The data centre industry is rapidly evolving, driven by advances in AI, cybersecurity, and sustainability.

Despite these changes, certifications remain essential for IT career growth. According to NetworkWorld, certifications have emerged to match the demands of cutting-edge technologies.

For IT professionals, the appeal of certifications is clear—enhanced career prospects, higher salaries, and greater job security. A recent InformaTech survey revealed that 77% of data centre professionals experienced salary increases last year, with a median annual compensation of $130,000. However, these gains come with growing challenges. Managers are taking on additional responsibilities, overseeing larger teams, and expanding into areas such as finance and sustainability—reflecting the broader role of data centres in today’s digital economy.

AI’s influence on the data centre landscape is particularly profound. “AI is a transformative technology that requires a lot of power, dense computing, and fast networks,” explained Robert Beveridge, professor and technical manager at Carnegie Mellon University. “And they’re very resource-intensive—AI is poised to grow power demand.” The growing demand highlights the need for skilled professionals with the right certifications to navigate data centre operations.

Why certifications are important

Certifications serve as more than just professional credentials; they validate expertise, build confidence, and open doors to new opportunities. For individuals, they represent a tangible way to demonstrate knowledge and competency. “And, for their current job, career aspiration and career advancements,” added Matt Hawkins, director of Uptime Education.

Employers see certifications as invaluable tools for managing risk by retaining talent, and fostering professional development. Hawkins asks, “How do we make sure we’re retaining the individuals we already have? One way to do that is by investing in the individual, helping them grow in their roles and careers, and certifications are a way of doing that.”

Certifications also deliver measurable financial value. According to a Skillsoft survey, 96% of IT leaders believe certifications provide quantifiable benefits, with nearly half of leaders estimating that certified employees contribute an additional $20,000 or more in value to an organisation.

The link between certifications and salary growth

Certifications have long been closely tied to salary increases. Foote Partners’ recent analysis highlights a rebound in the value of IT certifications, with the average industry salary showing its most significant positive swing in over a decade during 2024.

However, data centre-specific certifications are entering a transitional phase. “Significant changes in the data centre landscape are impacting pay for related tech talent,” says David Foote, chief analyst at Foote Partners. “Right now, cash premiums for these certifications have stagnated. But [they] probably will rebound within six to 12 months as businesses solidify their AI strategies.”

This transition offers professionals an opportunity to upskill and prepare for the next wave of demand.

Conclusion

Certifications represent a powerful tool for keeping DC operations competitive. Beyond staff technical skills, they demonstrate personal initiative and a commitment to continuous learning—qualities highly valued by hiring managers. “From a hiring manager perspective, I find [them] extremely valuable. It tells me that the employee takes initiative, that they want to learn,” says Beveridge.

(Photo by Christina Morillo)

See also: Revolutionising data centre sustainability with power capping

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