Our last article discussed several IT certifications that professionals may earn to support their chosen career path. This blog will continue the conversation, highlighting those certifications that can help to fill skills gaps and advance one’s aspirations at their company.

IT certifications for 2025

  1. CompTIA A+ and CompTIA Security+: The CompTIA A+ certification is one of the most basic for entry-level IT professionals and is therefore recommended for recent graduates. It guarantees that participants can work with hardware, networks, and IT systems, granting access to many career opportunities and preparing those who earn it for more advanced roles. The CompTIA Security+ certification is an appropriate entry point for cybersecurity beginners. The certification is recognized worldwide and is typically required for entry-level information security positions. These certifications open doors of opportunity for careers such as IT support technician, Junior Security Analyst, and System and Network Administrator.
  2. Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert: The Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert certification delivers advanced competence in designing cloud and hybrid solutions on the Azure platform. Candidates must have a comprehensive understanding of networking, virtualization, and identity management. This certification is critical for professionals who want to advise stakeholders and collaborate with developers, administrators, and security engineers. The certification covers skills in designing cloud solutions on Microsoft Azure and demonstrates mastery of Azure solutions for complex architectures. Potential careers may include
    Azure Architect, Azure Cloud Consultant, Cloud Administrator or Microsoft Certified Azure Solutions Architect Expert.
  3. Certified Data Professional (CDP): This certification was developed for data management and analytics professionals, covering advanced skills in two levels, professional and advanced. It is specifically designed for those pursuing a career in data platform administration or business analytics. The certification validates advanced skills in data analysis and platform administration and is a globally recognized achievement that adds to professional credibility. Potential career paths for those with a CDP include Data Analyst, Database Administrator, or Data Scientist.
  4. Linux Professional International Certification (LPIC): The LPIC has two levels, LPIC-1 and LPIC-2. The first represents an ability to install and configure Linux systems and set up basic networks. It’s an appropriate certification for beginning Linux administrators. LPIC-2 builds on LPIC-1 and targets the administration of mixed networks in SMBs, including advanced network configuration and management. This certification was developed for advanced Linux administrators that have earned the LPIC-1 certification. The skills acquired in these certifications are exceptionally useful in mixed environments. Possible job descriptions include Linux System Administrator,
    Linux Network Engineer or Linux Support Specialist.
  5. Project Management Professional (PMP): The Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is a prestigious achievement for project management professionals, proving their mastery of standards and practices defined by the Project Management Institute (PMI). Based on the PMBOK Guide (Project Management Body of Knowledge), the PMP certification encompasses the necessary skills to lead a project while hitting all timelines, objectives and budgets. The PMP structure facilitates the planning and execution of complex projects while cultivating improved collaboration between technical personnel and stakeholders. The skills obtained via a PMP increase efficiency and reduce risks in the sector. Those with a PMP may be qualified for careers such as
    Project Manager, Project Management Consultant, Program Director or Project Management Professional (PMP).

IT certifications play a vital role in the advancement of IT professionals’ careers, whether in cybersecurity, cloud computing or data management.

Alliance IT Has the Skills Your Company Needs

Many SMBs face a challenging skills gap that makes it difficult to recruit, hire and maintain the deep bench of knowledge they require.

At Alliance IT, we work with organizations to provide skilled personnel on an as-needed basis, saving considerable time, money and resource. Call today to learn more about partnering with us in 2025.