People working in both technology and construction fields, especially those focused on data centers, often encounter the DCDC certification. The credential holds significant power to boost your career development.
We cover everything possible about the DCDC certification, including its definition and associated costs, combined with difficulty metrics to determine if it indeed warrants your funding investment.
So, what exactly is the DCDC certification?
An organization that provides data center design consultancy services is known in the industry as DCDC. BICSI provides the DCDC certification through its program for tech infrastructure specialists who deal with cabling, networking, and data centers.
Getting this certification proves your ability to plan data centers and handle every aspect of facility design, including power systems and cooling mechanisms with safe floor layouts. This accreditation targets every professional who currently engages in data center development or wants to start in this field, including engineers and architects, with additional representation from IT specialists, consultants, and project managers.
If your role includes overseeing the construction or operation of a data center, the DCDC demonstrates your expertise in the field.
How much does it cost to get DCDC certification?
Let’s talk numbers. Getting certified isn’t free, but it’s not outrageously expensive either, especially when you look at what you could earn after.
Here’s a rough breakdown of the costs:
- Exam fee: If you’re a BICSI member, the exam fee is about $375. For non-members, it’s roughly $525.
- Training courses: The educational workshops do not have mandatory attendance, yet numerous people select them because they bring value. The average price for an artificial football pitch falls within $2,500 to $3,000.
- Study materials: The official BICSI manual and practice exams could cost you a few hundred dollars.
In total, you could end up spending between $3,000 and $4,000 if you fully commit to training, resources, and the exam.
Is the exam hard?
It’s definitely not a piece of cake, but it’s doable. If you have some background in data centers or have been in a similar industry, you’re already ahead of the game.
Here’s what the exam looks like:
- 100 multiple-choice questions
- 2.5 hours to complete it
The assessment covers elements regarding power systems and cooling techniques in combination with fire protection protocols as well as protective measures and architectural features. Knowing both industry standards and best practices plays a significant role in the successful understanding of safety concerns.
Education demands between six and ten weeks from most students for successful completion. Students move at different speeds when preparing for the examination; some complete it rapidly while others choose extended periods. People who work full-time should dedicate between one and two study hours daily to prepare adequately for the exams.
What kind of return do you get on your investment?
1. You could earn more money
A majority of those having DCDC certification experience raises in their compensation. Your occupational position and past wage determine how much you can receive in added earnings through the DCDC certification, with amounts between $10,000 and $20,000 per year that certain cases may exceed.
2. More and better job opportunities
Getting the DCDC certification really boosts your resume. Employers appreciate it because it demonstrates that you grasp not only the technical aspects but also the planning and design elements involved.
Here are just a few roles where DCDC really shines:
- Data Center Design Specialist
- Data Center Project Leader
- Infrastructure Specialist
- Solutions Designer
- Pre-sales Engineer or Advisor
If you’re aiming to secure your first position in data centers or transition into a leadership role, the DCDC can really set you apart.
3. The data center industry is booming
Human society now relies on data to an unprecedented extent. All functions that depend on streaming and cloud storage and video calls and artificial intelligence services rely on servers that operate from data centers.
Professional data center expertise will grow in demand based on present market indications. The market expansion provides excellent potential for individuals who hold proper certifications.
What kind of jobs can you get with the DCDC?
Data Center Design Consultant
This is the major opportunity. Your work in this position involves business collaboration for complete data center creation and strategic development. Your assessment will include an analysis of every essential data center aspect, ranging from physical space requirements to thermal management and electrical infrastructures, along with other factors. The DCDC certification directly fulfills the requirements of this position.
Data Center Project Manager
Organizational skills in combination with tracking abilities could be your purpose in this field. Your knowledge of DCDC will help you direct data center construction or upgrades while working hand in hand with design and engineering personnel.
Infrastructure Engineer
The DCDC allows existing tech professionals to move toward more planning and design responsibilities. With this course you will learn about system functioning techniques as well as raw system development principles.
Solutions Architect or Technical Sales
Absolutely, sales positions can gain a lot from this too. By grasping data center design, you can provide customers and clients with improved solutions. This knowledge can open doors to higher-paying opportunities and more engaging projects.
Is the DCDC certification right for you?
Here’s a quick checklist to help you decide.
- Curious about the inner workings of data centers?
- Looking to create systems instead of just keeping them running?
- Prepared to dedicate some time and resources to advance your career?
- Want to explore improved job opportunities and possibly earn a higher salary?
Securing the DCDC certification requires a solid commitment. You’ll have to invest time in studying, cover the costs for the exam and study materials, and possibly enroll in a course. However, the rewards can be significant.