AIX is an open standards-based UNIX operating system developed by IBM for use on many of its various computer platforms. Although AIX incorporates many elements of standard UNIX implementations, it includes some unique features as well, and UNIX systems administrators would benefit from AIX training if their jobs call for those specialized skills.
As seen on IBM’s website, the AIX Basics course description includes everyday tasks and topic areas for using the operating system, such as:
- How to log in to the AIX system and set a user password
- How to manage AIX files and directories
- How to execute common AIX commands and manage AIX processes
- How to use common AIX utilities
- How to use the AIXwindows Environment
These basic skills are the foundation of many advanced AIX courses and training paths, including the system administration path for AIX and other IBM technologies.
Who should pursue AIX training
Anyone familiar with general IT and OS concepts and whose job requires knowledge of AIX or UNIX environments would be a good candidate for training. For those just starting to consider an IT career who have not yet narrowed down their search to a particular position or job role, there are a few things to know about a job in an AIX environment.
According to an AIX Administrator posting on the CareerBuilder website, candidates must have significant technical expertise in AIX systems and servers and be responsible for both software and hardware installations and upgrades. Because AIX administrators are often on-point for troubleshooting technical issues, these individuals must have excellent customer service skills and enjoy problem-solving within very technical environments.
Professions that require AIX training
AIX training is generally the most useful within the IT department of a large business or enterprise organization. Often AIX administrators are required to have a bachelor’s in computer science or computer engineering in addition to several years of work experience in an AIX environment or the equivalent in AIX training. After employees have completed an AIX Basics course, or a similar class, some professions require continued training in advanced AIX courses. Certain sales or technical sales professions also call for AIX training.
IBM offers certifications and training paths according to profession. Here are some examples:
- Certifications for Sellers: IBM Certified Sales Specialist – Power Systems with POWER7 and AIX – v1
- Certifications for Implementers and Advanced Users: The IBM Certified Advanced Technical Expert – Power Systems with AIX v2
- Certifications for Users: IBM Certified Operator – AIX 6.1 Basic Operations
AIX certifications require the passing of an exam. Roadmaps available on the IBM website are useful in setting up study plans, and sample and assessment tests can help candidates evaluate whether they are ready for an AIX certification exam.
Types of AIX training
The IBM course catalog contains a number of different types of AIX courses including instructor-led classroom, self-paced training and online classroom study. AIX-specific topics include high availability, networking, programming and system administration. Third-party vendors offer AIX training in a variety of formats as well. The audience for introductory classes could include end users who are running applications on UNIX systems, while more advanced topics might target system administrators, technical managers, system analysts or software engineers.
