Photo of datacenter employees with colorful background

Microsoft Datacenter Academy

What is the Datacenter Academy

The Datacenter Academy is a community skilling program that collaborates with local education partners to create pathways into the datacenter industry. By building strong partnerships with local vocational schools and community colleges, DCA helps expand access to technical education and career development in the communities where Microsoft datacenters are located. The program supports local institutions through five core pillars: curriculum alignment, scholarships and financial aid, mentorship, simulation labs, and work experience. DCA’s goal is to empower communities with the tools, guidance, and opportunities to pursue sustainable careers in digital infrastructure.
Datacenter Academy locations

Explore the global network of Datacenter Academies with ongoing initiatives to expand this network in the near future.

The five core pillars

Curriculum

Work with local education partners to ensure high quality industry recognised curriculum.
Datacenter Lab

Datacenter equipment for hands-on digital skills training and education.
Mentorship & Support

Connecting with others and learning from current employees. Our local datacenter teams mentor and support students in their education development.
Work Experience

Opportunity to gain valuable work experience at a Microsoft Datacenter.
Scholarships & Financial Grants

Provide financial support for diverse students.

Curriculum

The Curriculum Alignment pillar of the Datacenter Academy Program focuses on building strong partnerships with local educators in Microsoft datacenter communities. Together, we work to align existing IT and technical curricula with the knowledge and skills needed for careers in datacenter operations and digital infrastructure, coupled with the relevant industry-recognized qualifications.

To support this, DCA offers partner institutions access to a vendor-agnostic, six-module course — “Introduction to Datacenters” — which provides foundational knowledge on datacenter design, operations, sustainability, and community impact. The course is designed to inspire learners and enrich classroom instruction by introducing real-world examples and career pathways in the datacenter industry.

Through this pillar, the Datacenter Academy Program helps strengthen local education ecosystems by contributing to curriculum planning and supporting hands-on learning experiences that reflect real-world datacenter environments.

Datacenter lab

About
How it works
Datacenter lab

As part of our commitment to community partnerships, Microsoft actively supports our education partners in supplementing classroom instruction by providing resources to build datacenter labs. Through donations of datacenter equipment, we enable these partners to establish on-site labs, offering students valuable hands-on experience with cloud storage tools and equipment. By fostering familiarity with this equipment, students are better prepared for successful careers in IT.
The typical lab contains at least three (3) rack cabinets with a mix of servers, storage devices and networking equipment. If the learning institution has more space, a bigger lab deployment is possible. Microsoft’s Workforce Development team partners with local construction companies to outfit the new lab with the necessary cooling, ventilation, and wiring to support lab operations. Typically, datacenter labs are deployed in a classroom nearest the school’s computer science or IT programs.
As part of our commitment to community partnerships, the Datacenter Academy program helps local schools and colleges bring datacenter learning to life through hands-on lab environments. Through donations of datacenter equipment, we support our education partners in creating on-campus simulation labs that mirror real-world IT environments.

These labs give students the opportunity to explore, configure, and troubleshoot enterprise - grade infrastructure, building confidence and practical skills that prepare them for careers in digital infrastructure. Each lab is tailored to the physical space and needs of the institution, with support from local contractors and Microsoft’s sustainability-focused Circular Centers.

These spaces help learners connect theory to practice—and bring the datacenter industry closer to the communities where we operate.

As part of our commitment to community partnerships, Microsoft actively supports our education partners in supplementing classroom instruction by providing resources to build datacenter labs. Through donations of datacenter equipment, we enable these partners to establish on-site labs, offering students valuable hands-on experience with cloud storage tools and equipment. By fostering familiarity with this equipment, students are better prepared for successful careers in IT.
The typical lab contains at least three (3) rack cabinets with a mix of servers, storage devices and networking equipment. If the learning institution has more space, a bigger lab deployment is possible. Microsoft’s Workforce Development team partners with local construction companies to outfit the new lab with the necessary cooling, ventilation, and wiring to support lab operations. Typically, datacenter labs are deployed in a classroom nearest the school’s computer science or IT programs.
As part of our commitment to community partnerships, the Datacenter Academy program helps local schools and colleges bring datacenter learning to life through hands-on lab environments. Through donations of datacenter equipment, we support our education partners in creating on-campus simulation labs that mirror real-world IT environments.

