Google Python Automation Program Overview
This Google-developed program teaches Python coding for IT professionals and aspiring IT professionals. It leverages the fact that IT support roles often serve as a springboard to higher-paying, more advanced roles within the IT field, especially with the addition of coding skills. The program specifically highlights Python’s increasing popularity and relevance in the industry.
Target Audience: Individuals already in IT support or aiming to enter the field. Prior experience with basic computing skills (file management, networking, software installation) is beneficial but not strictly required. Those who have completed Google’s IT Support Professional Certificate on Coursera will find this program particularly relevant.
Program Structure & Content
The program uses a hands-on approach, incorporating three methods: Codeblocks, Jupyter notebooks, and Quick Labs. It’s comprised of several courses:
- Crash Course in Python: Introduces basic programming concepts and their application in automation.
- Python and the Operating System: Focuses on Python’s interaction with the OS.
- Git and GitHub: Covers version control using Git and GitHub.
- Troubleshooting and Debugging: Teaches techniques for identifying and resolving IT infrastructure problems.
- Automating at Scale: Covers configuration management and cloud deployment for automating tasks across multiple machines.
- Final Project: A capstone project applying learned skills to real-world IT scenarios. Students can share their projects on GitHub.
Instructors: The program features a team of Google instructors, all of whom started their careers in IT support and progressed to more technical roles through learning programming. This includes Christine Rafla (Systems Administrator), Roger Martinez (Linux Systems Administrator), Kenny Sulaiman, Amanda Belos, and Phelan Vendeville.
Key Selling Points
- Career Advancement: Positions Python coding as a crucial skill for career growth in IT.
- Practical Application: Emphasis on hands-on learning and real-world relevance.
- Google Expertise: Developed and taught by Google employees with relevant experience.
- Supportive Learning Environment: Highlights the collaborative and supportive culture within the program and the broader IT industry.
- Diverse Representation: The instructor, Christine Rafla, emphasizes the importance of increasing female representation in the IT field.
Note: The program’s emphasis on bridging the gap between IT support and more advanced roles aligns with research from Harvard Business School, Accenture, and Burning Glass (“Bridge the Gap” study).