Cloud Engineers

One of the best ways to prepare for this career is to learn how to code. Programming languages that are frequently used by cloud engineers include Python, Go, Ruby, Java, C++, Node.js, Perl, and ASP.NET. The following online learning platforms offer free or low-cost classes in coding: Code Academy (https://www.codecademy.com), edX (https://www.edx.org), Coursera (https://www.coursera.org), and Khan Academy (https://www.khanacademy.org). They also provide introductory cloud computing courses. Your high school computer science department also probably offers coding classes.

Participate in computer science, software development, and other IT-related summer exploration programs that are offered by colleges and universities, high schools, and park districts to build your skills and obtain experience.

Get involved in student competitions to build your skills and meet people who share your interests. Ask your computer science teacher to suggest local competitions. National competitions are offered by SkillsUSA, a membership organization for middle school, high school, and college students who are interested in pursuing careers in technical, trade, and skilled service occupations. It offers computer programming, cyber security, information technology services, and other competitions. Visit http://www.skillsusa.org for more information.

Join the Technology Student Association (http://www.tsaweb.org), which will provide you with a chance to explore career opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, enter academic competitions, and participate in summer exploration programs.