These labs give students the opportunity to explore, configure, and troubleshoot enterprise - grade infrastructure, building confidence and practical skills that prepare them for careers in digital infrastructure. Each lab is tailored to the physical space and needs of the institution, with support from local contractors and Microsoft’s sustainability-focused Circular Centers.

These spaces help learners connect theory to practice—and bring the datacenter industry closer to the communities where we operate.

Mentorship and Guidance

Mentorship Program
Datacenter Q&A Sessions
Instructor Training
Employee-Led Classrooms:
Mock Interviews
Advisory

At the heart of the Datacenter Academy experience is the opportunity for students to connect with professionals working in Microsoft’s datacenters. Through a range of engagement activities—delivered where local capacity allows—students gain valuable exposure to real-world IT environments and career pathways.

Students may be matched with Microsoft Datacenter Operations employees who provide guidance on career development, soft skills, and navigating the tech industry. These relationships help students build confidence, expand their networks, and prepare for future roles.
Team members may host interactive sessions to share insights into daily operations, roles, and technologies used in hyperscale datacenters
Where feasible, Microsoft technicians offer training to educators on topics such as cabling, hardware installation, and safety protocols—bringing industry best practices into the classroom.
In some locations, Microsoft staff may deliver guest instruction on topics like cable management, fiber troubleshooting, and career readiness (e.g., LinkedIn profiles, Microsoft Careers navigation).
In collaboration with partner schools, Microsoft employees may conduct mock interviews to help students gain confidence and experience with real-world hiring processes.

These activities vary by location and are dependent on the availability of local Microsoft staff. Wherever possible, we aim to create meaningful connections between students and professionals to support learning, growth, and long-term success.
Students enrolled in a DCA Aligned course will be kept informed of the availability of these opportunities via school communications.

At the heart of the Datacenter Academy experience is the opportunity for students to connect with professionals working in Microsoft’s datacenters. Through a range of engagement activities—delivered where local capacity allows—students gain valuable exposure to real-world IT environments and career pathways.

Students may be matched with Microsoft Datacenter Operations employees who provide guidance on career development, soft skills, and navigating the tech industry. These relationships help students build confidence, expand their networks, and prepare for future roles.
Team members may host interactive sessions to share insights into daily operations, roles, and technologies used in hyperscale datacenters
Where feasible, Microsoft technicians offer training to educators on topics such as cabling, hardware installation, and safety protocols—bringing industry best practices into the classroom.
In some locations, Microsoft staff may deliver guest instruction on topics like cable management, fiber troubleshooting, and career readiness (e.g., LinkedIn profiles, Microsoft Careers navigation).
In collaboration with partner schools, Microsoft employees may conduct mock interviews to help students gain confidence and experience with real-world hiring processes.

These activities vary by location and are dependent on the availability of local Microsoft staff. Wherever possible, we aim to create meaningful connections between students and professionals to support learning, growth, and long-term success.
Students enrolled in a DCA Aligned course will be kept informed of the availability of these opportunities via school communications.

Work experience

The Work Experience pillar of the Datacenter Academy Program provides eligible students from partner schools with the opportunity to apply for structured, hands-on internships or apprenticeships at Microsoft datacenters. These experiences are designed to complement classroom learning and help students explore real-world roles in digital infrastructure—such as Datacenter Technician (DCT), Datacenter Inventory and Asset Technician (DIAT), or Critical Environment Technician (CET).

Internships typically last 16 weeks in regions like the Americas, with a wider variety of durations possible in EMEA and APAC. During this time, students taking part in Datacenter Technician or Datacenter Inventory and Asset Technician internships rotate through various functions—such as deployment, inventory, and break/fix—gaining exposure to the tools, processes, and teamwork that power Microsoft’s global cloud operations.

Participation in the program depends on the readiness of the datacenter site and the availability of local staff to host and mentor interns. Where capacity allows, Microsoft works closely with education partners to forecast intern placements and ensure a meaningful, well-supported experience.

While work experience does not guarantee a full-time role, students who complete the program are encouraged to apply for open positions and continue their journey in the datacenter industry. Students enrolled in a DCA Aligned course will be kept informed of the availability of this opportunity via school communications.

