For over almost two decades, the VMware Certified Design Expert certification has stood as the pinnacle measurement for architects mastering VMware solutions – a globally recognized achievement of elite expertise. But as the private cloud landscape accelerates and our community’s needs evolve, we’re not just adapting – we’re revolutionizing.
We are thrilled to announce the evolution of this iconic program, expanding its reach beyond traditional focus on design roles to welcome a broader range of elite VMware professionals: Architects, Administrators, and Support specialists. To reflect this expanded vision, we are proudly renaming it the VMware Certified Distinguished Expert (VCDX).
This isn’t just an update, it is a strategic re-imagining of our VCDX program, designed specifically for individuals like you who aspire to actively define the future of the private cloud. It is also an invitation to build on your deep VMware knowledge, push conventional limits, and help pioneer the next generation of private cloud environments.
“As VCDX #1 and a founding supporter since 2007, I can attest that the VMware VCDX program is not just a certification—it is the definitive, peer-vetted validation for a distinguished expert.” – John Arrasjid, VCDX #1
The Critical Demand for Modern Cloud Expertise
The need for specialized modern cloud expertise has never been more crucial. With 76% of enterprises planning to expand cloud services through private cloud, as highlighted in the Flexera 2024 State of the Cloud Report, the demand for profound cloud intelligence is rapidly accelerating.Yet, a critical challenge persists: a pervasive cloud skills gap. A staggering 95% of IT decision-makers said the cloud skills gap negatively impacted their team, leading to slower innovation and increased operational costs. Even more alarming, nearly a third of organizations are actively jeopardizing their bottom line, having missed their financial objectives due to this critical cloud skills gap.
In this dynamic landscape, ongoing education and high-level certification are no longer optional but essential for developing the vital skills needed for modern cloud environments. The VMware Certified Distinguished Expert program offers you the unparalleled opportunity to not only bridge this critical gap but to become the invaluable professional companies are desperately seeking in the modern cloud domain.
“Becoming a VCDX made me more than a technologist, helped me build critical problem skills to drive business outcomes.” – Melissa Palmer, VCDX # 237
The VCDX Advantage: Unlocking Elite Opportunities
The VMware Certified Distinguished Expert certification is the highest level of skill and leadership required to conceptualize, design, and validate the most robust, scalable, and secure VMware Cloud Foundation environments. Achieving this prestigious status offers a unique opportunity to leverage your deep knowledge, actively define the evolution of cloud environments, and lead the charge into the next generation of cloud architecture.
Beyond formal recognition, the VCDX status immerses you at the forefront of private cloud solution developments, connecting you to a global network of elite technical peers. Imagine gaining early access to future product beta releases, providing you with an exclusive first-look at upcoming VCF platform solution updates to keep you ahead of the curve.
You will also secure enhanced opportunities to directly influence strategy by participating in key forums, such as Product Technical Advisory Boards (PTAB) and Customer Technical Advisory Boards (CTAB). You can also amplify your thought leadership through public events such as VMUG and VMware Explore.
Being part of a global network offers you the opportunity to connect with peers and directly influence VMware’s product direction. Your highly sought after elite technical skills will position you at the forefront of private cloud innovation, significantly enhancing both your career and earning potential.
Accelerating Your Private Cloud Career
Achieving the VCDX certification distinguishes you as the top-tier private cloud professional commanding industry-leading compensation—with Glassdoor reporting an average salary of $200,000 for senior cloud professionals. This elite credential positions you firmly at the forefront of private cloud technology, preparing you to lead the most complex VMware Cloud Foundation initiatives.
You will not only demonstrate expert-level proficiency across essential roles such as Administrator, Architect, and Support, but establish yourself as a technical visionary leader. Imagine the impact you could make in your company, the innovation you could drive, and the career acceleration you could experience by achieving the ultimate of private cloud expertise. Not only will you enhance your professional growth but you will also solidify your place as a leader in the evolving private cloud landscape.
“As a founding VCDX architect, I am thrilled that the elite VCDX certification will now include Admins and Support.” – Andrew Hald, VCDX #4
Your Path to Achieving Cloud Expertise
The journey to become a VCDX has been carefully crafted to elevate your leadership and expertise. For current and aspiring VCF professionals, the VCDX journey begins with establishing a comprehensive foundation in the VCF platform through role-based VCP certification. It then deepens expertise in key VCF technologies, such as Kubernetes via advanced VCAPs. This rigorous journey culminates in a live defense, validating profound architectural knowledge and advanced problem-solving skills, and unparalleled expertise aligned with your specialized role. This is your definitive path to elite private cloud leadership.
Please download our VCF 9 Role-Based Learning Guide today for our newest Instructor-led training, On Demand course links and electives available as well key certification exam resources. If you are a VCF Full Platform customer or eligible Partner, please visit Learning@Broadcom via the Broadcom Support Portal to access your training.
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