The data center industry is evolving rapidly, driven by advances in AI, cybersecurity and sustainability.
Despite these changes, certifications remain essential to career growth in IT. According to NetworkWorldcertifications have appeared that meet the requirements of high-tech.
For IT professionals, the appeal of certifications is clear – better career prospects, higher salaries and more job security. A recent survey by InformaTech revealed that 77% of data center professionals saw a salary increase last year, with an average annual compensation of $130,000. However, these gains come with increasing challenges. Managers are taking on additional responsibilities, overseeing larger teams and expanding into areas such as finance and sustainability, reflecting the broader role of data centers in today’s digital economy.
The impact of artificial intelligence on the data center environment is particularly profound. “AI is a transformative technology that requires a lot of power, dense engineering calculations and fast networks,” explained Robert Beveridge, a professor and manager at Carnegie Mellon University. “And they are very resource intensive – AI is poised to increase demand for energy. The growing demand underscores the need for skilled professionals with the right certifications to navigate data center operations.
Why certifications are important
Certification serves as more than just a professional credential; they validate expertise, build trust and open doors to new opportunities. For individuals, they represent a tangible way to demonstrate knowledge and competence. “And for their current job, career aspirations and career progression,” added Matt Hawkins, director of Uptime Education.
Employers see certifications as invaluable tools for managing risk by retaining talent and supporting professional development. Hawkins asks, “How do we make sure we keep the individuals we already have? One way to do this is to invest in individuals, to help them grow in their roles and careers, and certifications are a way to do that.”
Certifications also bring measurable financial value. According to a survey by Skillsoft, 96% of IT leaders believe that certifications provide quantifiable benefits, with nearly half of leaders estimating that certified employees contribute $20,000 or more in additional value to the organization.
The link between certifications and wage growth
Certifications have long been closely linked to salary increases. A recent analysis by Foote Partners highlights the resurgence in value of IT certifications, with the average salary in the field showing the most significant positive swing in more than a decade during 2024.
However, data center-specific certifications are entering a transition phase. “Significant changes in the data center landscape are impacting salaries for related technical talent,” said David Foote, principal analyst at Foote Partners. “Right now the cash premiums for these certifications are stagnant. However, it is likely to bounce back within six to 12 months as businesses solidify their AI strategies.”
This transition offers professionals an opportunity to upskill and prepare for the next wave of demand.
Conclusion
Certifications are a powerful tool for maintaining the competitiveness of DC operations. In addition to technical skills, employees demonstrate personal initiative and a commitment to continuous learning – qualities highly valued by hiring managers. “From a hiring manager’s perspective, I find (them) extremely valuable. It tells me that the employee is taking the initiative, that they want to learn,” says Beveridge.
(Photo by Christina Morillo)
See also: Revolutionary performance-constrained data center sustainability
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