Seeking advice

mgates67

Hello all,


I've been lurking here for about a week, looks like a great source of information.


It looks like I may be on a slightly different path than most on here, I am not in IT per se. First, a little background on me. I have a BS in Telecommunications and Computer Networking. I am an engineer for a manufacturer of VoIP systems, a competitor to Cisco. My goals are to beef up my skills to support my career in VoIP.


Here is my initial plan:
I am currently working on my SSCA, the SIP School Certified Associate (there doesn't seem to be any information about this certification on this site). Following that I am thinking about getting the Network+, Security+, and CCENT/CCNA certifications. The Networking certs seem obvious because you have to deal with that regardless of what protocols you're dealing with. Also, a little bit of security knowledge never hurts.


After that, I'm somewhat stuck on which direction to go. CCNA Voice might sound logical, but that has a strong vendor focus for a competitor and doesn't seem like it will help me much. I'm debating SSCP because information assurance/security is a major concern for the markets I am involved with. I am curious what any of you SMEs out there might think.


Thanks!

dave330i

Skip Net+. Based on your background, its a waste of money, unless your current job requires it. There was a podcast recently with Todd Lammle. They were all over the place, but 1 of the things mentioned is that CCNP Voice will continue to be 1 of the hottest certs out there for next 5 years or so.

mgates67

Thanks for the info, Dave. Skipping the Net+ makes sense, might as well go right for the CCENT/CCNA. I'll have to do some more research on the CCNP Voice. It's a cert for a competitor that uses a proprietary protocol. Certainly won't hurt the resume, though.

SteveLord

Good advice. Remember, CompTIA is mostly foundation/entry level material.