Data warehouse training can best be achieved by obtaining a formal education in computer information systems technology. Another, but less optimal, option is to take non-degree database classes. The risk here though is that the student may miss out courses considered prerequisites for employment in the information technology (IT) industry. Many employers also favor college-educated candidates for this position.
There are many skills, both IT and business related, that are essential for database warehouse training. IT skills include a thorough understanding of database administration, data modeling, different operating systems, metadata management, and expert-level familiarity with database languages such as SQL and ETL. Students pursuing a career in data warehousing also need to possess conceptual and analytical skills related to business intelligence, such as the ability to translate business needs into viable technical solutions. This means being able to work with both business professionals who aren’t technically savvy, and database administrators who thrive on technical jargon.
Another pivotal aspect to data warehouse training is in-field experience. Most employers will not hire database warehouse specialists directly out of college. Graduates must work in the background as entry-level database analysts for at least five years before they will be considered for a position as a data warehouse architect. During this training period, people should focus on learning how to manage maintenance procedures, schedules, and work processes; how to design and develop databases that meet IT requirements; and how to integrate business intelligence into the enterprise data model.
Individuals pursuing data warehouse training should also look into acquiring third-party certifications. The Certified Business Intelligent Professional (CBIP) certification, for instance, is the world's most credible program for those studying business intelligence and data warehousing.
The CBIP credential is considered this industry's most credible certification program. It can be obtained from the Data Warehouse Institution, and it covers all the core concepts of data warehousing including databases, data mining, and best practices with various data warehousing software. There are other less organizations and vendors that offer such certification programs, but many employers prefer CBIP certification.
Using databases for managing complex business information is rapidly increasing. Data warehouse training is an excellent option for students seeking a long-term and successful career. As technology advances and becomes more complicated, the training required to become a data warehouse architect or manager will also increase. This means continuing education classes are often part of a data warehouse manager's architect's career.