Certifications for Data Warehousing Specialists: Which Ones are Worth Pursuing?

Introduction
The ever-expanding field of data warehousing is one of the fastest-growing careers in the technology world. Data warehousing professionals are in high demand due to their capabilities in utilizing business intelligence tools and techniques to streamline operational efficiencies and garner insights from vast data sets. With so much information to choose from, where should one begin when looking to become a certified data warehousing specialist?

This blogpost will explore some of the most important certifications to consider for those looking to further their career in data warehousing. We’ll discuss which certifications offer the most value, how to decide which one to pursue, and how to make the most out of any certification you earn.

What Certification to Pursue: Exploring Your Options

When it comes to deciding which certifications to pursue as a data warehousing specialist, there are several factors to consider. First, consider your current experience and skill level. Depending on your current credentials and knowledge, you may be better suited for an entry-level certification or an advanced certification.

If you are just starting out in data warehousing, then an entry-level certification such as Amazon's Certified Data Warehouse Design exam (AWS-CDWD) is a great place to start. The AWS-CDWD provides candidates with the foundational knowledge needed to design and implement effective data warehouse solutions. Plus, it offers a great opportunity to learn more about the powerful features of the AWS platform and its related technologies — something that can come in handy during later stages in your data warehousing career.

Once you have obtained an entry-level certification, you can move on to more advanced certifications. For example, Microsoft's Professional Certificate in Data Warehousing (MSDWH) is one of the most widely recognized certifications in the field of data warehousing. The MSDWH covers a wide range of topics, including database design principles and implementation, data governance, data integration, and data modeling. In addition to providing a comprehensive understanding of the data warehousing field, the MSDWH also provides recognition of your deep understanding of Microsoft's BI tools.

For those looking to further their qualifications, Oracle offers the Oracle Database Cloud Administrator (OCA) certification and the Oracle Database Application Developer (OCAD) certification. Both certifications are highly sought after by employers and demonstrate advanced capabilities in data warehousing. The OCA certifies candidates in their ability to manage and configure Oracle database systems, while the OCAD demonstrates proficiency in developing applications to meet business needs.

Finally, for those wishing to stay ahead of the curve in data warehousing, certification programs with emerging technologies such as big data, analytics, and artificial intelligence are also worth considering. Examples of certifications to look out for include the Google Cloud Professional Data Engineer (DGE) and the SAS Certified Big Data Professional (SBDCP). The DGE certifies candidates in their capabilities to design, implement, and manage data solutions on the Google Cloud Platform, while the SBDCP certifies their abilities to leverage large datasets and discover hidden insights.

Making the Most Out of Your Certifications

Once you have decided which certification to pursue and obtained the necessary credentials, you can begin to reap all the benefits of being a certified data warehousing specialist. Certification provides recognition of your expertise, allowing employers to have confidence that you have the knowledge and skills to work effectively in the data warehousing field. Additionally, certification programs often provide additional resources, such as study materials, practice tests, and other learning opportunities, which can be extremely helpful in furthering your understanding of the data warehousing field.

Finally, pursuing certifications provides a great opportunity to network and build relationships within the data warehousing community. Many certification programs host events such as workshops, seminars, and conferences, which give you the chance to meet and collaborate with other data warehousing professionals. These events provide a great platform to exchange ideas, learn more about the field, and gain insights into the latest trends and techniques.

Conclusion
Data warehousing is an exciting and rapidly growing field, and becoming certified as a data warehousing specialist can open up numerous opportunities and increase your earning potential. Taking the time to research and decide which certifications are the best fit for your goals is the first step to becoming a certified data warehousing specialist. Whether you choose to pursue traditional or emerging certifications, make sure to take advantage of the study materials and networking opportunities provided to make the most out of your certification program.