VMware has changed their Authorized Training program, so that it now offers four Solution Tracks: Datacenter Virtualization (vSphere), Cloud (vCloud Suite), End User Computing (View and Thinapp), and Cloud Application Platform (Spring, vFabric). Each track may offer four standard levels of Courses and Certifications, including Fundamentals, Professional, Advanced, and Expert. VMware has developed Learning Paths aimed at the roles performed by members of the VMware community, including Architect, Engineer, and Administrator.
VMware does not yet provide courses and certifications for all levels for all solution tracks, but it has defined the framework to do so in the future.
Eventually, the Cloud Solution Track may merge with the Datacenter Virtualization Track, but today, VMware provides certifications for both tracks. VMware has recently released two certifications in the Cloud Track, VCP-Cloud and VCAP-Cloud Infrastructure Design. VMware has announced more certifications for the Cloud Track to be released in the near future, including VCAP – Cloud Infrastructure Administration, VCAP – Cloud Governance, and VCDX Cloud.
I certainly recommend that IT professionals, who provide services focused on virtualization, should look closely at the VMware Certification Roadmap. We have the opportunity to become leaders and experts in emerging, popular technologies that I expect to be in high demand.
One of my objectives for the next six months is to engage with VMware Partners, VMUG members, and former students to identify their VMware Certification goals and to work with them to enable them to be the first to earn those certifications. I can align them with cost-effective VMware Authorized Training, including open-enrollment, privately run, and on-line classes. I plan to utilize this vLore Blog site to become a solid resource for preparing for Certification Exams.
I will be asking for input from the community on advice on how I can best help them achieve their Certification goals. Such advice may include:
- which courses and certifications have the most interest,
- whether providing workshops and labs would be useful tools,
- and what interest exists for Early Access courses. (VMware plans to begin offering Early Access to some new classes, giving VMware Partners the opportunity to attend classes on new product versions prior to software release, even if the course material has not completed the final Technical Review.)
I look forward to working with you and will begin formally asking for input soon.
