How to Become a Google Cloud Engineer with No Experience or Degree

Breaking into cloud computing without a degree or prior experience may seem daunting, but it’s entirely achievable.

With the right strategy, certifications, and hands-on projects, you can build the skills and portfolio needed to land a Google Cloud Engineer role.

Here’s the step-by-step guide I followed to transition into this career, including the Cloud Resume Challenge, which played a key role after I earned the Google Associate Cloud Engineer certification.

1. Understand the Role of a Google Cloud Engineer

Before diving in, it’s crucial to understand what a Google Cloud Engineer does.
Key Responsibilities:

• Design and deploy cloud-based solutions using Google Cloud Platform (GCP).
• Manage and optimize cloud infrastructure, including compute, storage, and networking.
• Ensure security, scalability, and reliability in cloud environments.
• Collaborate with teams to implement DevOps practices and monitor systems.

Skills Required:

• Strong understanding of cloud concepts like virtualization, networking, and databases.
• Proficiency in GCP tools such as Compute Engine, Cloud Storage, BigQuery, and Kubernetes.
• Knowledge of scripting or programming (Python, Bash, or similar).
  By knowing what the role entails, you can focus on building the right skill set.

2. Get Familiar with Google Cloud Fundamentals

Start by exploring GCP’s core services and concepts. Google offers free training resources to help beginners.
Action Steps:

1. Enroll in the Google Cloud Fundamentals: Core Infrastructure course (free on Qwiklabs or Coursera).
2. Set up a free-tier GCP account to practice using services like Cloud Storage and Compute Engine.
3. Complete GCP skill badges on Qwiklabs, such as Create and Manage Cloud Resources.
   Purpose: These foundational steps give you hands-on experience and prepare you for more advanced learning.

3. Earn the Associate Cloud Engineer (ACE) Certification

The ACE certification is the perfect starting point for beginners as it validates foundational GCP skills.
Action Steps:

1. Study the ACE exam guide to understand the exam domains (e.g., deploying applications, configuring storage, and managing IAM).
2. Use online resources like Google Cloud’s Exam Readiness courses, tutorials, and practice exams.
3. Leverage Qwiklabs’ hands-on labs to build practical skills while preparing for the test.
   Skills Gained:

• Deploying and managing virtual machines on Compute Engine.
• Configuring and securing storage buckets in Cloud Storage.
• Implementing IAM policies for resource security.
  Purpose: The ACE certification demonstrates your ability to work with GCP’s core services, even without formal experience or a degree.

4. Complete the Cloud Resume Challenge (Google Cloud Edition)

After earning the ACE certification, I wanted to apply my skills in a real-world project. The Cloud Resume Challenge was a pivotal step in building my cloud portfolio.
Steps to Complete the Challenge:

1. Build a static resume website and host it using Cloud Storage.
2. Secure the website with HTTPS by configuring a Cloud Load Balancer and obtaining an SSL certificate.
3. Set up a Cloud Function to implement a visitor counter, with Firestore as the backend database.
4. Automate deployments using Cloud Build and write infrastructure as code with Terraform.
5. Document the entire process in your resume and share it publicly on platforms like GitHub or LinkedIn.
   Skills Gained:

• Multi-service integration, including serverless architecture and CI/CD pipelines.
• Deploying secure and scalable solutions using GCP.
  Purpose: The challenge pushed me to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical scenario, showcasing my skills to potential employers.

5. Work on GCP Hands-On Projects

Practical projects reinforce learning and demonstrate your abilities. Here are a few beginner-friendly projects:

Deploy a Scalable Web Application with GKE (Google Kubernetes Engine)

• Deploy a containerized application to a Kubernetes cluster.
• Configure autoscaling and monitor workloads with Cloud Operations.

Build a Data Pipeline with BigQuery and Dataflow

• Ingest raw data from Cloud Storage, process it using Dataflow, and store the results in BigQuery.
• Visualize data insights using Looker Studio.

Set Up a Virtual Machine with Compute Engine

• Create and manage virtual machines for hosting applications or testing environments.
  These projects showcase your ability to work with GCP’s diverse services while solving real-world problems.

6. Learn DevOps Tools and Practices

As a Google Cloud Engineer, knowledge of DevOps tools and practices is highly beneficial.
Tools to Focus On:

• Terraform: For infrastructure as code.
• Jenkins/Cloud Build: For CI/CD pipelines.
• Git: For version control.
  Action Steps:

1. Practice deploying infrastructure with Terraform on GCP.
2. Set up a CI/CD pipeline using Cloud Build and GitHub.
3. Use monitoring tools like Cloud Monitoring to track application performance.
   Purpose: DevOps skills enhance your versatility and appeal to employers.

7. Build a Portfolio and Network

A strong portfolio and network can open doors, even without formal experience.
Portfolio Tips:

• Include projects like the Cloud Resume Challenge, GKE deployments, and BigQuery analytics.
• Document each project with a clear explanation, architecture diagrams, and GitHub links.
  Networking Tips:
• Engage with the Google Cloud community on LinkedIn and Twitter.
• Participate in GCP hackathons and events.
• Share your projects on platforms like GitHub and Medium.
  Purpose: A portfolio demonstrates your skills, while networking helps you connect with industry professionals.

8. Apply for Cloud Engineering Roles

Once you’ve built a strong foundation, it’s time to start applying for jobs.
Tips for Job Applications:

1. Tailor your resume to highlight your GCP projects, certifications, and skills.
2. Apply for entry-level roles like Cloud Support Engineer, Junior Cloud Engineer, or DevOps Engineer.
3. Prepare for interviews by practicing common cloud computing scenarios and questions.
   Skills to Highlight:

• Hands-on experience with GCP services.
• Problem-solving abilities demonstrated through projects.
• Knowledge of cloud architecture and best practices.
  Purpose: Focus on roles that align with your skills and provide growth opportunities.

Conclusion

Becoming a Google Cloud Engineer without a degree or experience is achievable with a clear roadmap, dedication, and hands-on practice.

Start by building a strong foundation with the Google Associate Cloud Engineer certification, then tackle real-world projects like the Cloud Resume Challenge to gain practical skills.

Combine this with networking and a solid portfolio to showcase your expertise. With persistence and effort, you’ll be well-equipped to secure a role in cloud engineering and advance your career in the cloud industry.