Prerequisite Knowledge
- Basic networking awareness
- Comfort with command-line tools
- Interest in cloud services and automation
Learning Path
Platform Engineer
Create internal platforms and paved roads that help engineers deliver software faster and more safely.
Advanced
8 to 12 weeks
Cloud Engineer
Who It Is For
Veterans who enjoy systems, automation, infrastructure, delivery pipelines, and reliability-focused work.
Why it is relevant for veterans: Cloud and DevOps roles map well to operations, maintenance, escalation handling, and disciplined change management.
Core Skills Covered
- Developer experience
- Platform tooling
- Self-service enablement
- Cloud governance
Beginner-To-Advanced Roadmap
Learn the core concepts, vocabulary, and hands-on basics for Platform Engineer. Build one small practice project or lab and document what you learned.
Use Kubernetes, Terraform in a more realistic scenario, practice troubleshooting, and create portfolio evidence tied to the skills employers ask for.
Move from task execution to ownership by improving reliability, security, communication, and delivery quality within Platform Engineer workflows.
30-60-90 Day Starter Plan
Each step includes free learning links so users can move straight from plan to practice.
Phase 1Days 1-30
Learn the fundamentals
Learn the fundamentals of Platform Engineer and complete one introductory course.
Set up the tools
Install or access Kubernetes, Terraform and finish one guided lab.
Track what you learn
Capture notes, unfamiliar terms, and a short weekly reflection so you can see progress.
Phase 2Days 31-60
Build a practice project
Build a practice project that demonstrates Developer experience and Platform tooling.
Review certification objectives
Review at least one certification objective from Certified Kubernetes Administrator.
Refresh resume and LinkedIn
Update LinkedIn and your resume with concrete tools, projects, and results.
Phase 3Days 61-90
Create a portfolio-ready artifact
Create a portfolio-ready artifact or demo tied to Platform Engineer responsibilities.
Practice your story
Practice explaining your project, your learning process, and your transferable veteran strengths.
Start applying
Start applying to internships, apprenticeships, support roles, or junior positions connected to Platform Engineer.
Recommended Tools and Platforms
Kubernetes
Terraform
GitHub Actions
Backstage
Sample Roles
- Platform Engineer
- Developer Platform Engineer
- Cloud Engineer
Certification Progression
- Certified Kubernetes Administrator
- AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Associate