New cloud computing credential

CompTIA and ITpreneurs are collaborating on a new cloud computing skills credential.

The Cloud Essentials exam, scheduled for availability in December 2011, will validate knowledge and understanding of cloud computing principles and concepts, including what cloud computing means from a business and technical perspective and what’s involved in moving to and governing the cloud.

Exam content is based on consultation and insights from leading subject matter experts and organizations in the cloud computing market, including Amazon, Cisco, Citrix, EMC, Google, HP, IBM, Microsoft, Rackspace and VMware.

Potential candidates for the new credential include IT professionals in companies utilizing cloud computing solutions today, or contemplating doing so; and individuals involved in the selling of cloud services.

Though not required, it’s recommended that candidates for the exam have a general working knowledge of how an internal or external IT organization operates and have at least six months of experience in an IT environment, with direct involvement in IT-related tasks, responsibilities and decision-making.

“This credential demonstrates IT professionals’ understanding of the key concepts, themes and issues around cloud computing, including definitions, organizational readiness, operating in the cloud and governance and security of the cloud model. It is also driving agreements around definitions of key concepts across major vendors, and encouraging the whole industry to cooperate with each other through the Cloud Credential Council as the preferred forum,” said Sukhbir Jasuja, CEO of ITpreneurs.