Data Center Operations Certificate Program Development

This case study outlines the collaborative initiative led by QTS Data Centers and Maricopa Community Colleges to establish a Data Center Operations Certificate Program aimed at addressing the skilled labor shortage in the data center industry. The program responds to the growing demand for data center technicians due to an aging workforce and the rapid expansion of the industry. It includes a curriculum designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in data center operations, integrating industry-aligned courses and hands-on experiences. The initiative emphasizes community engagement and aims to provide high-paying career opportunities in the Phoenix area. Key components of the program include speaker series, data center tours, and an internship program to enhance student awareness and readiness for careers in the data center field. The program is recognized as the second of its kind in the nation, with a focus on developing a skilled workforce to meet the industry's evolving needs.