and safeguards against several problems arising from operating locally, such as loss of information due to damaged local storage devices.
But, as with many great businesses that started on a smaller scale, the need to use the cloud as a primary "base" of operations only came when thoughts of expansion came in. Porting to the cloud requires a lot of expertise and planning, which is where a Cloud Architect comes in.
A cloud architect helps with the organisation or porting of business from local-based storage infrastructure to cloud-based infrastructure.
Who is a Cloud Architect?
As mentioned in the outset, a cloud architect helps port businesses to a cloud-based infrastructure, but it involves a bit more than that. A cloud architect's duty primarily involves designing, developing, and overseeing an organization's cloud computing infrastructure.
Just like a normal architect would draw out plans for a house and oversee the building process, a cloud architect does the same, but for cloud infrastructure. They create the blueprint for which all other operations on the cloud revolve around.
They work with other cloud professionals like Cloud Engineers and CloudOps Engineers to create and implement strategies that effectively leverage cloud services to meet business goals.
How Much Does a Cloud Architect Earn?
As more and more businesses go digital or already digital businesses look to expand, the need for careful planning of resources becomes more apparent. This is one of the reasons for this profession being rather lucrative, with Cloud Architects earning between $153k and $269k a year according to Glassdoor.
What is the Role of a Cloud Architect?
The role of a cloud architect involves a mix of technical capabilities and consultation services. This is because they provide services for organizations by building optimal cloud infrastructures and giving professional advice on the best path for businesses to take when it comes to cloud infrastructures.