As we approach the end of 2025, it becomes key for IT sector professionals and training managers to anticipate which certifications will have the greatest value in 2026. Technological transformations (cloud, AI, automation, security) and regulatory changes (especially in Europe) are generating new demands on accredited competencies.
This article analyzes the current signals, identifies the certifications most likely to be in demand, and offers recommendations for both technical profiles and company training managers.
Panorama 2025: key context that guides towards 2026
- Security talent gap: The ISC2 and ISACA sector reports show that organizations continue to detect a shortage of cybersecurity professionals and difficulties in filling key positions. This maintains the pressure to certify verifiable capabilities.
- AI adoption and skill reconfiguration: LinkedIn reports and other published studies show a very rapid increase in offers asking for AI skills/AI literacy, the percentage of offers listing AI competencies is growing rapidly.
- Cloud and multicloud evolution: Technical surveys (Stack Overflow) show growth in the use and adoption of Azure and Google Cloud along with AWS, indicating demand for multicloud skills.
In 2026, certifications that combine technical competencies with knowledge of governance, risk management, cloud/AI, and compliance will have an advantage. It will not just be “I have the X certification” but “I can demonstrate that I can apply X in a regulated, multicloud, automated context.”
Certification areas with the greatest projection for 2026
- Cybersecurity: beyond compliance, a strategic issue
Recent reports document sustained pressure on companies’ security teams (resource pressure, need for training, impact of AI, new regulations…) driving both operational certifications and governance and audit accreditations.
Among the most in-demand cybersecurity certifications are:
- CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) – of ISC2globally recognized and aimed at experienced professionals who lead security strategies.
- CISM (Certified Information Security Manager) – of ISACAfocused on information security management and corporate governance.
- CompTIA Security+ – a very widespread base certification among profiles starting their career in cybersecurity.
- Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) – of EC-Councilfor specialists in penetration testing and ethical hacking.
- CCNA / CCNP – They are part of Cisco’s routes for secure networks.
- Manufacturer specific certifications – if you work in specific technological environments (Microsoft, AWS, Google, IBM, Palo Alto…)
Trend 2026: The market increasingly values profiles with a comprehensive vision, capable of combining technical security, regulatory compliance and risk management.
- Cloud Computing: competition multiplies
The cloud market continues to be dominated by three major players: Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud. Therefore, all their certifications remain in very high demand, especially in multicloud and hybrid environments.
Main cloud certifications for 2026:
- AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate / Professional
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator / Azure Solutions Architect Expert
- Google Cloud Professional Cloud Architect
- CompTIA Cloud+more neutral, oriented to cloud infrastructure fundamentals.
Trend 2026: Companies are looking for professionals with practical knowledge in automation, containers and security in cloud environments. Certifications that accredit real experience in the design, implementation and optimization of multicloud solutions will gain even more weight.
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: the new axis of specialization
The adoption of AI is transforming all sectors. According to LinkedIn Jobs Report 2025, profiles with skills in generative AI, predictive analytics and cognitive automation are the most sought after.
Most relevant AI and ML certifications:
- Microsoft Certified: Azure AI Engineer Associate
- Google Cloud Machine Learning Engineer
- AWS Certified Machine Learning – Specialty
- IBM AI Engineering Professional Certificate (Coursera)
- NVIDIA Deep Learning Institute Certifications
- OpenAI and Databricks certifications aimed at the development and integration of generative AI.
Trend 2026: We will see a rise in specific certifications in generative AI, MLOps and ethics in AI, especially among technical roles and managers who lead data-based strategies.
- Data and Analytics: from reporting to strategic value
Data remains the most valuable asset of organizations. The certifications in advanced analytics and data governance They will still be relevant in 2026.
Featured certifications:
- Microsoft Fabric Data / Analytics Engineer
- AWS Data Analytics – Specialty
- Google Professional Data Engineer
- Certified Data Management Professional (CDMP) – of DAMA International
- IBM Data Science Professional Certificate
- Snowflake SnowPro Core Certification
Trend 2026: Companies look for professionals capable of combining technical analytics with business vision. Certifications that accredit skills in governance, data quality and ethical use of information will take on special relevance.
Recommendations for professionals in the sector
Below are some suggestions for specific certifications for different professional profiles.
- Evolving technical profile (systems engineer, cloud administrator…):
Prioritize a cloud certification (Azure/AWS/Google) combined with a security or data certification. In 2026 it will be much more valued if you can show cloud-focused training that also incorporates security and data.
- Cybersecurity specialist profile (analyst, architect, risk manager):
Invest in an established certification like CISSP or CISM if you don’t already have one. Accompany it with a training path in AI/AI Security, or in regulatory compliance (especially if you operate in Europe).
- “Business user” profile
Consider productivity/AI certifications (for example, Microsoft 365 plus Copilot) that demonstrate competencies in technology adoption, task automation, and efficiency improvements. Underlines the ability to do more with less.
- Training professional or team leader (manager):
Evaluate your organization’s competency map: cloud, data, security, AI, compliance. Prioritize certified training that has market support (via employment demand studies). Align investment in training with business strategy (digital transformation, compliance, automation).
- General advice: Do not collect certifications. Prioritize routes that have synergy between them and that are aligned with trends. The value is in the practical application, not just in the certificate seal.
Recommendations for training managers in companies
- Conduct a knowledge audit or gap analysis to identify which certifications have a real impact on the company.
- It classifies training into bands: entry (fundamental), intermediate (architecture/security/data) and expert (AI, SRE, compliance).
- Make sure that the training is accompanied by simulators, real cases, internal projects. Certification must translate into operational capabilities.
- Consider incentives (e.g., training budget, internal recognition) to encourage certification among technicians.
- Establish a calendar aligned with business milestones (cloud transformation, NIS2 compliance, AI adoption-productivity) so that training has context and meaning.
Conclusion: the value of learning and certifying in an ever-changing environment
The map of IT certifications in 2026 reflects an increasingly interconnected sector. The boundaries between technical, management and business areas are blurred. It is no longer just about mastering a technology, but about accredit integrated competencies that combine technical knowledge, strategic vision and commitment to continuous improvement.
In Dignitae IT Training and Certificationwe have been accompanying professionals and organizations in their technological development for more than 30 years. We offer tailored training plans that adapt to the specific needs of your organization.
