Blockchain technology is a fast-growing technology, revolutionizing several industries. It is rapidly evolving, which makes it even harder to make a career in it. Before we delve into how you can make a career in blockchain technology, let’s learn what’s special about the technology.
Blockchain came to the fore with the introduction of Bitcoin in 2009. Bitcoin is a cryptocurrency and blockchain is an underlying technology that enables peer-to-peer transactions without a central authority. Since the introduction of Bitcoin, technology has found several use-cases across the industry. The interest in blockchain piqued after the price of Bitcoin skyrocketed in 2017. Since then the demand for blockchain developers has increased.
Upwork named blockchain as the most growing skill for two consecutive quarters in 2018. LinkedIn Learning named blockchain as the number one skill required by companies in 2020.
Starting a career in blockchain development
Blockchain is a complex technology, requiring knowledge of a multitude of subjects including data structures, cryptography, web development, programming, etc. Let’s understand each of these subjects a little more.
- Data structures – All development roles require a strong understanding of data structures., blockchain is not an exception. Blockchain applications store data in the form of blocks that are connected to each other, forming a chain. This itself is a linked list (a type of data structure). The technology uses other sophisticated types of data structures like Merkle Trees, Patricia Trees, etc. To do well in a blockchain development role, you will need to know data structures well.
- Cryptography – Immutability is an essential feature that makes blockchain unique. This feature is a result of extensive use of cryptography throughout the blockchain architecture. Concepts like hash functions, private –key cryptography, public-key cryptography, message authentication, etc. are critical for blockchain development roles.
- Smart contracts – These are programmable self-executing platforms. To build a smart contract, you will need to know platforms like Hyperledger, Corda, Ethereum, etc. You will need to have an in-depth understanding of at least one of these platforms. Having knowledge of more than one will be great!
- Web design – Blockchain applications are accessed on mobile or the web. This requires them to have a user-friendly interface, making it easier for people to use the application. Building user interfaces is altogether a different skillset. However, the integration of blockchain applications with backend requires knowledge of servers.
Getting a blockchain certification
Blockchain is still a maturing technology, which makes it difficult for employers to assess the skills of developers. Taking a blockchain professional certification helps allay the hesitation among recruiters by proving expertise. The following are a few prominent certifications in the industry.
- Blockchain Developer Nanodegree – This certification program is offered by Udacity. The program equips you with the skills to develop your own blockchain application. At the end of the program, you will be able to create your own private blockchain and secure your own digital identity. You will learn Ethereum and use Solidity to build a decentralized application.
- Certified Blockchain Engineer (CBE) – This professional blockchain certification is offered by the Central Blockchain Council of America, a pioneering body in blockchain certifications. Taking this certification equips you with the ability to develop an application for multiple platforms including Hyperledger, Ethereum, OpenChain, Stratis, Lisk, IOTA, and Hydrachain. You will also become well-versed in the consensus mechanism and learn the ins-and-outs of decentralization.
- Certified Blockchain Expert (CBE) – This blockchain certification is offered by Blockchain Council. Taking this certification equips you with the knowledge of blockchain architecture, familiarize with cryptography and blockchain algorithms, understand mining, gain a deep understanding of consensus algorithm, and in the end build a blockchain network. You will also learn to build smart contracts.
- Business Blockchain Professional (BBP) – This certification is offered by the Central Blockchain Council of America (CBCA). Blockchain is a strategic priority for the organization. This requires organizations to have professionals who understand the usefulness of the technology from a business point of view. BBP equips you with the necessary technical knowledge of blockchain technology and its several use-cases in the industry. Thereby, equipping you with the skills required to align business strategy with blockchain development.
