He has added several more certifications, mostly around Kubernetes, in recent years.
Certifications help Cramer advance by demonstrating he has specific knowledge — just as a degree would, he says. He also thinks having certifications in lieu of a degree has helped with salary negotiations. Moreover, many jobs, particularly around cloud computing and cybersecurity, require certifications, not degrees, he adds.
But certifications, like degrees, can only carry him so far, says Cramer, who has since founded cloud consulting company KR8TOS. Networking, doing his job well, and continuously learning are more critical elements for career advancement and success, he says.
