Career Snapshot
Average Salary:
The median salary for software developers in the U.S. is about $133,080 per year. DevOps engineers earn an average base salary of $114,742, with total compensation often $130,000+ when bonuses are included.
Job Outlook:
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 15–16% growth in software-related roles from 2024 to 2034—much faster than average. DevOps skills are in especially high demand thanks to cloud computing, AI, and mobile app expansion.
Education & Requirements:
While many professionals hold computer science degrees, you don’t need one to get started. Industry-recognized certifications, hands-on projects, and professional certificates like Coursera’s DevOps program can open doors. What matters most? Problem-solving, coding knowledge, and the ability to collaborate across teams.
Skills You’ll Gain
The Coursera DevOps and Software Engineering Professional Certificate equips students with career-ready skills such as:
- Programming foundations (Python, scripting, Linux shell)
- Version control systems (Git and GitHub)
- Continuous integration/continuous delivery (CI/CD) pipelines
- Cloud infrastructure (AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud)
- Containerization and orchestration (Docker, Kubernetes, OpenShift)
- Agile practices and collaboration across tech teams
The pathway includes multiple modules with interactive projects, so you’ll graduate not just with knowledge but with a portfolio of real work to show employers.
Real-World Impact
Think about your favorite app. Behind the scenes, DevOps engineers made sure:
- New updates rolled out without breaking old features.
- Security patches went live before hackers could exploit weaknesses.
- Millions of users could log in at once without the system crashing.
In schools, DevOps is just as important. Districts rely on secure cloud platforms to manage student data, teachers need reliable classroom apps, and students need access anytime, anywhere. DevOps professionals are the quiet heroes who make all that happen.
Related Career Pathways
Exploring DevOps can also open doors to other fast-growing roles, including:
- Cloud Engineer – specializing in cloud-based systems.
- Cybersecurity Analyst – protecting software from digital threats.
- AI/Machine Learning Engineer – building intelligent systems.
- Full-Stack Developer – designing and coding web applications.
Each of these careers builds on the same foundations you’ll gain in the DevOps and Software Engineering pathway.
Why SDA Recommends This Pathway
At SchoolDay Academy, we know CTE students need pathways that align with workforce demand and Perkins V requirements. That’s why we recommend Coursera’s DevOps and Software Engineering Professional Certificate. It’s designed by industry leaders, taught online in flexible modules, and focused on real employability skills.
Best of all, SDA makes it affordable and accessible for districts—so every student has a fair shot at the future of tech.
Conclusion
DevOps isn’t just a job—it’s a career pathway that shapes the digital world around us. With high salaries, strong demand, and endless opportunities, this is the perfect time for students to jump in.
Explore the DevOps and Software Engineering Career Pathway on SchoolDay Academy and start building your future today.