Did you know the average salary of an enterprise architect is $131,737 annually? If you currently work in an IT department or are thinking of a career in the IT world then becoming an enterprise architect might be a good career for you.
Are you a bit confused about, “What is an enterprise architect?” If so, you are in the right place! Keep reading to learn more about what an enterprise architect is and how you too can become one.
What Is an Enterprise Architect?
First lets clear up what an enterprise architect is. An enterprise architect is someone that makes sure that a company’s business strategy is using the proper technology systems architecture to reach its goals. They work closely with the chief information officer of the company and report directly to him/her.
They have a big responsibility of keeping up with the latest technology trends and determine whether they would benefit the company or not.
How to Become an Enterprise Architect
There are different paths to become an enterprise architect (EA), some start out as programmers or network managers and over time end up being promoted to an enterprise architect position.
You do not have to get a Bachelor’s degree in EA to become a successful enterprise architect. You can instead choose to study any discipline in architecture, such as Business Architecture, Data Architecture, etc.
Choose to learn and focus on one of the four main EA frameworks:
- Open Group Architecture Framework (TOGAF)
- Gartner
- The Federal Enterprise Architecture Framework (FEAF)
- The Zachman Framework for Enterprise Architecture
Choose one of the frameworks above that will allow you to work with the discipline you prefer. Keep in mind that the more architecture disciplines you can work with the better it is when you are pursuing a career as an enterprise architect.
Next, you will want to get enterprise architect certifications. Certifications will help you expand your knowledge and will help you when you are looking for a job. We also recommend finding someone already working in the field that will allow you to be their apprentice.
Advance Your Career in the Future
Once you complete your apprenticeship and are working in the field consider going back to school to further your education with a Master’s Degree in enterprise architecture. This will also teach focus on enterprise security and risk architecture.
After your Master’s you can even go for your Doctorate Degree in a related principle such as systems engineering or technology management. There currently is no enterprise architecture doctorate but a doctorate will make for a more robust career.
Ready for Your New Career?
Now that you know the answer to the question, “What is an enterprise architect?” does this sound like the perfect career for you? If it does, it’s time to get your plan in motion to achieve this goal. Do not forget IT is a field that will continue to evolve and grow, therefore you want to continue to polish your skills over the years.
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