Cloud Computing

The Cloud Computing Certificate of Achievement (19 units) is designed to develop skills needed to architect, design, and support organizations’ rapidly expanding need for cloud-based technology solutions. Upon completion of this certificate, students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of cloud environments and cloud support principles and configurations that are commonly used in the industry. Students completing this program will be prepared to configure and architect cloud solutions. They will also be prepared to transition traditional technology architectures to a cloud platform. This program prepares students for careers in the cloud computing area and to enter the workforce as a cloud system administrator, cloud technician, cloud architect, and cloud security officer. Each course for this certificate must be completed with a grade of “C” or better.

The IT and Cyber Security pathways have been clearly defined and enrollment continues to increase. The new Cloud Computing Certificate of Achievement would provide an additional skill set that is lacking in our region as well as the state and nationally. The certificate will cover AWS and Azure cloud applications to meet the needs of our employers.

 It is anticipated that the Cloud Computing COA would be well enrolled with both students completing the IT or Cyber Security program as well as the incumbent workforce. It is estimated that we would have 45 enrolled and at least 30 completers within the first eighteen months.

Cloud computing continues to expand into all business areas. The IT/Cyber Security Advisory groups in Fall 2019 validated the need for a certificate in this area. The job prospects are high in this area and can serve both existing and new students as well as the incumbent workforce. Students completing this program will be prepared to configure and architect cloud solutions. They will also be prepared to transition traditional technology architectures to a cloud platform. This program prepares students for careers in the cloud computing area and to enter the workforce as a cloud system administrator, cloud technician, cloud architect, and cloud security officer.

Students start in the first year (two years) taking core computer information technology classes. These form the certificate "Information Technology Plus" at Cerro Coso. This certificate program provides students with skills to enter the job market as help desk providers, computer support specialists, computer repair technicians, networking technicians, information assurance technicians, and cyber security technicians. After this core basis is established, students take more specific courses in cloud computing and cloud architecture.