Great System Administrator Certifications to Boost Your Career

Archive for Training & Education – Page 2

Great System Administrator Certifications to Boost Your Career

System Administrator Certifications

More and more businesses and organizations depend on complex IT systems for their daily communications and workflow; therefore, professionals who hold a System Administrator Certification know how to manage and maintain these systems are in high demand. This demand is not likely to change any time soon. In order to keep up with the new developments in IT technology, it is important for professionals to keep themselves educated and to keep up with the current IT certifications as credentials for their expertise. This is an overview of several great system administrator certifications that will give your IT career a boost:

System Administrator Certifications

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE)

The MCSE or “Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert” certification is part of the Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP) program. It offers the following five focus areas with different key technologies:

  • MCSE: Business Applications (focusing on Microsoft SQL Server and Microsoft Dynamics 365)
  • MCSE: Cloud Platform and Infrastructure (Microsoft Azure and Windows Server Virtualization)
  • MCSE: Data Management and Analytics (Microsoft SQL Server with SQL administration, on-site as well as cloud-based data solutions)
  • MCSE: Mobility (Windows System Center)
  • MCSE: Productivity (Microsoft Office/Microsoft Office 365)

TechSherpas offers several options for MCSE certification training. Find out more about them here.

 

CompTIA Network+

CompTIA Server+ is a vendor-neutral certification that ranks high among the system administrator certifications as well. Here at TechSherpas we offers a variety of different CompTIA learning solutions for different levels.

If you are an entry-level computer support professional looking for a career as a network administrator, then CompTIA Network+ might be a good choice for you. You should possess basic Windows end-user computer skills to successfully participate in this course.

 

CompTIA Linux+™ Powered by LPI

TechSherpas CompTIA training course, CompTIA Linux+™ Powered by LPI prepares you to become a CompTIA Linux+™ Certified Professional. When taking this course, you should at least possess a user-level knowledge/experience with the Linux operating system.

TechSherpas also offers several courses that you can take to be prepared:

  • UNIX and Linux: Fundamentals
  • UNIX and Linux: Advanced User
  • CompTIA A+: A Comprehensive Approach (a helpful addition, but not required)

 

C)VDE Certified Virtual Desktop Engineer

If you are already experienced with VMware vSphere (2+ years) but new to the VMware Horizon Suite, the C)VDE Certified Virtual Desktop Engineer training course will familiarize you with the installation and configuration of Horizon View, as well as, the components. The successful completion will put you above the level of VCP-DT.

 

For more information on which training course is best for you, or for any other related questions, simply send us a message or give us a call!

 

Sources:
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/learning/mcse-certification.aspx
https://techsherpas.com/technology/comptia/
https://certification.comptia.org/

The Best Cybersecurity and Information Security Certifications

Information Security CertificationsLet’s begin with “Information Security” and “Cybersecurity”.  There are two expressions that people often use somewhat interchangeably. They are not quite the same though, as we have already explained in one or our previous blog posts. In any case, both have – naturally – the security aspect in common. This means, that if you are planning for a professional career in this field, not only are your knowledge and skill set of particular importance, but also are your reputable credentials, such as, Cybersecurity and Information Security Certifications.

Let us have a look at some of the best information security certifications to boost your career as an information security professional.

 

Information Security Certifications

Certified Penetration Testing Engineer (C)PTE)

The Certified Penetration Testing Engineer certification constitutes an upgrade to the Certified Ethical Hacker/CEH. The Techsherpas certification course is based on proven, hands-on penetration testing methods and the Five Key Elements of Pen Testing:

  • Information Gathering
  • Scanning
  • Enumeration
  • Exploitation
  • Reporting

CISM: Certified Information Security Manager

The certification as a CISM/Certified Information Security Manager demonstrates your proficient knowledge and skill set in the field of Information Security Management, such as:

  • Threat analysis and risks
  • Risk and incident management
  • IS security strategy/frameworks
  • Security programs and CISO roles
  • Creation of policies for audit and risk management, compliance and awareness
  • DR and BCP development/deployment/maintenance

 

CompTIA Security+

With Information Security Certifications like CompTIA Security+ you demonstrate the necessary computer security skills to successfully perform your duties in a wide range of IT security-related roles. Such skills are, for example:

