There have been a lot of posts on this board relative to certification. MCSE, A+ etc. I cna’t let this topic twitter away without adding my 2?.
I retired from IBM after 30 years experience. During those 30 years I attened many schools to receive training on many products and much theory about operating systems and infrastructure and network design. I was a successful and productive employee to IBM and I learned more than many have in those “Get Your Cert” classes.
My forte was, however, in diagnosing problems. I have been successful because of my troubleshooting skills. I have assisted trained technicians in diagnosing problems on machines on which I had no formal training. To the best of my knowledge, no testing for certifications can determine the ability of a person to fix a problem.
That said, there has to be some method for determining the ability of someone prior to observing their performance long term. The criteria being “Tested Knowledge” and experience. Certifications can be an indication of “book learned knowledge” and years in the field diagnosing and solving problems can show ability. The two criteria are distinct and separate. The wise hiring manager will take both into consideration.
After 30 years with IBM I was without any common certs ie: MCSE or A+ and yet I was able to find another job because of a smart intuitive manager. I suggest to te rest of you, however, take the time to get a certificate and whether you feel it means anything to you ornot, it means something to those that hire and to you, in the long run, it will mean more dollars and a more satisfying career.