The Division of Information Technology is unifying all Apple device management across campus through the utilization of Jamf management software and training certification.

Serge Razafrindrakoto, director of statewide client services, explained that best practice is for endpoints — devices that connect to the Texas A&M network — to be centrally managed to push security, application and system updates or patches. Since some of the endpoints are currently managed holistically and others are not, the best solution is to have system administrators properly trained by Jamf to use the management software.

“As part of the campus unification effort, the division wants to get system administrators to the same level and on the same page,” he said. “In return, the trainees receive a valuable Jamf certification. This is important to their career progression at Texas A&M – and falls in line with the division’s goal of building careers and not just jobs.”

Introductory, level 200 courses were offered in August to give administrators a core understanding of Jamf. A more advanced, level 300 course will be offered in September. Automation functions will be the focus of the level 400 course, ending in “Jamf Certified Expert” certification, which will be conducted in the spring. Additional courses will be held throughout the spring as well.

Jon Griffey, associate director of statewide services, said Jamf was the training most requested by IT professionals who completed the division’s recent IT Skills Inventory survey.

“Jamf training is rigorous, but critical, for any technician or administrator who is managing Apple devices in Jamf Pro,” Griffey explained. “Jamf-certified IT professionals are not only valuable to the Division of IT as we aim to unify Apple device management across campus, they also display a depth of knowledge and skill that are highly marketable.”