How to Become a Cloud Engineer? Complete Guide [2025]

Today, cloud computing is revolutionizing the way businesses work, driving massive growth in cloud-based applications and services. In fact, it has become the largest IT spending segment currently, and this trend is not expected to slow down anytime soon. 

According to Gartner, global spending on public cloud services is projected to reach $723.4 billion by 2025, highlighting the rapid adoption of cloud solutions across industries.

Organizations worldwide are shifting from traditional on-premise infrastructure to cloud computing to enhance efficiency, scalability, security, and cost-effectiveness. Whether it's startups, enterprises, or tech giants, cloud computing is no longer an option—it’s a necessity for staying competitive in today’s digital landscape.

And because of this huge growth, the demand for skilled cloud engineers is at an all-time high. So, how do you become a cloud engineer? 

Whether you're a complete beginner or an IT professional looking to transition into cloud computing, this guide will take you through a step-by-step roadmap to becoming a cloud engineer from scratch. 

But before that, let’s first understand who a cloud engineer is.

Who is a Cloud Engineer?

A cloud engineer is an IT professional responsible for designing, implementing, and managing cloud-based infrastructure and services. They work with cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud to ensure efficient and secure cloud operations.

And talking about the responsibilities of cloud engineers, it basically, differs from company to company, as different companies use different cloud platforms.

However, there are some basic responsibilities too. They are: 

• Deploy and manage cloud resources such as virtual machines, storage, and databases.
• Ensure security and compliance by implementing cloud security best practices.
• Optimize cloud performance and cost-efficiency.
• Automate cloud operations using Infrastructure as Code (IaC) tools like Terraform.
• Monitor and troubleshoot cloud-based applications to maintain uptime.

In simple terms, a Cloud Engineer helps businesses move to the cloud and ensures that their cloud systems run smoothly, securely, and cost-effectively.

How to Become a Cloud Engineer From Scratch: Steps To Enter This Filed?

Now, let’s see in a step-by-step process how can you become an expert cloud engineer from scratch. Here, we’ll discuss some of the important steps as well as what to learn to become a cloud engineer, which will help you to become a talented cloud engineer. 

1. Earn a Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science or IT

This is one of the basic A bachelor's degree in a field such as computer science or information technology provides the candidate with a solid knowledge of the principles of computer science, which will guide him well throughout his career in the software industry. 

These degrees' education includes vital areas including databases, programming languages, networking, and operating systems, all of which are required to fully understand cloud computing. Many companies do not allow individuals without relevant degrees to participate in the job selection process; therefore, getting an appropriate degree is beneficial in the job search as well.

2. Programming

Learn programming, particularly in languages such as Python. Knowing how to program allows you to automate work, which is essential for effective cloud management. 

• Python is an ideal choice due to its versatility, ease of learning, and English-like syntax.
• It is excellent for developing scripts that automate various cloud-related operations.
• Programming languages provide a set of instructions that make managing cloud services more efficient and faster.

Now, if you want to develop your coding skills by practicing Python language by developing real-world applications, then you can check out our top 15 Python project ideas with source code guide. It will help you to build your strong coding skills as well as you can showcase these projects in your portfolio and resume. 

3. Master a Cloud Platform

Developing specialized knowledge on a single platform helps you to stand out and provide value to job applications. Learn about all of the features it provides for computing, data storage, database management, and more.

• Choose one key cloud platform: AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud Platform (GCP).
• Gain a deep understanding of its services and features.
• Learn how to deploy, manage, and optimize cloud-based solutions.
• Develop hands-on experience through projects and certifications.

4. Learn about Cloud Services.

Learn about important cloud tools such as computing, storage, databases (structured data storage), and networking (the ability to link computers). Once you understand how these services work, you can create customized solutions for companies. 

This practical understanding provides a basis for developing and implementing specific cloud solutions. Understanding how these systems connect can help us design solutions that are both effective and scalable.

5. Hands-on Project Experience

Creating projects can help determined cloud engineers convert their academic knowledge into real concepts. 

• Developing a project involves diving multiple challenges, and enhancing problem-solving skills and creativity.
• Adding cloud-related projects to your portfolio showcases technical expertise and hands-on experience.
• A strong portfolio shows your ability to handle real-world cloud-based challenges, making it valuable for job opportunities.

 6. Gain practical experience in the industry through an internship

Internships give hands-on experience that helps you to apply learning to practical situations in a professional business place, which helps you to become a cloud engineer. Working in a real company place would provide you the opportunity to become comfortable with the day-to-day operations of cloud engineering. 

You will also have the opportunity to grow connections with experienced experts in the field of cloud computing. These connections can give you mentoring, guidance, and possible career chances in the future.

7. Create your resume and apply for cloud engineering jobs.

In the last step to become a cloud engineer, you have to create a detailed resume highlighting your cloud technology skills and education. Modify it to highlight specific experiences. Apply for cloud engineering jobs based on your passion for this field, practical experience, and internships. Being proactive like this increases your chances of landing a cloud engineering position.

Is Cloud Engineering a Good Career for Now or the Future?

Cloud computing has grown rapidly as businesses look for cost-effective solutions with better performance, reliability, and global reach. Instead of building expensive on-site infrastructure, companies move to the cloud to save money and improve efficiency. The top three cloud providers today are Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud. 

While lots of companies already use cloud services, demand continues to rise. According to Gartner, global spending on public cloud services is estimated to reach $723.4 billion by 2025, up 21.5% from the previous year. This increased demand opens up more jobs in cloud engineering, with over 129,935 openings on ZipRecruiter and excellent salaries.

What Challenges come with Cloud Engineer?

As more companies use cloud technology, they want more cloud engineers who understand how to use it. This has significantly increased the need for qualified cloud engineers. But being a cloud engineer is not easy, and it comes with its own set of challenges. The main challenges we have discussed below. 

1. Security Challenges 

Keeping cloud systems secure is an important job. Cloud engineers create security policies, encrypt data, and monitor for threats. They have to give access to the right people while keeping hackers out, ensuring that critical information remains safe.  

2. Handling Growth and Performance 

Cloud systems must handle changing workloads smoothly. Cloud engineers design systems that can grow when needed while keeping costs low. They work to balance speed, efficiency, and cost to ensure everything runs well for users.  

3. Keeping Up with New Technology

Cloud technology is always changing, so cloud engineers must keep learning. They stay updated on new tools, trends, and best practices to stay competitive and keep their skills sharp.

Conclusion

Cloud engineers play a key role in improving company operations by effectively managing cloud systems. Individuals who want to become cloud system professionals must first learn the necessary IT skills, programming skills, and platform-specific knowledge. Therefore, here we have discussed this guide in a complete and step-by-step manner, which help you to become a cloud engineer. 

However, issues such as security, scalability, and the requirement for constant education remain. Despite these challenges, the rising need for skilled cloud engineers highlights their importance in the rapidly changing technology world, making them vital players in the success of modern companies.

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