In a remarkable display of mother-son collaboration, Sherrie Hill and her son Kavary embarked on a transformative journey together, completing the AWS Infrastructure Pre-Apprenticeship program at Germanna Community College. This unique educational experience not only equipped them with the skills to thrive in the rapidly evolving world of data infrastructure but also fostered a deeper bond between the two as they navigated the program side by side.

Bridging the Skills Gap: Germanna's Innovative Approach to Workforce Development

Preparing for the Data Revolution

Germanna Community College, in partnership with Amazon Web Services (AWS), has launched a groundbreaking pre-apprenticeship program designed to equip individuals with the necessary skills to support the growing data infrastructure in the Fredericksburg region. As Amazon continues to invest billions in the area, the demand for a skilled workforce to build, operate, and maintain these critical facilities has become increasingly pressing. The AWS Information Infrastructure Pre-Apprenticeship (I2PA) program aims to address this need by providing comprehensive training in a wide range of disciplines, from electrical systems and HVAC to fiber optics and computer servers.

A Collaborative Approach to Learning

The I2PA program at Germanna has attracted a diverse group of students, including Sherrie Hill and her son Kavary, who seized the opportunity to learn together. The four-week intensive training program exposed the participants to the various elements required to construct and maintain data centers, offering them a unique perspective on the industry's inner workings. The classes were taught by experienced vendors and contractors who work closely with AWS, ensuring that the students received hands-on, industry-relevant instruction.

Empowering the Next Generation of Infrastructure Professionals

The I2PA program's success lies in its ability to equip students with a well-rounded understanding of the data infrastructure industry. Beyond technical skills, the curriculum also focused on developing "durable" skills, such as interviewing techniques, resume writing, and leadership principles. This holistic approach prepares the graduates to not only excel in their chosen fields but also to navigate the ever-evolving job market with confidence.

Fostering a Collaborative Learning Environment

The I2PA program at Germanna fostered a strong sense of camaraderie among the students, as evidenced by the experience of Sherrie Hill and her son Kavary. Despite initial concerns about their age and gender differences, the pair found the program to be a welcoming and supportive environment, where they built a team atmosphere and benefited from the expertise of the exceptional instructors.

Pathways to Success: Connecting Graduates with Employers

Upon completing the I2PA program, the graduates were encouraged to explore specific career pathways that aligned with their interests and skills. An informal networking job fair provided them with the opportunity to connect with potential employers, further enhancing their prospects for immediate employment. Both Sherrie and Kavary Hill expressed confidence in their ability to secure positions that would allow them to put their newly acquired knowledge and skills to work, contributing to the growth and development of the region's data infrastructure.