Scholarships & Financial Grants

The Datacenter Academy provides financial support to help remove barriers to education for students pursuing careers in IT and digital infrastructure. In partnership with local educational institutions, Microsoft offers scholarships and funding support that may cover tuition, fees, certification costs, or essential learning resources—depending on the needs of each community.

These scholarships are designed to promote access to technical education in the communities where Microsoft datacenters operate. By working directly with partner schools, we ensure that funding is distributed effectively and reaches the learners who need it most.

To explore Datacenter Academy opportunities in your area, please contact your local participating college or training provider.

How to enroll

Asia

To enroll in a Microsoft Datacenter Academy course, please visit the college in your selected area and submit your application directly to them.

Australia

TAFE NSW: TAFE NSW is one of the leading providers of vocational education and training in Australia. As a Technical and Further Education institution, TAFE works closely with industry to meet the education and training needs of local communities and businesses. TAFE NSW offers a growing range of qualifications from certificate to degree level-programs.

The associated DCA course titles are: TAFE Statement in Datacentre Essentials and TAFE Statement in Introduction to Critical Environment Technician.

Singapore

Institute of Technical Education (ITE): The Institute of Technical Education (ITE) was established as a post-secondary institution in 1992, under the Ministry of Education. ITE is a principal provider of career and technical education and a key developer of national skills certification and standards, skilling Singapore for the future economy. It offers three key programmes - (1) Pre-Employment Training for youths after secondary education (2) Continuing Education and Training for adult learners and (3) Workplace Learning and Work-Study Programmes with employers. Under its 'One ITE System, Three Colleges' Governance Model, ITE has three Colleges - ITE College Central, ITE College East and ITE College West.

The associated DCA course titles are: Work Study Diploma in Data Centre Infrastructure & Operations, Work Study Diploma in Cyber Security & Forensics, Work Study Diploma in Cloud Management & Operations (Cloud Operations) and Work Study Diploma in Cloud Management & Operations (Infrastructure Support)
Europe

To enroll in a Microsoft Datacenter Academy course, please visit the college in your selected area and submit your application directly to them.

Denmark

Roskilde Technical School Roskilde Technical College offers various vocational education and training (VET) programmes, HTX (Higher Technical Examination), advanced technical education, further training for skilled workers, and company-related and introductory courses. with locations across Zealand, including Copenhagen, Roskilde, Ringsted, and Høng. Every day, they strive to be an attractive place to work and study, focusing on individual strengths and potential.

The school is engaged in development projects, international activities, and exchanges, serving over 2,800 students with 405 employees.

Finland

Luksia: Luksia provides vocational qualifications and customized training for individuals, private companies, and public institutions. Each year, they serve around 5,000 students with a staff of 350. Based in Western Uusimaa, their vocational programs cover fields such as Technology, Business, Health and Social Sciences, Tourism, and Culture.

The associated DCA course title is: Operating in a Data Center Environment

Omnia,: Omnia, the Joint Authority of Education is in the southern part of Finland and has campuses in Espoo and Kirkkonummi. Omnia offers many opportunities for future professionals and educates them in various fields, such as Electrical Engineering and Automation Technology, Building Maintenance Technology, and Information and Communications Technology, with a focus on data center work. After completing a vocational qualification, the doors of universities and colleges are also open.

The associated DCA course title is: Operating in a data center environment | Omnia

Ireland

Collinstown Park Community College: Collinstown Park Community College is a State, Co-educational and Multi-denominational Post Primary and Further Education and Training College of Dublin & Dun Laoghaire Education and Training Board.

The associated DCA course titles are: Datacenter Academy Level 5 Traineeship, Datacenter Academy Level 6 Traineeship, Datacenter Academy Level 6 PLC and Datacenter Academy L5 PLC

Technical University Blanchardstown Dublin: Technological University Dublin or TU Dublin is Ireland's first technological university. This university provides pathways to graduation from apprenticeship to PhD.

The associated DCA course title is: Higher Certificate in Science in Computing in Networking Technologies

Italy

Angelo Rizzoli Higher Technological Institute (ITS Academy) Angelo Rizzoli Institute was founded in 2011, with the aim of training future technicians in the ICT field. They are one of the main Institutes in Italy in the world of communication, style and graphic art. The training offer is designed to help young people build their future and transform their passion and personal aptitudes into specialized technical skills.

