Roadmaps

A NextWork roadmap is a structured learning path that teaches real-world tech skills through hands-on projects. NextWork offers 5 career-focused tracks: Cloud Engineer, AI/ML Engineer, Solutions Architect, DevSecOps Engineer, and the Beginner's Challenge. Each roadmap includes step-by-step project tutorials, portfolio-ready deliverables, and community support. You learn by building actual projects, not watching videos, so you finish with proof of your skills that you can show employers.

The Beginner's Challenge is the best starting point for anyone new to tech. This roadmap takes 7-10 hours to complete and introduces core concepts like cloud computing, basic networking, and hands-on project workflows. After completing the Beginner's Challenge, NextWork recommends Cloud Engineer for infrastructure roles, AI/ML Engineer for data and AI careers, Solutions Architect for system design, or DevSecOps Engineer for security-focused positions.

No prior experience is required for NextWork roadmaps. The Beginner's Challenge is designed for complete beginners with zero technical background. Each roadmap clearly states its prerequisites. Most require only completing the Beginner's Challenge first. NextWork provides step-by-step instructions for every project, so you can follow along regardless of your starting point.

It really depends on how fast you want to go. Each project is designed to be about an hour in length, but this varies based on your previous experience and learning pace. Some students like to take their time and work through projects methodically, while others move quickly through familiar topics. All NextWork content is completely self-paced with no enrollment deadlines, so you can learn on your own schedule and take as much time as you need.

You will build real, portfolio-ready projects in every NextWork roadmap. Examples include: deploying websites and applications to AWS, creating AI chatbots using Amazon Bedrock, building secure cloud infrastructure with VPCs and IAM, automating DevOps pipelines with Docker and Kubernetes, and designing multi-cloud architectures. Every project teaches practical skills used in professional tech roles and becomes a portfolio piece you can showcase to employers.

NextWork is completely free. Our mission is to build the best learning experience in the world, and we don't want to limit anyone based on their financial circumstances. You can do the projects on NextWork completely for free, including all the projects in the different roadmaps showcased. Simply create an account and start learning.

NextWork provides multiple support channels for learners. Every project includes detailed step-by-step instructions with screenshots. The NextWork Discord community offers peer support and mentorship from experienced members. YouTube walkthroughs provide additional guidance for complex projects.

NextWork roadmaps are designed to build job-ready skills and portfolio evidence that employers value. While no course guarantees employment, NextWork focuses on practical project experience, the #1 thing hiring managers look for in candidates. You'll finish each roadmap with completed projects demonstrating real skills, not just certificates. Many NextWork learners have successfully transitioned into Cloud Engineer, DevOps, and AI/ML roles using their portfolios.