Pioneering critical environment training lab opens in Southern Virginia

A new training lab pilot project at the Southside Virginia Community College (SVCC) will provide essential skilling to Critical Environment students in the Microsoft Datacenter Academy program. The lab is the first of its kind and will be replicated in the future at other Microsoft locations.

The training lab will focus on electrical, mechanical, and HVAC systems, as well as other industrial systems that will help students thrive in critical environments. Microsoft donated decommissioned equipment for the SVCC lab, and helped develop the curriculum and certifications that will set the students up for success in their careers and the local workforce.

“We are proud to return to Boydton, Virginia, taking the next step in supporting the workforce with the development of the Datacenter Academy’s Critical Environment lab,” said Gary McLoughlin, Global Program Manager, Microsoft.

The Microsoft Datacenter Academy originally launched in Virginia in 2018 and is now a global program.

“I am so lucky to be a part of a community college with such a vibrant future,” said Dr. Quentin R. Johnson, SVCC President. “SVCC’s partnership with Microsoft has impacted the lives of students since the opening of the Datacenter Academy and the impact will continue with the new Critical Environment Lab that will prepare students for new exciting career opportunities.”
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