Should you be reading this Post, Congratulations on your first step to Kubernetes Mastery!

My name is DevonPatrick Adkins, I started my Kubernetes Journey with absolutely Zero Experience. A passion of mine is helping the Broader Global Community Upskill themselves within the Information Technology Space and most Importantly. Landing that first Role in IT. I am a 4x Cisco Champion and 3x AWS Community Builder.

With Introductions outta the way. Like most good things in life, nothing good comes easy. However with Discipline, Motivation and Consistency, you can accomplish almost anything, with just using these three basic principals.

Where to Begin
Kubernetes offers a range of certifications that cater to different levels of expertise, allowing professionals to validate their skills across various aspects of Kubernetes and cloud-native technologies. These certifications include:

KCNA (Kubernetes and Cloud Native Associate) – Designed for those new to Kubernetes, this entry-level certification focuses on the foundational concepts of Kubernetes and cloud-native technologies.
https://training.linuxfoundation.org/certification/kubernetes-cloud-native-associate/

CKA (Certified Kubernetes Administrator) – This certification is ideal for those looking to manage and configure Kubernetes clusters. It emphasizes hands-on, real-world administrative tasks and is a great way to build a practical understanding of Kubernetes from the ground up.
https://training.linuxfoundation.org/certification/certified-kubernetes-administrator-cka/

CKAD (Certified Kubernetes Application Developer) – Focused on developers, the CKAD certifies the ability to design, build, and deploy applications on Kubernetes. It’s well-suited for those interested in the application development aspect of the ecosystem.
https://training.linuxfoundation.org/certification/certified-kubernetes-application-developer-ckad/

CKS (Certified Kubernetes Security Specialist) – Security-focused, the CKS certification is designed for Kubernetes administrators looking to deepen their expertise in securing container-based applications and Kubernetes clusters.
https://training.linuxfoundation.org/certification/certified-kubernetes-security-specialist/

KCSA (Kubernetes Certified Security Associate) This certification validates knowledge in Kubernetes security practices, making it essential for those looking to focus specifically on the security aspects within the Kubernetes environment.
https://training.linuxfoundation.org/certification/kubernetes-and-cloud-native-security-associate-kcsa/

Although the KCNA is an entry-level certification, I personally suggest that starting with the CKA is actually a better choice, even for beginners. The CKA provides a solid, hands-on foundation in managing Kubernetes clusters, offering practical experience in tasks like troubleshooting, networking, and configuring clusters.

This real-world focus equips candidates with more useful, job-ready skills, allowing for quicker advancement in their Kubernetes journey compared to the more theoretical KCNA. You are also able to land a job and stand out way more, as there is a lot of theory overlap between the two courses.

Tip on landing your First Kubernetes Certificate for Free

Its been about 2 Years now, since I was awarded The Shubhra Kar Linux Foundation Training Otherwise known as the (LIFT) Scholarship. Its a fairly easy Application Process, the next Applications should be open in April 2025 - https://www.linuxfoundation.org/about/lift-scholarships. Personally I had beginner level experience with Linux Operating Systems.

Should you be new too the Linux OS I highly recommend you take the Free Training below:
https://linuxsurvival.com/

You can also access the Killa Coda Web page where you will get 20 Free Lessons as well as a Practical Test.

There are plenty other free resources you can use to Sharpen your skills, what is important to remember that with Kubernetes these exams are Practical in Nature, meaning that you will be given an environment where you have to answer questions by building out Kubernetes Resources or Policies, The Good news is that this show's employers you do not have just Theoretical Experience, but that much needed Practical Experience to land a Post.

Keeping Motivated

https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Kubernetes-Engineer-Salary

Keep your eyes on that Prize!!! In a recent Blog by Appvia, 'Kubernetes is one of the hottest technologies in cloud deployments. Skilled Kubernetes developers and operators are in high demand, with many organisations struggling to fill their new positions.' https://www.appvia.io/blog/the-real-cost-of-kubernetes-expertise
This skill is well sort out for and with the demand of these jobs mostly being eligible for remote work, once you have landed your first Certification, you will definitely stand out above the rest and will be able to land a role with ease.

More Resources
I would recommend you check out my site https://deadkithedeveloper.click/, I have a page related to Devops that will help you pass your CKA, CKAD and CKS. Here is a list of resources you can use, however be sure to check out the website for an updated listing:

Docker Training Course for the Absolute Beginner – Mumshad Mannambeth (KodeKloud Free)

Visit the site to sign up now for free: https://kodekloud.com/courses/docker-for-the-absolute-beginner/

Kubernetes – Free Courses and Tutorials on Udemy

https://www.udemy.com/topic/kubernetes/free/

For General Labbing or Practice Exams visit Killer Coda, they have some of the Best Labs designed that helped me achieve exam victory.

Complete Kubernetes Course - From BEGINNER to PRO - with DevOps Directive - Follow Along

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2T86xAtR6Fo

Conclusion
All it takes is the correct Mindset as mentioned, with a huge list of free resources, and an opportunity to take these exams for free, there is nothing stopping you from becoming a Kubernetes Hero today! I am really proud to have obtained all three practical certifications which I will list below to show it is possible!! All the best, feel free to use the contact us on the DeadkiDeveloper website or DM me on LinkedIn if you have any questions! You Rock!