No certs and degree isn’t in CS. I just have lots of experience.

My pathway was basically:

1. Got a low tier job as a glorified intern (paid)
2. Switched jobs a few times, pay increasing each time. Chose interesting jobs.
3. Left a low paying gov job for contract work. Got hired full time by one of my contractors.
4. Have stayed at that job. Golden handcuffs.

0-255 was good enough for me an my grandpappy.