Category: Education

DevOps is an important and growing field that combines development and operations. As more companies move to the cloud, the demand for AWS DevOps engineers is increasing rapidly. This blog will outline a roadmap for building a successful career in AWS DevOps.

The first step is learning the fundamentals through an AWS DevOps Training. This will teach you the key AWS services like EC2, S3, and RDS, and how to automate infrastructure provisioning and application deployments using tools like Ansible, Terraform, and AWS CodeDeploy.

Following a course with hands-on projects is a great way to gain the skills needed to start your AWS DevOps journey.

Table of Contents:

• Introduction to DevOps and AWS
• Understanding the Role of a DevOps Engineer
• Essential Skills and Knowledge for AWS DevOps
• AWS Certifications for DevOps Professionals
• Building Your AWS DevOps Toolkit
• Implementing DevOps Practices on AWS
• Best Practices for AWS DevOps Security
• Real-world Applications and Case Studies
• Advancing Your Career in AWS DevOps
• Conclusion: Navigating Your Path to Success

Introduction to DevOps and AWS

DevOps is a set of practices that combines software development (Dev) and IT operations (Ops) which helps in building, testing, and releasing software faster and more reliably. Amazon Web Services (AWS) is a cloud computing platform that offers infrastructure as a service to individuals, companies, and governments and supports DevOps practices through its services. In this blog, we will look at how one can build a successful career in AWS DevOps.

Understanding the Role of a DevOps Engineer

A DevOps engineer is responsible for automating the processes between software development and IT teams so that they can build, test, and release software faster and more reliably. Some key responsibilities of a DevOps engineer include:

• Automating infrastructure provisioning, application deployment, testing and monitoring using configuration management, continuous integration, and continuous delivery tools.
• Ensuring high availability, scalability, and reliability of applications by implementing monitoring, alerting and auto-scaling strategies.
• Troubleshooting issues, reviewing logs to identify bottlenecks and optimize application performance.
• Implementing security best practices, access management and regulatory compliance.
• Collaborating with development and operations teams to streamline workflows and processes.

Essential Skills and Knowledge for AWS DevOps

To succeed as an AWS DevOps engineer, one needs to have skills in configuration management tools like Ansible, Chef, Puppet; continuous integration and delivery tools like Jenkins, GitLab CI/CD; containerization technologies like Docker and Kubernetes; programming languages like Python, JavaScript, Go etc. One also needs to have hands-on experience of AWS services like EC2, S3, RDS, Lambda, ECS, EKS, CodePipeline, CodeBuild, CodeDeploy etc. A solid understanding of DevOps principles, site reliability engineering, infrastructure as code, microservices architecture, monitoring and observability is also essential.

AWS Certifications for DevOps Professionals

Getting AWS certifications is a great way to validate your skills and knowledge to employers. Some popular AWS certifications for DevOps professionals include:

• AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner: Validates basic knowledge of AWS services.
• AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate: Focuses on ability to design distributed applications and systems on AWS.
• AWS Certified DevOps Engineer – Professional: Validates ability to develop and manage AWS applications using automated practices.
• AWS Certified Advanced Networking – Specialty: Targeted towards networking professionals working with AWS.
• AWS Certified Security – Specialty: Validates skills in securing AWS workloads and managing security operations.

Building Your AWS DevOps Toolkit

To effectively implement DevOps practices on AWS, one needs to build a robust toolkit. Some important tools to consider include:

• Configuration Management: Ansible, Chef, Puppet
• CI/CD: Jenkins, GitLab, GitHub Actions, CodePipeline, CodeBuild
• Containerization: Docker, Kubernetes, ECS, EKS
• Infrastructure as Code: CloudFormation, Terraform
• Monitoring and Observability: CloudWatch, CloudTrail, X-Ray, Grafana, Prometheus
• Collaboration and Communication: Slack, Jira
• Source Control: Git, CodeCommit

Implementing DevOps Practices on AWS

Some key DevOps practices one can implement on AWS include:

• Infrastructure as Code using CloudFormation templates for provisioning and managing AWS resources.
• Immutable infrastructure approach using automation and versioning to deploy changes.
• Continuous Integration using CodePipeline to build, test and deploy code changes automatically.
• Continuous Delivery using CodeDeploy for automated code deployments to EC2, Lambda, ECS and EKS environments.
• Monitoring and Alerting using CloudWatch for metrics and logs with notifications on SNS.
• Auto-scaling using Auto Scaling Groups for dynamic scaling of EC2 instances and ECS services.
• Canary Deployments using CodeDeploy and traffic shifting to Route53 for safer releases.
• A/B Testing using features like Lambda@Edge and CloudFront to experiment with changes.

