Quantum Switch partnered with CNet Training to deliver industry-approved technical education to local staff across its portfolio in the Middle East. This year, the company will educate 28 local staff in technical and data center management skills in a program worth over $100,000. Over the next five years, it is estimated that 100 or more individuals will undergo education programs by the company, as it invests worth well over $250,000 in local skills development.
CNet has been designing and delivering professional network infrastructure training programs since 1996. The cooperation is a key aspect of Quantum Switch’s commitment to employ local staff and develop the skills and experience of the populations around its data centers.
On the back of the recently announced contract to deliver and operate six 50-MW data centers in Saudi Arabia over the next five years, plus continuing expansion in other Gulf states and across the Middle East, Quantum Switch will become a significant employer of high-technology staff in the region. Working with CNet allows the company to recruit suitable staff with core skills locally and educate them in the specifics of data center technologies and management.
Managers and technicians will be automatically enrolled, at no cost to them, on one of two highly regarded CNet programs: the Certified Data Center Management Professional (CDCMP) and the Certified Data Center Technician Professional (CDCTP). The first is a comprehensive program that develops an understanding of all elements of a data center facility and the relationships and dependencies between them. Participants learn to maintain consistent reliability, security, and integrity of data and the availability of service. The second focuses on subjects essential to data center technicians in maintaining zero-downtime facilities. It includes understanding the key constraints on operational effectiveness, policies, procedures, and compliance based on legislation, standards (national and international), and codes of conduct.
Upon successful completion of the programs, including various assessments, participants will be awarded industry-recognized certifications and internationally recognized qualifications that confirm their excellence in these highly complex environments.
“Any data center is only as good as the people who manage it and keep it operating,” said Peter O’Sullivan, head of operations at Quantum Switch. “The necessary blend of skills is hard to find, which is why we are working with CNet to invest in developing and certifying individuals with relevant skills to apply them in the exciting and growing data center sector. We are passionate about creating high-skill, high-value jobs for the communities where we operate, and the CNet certifications help us do exactly that.”
“We applaud Quantum Switch for its commitment to local skills development,” said Andrew Stevens, CEO of CNet Training. “Providing its staff with the opportunity to participate in our technical education programs and earn certifications recognized by the industry worldwide, not only benefits the local population by providing access to education for high-quality, transferrable skills, it also creates a powerful employer brand that benefits all parties.”