The associated DCA course is: Network and Cloud Specialist Course

Netherlands

MBO College Zuidoost (ROC van Amsterdam): MBO College Zuidoost is a leading vocational institution in Amsterdam, the Dutch capital, aiming to be a digital mainport. Located in the southeast, it offers students easy access to the conveniently close international business centre and numerous professional opportunities.

The associated DCA courses are: Cloud & Datacenter Technician (level 4), ICT Support Technician (level 3) and ICT System Engineer (level 4).

Talland College: Talland College is a vocational institution in the Netherlands offering various programs aimed at equipping students with practical skills for various industries

The associated DCA courses are: Datacenter technician(Short Module) , Allround support(Level 3) and Network engineers (level 4)

Vonk Schagen: Vonk Schagen, is a comprehensive vocational education provider in North Holland. They offer a wide range of educational programs including VMBO, MBO, VAVO, as well as various courses and company training.

The associated DCA courses are: Expert IT Systems and Devices (level 4) and Elective module: Datacenter IT Technology

Spain

Fundacion Tomillo: Fundación Tomillo is a non-profit organisation focused on accompanying young people in vulnerable situations, to promote their growth and employability.

The associated DCA course is: Tomillo Microcomputing System and Networks Vocational Training (Intermediate Level)

Sweden

NTI Gymnasiet Lund: NTI Gymnasiet Lund offer university preparatory and vocational programmes at EQF levels 4 and 5, serving students ages 16-20.

The associated DCA course is: Electricity and Energy Programme

Polhemsskolan Gävle: Polhemsskolan in Gävle is a vocational education institute (Gymnasieskolan) which has different vocational programs. Electrical & Energy Programme (DATA Specialization) has a focus on Data Center Technicians and Network Engineering.

The associated DCA course is: Data Center and Network Technician - Electrical and Energy Program

Sandviken DCA: Sandviken DataCenter Academy – SDCA (non-profit association) works for an increased digital level of competence in the region, improved integration and a positive and sustainable social development by creating a world-class data center.

The associated DCA courses are: Läroviken IT-Technician, Folkhögskola A+ and Folkhögskola Server+

UK

Slough & Langley College: Slough & Langley College comprises specialist technical, vocational and land-based training at Slough & Langley, and BCA.

They are committed to providing first class education and training for young people, adults and employers across Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Surrey.

They are collaborating with Microsoft DCA to onboard Apprentices onto their L3 ICT course
North America

To enroll in a Microsoft Datacenter Academy course, please visit the college in your selected area and submit your application directly to them.

Alamo College District, Palo Alto College: Palo Alto College, one of the five Alamo Colleges, offers a range of range of programs including a Bachelor of Applied Technology in operations management, two-year degree offerings, and accelerated certificate programs in state-of-the-art facilities for teaching and learning. Since 1985, Palo Alto College has empowered over 150,000 people across San Antonio and surrounding areas.

The associated DCA courses are: Network and Cloud Computing

Atlanta Technical College: Atlanta Technical College, a unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, provides lifelong educational opportunities and experiences through academic and innovative career preparation, service learning, and multiple program delivery modalities that lead to technical certificates, diplomas, and associate degrees and make student development and success possible in a competitive global economy. The College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commision on Colleges (SAC COC).

The associated DCA courses are: CIST 1001 Computer Concepts, CIST 1122 Hardware Installation & Maintenance, CIST 1601 Information Security Fundamentals, CIST 2122 A+ Preparation and CIST 1401 Computer Networking Fundamentals

Big Bend Community College: Big Bend Community College (BBCC) is a public community college established in 1962 in Moses Lake, WA which offers a variety of academic and technical program certificates and degrees designed to prepare students for transfer to four-year institutions or for immediate entry into the workforce.

The associated DCA courses are: Intro to Hardware & Operating Systems, Networking & Network Security I, Networking & Network Security II, A+ Prep & Certification, Windows Server Administration, Linux Server Administration, Cisco Networking: Intro to Networks, Cisco Networking: Routing, Switching, & Wireless Essentials, Intro to Virtualization, Intro to Database Design & Management and Intro to Security Administration

Catawba Valley Community College: Catawba Valley Community College is a public community college in Hickory, North Carolina where students can earn degrees, diplomas, and certificates in 55 different fields. Catawba Valley Community College is committed to excellence, quality engagement, valuing every interaction, and relentless execution in the transformation of our students and communities.