  • Identification of the fundamental computer security concepts
  • Identification of (potential) security threats
  • Data management and application
  • Host security management
  • Network security implementation
  • Identification/implementation of access control
  • Identification/implementation of account management security measures
  • Identification/implementation of compliance and operational security measures
  • Certificate and risk management
  • Troubleshooting and management of security incidents.
  • Business continuity and disaster recovery planning

 

CISSO: Certified Information Systems Security Officer

A Certified Information Systems Security Officer (CISSO) demonstrates proficiency in the knowledge and skill set (including industry best practices) that characterize the work of a security manager/security officer, such as:

  • Expertise regarding the in-depth theory of core security concepts, practices, monitoring and compliance
  • Use of a risk-based approach
  • Ability to implement and maintain cost-effective security controls

The CISSO certification training also covers the exam objectives of the CISSP: Certified Information Systems Security Professional

 

C)IHE: Certified Incident Handling Engineer

The Certified Incident Handling Engineer (C)IHE) is directed toward IT professionals, such as incident handlers, system administrators and general security engineers. The training, which also covers the GCIH- GIAC Certified Incident Handler, teaches students:

  • Planning, creation and utilization of systems for attack prevention, detection and response
  • Step-by-step approaches as used by hackers worldwide
  • Identification of the latest attack vectors and implementation of safeguarding measures
  • Incident handling procedures
  • Strategies for each type of attack
  • Recovery measures after an attack

 

Have a look at our public training schedule to find out more about how we can support you to achieve the Cybersecurity and Information Security Certification that is best for your career plans.

 

 

 

Sources:
https://www.businessnewsdaily.com/10708-information-security-certifications.html
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_computer_security_certifications
https://www.darkreading.com/risk/10-security-certifications-to-boost-your-career/d/d-id/1322449?image_number=3
https://techsherpas.com/it-training/cihe-certified-incident-handling-engineer-on-demand

What Are The Best Project Management Certifications?

Project Management Certifications

As one of the largest providers for project management certification training, TechSherpas offers a variety of training courses to become a professionally certified project manager. A project management certification can be a great addition to your CV and can polish your credentials as an information technology professional.

But what kind of certifications for project management are there, and which is the right one for you? Keep reading – we have compiled an overview of some of the best project manager certifications.

Project Management Certification: Project Management Professional (PMP)

As we have already discussed in one of our previous blog posts, the Product Management Professional/PMP certification is issued by the Project Management Institute (or: “PMI”). Techsherpas offers Project Management Professional (PMP) certification preparation on a live In-Classroom Learning (ICL) basis, as well as, online as a Virtual Live Training (VTL). We also have an add-on option for an On-Demand (ODL) training video.  This can be added to the purchase of a live class or study that is completely online, at your own pace, with the ODL training. Additional requirements are at least a high school diploma, associate or corresponding secondary degree, as well as, a minimum amount of project management experience.

Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)

CAPM is an entry-level project management certification that the PMI issues as well, but without the additional requirements of the PMP for the certification candidates. You can become a Certified Associate in Project Management with little or even without prior project management experience. The Techsherpas CAPM preparation course is delivered entirely on an On-Demand Learning basis, which allows you to study at your own pace with a schedule that fits your personal requirements. In addition, this allows you to save on those expenses, such as time and travel, that would normally be associated with a course led by a live instructor. 

Certified Scrum Master (CSM)

Like the CAPM preparation training, the Certified Scrum Master (CSM) training course from TechSherpas is available for On-Demand Learning. This means you have a library of training videos with content that includes the following:

  • the Agile Manifesto Principles
  • Scrum Roles Overview
  • Scrum Master and Stake Holders
  • and more

PRINCE2 Practitioner

In order to become a registered PRINCE2 Practitioner, you will need to successfully complete two examination Project Management Training Courses. TechSherpas offers both of them On-Demand:

  • PRINCE2 Foundation On-Demand
  • PRINCE2 Practitioner On-Demand

CompTIA Project+

CompTIA, one of the leading IT industry’s trade associations issues a vendor-neutral professional certification. Our CompTIA Project+ training classes have a duration of five days, and you can participate either in the classroom or online/virtually, both of these would be with a live instructor.

