Windows System Administrator → Cloud Engineer

A realistic transition from Windows System Administrator to Cloud Engineer: transferable skills, the gaps to close, a step-by-step learning plan and alternative routes. Estimated skill overlap 0%. Difficulty: Medium.

Difficulty: Medium6 stepsDuration: 9 to 13 monthsOverlap: 0%

Transition from Windows System Administrator to Cloud Engineer.

Skills to learn

  • AWS / Azure / GCP
  • Terraform
  • Cloud networking
  • Identity & access management
  • Linux
  • Containers

Step-by-step learning plan

  1. 1. Build on your Windows System Administrator experience

    2–4 weeks

    Map your current strengths against the Cloud Engineer role.

  2. 2. Learn the core of the Cloud Engineer role

    6–10 weeks

    Learn

    • AWS / Azure / GCP
    • Terraform
    • Identity & access management
    • Cloud networking

    Technologies

    AWSGCPTerraform

    Cover the biggest gaps first: AWS / Azure / GCP, Terraform, Identity & access management.

  3. 3. Master advanced Cloud Engineer skills

    6–10 weeks

    Learn

    • Linux
    • Containers
    • Cost optimisation
    • Scripting (Python)

    Technologies

    CloudFormationKubernetesDocker

    Handle the advanced topics: Linux, Containers, Cost optimisation.

  4. 4. Get productive with the Cloud Engineer toolchain

    4–8 weeks

    Technologies

    AWSGCPTerraformCloudFormationKubernetesDockerLinuxPython

    Be hands-on with AWS, GCP, Terraform and the rest of the target stack.

  5. 5. Practise Cloud Engineer work in real conditions

    4–8 weeks

    Ship a portfolio project or take on Cloud Engineer tasks at work.

  6. 6. Get certified and position yourself as a Cloud Engineer

    4–8 weeks

    Technologies

    AWS Solutions Architect AssociateAZ-104Terraform Associate

    Update your CV and LinkedIn around Cloud Engineer, then apply to target roles.

Alternative routes