QTS commits $150,000 over three years to support the Data Center Operations certificate through the Maricopa Community Colleges Foundation
PHOENIX, Ariz., October 30, 2026 – QTS Data Centers (QTS) and Maricopa Community Colleges announced the expansion of their partnership to support the Data Center Operations certificate, helping prepare students with the skills and training needed for entry-level data center jobs. The three-year commitment, applied in annual amounts of $50,000, builds on a collaboration that began in 2025.
QTS presented a check to the Maricopa Community Colleges Foundation, which receives and manages gifts that support students and programs across the system’s 10 colleges. The presentation took place on Wednesday, October 28 at Estrella Mountain Community College in Avondale during a tech-themed seminar session, part of a monthly program hosted by the college.
“We are grateful for our longstanding partnership with QTS and its continued commitment to expanding educational and workforce opportunities for our students,” said Julie Dunnigan, President and CEO, Maricopa Community Colleges Foundation. “Building on its previous investments in workforce development programs and scholarships, QTS’s latest commitment of $50,000 annually over the next three years will further advance our efforts to prepare students for high-demand careers while helping address Arizona’s growing need for skilled technical professionals in the digital infrastructure industry. We are proud to partner with QTS to strengthen Arizona’s workforce and support a thriving economic future for our state.”
Developed through a collaboration by QTS, Maricopa Community Colleges and other data center partners, the certificate combines foundational technician training with specialized data center courses, helping local students build skills that employers in the industry need. The first cohort completed the certificate in the fall of 2025. Over the next three years, the gift will help continue and expand the program.
“The growth of the data center industry is creating new career opportunities, and we want to make sure students have clear, accessible pathways to be part of it,” said Kimberly Hines, Vice President of Philanthropy, QTS Data Centers. “Our partnership with Maricopa Community Colleges connects education directly to the skills employers need, helping students prepare for meaningful careers in a fast-growing industry. This continued investment reflects our commitment to developing the next generation of skilled talent and strengthening the communities where we live and work.” Under its Good Neighbor Standard, QTS is committed to strengthening the local workforce by creating jobs, supporting trades and preparing young people for the jobs of the future. QTS operates data centers in the Phoenix area and continues to develop its three local campuses.