The associated DCA courses are: CTS 120 Hardware/Software Support A+, CTS 220 Adv Hard/Software Support A+, SEC 110 Security Concepts Security +, NET 110 Networking Concepts Net + and NOS 250 Enterprise Database Servers Server +

Central Ohio Technical College: COTC has four campuses in the central Ohio region and is a fully accredited public college dedicated to providing high-quality, affordable, and accessible programs of technical education. COTC acts as a catalyst, transforming the lives of our students and their families, and impacting the communities, accelerating their economic growth.

The associated DCA courses are: CIT-120 PC Hardware: Troubleshooting and Maintenance (CompTIA A+ Essentials Certification) and CIT-126 Networking (CompTIA Network+ Certification)

Des Moines Community College is a public community college in central Iowa. They provide robust training with specialized tracks in both Cybersecurity and Network Administration, with courses associated with the DCA.

For those focused on cybersecurity, and Network Administration offerings, detailed information on these courses and their aligned certifications are available on the Cybersecurity Program page, and the Network Administration Program page.

Estrella Mountain Community College: EMCC is a public, non-profit community college that offers certificates and associate degrees to help students achieve their educational goals. We pride ourselves in making high-quality, affordable education accessible in the West Valley in various learning modalities to meet students' unique needs.

The associated DCA course: Cybersecurity, Information Technology, Network and Systems Administration, CISCO Network Administration (CCNA), Computer Systems Configuration and Support, Network, Computer Systems Configuration and Support, Security, Cybersecurity Fundamentals

Gateway Technical College: began in 1911 as America’s first publicly funded technical college, preparing students to achieve their academic and professional goals. The college's hands-on training in more than 70 programs of study prepares 19,000 students annually to enter new careers or advance their current ones. The college collaborates with Kenosha County, Racine County and Walworth County communities to ensure economic growth and viability by providing nationally recognized education, training, leadership and technological resources for students and businesses.

The associated DCA courses are: 150-152 IT Tech Skills, 154-114 Hardware/Software Support, 150-136 Server Technologies and 150-155 Data Center Technician.

Glendale Community College: Glendale Community College serves over 13,000 students primarily in Phoenix Arizona's West Valley. As part of the Maricopa Community Colleges system, we believe a college education should be affordable, high quality, and community driven with meaningful and direct access to resources, personalized support, and career and university pathways.

The associated DCA courses are: AAS: Cyber Defense, AAS: Cybersecurity, AAS: Information Technology, AAS: Network and Systems Administration, AAS: CISCO Network Administration, CCL CISCO Network Administration, CCL Computer Systems Configuration& Support, Networking, CCL Computer Systems Configuration & Support, Security, CCL Cybersecurity Fundamentals, CCL Security Technology

Laramie County Community College: Laramie County Community College is a public community college that offers 2 bachelor's degree programs, 44 associate degree programs, and 30 certificates. LCCC's Information Technology Pathway programs have been recognized by industry partners and educational consortiums for innovative delivery and high-quality outcomes.

The associated DCA courses are: CMAP 1615 - Operating Systems, CMAP 1920 - Computer Hardware Maintenance, CMAP 1960 - Server Installation and Administration, CSCO 2000 - Cisco CCNA I : Intro to Networking and HMDV 1510 - Professionalism in the Workplace

Northern Virgina Datacenter Academy: Build life skills and take the next step towards your educational and professional IT goals at NoVA Data Center Academy. We offer a wide range of IT training courses and IT industry certification programs, delivered by consultants, who are experts in their field. Get your hands on training and wrap around services at NoVA DCA. Your Future Stars Here!

The associated DCA courses are: Introduction to Information Systems - CompTIA ITF+, Personal Computer Hardware/Troubleshooting - CompTIA A+ (1101), Microcomputer Operating Systems - CompTIA A+ (1102), Computer Networks (CompTIA Network+), Server Administration (CompTIA Server+) and Network Security Basics (CompTIA Security+)

Northwest Vista College: Northwest Vista College, located in San Antonio, Texas, is a public community college with an enrollment of over 18,000 students. We offer a diverse range of associate degrees and technical certifications, tailored to support educational and career goals.

