New elite designation recognizes the highest certification in cloud native 

KubeCon + CloudNativeCon Europe, London, UK – April 1, 2025  – The Cloud Native Computing Foundation® (CNCF®), which builds sustainable ecosystems for cloud native software, today announced the Golden Kubestronaut program, a distinguished recognition for professionals who have demonstrated the highest level of expertise in Kubernetes, cloud native technologies, and Linux administration.

As organizations increasingly rely on cloud native technologies, the demand for skilled professionals continues to rise. According to Portworx, a member of CNCF, in its The Voice of Kubernetes Experts Report 2024, 80% of organizations plan to build most of their new applications on cloud native platforms within the next five years. Additionally, 75% of businesses reported facing challenges in Kubernetes adoption due to a shortage of skilled personnel, highlighting the critical need for expertise in this space. Organizations hiring Golden Kubestronauts can be confident they are bringing on professionals with the most comprehensive cloud native skill set available.

“As more companies utilize cloud native technologies for their most critical projects, continuous learning is essential,” said Chris Aniszczyk, CTO, CNCF. “The Golden Kubestronaut program recognizes the most dedicated professionals who have achieved the broadest possible expertise across Kubernetes, Linux, cloud native security, observability, and platform engineering. By setting a new benchmark, this program strengthens both the CNCF community and the industry’s trust in certified cloud native professionals.”

The Golden Kubestronaut program builds on the success of the Kubestronaut program; launched in 2024 to recognize professionals who earned all five Kubernetes-related CNCF certifications. With 1500 Kubestronauts in just one year, CNCF is taking its certification ecosystem to the next level by celebrating those who go beyond Kubernetes expertise and master the full CNCF certification portfolio.

To qualify as a Golden Kubestronaut, candidates must successfully complete all 13 CNCF certifications available to date, as well as the Linux Foundation Certified System Administrator (LFCS) certification to ensure strong foundational Linux skills. As certifications evolve and new ones are added, individuals will not lose their distinction, ensuring they are recognized for their dedication and expertise in cloud native technologies.

Golden Kubestronauts gain exclusive benefits that reinforce their leadership in the cloud native space. Perks include specialized branded gear, such as a commemorative backpack and beanie, a ThriveOne subscription for continued professional development, and ongoing discounts on CNCF certifications. Additionally, they receive a free annual ticket to a Kubernetes Community Days (KCD) of their choice, 50% off KubeCon registration for life, and a featured listing on the Kubestronaut website.

The Cloud Native Computing Foundation recognizes the inaugural class of Golden Kubestronauts—professionals who have demonstrated exceptional commitment and expertise across the CNCF certification portfolio. The following individuals have achieved this recognition:

Beyond individual recognition, the Golden Kubestronaut program strengthens the CNCF certification ecosystem and supports the continued growth of the cloud native industry. By incentivizing professionals to pursue the full range of CNCF certifications, the program expands the certified talent pool, increases engagement in CNCF’s training and events, and further establishes CNCF as the industry standard for cloud native education. 

In addition to this program, CNCF is also making significant updates to its certification offerings:

Individuals who want to advance their certification journey are encouraged to explore the program. More details are available on the CNCF Training and Certification page.

Additional Resources

About Cloud Native Computing Foundation

Cloud native computing empowers organizations to build and run scalable applications with an open source software stack in public, private, and hybrid clouds. The Cloud Native Computing Foundation (CNCF) hosts critical components of the global technology infrastructure, including Kubernetes, Prometheus, and Envoy. CNCF brings together the industry’s top developers, end users, and vendors and runs the largest open source developer conferences in the world. Supported by more than 800 members, including the world’s largest cloud computing and software companies, as well as over 200 innovative startups, CNCF is part of the nonprofit Linux Foundation. For more information, please visit www.cncf.io.

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Media Contact: 

Kaitlin Thornhill

The Linux Foundation

pr@cncf.io