Savvy IT professionals know that obtaining industry certifications is one of the best ways to remain competitive in their field. Certifications not only allow candidates to broaden and diversify their skillsets, but also serve as concrete evidence of their value to prospective employers. In a survey conducted by non-profit organization CompTIA, researchers found that nearly three-quarters of the 700 IT professionals surveyed reported that they had been able to get a new job or promotion thanks to an industry certification. In this entry, we’ll look at a few of the best certifications for IT professionals seeking to improve their skills, and their pay.
Certified ScrumMaster
This is a project management certification that was originally designed for software developers, but has since been adapted to a number of other fields as well. Scrum is designed to allow development teams to adapt quickly to changes and collaborate closely to accomplish stated project goals. The ScrumMaster’s duties include removing impediments to project goals and coordinating meetings between team members. In order to become a ScrumMaster, candidates must complete a class with a Certified Scrum Trainer and then pass an exam distributed by the Scrum Alliance.
Project Management Professional (PMP)
PMP certification is the most widely recognized project management certification on the market today. Obtaining a PMP certification can take years, but the payoff is typically well worth the effort. During the course of their training, candidates will learn a host of valuable information pertinent to managing project life cycles in a variety of industries. In order to gain this certification, candidates with bachelor’s degrees must complete 35 hours of PMP training as well as 4500 hours of project management experience. Candidates without a bachelor’s degree will need 7500 hours of project management experience.
Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
Here we have a certification in high demand and short supply. CISM certified individuals are well versed in developing security strategies and evaluating company policies to determine how effectively they promote digital security. The CISM exam is offered just three times a year and requires at least five years of preliminary experience in the IS field.
Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC)
This certification provides IT professionals with the resources they need to effectively assess and manage risk through Information Systems controls. This is a comprehensive IS certification offered by the nonprofit group ISACA. With only 17,000 certified individuals worldwide, this is another certification in high demand and relatively short supply. In order to qualify for certification, candidates must have three years of experience in three of the five areas covered by the certification. In addition, they must pass an exam which is offered twice a year.
Obtaining an in-demand industry certification is one of the most effective steps IT professionals can take to reinvest in the future of their careers. At CSS, we work closely with our network of client companies to match qualified IT professionals with businesses in need of their skills. Want to learn more about the IT positions currently available through CSS? Browse our job listings online, or give us a call today to speak with a representative.