Six Sigma

The Six Sigma methodology is also known as “DMAIC”, which stands for

  • Define
  • Measure
  • Analyze
  • Improve
  • Control

TechSherpas offers two different On-Demand Learning classes for Six Sigma:

  • Six Sigma Black Belt On-Demand
  • Six Sigma Green Belt On Demand

Any further questions about Project Management Certifications? Do you need assistance or further information to enroll in one of our classes? Are you interested in a Customized Onsite Training for your organization? Simply contact us.

 

Sources:
https://techsherpas.com/technology/project-management/
https://techsherpas.com/technology/project-management/pmpcapm/
https://www.pmi.org/-/media/pmi/documents/public/pdf/certifications/project-management-professional-handbook.pdf

How Can a Microsoft Azure Certification Boost Your Career?

More and more businesses are using cloud-computing technology. Therefore, there is an increasing demand for people that possess the required skills better known as a Microsoft Azure Certification. One reason this technology has become popular is its ability to help saving on company investment of server space. Another reason for its popularity is because employees increasingly need to be able to access their files from somewhere else other than their stationary office work space. If you need to show that you possess cloud-computing skills and know how to apply them, a Microsoft Azure Certification provides you with just the right advantage over the job-seeking competition.

Microsoft Azure Certification

Microsoft Azure and the Microsoft Azure Certification

In our recent blog post, we have already elaborated on the six different Microsoft Certification Paths and the Microsoft Certification Map: The MCSA Certification (Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate) with 17 different focus area certifications that form the stepping stones to achieving that goal.

  • one of the five MCSE (Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer) certifications
  • or the MCSD certification, which stands for “Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer.”

Depending on which focus areas and key technologies you focus on while achieving your MCSA Certification, you can set the path towards a Microsoft Azure related MCSE/MCSD certification.

 

Why invest into obtaining an official certification?

It is true: Nowadays, there are many ways to achieve knowledge and to hone one’s skills. One can read books, subscribe to podcasts and newsletters, watch Youtube videos and much more. Theoretically, you might be able to work with Microsoft Azure without any specific certification in that area.

If you have chosen information technology and cloud computing as your actual career fields, then these kinds of self-taught skills are probably not enough to get ahead. Anyone can claim they possess the skills and practical experience, but if you want to make a sustainable career out of those, you are going to need to show corresponding credentials as a recognizable proof of your expertise.

When you are looking for a new job, your CV usually is the first source of information for your potential future employer, and they probably have to decide between a multitude of applicants. A convincing CV is extremely important, because this phase of the application-process is the first hurdle you need to master in order to make it to a personal interview. An official and industry-recognized Microsoft Azure Certification in your CV documents that you have participated in a structured education and made it successfully through the required exams is important. This does not only show your personal dedication, but also provides a certain security for the future employer, that they will be able to rely on you having received your education and certifications by a reputable and recognized provider.

See also:
https://techsherpas.com/azure-skills-initiative-and-special-offers/

 

Which of our Virtual Learning Solutions Works Best for You?

Virtual LearningIf you have already looked at our course cataloge and various learning methods and solutions, you will have come across two different virtual learning solutions that we offer:

Both methods allow you to participate in our IT learning courses remotely: from the comfort of your own computer at home, or alternatively at the office. This means that you can save time as well as costs, because you do not have to travel to any particular training location.

Virtual Live Training: Virtual Learning with a Classroom Experience

The main difference between the two methods lies in the scheduling of your study time:

As the name indicates, the student’s participation in the “Virtual Live Training” (or short “VLT”) takes place live, i.e. in real time. The students are part of the same class that is being held at one of the various TechSherpas training facilities on that particular date. The Virtual Live Training participants attend remotely via VOIP technology, and can still benefit from the experience of a classroom environment:

  • Interaction: The students can listen, as well as, ask the instructor questions, just like in a regular class. If necessary, the instructor can even view and take control of the distant desktop with the help of remote desktop software.
  • Face-to-Face experience: With the help of webcams, the students can look at their instructor, as well as, at other students who are attending the class on-site.

Benefiting from the “live” format means that you have to choose among various predetermined dates and adhere to a fixed schedule. This might mean less flexibility regarding your time planning, but the benefit of added flexibility when it comes to class interaction and the option of asking the instructor direct questions.

