AWS, short for Amazon Web Services, is a secure, scalable, and comprehensive cloud services platform offered by Amazon. It features a blend of Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Software as a Service (SaaS) offerings that allow businesses to store data, build and deploy applications, deliver content, or leverage machine learning and analytics.

Companies looking for AWS skills expect candidates to have a solid understanding of the platform and its diverse range of services, such as computing power, storage options, networking, security measures, data management, migration services, and beyond. An AWS-skilled individual should be able to architect and deploy applications on AWS technologies, managing and operating systems, and analyze data by translating business needs into AWS toolset configurations.

While a deep understanding of AWS tools and services is necessary, the ability to design, manage and distribute applications within the AWS infrastructure indicates a professional level of AWS skill. Enhanced AWS professionals should be efficient in setting up, deploying, and managing scalable and fault-tolerant systems on AWS.

Having a strong foundation in other tech skills can help you learn or master AWS. These foundational skills include:

1. Knowledge of a high-level programming language (like Python, Java, or Node.js), as most applications deployed on AWS are written in these languages.

2. Familiarity with Linux (or Unix-like) operating system is beneficial as a significant majority of the AWS stack runs on Linux.

3. Understanding of databases (relational or noSQL) and data storage systems as AWS has a wide range of database services.

4. Basic knowledge of networking concepts as AWS cloud services often require configuration of Virtual Private Clouds (VPCs) and security groups.

5. Familiarity with cloud computing concepts, such as serverless computing, containers, microservices, among others.

6. Prior experience with DevOps practices like CI/CD (Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment) can also be beneficial.

Certifications such as AWS Certified Solutions Architect, AWS Certified Developer, or AWS Certified SysOps Administrator can further validate your AWS expertise to prospective employers. Keep in mind that each AWS job opening's requirements may vary widely depending on the specific role, so strive to learn as much as possible and continuously hone your skills.