Thinking about becoming Red Hat Certified Engineer

[Dave Anderson]

I was browsing Red Hat's web site this evening and noticed that they offer a training program. I'm definitely going to do some Microsoft certification, but since I do prefer Linux as a Server OS, I'd really like to do the Red Hat training.

I'm in Southern NH, about 45 minutes north of Boston. There is a class in Boston right around the time I'd be available to take it - January 2002. The cost is high - $2098 for 4 days and then $750 for a 1 day exam. But I think it's a great opportunity to finally learn more about Linux and networking, as well as add something to my resume.

I'd like to get feedback from anyone who has done this in the past. Has it helped you get a job? Did you learn a lot from the training? Would you recommend it?

Thanks!

[thedexman]

What is your current job? Often you can get an employer to pay part or all of the costs of these certs if they think it will help you do your job that much better. OTOH, I don't know what your current situation is, but I would also say it is important to have some experience in the subject matter before you go out and take the course, I don't think it would help you nearly as much learning-wise or learning-wise.

[Dave Anderson]

I'm a Computer Technician. I do a lot of work with the various Windows operating systems, though I suppose that goes without saying. At my last job I learned a lot about Linux, and ultimately built a web server for the company using Red Hat. I also setup and installed Samba on it.

At home I run a P-133 Slackware 7.1 server. I have Samba installed on it so my 3 other Windows computers can connect to it.

The point of all this is to show that I do have a strong, basic knowledge of Linux. I know my way around the command prompt quite well, I've recompiled kernels, built web servers, Samba, etc, etc. The class route I'm going to take for certification is designed for people with a "basic" knowledge of Linux - I think I fall into that category.

As for my job, I don't think they'd pay for it. Too cheap and the company is too small. Plus most of their clients are Windows. Now, if I go for my Microsoft certification, I may be able to get them to deal (even then it's doubtful). As of right now, however, I'd rather learn more about Linux.