Best Practices for AWS DevOps Security

As security is a top priority, some security best practices to follow include:

• Implement least privilege access model using IAM roles for users and services.
• Use AWS WAF and CloudFront for web application firewall and DDoS protection.
• Enable CloudTrail logging for auditing API calls and user activities.
• Use AWS Config for inventory, configuration changes and compliance checks.
• Implement monitoring and alerting using GuardDuty and Macie for threats and data leaks.
• Use encryption (KMS, EBS, S3) and key rotation best practices for data protection.
• Perform regular vulnerability assessments, penetration testing and security audits.
• Implement disaster recovery, backup and restore strategies using services like EBS Snapshots.

Real-world Applications and Case Studies

Many companies have successfully adopted AWS DevOps practices. For example:

• Netflix migrated to AWS and uses tools like Spinnaker for continuous delivery of video streaming platform.
• Capital One uses AWS, Docker, Kubernetes, and Jenkins for agile development of banking applications.
• The New York Times migrated to AWS and uses services like ECS, Lambda, and CloudFront to deliver news content globally.
• Nordstrom uses AWS, Terraform, and Ansible to deploy microservices architecture for its online shopping platform.

Advancing Your Career in AWS DevOps

To advance your career in AWS DevOps, focus on:

• Gaining hands-on experience by taking up side projects that use AWS services.
• Earning more AWS certifications to validate skills and knowledge over time.
• Contributing to open source projects related to DevOps, AWS, containers etc.
• Networking in local user groups and communities and online via blogs, forums, Twitter etc.
• Keep learning new technologies, tools, and AWS services as they emerge and evolve.
• Consider specializing in a particular domain like security, big data, machine learning etc. on AWS.
• Take on leadership roles by mentoring junior engineers, leading initiatives within teams.

Conclusion:

Navigating Your Path to Success AWS DevOps is a fast growing and in-demand career path. With the right skills, certifications, experience and continuous learning; one can have an impactful and successful career in this domain. The opportunities are immense to innovate, automate workflows and deliver applications at scale on AWS. I hope this blog provided useful insights and guidance on how to navigate your path to success in AWS DevOps.

The technological landscape around us continues to evolve at a rapid pace. So, it’s no surprise that educators face the challenge of providing students with innovative tools and the skills to use those tools. In particular, 3D scanners are devices that students should learn how to use for a head start. Learn why schools should invest in 3D scanners for their students here.

Accustoms Students to the Devices of the Future

Integrating 3D scanners into the classroom setting does more than just impart technical skills; it accustoms students to the devices of the future. As industries continue to adopt 3D technologies, such as manufacturing and healthcare, the presence of these technologies in the job market grows exponentially.

By familiarizing students with 3D scanners, schools create an environment where young minds can learn and become proficient with the same tools they will encounter in their future careers. This foresight in education enhances a student’s adaptability. Additionally, it increases their marketability as they enter a workforce that highly values tech-savvy individuals.

It’s Not Just 3D Scanners

3D scanners aren’t the only innovative devices your school should introduce to students for their future technical savvy. Virtual reality is another rapidly advancing technology that is already becoming part and parcel of everyday life.

Fortunately, virtual reality helps education in more ways than just exposing students to the tech.  Incorporate it alongside 3D scanners to produce the most well-rounded, prepared students you can.

Enhances Learning for Students Interested in STEM

For students with aspirations in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields, 3D scanners serve as a pivotal educational resource. In fact, one of the key uses of 3D scanning technology in schools is catering to and fostering interest in STEM fields.

These devices allow for the conversion of any object into a digitized model that students can manipulate, study, and analyze. This brings abstract concepts to life. Hands-on experience with advanced technology deepens students’ comprehension and sparks an interest in complex subjects.

The resulting versatility in experiments and projects rockets STEM education from the confines of textbooks into the tangible world.  It provides a more comprehensive learning experience that can accommodate many learning styles.

Fosters Student Creativity and Curiosity

Finally, 3D scanners play a significant role in fostering student creativity and curiosity. When students can scan objects and manipulate them within a virtual space, they are encouraged to explore a multitude of design possibilities.

This exploration goes beyond mere novelty; it teaches students to think critically about the design and function of everyday objects. It challenges them to invent, innovate, and solve problems in creative ways. By creating space in the classroom for this type of inquisitive and inventive thinking, schools are equipping a new generation of thinkers, creators, and problem-solvers. It empowers the children of today to better face the challenges of the future.

