Creating careers to strengthen America’s digital infrastructure

AI, cloud computing and digital services continue to fuel the data center building boom across the United States, driving unprecedented demand for skilled talent. Behind every modern data center is a workforce of highly specialized technicians responsible for operating and maintaining complex HVAC, electrical, IT and security systems. That workforce is increasingly difficult to find. The U.S. is projected to face a shortfall of approximately 1.4 million skilled trades workers by 2030, creating a significant challenge to keep pace with growing infrastructure demands. Similar trends are expected in many parts of the world.

Johnson Controls plays a critical role in helping data centers operate efficiently and reliably. Equally important is the company’s commitment to workforce development and creating the next generation of career opportunities to support this burgeoning industry.

The newly launched HVAC Data Center Apprentice JCI Academy, based at Lincoln Tech’s Denver campus, offers students a six-week course specifically designed to meet the unique needs of data center facilities. On Feb. 13, Johnson Controls’ first class of specially trained data center HVAC technicians celebrated their graduation, entering the workforce and strengthening the data center talent pipeline at a critical moment for digital infrastructure growth.

The Johnson Controls Academy: A Targeted Training Model
The Johnson Controls Academy launched in 2023 with a mission to create a pathway to employment at Johnson Controls’ locations across the United States. The company supports students by covering JCI Academy tuition, housing during the training and relocation costs, with plans to onboard approximately 300 new technicians each year through the JCI Academy programs.

As technology and customer needs have evolved, the Academy curriculum has expanded to address the unique demands of data centers. The six-week intensive program combines classroom instruction with hands-on training on state-of-the-art chiller equipment, preparing students for real-world conditions they will encounter in the field.

Students receive focused instruction on safety protocols, electrical and HVAC fundamentals, customer communication and preventative maintenance, which are skills tailored to the operational complexity of data centers. Graduates leave the program with practical, Johnson Controls-aligned experience that directly prepares them for careers in the field.

“Today’s data centers require a new generation of technicians trained on advanced, energy-efficient systems. Through the Johnson Controls Academy, graduates gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge cooling technologies that are designed to reduce energy consumption, conserve water and operate more efficiently. That’s good for our customers, communities and our future,” said Alison Neuman, Johnson Controls workforce development program manager.

Looking Ahead: Building a Sustainable Workforce
Workforce development must extend beyond addressing immediate labor shortages. As digital infrastructure continues to evolve, sustained investment in scalable, multidisciplinary training programs will be essential to building long-term resilience.

Through initiatives like the Johnson Controls Academy, the company is preparing technicians not only for today’s data center demands, but also for the future of digital infrastructure. Celebrating this inaugural graduating class represents the first step in an ongoing commitment to workforce development that strengthens communities while powering the digital economy.