How to Become a Solutions Architect in 2023

With the rising expansion of businesses in the digital realm and the adoption of novel technological innovations, the demand for IT professionals has experienced an unprecedented surge. Out of the numerous highly coveted roles in the technology industry, that of a Solutions Architect reigns supreme. The Solutions Architect bears the onus of developing and executing intricate IT solutions tailored to the business’s specific requirements.

What is a Solution Architect?

A Solutions Architect is a highly experienced Information Technology (IT) expert tasked with the responsibility of devising, constructing, and implementing sophisticated IT resolutions tailored to meet businesses’ exact requirements. Their primary duty is to work closely with all interested parties to identify and assess the organization’s demands before engineering design solutions that cater to them while prioritizing factors such as scalability, reliability, and security.

Skills Needed to Become a Solutions Architect

To become a successful Solutions Architect, you’ll need various technical and soft skills. Some of the technical skills you’ll need include:

1. Must be aware and knowledgeable of programming languages which include Java, Python, and Ruby
2. Understanding of cloud computing platforms such as AWS(Amazon Web services), Azure, and Google Cloud
3. Experience with database technologies such as SQL and NoSQL
4. Must be familiar with web development languages which include HTML, CSS, and JavaScript
5. Understanding of network protocols and security best practices
6. In addition to technical skills, you’ll also need to have strong soft skills such as:
7. Strong communication skills
8. Good problem-solving skills
9. Ability to work well under pressure
10. Excellent time management skills
11. Attention to detail

Steps to Become a Solutions Architect

If you have a passion for problem-solving, an aptitude for technology, and a desire to shape the digital landscape, then a career as a Solutions Architect might be the perfect fit for you.The Following steps are important to become a solutions architect:

1. Obtaining a degree 

The first step is to obtain a degree in CS or a related field (computer engineering, software engineering, or data science). A degree in computer science would provide you with a strong foundation in programming, software development, database management, and other technical skills that are essential for a solutions architect. In addition, many online learning platforms offer courses in system integration, cloud computing, and other areas relevant to the role of a solutions architect.

The reason you do not start from an online course is that having a degree in computer science also demonstrates to employers that you have a formal education in the field and have acquired a certain level of knowledge and expertise. Obtaining a degree is all about gaining exposure, experience, and entity skills all in one shot -which makes you a more competitive candidate and increases your chances of getting hired and advancing in your career. Therefore, if you can – start with a formal degree!

2. Acquire experience – get a job

“Experience is a hard teacher because she gives the test first, the lesson afterward.” 

Vernon Law

It is extremely important to land a job related to (computer engineering, software engineering, or data science) – starting with a day job is important because here you would learn about all the practical aspects of data analytics industry-specific knowledge and insight about the data analytic industry and technology that you can leverage as a solutions architect.

Furthermore – when we discussed the skill requirement for a solutions architect, it was very clear that a solutions architect is a jack of all trades – he knows about all the business requirements, which resources to off, which to leverage, how to deal with business stakeholders, data scientists, and other technical teams ensuring that all solutions are delivered with maximum efficiency – which is why a solutions architect is a senior-level position that requires both technical and business skills, which are often developed through years of working in related fields.

This is where your degree comes into play because until you are trained and seasoned enough to become a full-fledged solutions architect you would have to work as a normal data scientist or an analyst to learn enough on the way and only then you are equipped with enough experience, industry-exposure, and skills to become a solutions analyst.

3. Build a professional network

While working in the IT sector or as a solutions architect you should try building a strong network. This can help you to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in the industry. Attend industry events and conferences, connect with other professionals in your field, and join professional organizations. Having a network would also help you enhance your experience as a bridge between the technical team, the business, and all other stakeholders, more contacts would always be beneficial when working as a solutions architect.

4. Create a portfolio

If you are creative, analytical, outgoing, and pragmatic – then you have a great future ahead as a solutions architect – As a solutions architect, you will need to demonstrate your ability to develop effective solutions for complex business problems. Creating a portfolio of your work can help to showcase your skills and experience to potential employers. Here are some tips on creating an employer-appealing portfolio:

1. Choose your best projects
2. Describe the projects
3. Provide details on your role
4. Include visual aids
5. Highlight your skills and certifications

Once you have created your portfolio, share it on your website, LinkedIn, and other professional platforms. You can also bring a copy to job interviews or client meetings to help demonstrate your expertise.

5. Obtain certifications

While gaining work experience and completing a degree there are several certifications that you can obtain to demonstrate your proficiency in solutions architecture. Some popular certifications include AWS Certified Solutions Architect, Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect, and Google Cloud Certified: Professional Cloud Architect. These certifications demonstrate a strong understanding of cloud computing platforms and the ability to design and implement cloud services solutions. 

Solution Architect Salary package

Solutions Architects earn an entry-level salary of $138,000 per year in the United States. In the United States, the average salary for a Senior Solutions Architect is $276,000 per year.

Payscale

Being practical with your career

But make no mistake, being practical and considerate about your goals and skills is very important – solutions architect is an extremely prestigious and high-value job but not more than your peace Before you step into a career like this it is important to consider that this field requires a lot of technical knowledge around data science, data warehousing, big data technologies, data visualization, and machine learning – it also requires a lot of business acumen as well, as a solutions architects main job is to act as a bridge between technical team, the business, and all other stakeholders – which is why A candidate with an MBA in information systems may also be a good fit for a role as a solutions architect because he knows best how to manage all these entities in a way that is profitable and helpful for everyone. And of course, you would need a lot of work experience before you land this job – along with this experience you need a degree and some relevant certifications – all of these combined and you have a solid candidate for a senior solutions architect job.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, Becoming a Solutions Architect is a wise decision for IT experts who aspire to formulate and execute intricate IT solutions. Achieving success as a Solutions Architect necessitates possessing an array of technical and interpersonal competencies, along with formal education and hands-on experience. Moreover, to progress in this profession, one must create a portfolio, establish connections, and obtain certifications.

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