On-Demand Learning: Virtual Learning when it suits you best

The option of On-Demand Learning offers the greatest flexibility in respect to your learning schedule. This can be a major advantage to those students who need to fit their continuing education into their busy workweek, around family obligations – or both.

The classes consist of prerecorded videos plus exercises. Therefore, there is no instructor present in real-time to answer any questions, but this method allows the participants to set their own study pace. They can pause the videos and take the next lesson when it suits them best.

This scheduling flexibility is probably the deciding criteria when it comes to choosing which of the two remote, virtual learning methods is the best for you. However, if the option of instructor interaction is of particular importance to you, you might want to “test-drive” our On-Demand Learning offer first: Simply send us an email to ondemand@ittraining365.com/blog, and we will send you a special Course Demo Code so you can give it a try.

Sources and further reading:

https://techsherpas.com/learning-methods/virtual-live-training/
https://techsherpas.com/on-demand/
https://techsherpas.com/on-demand-bundles/
https://techsherpas.com/on-demand-unlimited/

The Microsoft Office 365 Applications and Services – an Overview (Part 1)

Office 365 applicationsIn last week’s post, we have already given you a first overview of the various Microsoft Office 365 plans and the Office 365 applications and services that are included in those plans.

Below you will find a few more details about the use and the benefits of the different applications and services, so you can make an even better informed choice.

Available Microsoft Office 365 Applications and Services

These are the different applications and services available for Microsoft Office 365 and part of the Office 365 plans. Depending on the particular plan, the variation of the included applications and services differs. In addition, some of the applications are only available for PC, not for Mac.

Applications:

  • Word
  • Excel
  • PowerPoint
  • Outlook
  • OneNote
  • Access (only available for PC)
  • Publisher (only available for PC)

Services:

  • OneDrive
  • Skype
  • Skype for Business
  • SharePoint
  • Exchange
  • Microsoft Teams

A Closer Look at the Different Office 365 Applications

Word, Excel, PowerPoint

Word (for word processing tasks), Excel (spreadsheets for calculation, graphing tools and pivot tables, and PowerPoint (for the creation of presentation slides) are probably the best-known Microsoft Applications. They have been around in various versions since the 1990’s (PowerPoint) and even 1980’s (Word and Excel).

Outlook

Outlook is another classic among the Microsoft Office Applications. Microsoft released the first version in the early 90’s. Outlook is widely known as an email application, but it also features a calendar, contact organizing and note taking function.

OneNote

We have already written more extensively about the benefits and use of Microsoft OneNote in one of our previous blog posts. One of its main purposes is the organization of notes, but users can also embed various other files (audio, video, graphics etc.), create free-hand drawings and record audio. In addition, it allows the sharing of the so-called “workbooks” with other users, which makes OneNote a great tool for team collaborations.

How to Master Microsoft Office 365

We will continue this overview of the different Office 365 applications and services in our next post.

In the meantime, have a look at our trainings and certification courses for Microsoft Office 365 to find out how to make the most of its features. TechSherpas are certified Microsoft Gold Partners and provide you with competent and professional instructors, for in-house learning as well as learning solutions on-demand and live/online.

 

Sources:

https://products.office.com/en-us/compare-all-microsoft-office-products?tab=2&OCID=AID717974_SEM_RsukckXV&lnkd=Google_O365SMB_NI

Which of the Microsoft Office 365 Plans Is Right For Me?

Microsoft Office 365 PlansTo decide, which of the available Microsoft Office 365 Plans is the right one for your requirements, let us go through the various selection criteria to point you into the right direction.

Microsoft Office 365 Plans for Home and Business

First of all, there is the option for home use:

  • Office 365 Home
  • Office 365 Personal

with a special version

  • Office Home and Students 2016 for PC

For business purposes, you have the choice between three different options:

  • Office 365 Business
  • Office 365 Premium Business
  • Office 365 Business Essentials

Microsoft Office 365 is available for PC and Mac. The Homes and Students version (only for PC) can be purchased for a one-time payment. All other versions are paid for on a monthly basis, with a minimum commitment of one year.

Which of the Microsoft Office 365 Applications and Services do you need?

Depending on which of the Microsoft Office 365 plans you select, an array of different Microsoft applications and services is included in the plan.

