Feb 4
Amazon Bringing Educators, Workforce Leaders Together at Feb. 9 Workshop
Feb. 4, 2026 – Richmond Community College will host Amazon Web Service’s Information Infrastructure Workshop (I2W) for Educators on Monday, Feb. 9, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Cole Auditorium, bringing together education and workforce leaders with industry experts to address the growing demand for skilled talent in cloud and information infrastructure careers.
The one-day workshop, led by Amazon Web Services (AWS), is designed to help educators and workforce professionals better understand the physical infrastructure that powers cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and the modern information economy, as well as the wide range of career opportunities available in this rapidly expanding field.
As AI and cloud technologies continue to reshape industries, employers face an increasing need for trained workers to support data centers, networks, and infrastructure operations. The AWS Information Infrastructure Workshop provides participants with insights into these careers through hands-on activities, real-world demonstrations, and direct engagement with industry leaders.
AWS will also have two mobile data centers set up in the parking lot of the Cole Auditorium that will provide participants with a firsthand look at the mechanical and electrical systems that operate within a data center.
“Workforce training programs open doors for people at every stage of their career - whether you’re a student just beginning to learn about these fields, a community college student building expertise, or someone looking to transition into a new field,” saidRoger Wehner, Vice President of Economic Development for Amazon Web Services. “In Richmond County, we’re investing in hands-on training for high-demand skills like fiber optics and data center operations, partnering with K-12 schools and two-year colleges to build awareness and create clear pathways from education to employment. These are jobs that pay well and help build the critical infrastructure our communities depend on. Amazon's partnership with Richmond County is building economic opportunity, including good jobs, stronger skills, and a more competitive workforce.”
The day begins with presentations and interactive learning experiences focused on infrastructure-related careers and the skills required to succeed. Participants take part in hands-on activities that reflect the day-to-day tasks performed by information infrastructure professionals, offering a practical view of the work behind today’s digital systems.
In the afternoon, educators and workforce leaders engage directly with AWS managers, talent acquisition professionals, and specialized vendors and contractors involved in information infrastructure, from data center construction to operations. These discussions focus on workforce needs and strategies to align education and training programs with employer demand for diverse populations, including veterans, high school graduates, college students, and individuals changing careers.
Throughout the workshop, participants have opportunities to build connections with industry experts, workforce partners, and fellow educators, laying the groundwork for future collaboration and program development.