Cisco Updates Certifications for the AI Era, Podcast

Ryan Rose of Learn with Cisco outlines refreshed CCNA, CCIE and Cisco U. programs designed to prepare networking professionals for AI-driven infrastructure

“I get to help people grow their careers,” says Ryan Rose of Learn with Cisco. “I get to help people learn new things.”

In this Technology Reseller News podcast, Doug Green speaks with Ryan Rose of Learn with Cisco about Cisco’s latest updates to its certification and training portfolio, including refreshed CCNA and CCIE programs, expanded Cisco U. learning resources, and new AI-focused training designed to help networking professionals stay current as infrastructure evolves.

Rose describes his role at Cisco as one of stewardship. Cisco’s certification program has been a fixture in the networking industry for roughly 30 years, and Rose says the goal is to make sure the program continues to reflect the skills people actually need in the field.

“What we’ve done and what we announced is really our intention of how we evolve both CCNA and CCIE,” says Rose.

A central theme of the conversation is that AI is changing the skills map for networking professionals, but it is not replacing the need for core networking expertise. Instead, Rose explains that professionals will need to understand how to use AI tools effectively, evaluate AI-generated recommendations, and combine automation with sound technical judgment.

The updates include a refreshed CCNA blueprint, new AI-related training in Cisco U., and changes to the CCIE Practical exam that reflect how AI tools are beginning to show up in real-world network operations. For partners, MSPs, resellers and enterprise IT teams, the message is clear: AI fluency is becoming part of the networking skill set.

Rose also points to Cisco U. as a practical learning platform for professionals who need to build new skills while continuing to work in the industry. Rather than treating certification as a one-time milestone, Cisco is emphasizing continuous learning, hands-on training and career development.

For the channel community, the certification updates arrive at a moment when customers are asking more from their technology partners. AI-ready infrastructure, secure operations, automation and resilient networks all require people who understand both the fundamentals and the new tools entering the market.

In this podcast, Rose outlines how Cisco is refreshing its learning and certification programs to help professionals prepare for that future.

Learn more at Cisco U. and Learn with Cisco.