Applications:

  • Word
  • Excel
  • PowerPoint
  • OneNote
  • Outlook
  • Publisher (only for PC)
  • Access (only for PC)

All of these applications are included in Office 365 Home and Office 365 Personal, as well as (except Publisher) in Office 365 Business and Office 365 Premium Business.

The Office Home and Students 2016 for PC plan includes a limited selection:

  • Word
  • Excel
  • PowerPoint
  • OneNote

The Office 365 Business Essentials plan does not include any application.

Services:

  • OneDrive
  • Skype/Skype for Business
  • Exchange
  • SharePoint
  • Microsoft Teams

Office Home and Students 2016 for PC does not include any service.

For the other plans, a differing selection applies:

OneDrive is included in each of the plans (except Office Home and Students 2016 for PC). Apart from Office 365 Business (and the student version), Skype or Skype for Business are part of all plans. Office 365 Premium Business and Office 365 Business Essentials both also include SharePoint and Microsoft Teams.

Getting the best use out of Microsoft Office 365

Finding the right Microsoft Office 365 plan is only the first step though. We, at TechSherpas , are certified Microsoft Gold Partners. In order to get the best use out of the selected plans and its individual features for home and business, have a look at our various Microsoft Office 365 trainings, certification courses and boot camps.

 

Sources:

https://products.office.com/en-us/compare-all-microsoft-office-products?tab=2&OCID=AID717974_SEM_RsukckXV&lnkd=Google_O365SMB_NI

https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/store/b/help-me-choose-office

IT Learning Solutions with TechSherpas – an Overview

A real IT expert needs constant learning and upkeep – we at TechSherpas offer you a set of different IT learning solutions that fit your organizational needs:

In-Classroom or Virtual IT Learning Solutions

You can participate in certification training and other IT classes either on campus or virtually from your own computer at home or the office. If you prefer the live in-classroom experience with like-minded fellow students, you can choose our facility here in Tampa, Florida, or one of our other training locations all over the United States.learning solutions

If you are not local to one of our training locations you have the choice between two different ways of course participation on a virtual/remote basis:

Beyond these options, we also offer customized on-site training at your own facility or location of your choice. If you are interested in further details or have any questions, please contact us.

On-Demand Learning

Our on-demand IT learning solutions give you the opportunity to build your training around your personal schedule. With prerecorded multimedia training units and a modular course structure, you can learn online at those times that work best for you. You can also choose your own study pace, and have the option to bundle courses.

Boot Camp Certification Courses

We provide many of our certification courses that prepare you for various IT certifications  in a “boot camp” format. This means an intensive training for several consecutive days. This means, you can prepare for a potentially career-boosting IT certification within a comparatively short time. With this learning solution you do not need to commit yourself to a training that might take several months, but can instead take a few vacation days off your usual occupation to reach your training goal. Our certified instructors offer you professional, hands-on instruction. Depending on the subject, our boot camp certification courses have a duration between five to nine days.

Further Course Information

Have a look at our current catalog of boot camp certification courses, on-demand training options and more. This will give you can get a better idea of your options. If you have any further questions – let us know!

Microsoft Azure Certification Training Courses with TechSherpas

Microsoft Azure is a suite of cloud computing services. IT experts have the option to obtain a Microsoft Azure Certification – or several – for example to boost their professional credentials as well as their careers.

Microsoft Azure Certification – An Overview of the Options

Microsoft Azure Certification

The following is an overview of the currently issued Microsoft Azure Certifications. To make the navigation as easy as possible for you, we have linked the certification titles to information about TechSherpas 365’s respective training course (where applicable).