The potential that 3D scanners hold for enhancing education is immeasurable, making it clear why schools should invest in 3D scanners for their students. By helping students seamlessly interact with future technologies, strengthening their grasp on STEM disciplines, and nurturing a creative and problem-solving mindset, 3D scanners act as a catalyst for an immersive and future-forward education.

Have you been looking at high schools for your teen and wondering which one in your area is the best fit?  Schools that attract the parents seeking a quality education for their kids are those with an amazing variety of academic programs, top-notch teachers, and a huge selection of sports and clubs.

It’s a school where you are confident your teen will thrive in the positive environment is key.  A school that is focused on bringing out the best in every student.

Our case study of one such school is a review of Ancora High School. The fact that it’s located with in a welcoming and supporting community also adds to the positive benefit when searching for a high school.

Award-Winning Curriculum

You want your teen to get the best education possible to set them up for success. A school like Ancora High School allows your child to thrive in an environment focused on academic achievement.

Rigorous Curriculum: Ancora offers 16 Advanced Placement courses as well as honors classes across all subjects to challenge students. Classes go in-depth and teach critical thinking skills.

Award-Winning Teachers: Over 80% of Ancora’s teachers hold advanced degrees, and many have won district and state awards. They are experts at engaging students.

Technology Integration: From laptops for every student to smartboards in classrooms, technology is seamlessly integrated to enhance learning.

STEM Opportunities: Ancora has an award-winning Robotics Team, coding classes, and partnerships with local tech firms to provide internships.

College Prep:  With a 99% graduation rate and over 90% of grads attending college, Ancora thoroughly prepares students for higher education.

Ancora delivers academic excellence through top-notch teachers, rigorous coursework, and cutting-edge technology. Your teen will be challenged to reach their full potential there.

The school also offers online high school for adults 18 years and older who for a variety of reasons were not able to complete their studies or desire to achieve their diploma online.

Extracurricular Activities

Ancora High offers an incredible range of extracurriculars that will engage and challenge your teen. With over 60 clubs and activities, there’s something for every interest.

Ancora’s nationally ranked debate team has taken home top honors at state and national tournaments. Sharpen critical thinking and public speaking skills.

Join Ancora’s award-winning theater program and act in musicals and plays at our state-of-the-art auditorium.

The journalism program produces an award-winning newspaper and TV broadcast. Hone media and reporting talents.

Make music in Ancora’s jazz band, choir, orchestra or one of many other musical groups. Perform at concerts and competitions.

Get involved in student government, homecoming activities, prom committee and more. Take on leadership roles.

Join a STEM club like robotics, coding or Rocketry Club and apply your science and tech skills. Compete in tournaments.

There are many benefits for students who get involved in extracurricular activities. With amazing teachers leading the way, Ancora’s extracurriculars give students a place to explore passions and develop talents. The variety ensures your teen can find their niche.

As an educator, art is an important subject to teach children. Not only does it allow them to express their creativity, but it also helps develop critical thinking, fine motor skills, and emotional skills. When teaching art to kids, it’s helpful to expose them to a variety of art styles and movements.

This allows them to understand how art has evolved over time and appreciate different techniques and perspectives.

Here’s an overview of some key art styles and tips for how to incorporate them into your lessons.

Impressionism

Impressionism emerged in the late 1800s in France as artists like Monet, Renoir, and Degas moved away from precise realism towards a more expressive style. The hallmarks of impressionist painting include visible brushstrokes, open composition, emphasis on light, and everyday subject matter like landscapes and scenes of daily life.

When teaching impressionism, focus on having students paint what they see using thick, visible brushstrokes and vibrant colours. Set up still-life scenes or have them paint outdoors. Encourage them to convey a fleeting moment in time and pay attention to the effects of light. Point out how the paintings have an open composition and blurred edges compared to more realistic styles.

Cubism

Developed by Picasso and Braque in the early 20th century, Cubism radically distorted traditional perspective and form. Cubist paintings reduce subjects into geometric shapes and planes, depicting them from multiple angles at once. The style marked a major shift towards abstraction in modern art. Cubism demonstrated a stark contrast in art with its fragmented, multi-view interpretations compared to previous styles.

When introducing Cubism, show paintings by Picasso like Les Demoiselles d’Avignon to demonstrate the fragmented planes and faceting of forms. Have students break down objects into basic shapes and form a collage by layering and overlapping them from different viewpoints. Encourage them to use a limited colour palette of neutrals and earth tones. Focus on analysing shape and structure rather than realistically portraying the subject.

