New developers enter the tech industry armed with the latest knowledge. To maintain that competitive edge, we need to keep learning and updating our skills. As software developers, we don't have the option to keep learning; it's a must. Every day is a school day for us, whether fixing a bug or discovering a new keyboard shortcut. This is why I'm always looking for ways to learn new things. 

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The deeper we dive into the vast ocean of knowledge, the more we realize how much there is to learn. This constant learning curve can be daunting, but it's also what keeps the field exciting. There's a whole community of developers out there who are on the same journey, and many are in the same position as you. 

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With so many learning options and no time to research the best ones, finding a way to start can take time and effort. That's why I'm excited to share some of the best free resources I've found throughout my career, which have helped me learn new things and stay competitive. 

AWS Educate: 

AWS Educate is not just a free learning platform, it's a digital realm of endless knowledge. It offers structured learning paths on hot topics like cloud architecture, cloud storage, database, and cybersecurity. But the real treasure is the hands-on labs. They're so immersive that you might actually forget you're learning, and who wouldn't want that? 

Note: This isn't a paid endorsement; it's just a fanboy moment for a fantastic resource! 

LinkedIn Learning: 

LinkedIn Learning is a treasure trove of practical knowledge. It covers a wide range of topics across multiple industries, and even offers courses from partnering companies like Adobe, Google, and Microsoft. What's particularly useful is that when you complete a course, you can share your achievement and add it to your work experience on LinkedIn. This way, potential employers can see your learning progress at a glance, giving you a tangible proof of your skills and dedication. 

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A few of the many courses available have stood out and become my favorites. The Google Cloud Platform Trainings, provided by the renowned expert Lynn Langit, are comprehensive courses I highly recommend. They cover a wide range of topics, from the basics of cloud computing to advanced concepts, making them excellent resources for those preparing for the GCP certification. Another series of courses I found incredibly useful is the AWS Certified Solutions Architect Trainings by Tom Carpenter. These courses provide an in-depth understanding of AWS architecture, making it a must for anyone aiming to become a certified AWS Solutions Architect. 

Expert Tip: In cities like Toronto, getting a library card can grant you free access to many of these courses! 

Offline Groups and Workplace Learning: 

Becoming part of offline communities like Toastmasters and engaging in workplace learning initiatives can significantly boost your personal and professional development. These initiatives not only enhance your communication and leadership skills, which are crucial in any work environment, but they also foster a sense of community and support. Workplace learning initiatives can foster a culture of continuous learning, keeping employees in tune with the latest industry trends and tech innovations. They can also spark teamwork and camaraderie as employees collaborate to tackle challenges and master new skills. 

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The tech world moves fast, and staying on top requires constant learning. That's why I'm always looking for ways to grow my skillset. Certifications like GCP Professional Data Engineer, UiPath Certified RPA Developer, and Professional Scrum Master have been a big part of that journey. They've not only boosted my resume but also helped me stand out in the competitive landscape. But the best part? This constant learning has led to colleague recognition, faster career growth, and the satisfaction of staying ahead of the curve. This blog post is just one step in my ongoing learning adventure, and I hope it inspires you to embark on your own. Happy learning! 

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