Empowering the next generation of infrastructure leaders with the skills they’ll need to support innovations like AI, and beyond, yields a range of benefits. For our industry, we’re helping build a future talent pool to address the gap of over 1.9 million positions in the data center industry by 2030. Through the EdgeConneX Education Program, we are introducing young people to digital and AI literacy through our partnership with Hello World CS, which can help them take essential first steps on their career paths. For the communities we serve, we are also working to demystify data centers.
Empowering the next generation of infrastructure leaders, we’re growing the talent the industry needs.
We hope that many of the young people who take part in our education programs are inspired to come work for us, like Data Center Design Engineer, Jai Huntley and others have. Dr. Glen Duncan, Data Center Research Director at JLL puts it well: “It’s in the interest of companies to train up a critical mass of skilled technical professionals well-versed in a particular proprietary technology. They can gain an edge over competitors if they’re able to provide adequate skilled support for their solutions.”
Many of the skills needed to work in a data center can be transferred to other companies, which is an excellent opportunity for young people entering the industry. They have many options for a long-term career. Even if the individuals we assist in entering this sector end up working for a customer or a competitor, it ultimately benefits everyone. Just like a rising tide lifts all boats, bringing new talent into the data center industry benefits us all.
“Our education initiatives are about more than just learning experiences. They’re launchpads for the data center industry’s future leaders. As participants grow in their understanding of the digital infrastructure landscape, they’re equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to drive the entire industry forward, sustainably.” Phillip Marangella – Chief Product and Marketing Officer at EdgeConneX
Empowering the next generation, we’re introducing young people to lucrative careers.
It’s hard to imagine a more valuable set of skills for the modern age than those required to support the foundation of the digital economy. Dr. Duncan from JLL again: “A ready pool of available talent is not only attractive to the market, but also good for the workers who will be equipped with technical skills that are transferable between companies.”
To enable young people to gain the requisite combination of technical and soft skills, we need education programs with structured pathways to develop essential life skills, build confidence, and develop resilience outside of the traditional classroom. Participants in our Education initiative, which also includes our partnership with The Duke of Edinburgh Award USA, will delve into curriculum that highlights the essential role of digital infrastructure in society. The program also emphasizes environmental stewardship, further underscoring our dedication to building sustainable digital infrastructure.
In under-resourced communities in particular, a lot of young people don’t have a school or home environment that supports their growth or aspirations. They need a boost up to the crucial first step on the ladder. Through the EdgeConneX Education initiative, young people will learn about opportunities they might never have imagined. Not only will they learn the vital role of digital infrastructure in our modern lives, but they’ll see how rewarding – and lucrative – a career in this industry can be. These programs have the power to change lives globally by opening doors, building confidence, and creating career pathways.
“I’ve experienced firsthand the profound impact programs like The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award can have on shaping character, resilience, and leadership. This partnership is deeply personal to me, as it represents an incredible opportunity to train and empower the next generation of infrastructure leaders with the skills needed to drive meaningful change.” – Michael Tobin, Chairman of the Board for EdgeConneX and a former participant in the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Program
Bottom line: The EdgeConneX Education initiative benefits the industry, the young people, and the communities in which we operate. It’s a win-win-win. Learn more about our community efforts here: https://www.edgeconnex.com/company/about-edgeconnex/community-involvement/