Virginia has earned a reputation as the global hub for cloud infrastructure, with a remarkable 70% of the world’s internet traffic flowing through the state. This has attracted major global companies to invest billions of dollars in building data centers and related infrastructure across the commonwealth.
A key player in this growth is Amazon Web Services (AWS), which recently teamed up with Virginia’s Community Colleges to establish workforce training programs that prepare Virginians for thousands of current and future job opportunities in their community – with many training programs eligible for financial assistance through FastForward funding.
What is Amazon Web Services (AWS)?
AWS is a subsidiary of Amazon that provides cloud technologies to companies and organizations worldwide and has invested $63.9 billion into Virginia’s economy and announced plans to invest another $35 billion (source). These investments not only generate direct employment at AWS but also create jobs across a wide network of local businesses that contribute to building and maintaining AWS facilities.
“AWS has a long history with building infrastructure in Virginia and AWS has invested $63.9 billion into the Commonwealth through our infrastructure investments since 2011,” said Chris Affrunti, AWS director of workforce development. “AWS relies on the support of more than 100 Virginia businesses to build and operate our data centers and supports 16,600 jobs annually in the Commonwealth. We are committed to Virginia’s growth by providing accessible opportunities to develop skills and local jobs that can support families.”
Workforce Training at Your Local Community College
In partnership with AWS, Virginia’s Community Colleges are offering hands-on training and industry-recognized credentials to prepare you for high-demand careers right in your area.
It all started in 2024 with the launch of the Fiber Optic Installer program at Laurel Ridge Community College, a pathway designed to open doors to careers in telecommunications, internet service, cable TV and, of course, data centers.
Now, training for AWS Data Center Jobs has expanded across the state, with programs available at Northern Virginia, Germanna, Piedmont Virginia, Southside Virginia and Rappahannock Community Colleges, as well as through the Community College Workforce Alliance (a partnership between Reynolds and Brightpoint Community Colleges).
Training programs don’t stop at fiber. Workforce programs also equip students for careers in electrical, HVAC, and data center technician roles. Whether you’re just getting started or already have experience, you can find real, immediate opportunities with employers like AWS, NTI National Technologies, Dominion Energy, and many others.
Discover more about launching your career in data infrastructure, fiber optics, and more through Virginia’s Community Colleges by visiting fastforward.org/aws.