Datacenter Pathway
Power the Digital World
Use your electrical, mechanical, maintenance, or HVAC experience to train online for Critical Environment Technician roles—keeping datacenters running at peak performance.
About the MDP-VETS Program
The Military Datacenter Pathway-VETS program is more than training—it’s a career transition opportunity. In just eight weeks, you’ll be ready to leverage your electrical, mechanical, maintenance, or HVAC skills in a Microsoft datacenter.
Powered by Microsoft, the MDP-VETS program provides military veterans with a clear pathway into one of the most essential roles in modern technology—maintaining the physical infrastructure that powers global connectivity. Participants are paid while completing the training, so you can earn as you learn.
Through online training, you’ll learn the specialized skills needed to monitor, troubleshoot, and sustain critical systems in data centers nationwide. The program prepares graduates for full-time Critical Environment Technician roles in Phoenix, with opportunities for career growth and advancement in a rapidly expanding industry.
Data Center Operations
Build Your Future
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Learn Online
Begin with seven weeks of virtual training, requiring about 10 hours per week. This flexible schedule allows you to build foundational knowledge in data center operations and safety while balancing other commitments. -
Gain Hands-On Experience
Complete one full-time, in-person week of immersive training to apply what you’ve learned and prepare for the real-world demands of maintaining critical infrastructure. -
Launch Your Career
After completing the eight-week program, you’ll be ready to step into a full-time Critical Environment Technician role at a Microsoft datacenter in Phoenix, with opportunities for advancement in a rapidly growing industry.
Role Description
Critical Environment Technician (CET)
As a CET, your primary responsibility will be to ensure the safety and reliability of the facility’s physical infrastructure. You’ll maintain equipment, monitor environmental conditions, and troubleshoot any issues that arise.
Training Locations:
Online, plus one week on-site in Boydton, Virginia
Role Location:
Phoenix, Arizona
Training Timeline:
Seven of the training program’s eight weeks of paid training are completed virtually, with one in-person, hands-on week.
- January 26, 2026 | Virtual Training Begins
Participants dedicate approximately 10 hours each week to virtual learning, including two instructor-led sessions. - March 2 – 5, 2025 | On-Site Experience
Participants attend one week of in-person training Boydton, Virginia. The cost to participate in the on-site training is fully covered—flights, hotel, transportation, and meals are included. - March 13, 2026 | Virtual Training Ends
Participants are prepared for a new career in one of the world’s most critical industries. - March 24, 2026 | Employment Interviews
Interviews for full-time employment roles for eligible participants.
Culture
Microsoft Military
Veterans are using their military experience to power the tech industry—transitioning into critical roles that keep data centers running.
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Military Datacenter Pathways
Frequently Asked Questions
This pilot is open to veterans and fellowship candidates whose timeline aligns with the program and who meet these education and experience requirements:
- Participants must have retired/separated from service within the last two years
- 1–2 years of experience in mechanical, maintenance, HVAC, or electrical
- Be in Phoenix or willing to relocate to Phoenix following program completion (relocation support available)
A participant who completes the training, demonstrates progress, and proves to be a good fit for the available roles will have the opportunity to interview for an open position.
Training topics include:
- Microsoft Introduction to Datacenters Gain a strong foundation in datacenter operations with this core course and certification.
- Microsoft Critical Environment Qualification Training Develop expertise in managing mission-critical environments to ensure uptime and reliability.
- OSHA 10 Certification (Industry Recognized) Learn essential workplace safety standards to operate confidently and compliantly.
- NFPA 70E Certification (Industry Recognized) Master electrical safety practices to protect yourself and your team in high-risk environments.
The program requires approximately 10 hours per week for virtual learning, including two instructor-led sessions a week (one required, one optional). Candidates must be available full-time from March 2–5 for an on-site training experience in Boydton, VA. To demonstrate progress, fellows will need to actively engage, complete milestones, and demonstrate readiness for a potential full-time offer upon completion of the program.
Once an application is received, a Career Connector (Hiring Our Heroes career advisor) will contact you at the email address provided. The Career Connector will offer further details about the program, including additional application requirements and timelines.
No, there is no cost associated with participating in the program for job seekers.