  • Designing and Implementing Cloud Data Platform Solutions (Microsoft Certification exam 70-473)
  • Designing and Implementing Big Data Analytics Solutions (Microsoft Certification exam 70-475)
  • Developing Microsoft Azure and Web Services (Microsoft Certification exam 70-487)
  • Developing Microsoft Azure Solutions (Microsoft Certification exam 70-532)
  • Implementing Microsoft Azure Infrastructure Solutions (Microsoft Certification exam 70-533)
  • Architecting Microsoft Azure Solutions (Microsoft Certification exam 70-535)
  • Configuring and Operating a Hybrid Cloud with Microsoft Azure Stack (Microsoft Certification exam 70-537)
  • Perform Cloud Data Science with Azure Machine Learning (Microsoft Certification exam 70-774)
  • Perform Data Engineering on Microsoft HDInsight (Microsoft Certification exam 70-775)
  • Engineering Data with Microsoft Cloud Service (Microsoft Certification exam 70-776)

TechSherpa’s Microsoft Azure Training Courses

As certified Microsoft Gold Partners for learning solutions, TechSherpas provides a range of Azure-related trainings for IT professionals. These training courses prepare you for the respective Microsoft Azure Certifications. They include options for boot camp courses, remote on-demand learning, as well as the possibility to choose In-Classroom Learning (ICL) or Virtual Live Training (VLT). The availability of these options depends on the specific courses. Please make sure to read the respective course description and ICL/VLT markers for details.

Microsoft Software Assurance Training Vouchers

Azure is a certification issued by Microsoft. Therefore, there are Microsoft Software Assurance Training Vouchers (SATVs) available for eligible customers and courses taught by Microsoft-certified Learning Partners. These vouchers are part of Microsoft’s Software Assurance Benefits for their Volume Licensing. Most of our Microsoft-related software classes are eligible for the use of such a training voucher.

Are you already one of Microsoft’s Volume Licensing customers? Then you can find out more about your benefits at Microsoft’s Volume Licensing Services Center (VLSC) and/or the Business Center.

Any Questions?

Contact us, if you

  • need assistance regarding the Microsoft Software Assurance Training Vouchers
  • need additional information that you did not find on our website
  • or have any questions regarding the registration or our courses

Give us a call, or use our contact form. We look forward to hearing from you!

 

Sources:

https://azure.microsoft.com/en-us/
https://azure.microsoft.com/en-us/overview/what-is-azure/
https://azure.microsoft.com/en-us/get-started/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Microsoft_Azure

Microsoft Software Assurance Training Vouchers (SATVs)

Microsoft Training VouchersMicrosoft Training Vouchers (or “Microsoft Software Assurance Training Vouchers”/SATVs) are a great help to limit the costs of professional IT training for Microsoft products. The purchase of software – especially in large volumes – means a financial investment for a company or organization.

The Microsoft Software Assurance Training Vouchers are one way to enhance the value and the return on such investments: They allow businesses and organizations to ensure that their employees receive the proper training in order to use the Microsoft software. They are also an important tool that provides necessary training without having to dip too deeply into the organization’s software training budget.

How do I get Microsoft Training Vouchers?

The Microsoft Software Assurance Training Vouchers (in short: “SATVs”) are among the Software Assurance Benefits for Microsoft Volume Licensing. Current Volume Licensing customers can get detailed information about their particular benefits online via Microsoft’s Volume Licensing Services Center (VLSC) and/or the Business Center. This is also the way to access your benefits.

How do I use the training vouchers?

The training vouchers are available for a range of eligible courses taught by especially certified Microsoft Learning Partners like TechSherpas 365 . Most of the Microsoft-related technology classes are eligible for the use of a Microsoft training voucher. We are a Gold Microsoft Learning Partner. At TechSherpas , we offer a broad range of Microsoft training classes and certifications aimed at IT professionals. Some examples for our Microsoft classes are: Azure, Skype, Office and Project Management, but also SharePoint, Windows OS and Windows Server Training.

Any further questions?

Microsoft provides download options for several resources/guides to give you an overview about their Software Assurance Program and their Volume Licensing terms, for example:

Software Assurance at a Glance” and the “Software Assurance Program Guide”, as well as a “Software Assurance Benefits Chart” and more.

You can of course also contact us here at TechSherpas if you need further information or assistance with redeeming the Microsoft Training Vouchers. Simply call us or use our contact form.

Have you already used Microsoft Software Assurance Training Vouchers before? Let us know about your experience in the comments section.

 

 

Sources:

https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/Licensing/licensing-programs/FAQ-Software-Assurance.aspx
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/licensing/licensing-programs/software-assurance-default.aspx
https://techsherpas.com/software-assurance-training-vouchers/
https://techsherpas.com/technology/microsoft-training/
https://techsherpas.com/technology/microsoft-training/certification-programs/