- PMP
(Project Management Professional) There's a big difference between coding and shepherding a project through the gauntlet of time, budget and resource issues. Shepherds are the one making the bucks.
- MCSE
(Microsoft Certified Systems Engineers) Companies have long placed a premium on IT pros who can effectively maintain Windows business platforms, and cloud computing hasn't done anything to change that yet.
- A +
An IT environment is only as good as its network, and folks with this vendor-neutral certification can install, maintain, secure and troubleshoot networks. If they can make a good martini, all the better.
- CCNA
(Cisco Certified Network Associate) For those looking to become a jack of all infrastructure trades, this certification demonstrates knowledge of routed and switched networks, as well as security, wireless and a range of protocols.
- MCP
(Microsoft Certified Professional) So long as Microsoft remains a business computing power, this certification, which spotlights expertise with all things Microsoft, will prove its value.
- Network +
The folks managing certifications at Microsoft, Novell, Cisco and HP know value when they see it. They all offer their employees this vendor-neutral certification, which proves competency in configuring network infrastructures.
- CISSP
The gold standard of IT security certifications requires five years of experience in the field before an IT pro can even earn it.
- MCSA
(Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator) Wanna get paid more for administering and troubleshooting systems and networks using the Windows Server operating environment? This one's for you.
- ITIL
(IT Infrastructure Library) Given that ITIL is seen as a compendium of IT operational best practices, this three-tiered certification is ideal for anyone wanting to be rewarded for supporting, delivering and managing IT services.
- Security +
With companies investing real money to deflect cyber threats, having this vendor-neutral certification in areas such as system security, network infrastructure, access control and organizational security is sure to jack up an IT worker's value.
