In the world of IT, having the right certifications can have a significant impact on your career. Often, specific certs will be required to land particular roles. At times, having certain credentials can set you apart from other applicants.
While earning certifications can take time and diligence, as well as a financial investment on your part, it is usually worth exploring. Whether you are already on track to become an IT manager or are interested in pursuing a management role in the future, here are a few IT management certifications that will help you advance your career.
Security+
If you want to work with the Department of Defense, either as an employee or on a project basis, CompTIA’s Security+ Certification can make you ISO 17024 and DoD 8570 compliant. The credential establishes that you have the required level of knowledge to work in a cybersecurity role by asserting you can not only identify security incidents, but address them as well.
Security+ is considered a must for most security professionals, including those at the start of their career.
Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL)
Many organizations subscribe to the ITIL methodology, making it a cornerstone for the IT services. An ideal certification for managers at all levels, the credential highlights your understanding of management strategy and internal process management.
There are multiple levels of ITIL Certifications, so you can build your way up over time as you become comfortable with the concepts.
Certified Information Systems Security Professionals (CISSP)
Another certification that can benefit IT security professionals is CISSP. Offered by ISC, this credential demonstrates you have the necessary knowledge and capabilities in key IT security areas, as well as information assurance.
A variety of high-level topics, including risk management, monitoring and assigning deliverables, budgeting, and team communication, are also covered. This means a CISSP can be a great option for those interested in managing their own team, section, or department in the future.
PMI Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP)
For Agile organizations, the PMI-ACP Certification can help you stand out from other job seekers by demonstrating that you have the ability to not just work on an Agile team but lead one. Concepts like Lean, Scrum, Kanban, Test-driven development (TDD), and Extreme programming (XP) are covered.
If you want to qualify for the exam, you need a minimum of 2,000 hours of experience in project management or an existing PMP or PgMP Certification, as well as 1,500 hours working as part of an Agile project team and 21 hours of Agile training.
Six Sigma
Six Sigma certifications focus on IT leadership and project management. There are five levels, starting at green belt, with each one progressing beyond the last. Mentorship plays a big role in the learning process, so you’ll have the opportunity to interact with other professionals along the way.
Ultimately, all of the certifications above can help you take the next step in your IT career. If you are interested in learning more, the professionals at The Squires Group can help. Contact us to discuss your goals today and see how our expertise can benefit you.
