In today’s world, data is abundant. With the growth of big data in recent years, the demand for professionals who can handle it effectively has also increased. The field of data science and its respective professions have successfully made their place in the modern world. Data architecture is one such profession that has shown its worth to the world with its diverse applications.
The art of manipulating data into profit is very important today as it can make or break any business. Correct management, analysis, and storage of data are the main concerns of every business. Data architects provide other professionals with the necessary tools required for the correct implementation of all the operations related to big data. It is important to note that data science is a multidisciplinary approach that requires aspiring data architects to have knowledge regarding principles of mathematics, engineering, statistics, artificial intelligence, computer science, etc.
Data architects are responsible for envisioning future data frameworks, thus directly leading a company’s future. Due to the massive demand for data architects in every field, the opportunities and growth in this field are remarkable and captivating.
In this article, we will discuss remarkable opportunities and growth aspects in this field. If you want to leverage the power of data, you are at the right place because, in this article, we will discuss how to become a data architect.
What does a data architect do?
Data architecture is a profession that demands holistic insight. A data architect is responsible for maintaining and building a company's database by designing proper frameworks, digital structures, and systems.
Data scientists have a grasp of statistics, while data engineers have expertise in software engineering. Data architects are professionals that master both, i.e., statistics and software engineering.
They study existing data frameworks and the structure of companies identifying possible problems. At the same time, they plan and visualize new infrastructures that can be integrated into existing systems to solve problems. Data architects are vital for the success of any company or business due to the critical nature of their responsibilities, which are wide-ranging.
Why become a data architect?
Data architects are a crucial link between business and technology. There are many reasons to become a data architect. One of these reasons is the positive impact you can have on any company’s growth. Data architects can help any company make decisions regarding its future with their skills.
In addition, salaries in data science depend on various factors like qualification, experience, skills, and certifications. Despite this vast range of factors, the increase in the demand for data architects in recent years is undeniable.
In a world where unemployment is rising, a nine percent increase in employment is predicated from 2021 to 2031, which is faster than the average growth rate of different fields and jobs. The average salary of a data architect is estimated to be about $127,732 per year, which is more than twice the average estimated salary for all professions.
There are not only monetary reasons to join this field. As a data architect, you can help the world fight climate change by designing climate models.
One of the perks of being a data architect is that you can choose to work in any industry or field of interest.
Let us discuss five major steps that you can take starting today to make your career as a data architect.
1. Knowledge acquisition and skill learning
The first and foremost requirement for starting your career as a data architect is knowledge and skill acquisition. Most companies and businesses require a bachelor's degree in data architecture or respective fields to apply for the position.
Don't worry if you don't have one yet or don't have the time to physically attend classes, as some universities offer online bachelor's and master's degrees in data architecture and respective fields.
While applying for a graduate degree in data architecture, getting one from an accredited and well-reputed university is necessary. Maryville University is one such university that is not only accredited but offers online bachelor's degrees to help you grasp demand and technical skills.
A data architect needs to have a hold on technical and practical knowledge like SAS programming, SQL, Python, analytics, modeling, etc., which an online graduate program can teach you within the comfort of your home. The online bachelor's program from Maryville University is perfect for kickstarting your career as a data architect.
2. Getting professional certification
While the basic requirement to work as a data architect at most places is a graduate’s degree in the respective field, certifications can help you stand out.
These certifications can equip you with technical knowledge of certain specifications in depth. It can aid you in demonstrating outstanding skills at work, so you can excel in your company.
In addition, it can also open doors for you that are otherwise locked in professionals with general knowledge and a set of skills only.
3. Practicing and acquiring experience
Practice makes a data architect perfect. If not for experience and practice, the set of skills and knowledge acquired by any professional is useless.
It is indeed a fact that practical work is very different from theoretical knowledge and skills. That's why a data architect needs to get experience. It is very difficult to land a job or get a project for a data architect without any experience.
Internships and bootcamps come in handy in this situation as they expose a person to professional life before one enters it.
4. Making new connections
Networking is an important skill for any professional. It is more important for data architects as it can help them to learn from other experiences and hone their skills.
5. Staying up to date
In the current era of advancement, everyone needs to stay updated and keep up with the trends. The changes and innovations in data science are happening daily at a fast pace. That's why data architects must keep polishing their skills and knowledge of the subject matter.
Conclusion
In short, becoming a data architect is an excellent choice as a career in this era of science and technology. It’s never too late to start a career as a data architect when you can earn an online degree and certifications. A data architect needs critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills, which can be acquired through practicing and staying up to date with current trends.
