Entry Level Linux position w/ question about career path.

Hello fellow redditors and Linux professionals.

Frequent reader of Linux subreddits but have always been too nervous to post.

I just had a quick question about pursuing my career path down the Linux route.

I work for a server manufacturing company / hardware solutions company right now. I have been there for a year and 2 months now, working an entry level position as a configuration technician. Listed below are some of the tasks i do on a daily basis.

Basically to sum things up quickly.... My local university offers a Unix System Administration Certificate. I am wondering if it would be worth my while to undergo this program while i am collecting 2+ years experience at my current job. Or if anyone had any other alternative ideas?

Would that be a good path to go down towards further pursuing my career in Linux technology? I really want to stay in the tech field.... I cant possibly see myself in another field as this is where my passion lies.

Any downsides to pursuing this career path? I know outsourcing can be a big issue but are Linux professionals still a hot commodity?

Just drawing a blank at the moment and i feel like i could be more productive outside of my 9-5 job towards my future.

Here are my current responsibilities I handle on a day to day right now. • Install and configure various operating systems across a wide range of hardware. • Create and configure RAID arrays • Flash custom BIOS and firmware into hardware. • Install software images through internal PXE environment. • Troubleshoot computer hardware issues. • Communicate production problems with Production, Engineering and Sales departments. • Assemble computer hardware from build documentation. • Identify and quarantine defective hardware. • Perform visual inspection on systems • Perform diagnostic testing using 3rd party software

Looking forward to discussing with you guys.