Expected to be a trillion dollar industry by 2030 (Statista Insights), the cloud computing industry is capturing lots of interest. SCPS is here to build the skills and confidence needed to move into this fast-moving field!
The Cloud Computing certificate program at UVA’s School of Continuing and Professional Studies recently announced a new resource to support students’ career trajectory. The program’s first Cloud Computing career coach, Ahmed Ismail, is excited to bring his industry experience to assist students in achieving their career aspirations. From helping them see the industry landscape at large to identifying potential career paths and mock interviews, Ismael will support students in their individual needs.
As a career coach, Ismail will focus on a multi-prong approach, including one-on-one sessions to discuss goals, questions and needs related to confidently engaging in a job search and interview process. He will join in promoting and designing workshops related to career support and help curate best practices for resumes, cover letters, networking and other components of a job search.
“We know training and education is critical to qualify for jobs in cloud computing, however adults can also benefit from a career coach to understand their options for transitioning into this growing sector,” said Kai Degner, SCPS Senior Director of Certificate Programs. “Now, students in the undergraduate Cloud Computing certificate program have that coach.”
Ismail has the experience and expertise to provide adults clarity and confidence. He is a software engineer with a master's degree in Cloud Computing Systems and four cloud certifications across Amazon Web Services (AWS), Azure and Google Cloud. As a self-taught software engineer, he has a diverse set of experiences that include lobbying for the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, conducting research for the Department of Energy and working on the national board for a multi-million dollar non-profit called National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE).
While working on the NSBE national board, Ismail helped develop their 2020-2025 strategic plan, which is now being used to deploy millions of dollars' worth of capital to increase the number of black engineers across the US.
“Ahmed is exceptionally qualified to provide practical and personalized advice to adults as they prepare for a job search and transition,” explained Degner. Students interested in connecting with Ismail can reach him by email at: gpb2ve@virginia.edu.
Funding for the career coach position is made possible with a Congressionally Directed Spending request by Virginia Senator Mark Warner and approved by the Senate Appropriations Committee, designed to increase Virginia’s cloud computing industry talent.
The SCPS Cloud Computing certificate is an 18-credit, online program that does not require a bachelor’s degree. Students build in-demand skills and are prepared to succeed in AWS certifications, as well as Microsoft Azure. To begin in the fall, applications must be submitted by July 1. To begin in the spring, applications must be submitted by November 1. To begin in the summer, applications must be submitted by April 1. To learn more about the program, please see the SCPS website, or reach out to an admissions counselor.