Pop Art

Emerging in the 1950s, Pop Art injected art with irony, fun, and imagery from mass media and commercial products. Artists like Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein popularised the style through silkscreened paintings and cartoons influenced by advertising and comic books.

When teaching about Pop Art, focus on bold colours, repetition, and recognisable consumer imagery. Have students create Pop Art style paintings or collages using brightly coloured paper, markers, and cut outs from magazines or product packaging. Emphasise strong, hard edges and flat, single hues. Discuss how Pop Art brought art out of the elite galleries and into everyday popular culture, creating a contrast in art between fine art and commercial imagery.

Abstract Art

Abstract art does not portray recognisable objects; instead, it uses colour, shape, and texture for their own visual interest. It communicates emotions and ideas in a non-representational way. From the flowing compositions of Kandinsky to the monochromes of Rothko, abstract art covers a wide range of styles.

When introducing abstract art, encourage students to focus on elements like line, colour, and composition without aiming to depict specific objects or scenes. Demonstrate techniques like dripping, sponging, and printing to build textures. Have them experiment with mixing paint colours directly on the paper and combining bright hues with black and white. Emphasise personal expression and getting a feel for the paints and materials.

Surrealism

Emerging between the world wars, Surrealism aimed to tap into the unconscious mind to unveil the world of dreams and imagination. With visually jarring juxtapositions and irrational combinations, Surrealist artists like Dali, Magritte, and Ernst created scenes that defy logic.

When teaching about Surrealism, encourage students to let their imagination run wild. Have them create collages combining unrelated items like fish, clocks, and umbrellas set against unusual backgrounds. They can make exquisite corpse drawings by folding paper and creating composite figures. Demonstrate techniques like frottage (rubbing) and decalcomania (transferring paint patterns) to achieve unexpected textures. Emphasise the element of surprise and sparking the viewer’s imagination. Discuss how Surrealism impacts media like advertising and fiction today.

Portraiture

Portraiture has been an important genre throughout art history, capturing the likeness and personality of subjects. Portrait styles have evolved from formal busts and royal paintings to Impressionist snapshots and modern conceptual portrayals. Key elements include composition, facial expression, props, and settings to convey the sitter’s essence.

When teaching portraiture, provide a range of examples from classical to contemporary. Have students study the face proportions and map out facial features before adding colour and detail. Demonstrate techniques like contour line drawing to focus on shape and expression. Encourage experimenting with perspective, cropping, and backgrounds to create narrative and interest around the subject. Have them paint self-portraits and portraits of each other to practice observing and representing personality through art. Emphasise portraiture as a timeless way to honour subjects creatively.

Folk Art

Folk art encompasses a wide range of predominantly rural and homemade crafts like quilting, pottery, and traditional painting. Often passed down through generations and reflecting cultural heritage, folk artists tend to have little formal training. While the techniques are simple, the works contain charm and tradition.

When exploring folk art with students, present works from different cultures like Pennsylvanian Dutch Fraktur, Haitian sequin flags, or Oaxacan wood carvings. Have them create folk art inspired crafts using basic materials like coloured paper, glue, yarn, and natural objects. Emphasise learning from mentors and community traditions more than formal techniques. Discuss how folk art connects to cultural history and storytelling.

Tips for the Classroom

• Expose students to a diverse range of styles to build their understanding and appreciation of art. Provide art books and visits to museums or galleries.
• Combine art history lessons with hands-on creating activities to reinforce learning through experience.
• Accept all interpretations when discussing abstract art, focusing on how it makes the viewer feel.
• Allow plenty of time for experimentation and play as students develop skills.
• Display finished pieces around the classroom to build pride and allow learning from peers.
• Focus on the process rather than the outcome. Praise effort and creative thinking.
• Introduce language to discuss art like hue, shade, texture, composition, and perspective.
• Be enthusiastic about art to model passion for the subject. Creativity is enriching at all ages.

By tailoring lessons to focus on the key features of each major style, you can give students a well-rounded introduction to the wonderful world of art. They will gain knowledge of important movements while developing their own skills and creative confidence. Exposure to diverse techniques also teaches flexible thinking and open-mindedness. Most importantly, nurture their natural artistic curiosity and celebrate their self-expression. With some guidance on art styles and a supportive environment, their creativity will flourish.

Related Reading: 

Art is a science.  How to use science to nurture your child’s talents.