Chapter 2: Purpose of This Guide 💭

Many individuals from diverse backgrounds have approached me with questions about entering the DevOps field. Motivated by their curiosity and the desire to assist others, I crafted this guide as a resource for anyone eager to delve into the tech world. While the breadth of knowledge may seem overwhelming, I assure you that with dedicated focus over 3 to 6 months, you can secure a solid entry-level position as a DevOps, Cloud, or Infrastructure Engineer.

The journey can take various forms, but I aim to share one of the most effective pathways to establish yourself in this field. This roadmap has been validated by numerous individuals who have successfully navigated it, and I have included testimonials to highlight its impact.

By following this pathway, you will not only acquire technical skills but also develop key attributes such as self-motivation, discipline, time management, curiosity, eagerness to learn, persistence, and adaptability. Remember, many have successfully trodden this path before you, so persevere!

Chapter 3: Testimonials 🗣️

I am deeply thankful to those who have shared their experiences regarding this DevOps pathway. Special thanks to Abdurahman Abukar, Faisal Momoniat, and Yaser Bensiali for shedding light on how this journey has positively affected their careers. Their testimonials underscore the transformative power of this guide.

"The DevOps pathway has been a game-changer for me! 🚀 It equipped me with knowledge in Linux, Git, Terraform, Docker, Kubernetes, and more. I can't express enough gratitude for this invaluable support on my journey in the DevOps world. 💪🏽🔥" — Abdurahman Abukar, DevOps Engineer @ Credera

Chapter 4: Understanding DevOps and Platform Engineering 🛠️

The term "DevOps" can often feel like a buzzword. To save you the research time, DevOps is a collaborative approach that merges development (Dev) and operations (Ops) teams to enhance the software delivery process. It encourages communication, collaboration, and automation between these traditionally distinct groups.

DevOps isn't a specific job title; rather, it's a collection of practices and principles applicable across various software development and IT operations roles. Anyone involved in the software development cycle can adopt a DevOps mindset, from developers to product managers.

The goal is to find equilibrium between developing new features and maintaining operational stability. When development and operations teams collaborate effectively, they can create a more efficient and reliable software delivery process.

Chapter 5: Salary Expectations for DevOps Roles 💰

While not everyone is motivated solely by financial compensation, job stability and career progression are significant considerations. The pandemic highlighted the importance of standing out in a competitive job market, and many found that a career in DevOps could provide a lucrative opportunity.

Here’s a snapshot of approximate salary ranges for DevOps Engineers in the UK:

• Entry-level/Junior DevOps Engineer: £35,000 to £50,000 per year
• Mid-level DevOps Engineer: £50,000 to £80,000 per year
• Senior DevOps Engineer: £80,000 to £100,000+ per year
• Principal Engineers/Engineering Managers: £120,000+

Keep in mind that these figures are estimates and can vary. For the most accurate and current information, consider checking platforms like Glassdoor or consulting tech industry recruiters.

Chapter 6: Pre-requisites & Clarifications 💡

Before diving into the learning pathway, it's important to note a few prerequisites:

• A Mac or Linux machine is recommended, though a Windows machine will suffice.
• Start with Level 1 and progress through the levels sequentially.
• Begin job applications after completing Levels 1 and 2.

Chapter 7: The Learning Pathway 🛣️

Level 1: Fundamentals

• Linux Basics
• Git Fundamentals
• Networking Essentials
• Cloud Basics (AWS or Azure)

Level 2: Infrastructure & Containers

• Cloud II: AWS or Azure
• Terraform & CI/CD
• Docker & Kubernetes

Level 3: Scripting & Coding

• Focus on one programming language, preferably Python or Golang.

Level 4: Monitoring & Infrastructure Management

• Explore tools like Prometheus, ELK, and Ansible.

Level 5: Advanced DevOps

• Delve into topics like security, serverless architecture, and advanced CI/CD.

Now, let's take a look at some videos that can enhance your understanding of DevOps:

From Zero to DevOps Engineer - DevOps Roadmap for YOUR Specific Background

This video provides a comprehensive overview of the DevOps career path tailored to various backgrounds, offering insights and resources to help you succeed.

The Ultimate Guide to Building a Successful DevOps Career | Dev, Cloud, and DevOps AMA

This session dives into the essentials of cultivating a successful career in DevOps, addressing common questions and offering expert advice.

Chapter 8: Certification Insights 🎓

Certifications play a vital role in your DevOps journey. They not only validate your expertise but also provide a structured learning path. Here are some recommended certifications for aspiring DevOps Engineers:

• AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner
• AWS Solutions Architect Associate
• Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA)
• Azure Fundamentals
• HashiCorp Certified: Terraform Associate

Chapter 9: Preparing for Your First Job 💼

Once you complete the foundational levels, it’s time to prepare your CV and apply for jobs. Consider using platforms like flowcv.io to craft an impressive CV. Highlight your skills, projects, and relevant certifications.

Hands-on projects are essential to reinforce your learning. Create a personal GitHub account to showcase your projects and engage with the community on platforms like LinkedIn.

Appendix: Learning Resources 📚

For further learning, check out the free resources compiled by industry experts.

Pathway backed by: Deengineers, Amigoscode, Somalis in Tech, Deen Developers, DevOps Bootcamp.

What’s Next?

Congratulations on taking the first steps towards a rewarding DevOps career! Continuous learning and staying updated with industry trends are key. Feel free to reach out with any questions or for a friendly chat on LinkedIn. Thank you for reading, and best of luck on your journey!