The associated DCA courses are: Implementing and Supporting Client Operating Systems (CompTIA A+), Implementing and Supporting Servers (CompTIA Server+), Fundamentals of Information Security (CompTIA Security+) and Fundamentals of Network Technologies (CompTIA Network+)

Palo Alto College: Palo Alto College is a vibrant public community college in San Antonio, Texas, fostering a thriving community of learners through a diverse range of associate degrees, certificates, and even a Bachelor's of Operations Management. Empowering and inspiring students for leadership and success, Palo Alto College is dedicated to providing the knowledge and skills needed to achieve your educational and career goals.

Southern Virginia Higher Education Center: Southern Virginia Higher Education Center is an epicenter of education and job training in southern Virginia. The Center drives regional economic development by establishing talent pipelines for in-demand careers.

The associated DCA courses are: CompTIA IT Fundamentals+, CompTIA A+, CompTIA Network+, CompTIA Security+, CompTIA Server+, CompTIA Data+, Linux Essentials, Introduction to Cloud Administration and Introduction to Computer Programming

Southside Virginia Community College: Southside Virginia Community College (SVCC) is a two-year public institution of higher education within the Virginia Community College System which serves as a gateway to education, training, and employment opportunities by providing relevant and innovative programs responsive to the diverse communities we serve in a student-centered, inclusive learning environment.

The associated courses are: ITE 100 Introduction to Information Systems, ITN 101 Introduction to Network Concepts, ITN 106 Microcomputer Operating Systems, ITN 107 Personal Computer Hardware and Troubleshooting, ITN 111 Server Administration, ITN 257 Cloud Computing: Infrastructure and Services, ITN 260 Network Security Basics and SDV 106 Preparation for Employmen

West Georgia Technical College: West Georgia Technical College offers over 120 programs of study with degree, diploma, and technical certificate offerings available. With affordable tuition, small class sizes, a myriad of financial aid options, and a superior learning environment, we are ready to be your partner for success!

The associated DCA courses offered at WGTC are: Computer Support Specialist, Networking Specialist, PC Repair and Network Technician, or Helpdesk Specialist.
South America

To enroll in a Microsoft Datacenter Academy course, please visit the college in your selected area and submit your application directly to them.

Brazil

Federal Institute of São Paulo: Federal Institute of São Paulo Campus Hortolândia - IFSP is a public institution that offers high education and professional education in Hortolândia, Brazil.

The associated DCA course is: Technical Course in Maintenance and Support in Computing

Testimonials

Sean Keegan Dempsey

Datacenter Technician Intern

The course I chose to study is directly connected to my internship at Microsoft. It’s been a seamless blend of learning and real world application
Leonardo Bellai

Datacenter Technician Intern

Since the beginning it has been a life changing experience
Kristy Rulli

Datacenter Technician

The invaluable skills I gained through the Datacenter Academy (DCA) program gave me the confidence to launch a new career path
Kevin Le Cras

Datacenter Technician

DCA gave me the knowledge and experience to be able to answer the technical questions asked during the interview”
Sinenkosi Masondo

Datacenter Logistics Technician

This experience has been nothing short of inspiring, filled with growth, learning and meaningful connections!

Empowering the planet

What is the cloud and why is it important.

We are in the midst of the “fourth industrial revolution,” as organizations and individuals around the world use cloud computing to get the latest and greatest technology, power their businesses and daily lives, and accomplish things never thought possible. The cloud enables many of the activities we use on a daily basis: communication, banking, gaming, entertainment, business applications, artificial intelligence, and many more. The cloud enables organizations to deploy applications anywhere on the globe without constraints. The cloud hosts massive amounts of data that feed these applications and provide information to people and businesses around the world.
What is the Microsoft Datacenter Pledge?

Datacenters are at the heart of our daily life—hospitals, schools, businesses, and government all depend on the computing that happens in local datacenters. Datacenter buildings house thousands of computer servers and data storage devices connected to the internet.

At Microsoft, we are committed to building and operating datacenters responsibly, for the good of the community. This is our datacenter community pledge. We will contribute to a sustainable future, advance community prosperity and well-being and operate responsibly as a good neighbor.