NDCD, AVK, STEM Learning launch schools initiative
Author: Joe Peck
National Data Centre Day (NDCD), an awareness initiative dedicated to recognising the critical role data centres play in powering the UK’s digital economy, has partnered with AVK and STEM Learning to launch the Data Centre STEM Ambassadors Programme, giving data centre professionals a route into schools across the UK.
The programme forms part of STEM Learning’s existing STEM Ambassadors initiative, which connects more than 30,000 volunteers with classrooms.
NDCD will encourage professionals across the data centre industry to register, creating a dedicated cohort to help teachers introduce digital infrastructure through subjects including computing, geography, and design technology.
Ambassadors will support career talks, classroom sessions, and mentoring for students aged 8 to 16, helping them understand the technology they use and the people behind it.
Industry targets future skills
The initiative builds on NDCD26’s #BackToSchool theme, which aims to increase awareness of data centres among young people and highlight potential careers in the sector.
Severine Trouillet, Chief Executive of STEM Learning, explains, “Meeting role models who showcase the professionals, technology, and skills behind data centres is invaluable for young people and their future career opportunities.
“These interactions improve pupils and students’ understanding, while helping them to see a career in data centres and associated technology as a viable, exciting, and achievable option.”
Sarah King, Head of Sustainability and Responsible Business at AVK, also notes that the programme can help the industry build stronger connections with schools and communities whilst addressing future skills requirements.
The STEM Ambassadors Programme is free to join, and data centre operators, developers, technology providers, and other industry professionals can learn more during an online session on 29 September at 2pm, which will explain how the programme works and how to register.
To join the session or find out more, contact eshenton@spacomms.com.
For more from NDCD, click here.
