Getting Started in Cloud Computing with Microsoft Azure Data & AI

Cloud computing is one of the most dynamic and rewarding fields in tech today. If you're drawn to Microsoft Azure, especially its Data and AI capabilities, you're already on a powerful path. But how do you actually start?

🎯 Step 1: Define Your Focus Area - Azure is vast. From infrastructure to AI, it's easy to get overwhelmed. If you're interested in Data and AI, start by exploring:

• Azure Machine Learning

• Azure Synapse Analytics

• Microsoft Fabric

• Azure OpenAI

• Cognitive Services

These tools power real-world solutions in healthcare, finance, retail, and beyond.

📚 Step 2: Choose the Right Certifications - Certifications validate your skills and help you stand out. Here’s a roadmap for Azure Data and AI:

Certification	Focus	Level
AZ-900	Azure Fundamentals	Beginner
DP-900	Data Fundamentals	Beginner
AI-900	AI Fundamentals	Beginner
DP-100	Designing and Implementing a Data Science Solution	Intermediate
DP-203	Data Engineering on Azure	Intermediate
AI-102	Designing AI Solutions	Intermediate
AZ-305	Architecting Azure Solutions	Advanced

If you're aiming for roles in presales, architecture, or delivery, AZ-305 and DP-203 are especially valuable.

🧠 Step 3: Study Smarter - Studying for certifications can be tough, especially if you’re neurodivergent or balancing work and life. Here are some tips:

• Use Microsoft Learn for free, structured modules

• Supplement with LinkedIn Learning, Pluralsight, or Whizlabs

• Join study groups on Reddit, Discord, or LinkedIn

• If you have ADHD, consider using focus aids like Pomodoro timers or daily supplements that work for you

🏫 Step 4: Take College Classes to Fill Gaps - Certs are great, but they don’t teach everything. For example, if networking is your weakest area, take a class like I am St. Petersburg College (SPC). Community colleges often offer:

• Networking and Security

• Linux and Windows Server

• Cloud Fundamentals

• Programming (Python, JavaScript)

• Data Analytics and SQL

These classes give you hands-on experience and help you build foundational knowledge that certs assume you already have.

💼 Step 5: Get Real-World Experience - Certs and college alone won’t land you your dream job. You need experience. Here’s how to get it:

• Internships, even unpaid ones

• Freelance projects for nonprofits or small businesses

• Hackathons for networking and learning

• Volunteering, like teaching with Girls Who Code

• Entry-level roles such as support, technician, or junior analyst positions that expose you to cloud environments

🧭 Step 6: Target the Right RolesTo break into Azure Data and AI, look for roles like:

• Cloud Support Associate

• Data Analyst or BI Developer

• Junior Cloud Engineer

• AI or ML Intern

• Technical Sales or Presales Associate

• Azure Delivery Coordinator

These roles build the experience you need to eventually become a Cloud Solution Architect, AI Engineer, or Technical Executive.

💬 Your journey is unique. Whether you're coming from packaging sales, backup software, or teaching, cloud computing welcomes diverse backgrounds. Stay curious, stay consistent, and don’t be afraid to learn in public.

The central hub for Azure training and certification prep:

• Microsoft Learn homepage

• AI-900: Azure AI Fundamentals

• AI-102: Designing and Implementing an Azure AI Solution

• Azure Fundamentals Learning Path

• Cloud Computing Resource Center

• Azure Documentation Portal