3 Things I Wish I knew Before Becoming a Solutions Architect

In Today’s Cloudbites:

✍️ 3 Key Lessons for Aspiring Solutions Architects

🎓 A Guide to Learn Cloud From Scratch

☁️ Online Cloud Events to Look Forward to

🧩 PLUS: Join Our 30 Day Cloud Challenge

Read time: 5 minutes

Hi friends, welcome back to Cloudbites

In this newsletter, I’ll be sharing three lessons I learned the hard way as a Solutions Architect. I’ll also share the details of our upcoming 30-Day Cloud Challenge.

CLOUD COMPUTING ☁️

✍️ 3 Key Lessons for Aspiring Solutions Architects

Want to know the secret to becoming a successful Solutions Architect?

It’s not just about building solutions and drawing diagrams.

You can think of it as combining technology with solving real-world business problems.

If that sounds like something you’d enjoy, then a career as a Solutions Architect might be the right path for you!

But before you jump in, here are some things I wish I knew sooner:

#1 Solutions Architects don’t work Solo:

Being a Solutions Architect isn’t a solo job. You’re working with a mix of people (developers, business teams and customers), with different priorities.

A big part of the role is bringing everyone together and finding solutions that work for everyone. That means a lot of collaboration, negotiation, and problem-solving. 

In order to stay ahead in this field, it’s important to understand everyone’s perspectives and make sure that all needs are met.

If you’re not a natural at it, don’t worry! These are skills you can build over time.

#2 The Learning Never Ends

One important learning from my time as a Solutions Architect, is that the learning never stops.

Honestly, in my opinion, that’s one of the best parts of the job. 

If you enjoy solving problems and picking up new skills, you’ll love this dynamic role. But if you expect things to stay the same, this job might be frustrating.

Want to stay ahead & keep your technical skills sharp? Set up a learning routine, by dedicating time each week to dive into industry trends and hands-on projects.

#3 Communication is Key

I used to think that a great solution would ‘speak for itself’. But since then, I’ve learnt that it requires clear communication.

You can have the best technical ideas, but if you can’t explain them to non-technical people or get stakeholders on-board, they won’t be implemented.

It’s very important to break down complex ideas into simple explanations and be comfortable with presenting your ideas.

To improve your communication skills, make it a habit to ask for feedback and focus on areas where you can improve.

🎓 A Guide to learn Cloud from Scratch

Interested to learn Cloud Computing, but not sure where to begin?

Check out my video on How I would Learn Cloud (If I Could Start Over) where I share the exact steps I’d take to learn AWS from scratch.

I also share tips to help you avoid burnout and stay motivated throughout your journey.

☁️ Online Cloud Events to Look Forward to

#1 Startup School: GenAI (Feb 25, 2025)

Take your Gen AI skills to the next level with this training series led by Google Cloud.

Click here to register.

#2 Microsoft Azure Virtual Training Day: Fundamentals (Feb 24 - 25, 2025)

Join a free Microsoft Azure Virtual Training Day to build foundational cloud skills and get 50% off the Azure Fundamentals certification exam.

Click here to register.

#3 Interview Workshop and Career Networking Event (Feb 27, 2025)

This free, in-person event offered by AWS will teach you how to sound confident and highlight your skills during interviews.

Click here to register.

CLOUD CHALLENGE 🧠

🧠 PLUS: Join Our 30 Day Cloud Challenge

Are you interested in growing your cloud skills? Join our 30-Day Cloud Challenge starting March 1st!

This challenge is the perfect way to get started on your cloud journey.

Here’s what you’ll receive by joining this challenge:

📌 Access to These Courses: 

 ✅ AWS Interview Mastery: Get Hired in the Cloud

 ✅ 5 Beginner AWS Cloud Projects: Complete Step By Step Guide

 ✅ Study Notes: AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner

 ✅ Study Notes: AWS Certified AI Practitioner

📌 Live Weekly Mentoring Sessions: Get your questions answered, plus tips and career advice.

📌 Slack Community: Connect, ask questions, and get project support.

📌 Certificate of Completion: Complete the challenge and earn a certificate to showcase your skills!

THAT’S A WRAP

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Thanks for reading! 😊

P.S. How was today's email? Reply directly with your feedback, or DM me on LinkedIn @LucyWang-