Europe's data centre academy

Data centres support all services and equipment upon which the digital era depends; furthermore, the sector is both highly profitable and expanding. Currently, three countries dominate the EU data centre market, and industry opinion suggests benefit from a pan-European training academy focused on data centre skills.

The EU-funded PEDCA (PEDCA pan-European data centre academy) project planned to create such an institution. Called the Data Centre Alliance (DCA), the venture was founded upon existing cooperation. The plan was to provide all European states with access to the necessary skills. The DCA was also intended to drive technological innovation in the field, foster knowledge transfer and improve Europe's position in the industry.

Initial work involved discussion with stakeholders to define a Joint Action Plan (JAP). The Plan, derived from four key requirement pillars, consisted of the project's commitment to deliver six items. First was a technology leadership platform. Others included representation, awareness, skills matrices and a training curriculum. The final JAP item involved delivery of standards, best practices and certifications.

PEDCA exceeded all performance indicators, particularly in terms of numbers of countries and organisations joining the network.

The technology leadership platform delivered a members' platform portal, which assisted in the creation of web resources. The platform also facilitated the building of various networks, including universities, steering groups and committees. Members further established relationships with investors and funding organisations.

The representation sub-programme extended invitations for relevant organisations to join the community, and extended affiliations with various national groups.

PEDCA's awareness efforts created several effective new publications, while collaborating with policymakers and training institutions. The latter yielded three basic-level training sessions.

Researchers identified the need for a full evaluation of available skills matrices. The team also raised awareness of the value of training and encouraged its uptake. Such work included establishment of a set of professional standards.

PEDCA's academy enabled Europe-wide access to training in skills pertaining to data centres. The resulting transfer of knowledge and innovation should make the European industry more competitive.