AOGEA Now Recognizes Microsoft Certified Architects
Following Microsoft's discontinuation of the Microsoft Certified Architect (MCA) Solutions and Infrastructure certifications, the Association of Open Group Enterprise Architects (AOGEA) now recognizes both certifications alongside ITAC, TOGAF and FEAC. All individuals holding either certification are eligible for a three-year membership in the AOGEA. The offer, funded by Microsoft, is valid from May 1, 2010, to December 31, 2010.
For additional information on this offer and the benefits of AOGEA membership, MCA certified individuals should read the frequently asked questions below. In the meantime, to take advantage of this opportunity right away, please contact Birgit Hartje at [email protected] and provide your MCP ID number, along with a short note that you want to accept the Microsoft offer to join AOGEA.
Q: What happens to my MCA: Infrastructure or MCA: Solutions certification?
A: If you earned an MCA: Infrastructure or MCA: Solutions certification, it remains a valid Microsoft certification, entitling you to all of the same benefits and privileges. As a member of AOGEA, your MCA credential is now recognized by the world's largest professional association for certified architects.
Q: Why would I want to join the AOGEA?
A: With more than 15,000 members located in 72 countries, the AOGEA is the largest professional association for certified enterprise architects in the world. Its goals are to increase job opportunities for all members and increase their market value by advancing professional excellence, and to raise the status of the profession as a whole.
Members in the AOGEA are recognized by some of the world's leading employers of enterprise architects, who value The Open Group's certification programs, including ITAC and TOGAF, as well as the Federated Enterprise Architecture Certification (FEAC) program. Members also benefit from ongoing advocacy and professional development services, and peer networking opportunities at local chapter meetings and international events.
Q: What certifications are recognized by the AOGEA?
A: In addition to MCA Solutions and Infrastructure certifications, AOGEA recognizes certified ITAC, TOGAF and FEAC practitioners. Membership signals true professional excellence based on well-established, neutral and internationally recognized benchmarks.
Q: Will my MCA certification transfer over to other Open Group certifications, such as ITAC or TOGAF?
AOGEA does not require or recommend that MCA certified individuals replace their MCA certification with ITAC or any other certification. The AOGEA will continue to honor the MCA certification in perpetuity as satisfying the certification requirements for AOGEA membership.
Q: What happens to my membership at the end of the three year term?
A: AOGEA will continue to honor the MCA certification and look for ways to ensure a positive future path for certified individuals at the end of the three year period. MCA certified architects will simply be responsible for paying their own AOGEA dues. They do not need to "replace" their MCA certification.
Q: I read a press release that said Microsoft had named IASA's CITA-P certification to replace the MCA program. Is this true?
A: No. Microsoft will fund a three year membership in AOGEA, or a one-year membership in IASA and the opportunity to be IASA certified.
AOGEA does not recommend that MCA certified individuals replace their certification with any other certification because it still entitles you to the same benefits and privileges, now with the added value of being a part of the AOGEA community.