Datacenter Pathway

Power the Digital World

Use your recent electrical, mechanical, maintenance, or HVAC experience to train online for Critical Environment Technician roles—keeping datacenters running at peak performance.

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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 will 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 a stipend of $20/hr while completing the training, so you can earn as you learn.

Through online training, you will learn the specialized skills needed to monitor, troubleshoot, and sustain critical systems in datacenters nationwide. The program prepares graduates for full-time Critical Environment Technician roles with opportunities for career growth and advancement in a rapidly expanding industry.

Datacenter Operations
Build Your Future
  • 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 datacenter 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 have learned and prepare for the real-world demands of maintaining critical infrastructure.
  • Launch Your Career
    After completing the eight-week program, you will be ready to step into a full-time Critical Environment Technician role at a Microsoft datacenter with opportunities for advancement in a rapidly growing industry.
woman folding her hands standing in front of computer screens and data center equipment

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 will maintain equipment, monitor environmental conditions, and troubleshoot any issues that arise.

Training Program:
The program is eight weeks long and includes:

  • Virtual online training (paid) – 7 weeks
  • In-person training in Boydton, Virginia – 1 week

Available Role Locations:
After training, roles are available in the following locations:

  • Milwaukee, Wisconsin
  • Abilene, Texas
  • Des Moines, Iowa

Application Deadline: November 12, 2026
Applications submitted after this date may still be considered for the January cohort for several weeks, pending program capacity and eligibility requirements.

Relocation Information:
Relocation to specific role locations may be available for participants who successfully complete the program and receive a full-time employment offer.

Training Timeline:

January 25, 2027 | Virtual Training Begins

Participants dedicate approximately 10 hours each week to virtual learning, including two instructor-led sessions.

March 1 – 4, 2027 | Onsite in Boydton, VA*

Participants attend one week of hands-on training. The cost to participate in the on-site training is fully covered: flights, hotel, transportation, and meals are included.

* Please note: The onsite training week is tentative and may shift slightly; however, it will take place within the overall training program dates.

March 19, 2027 | Training Ends

Participants are prepared for a new career in one of the world’s most critical industries.

Upcoming Cohorts
The May/June 2027 cohort is expected to include training opportunities at the same locations, with specific dates to be announced in early 2027.

Culture
Microsoft Military
Veterans are using their military experience to power the tech industry—transitioning into critical roles that keep datacenters running.
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Military Datacenter Pathways for Veterans
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Military Datacenter Pathways
Frequently Asked Questions
This program 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 recent hands-on experience operating, maintaining, troubleshooting, or repairing physical infrastructure systems, such as electrical equipment, mechanical systems, HVAC, generators, power distribution equipment, or other mission-critical facility assets.
  • Reside in or be willing to relocate to one of the Role Locations (see above) following program completion (relocation support available)
No. Critical Environment Technicians (CETs) support the physical infrastructure of data centers—including power, cooling, and mechanical systems. This is a hands-on, industrial role that involves working with equipment on-site and participating in a rotating shift schedule.
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 October 19 - 23 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.
  • Apply Online* — Submit your application through the HOH website. Applying early is encouraged.
  • Eligibility Review — The HOH Career Connector Team reviews your application to confirm you meet eligibility requirements, including recent hands-on experience in electrical, mechanical, HVAC, or facilities maintenance.
  • HOH Pre-Screen Interview — Eligible candidates will be contacted by an HOH team member for a brief call to verify your experience and ensure the role and program are the right fit.
  • Microsoft Review — Eligible candidates are forwarded to Microsoft, who may extend an interview invitation as part of their selection process.
  • Program Acceptance — Selected candidates receive official acceptance and begin on the program start date.
*Completing an application or pre-screen does not guarantee acceptance. Selection is competitive and based on experience, fit, and cohort capacity.
No, there is no cost associated with participating in the program for job seekers.
Yes, you will receive a stipend of $20 per hour.
Yes, you may be employed during the training period. However, you must be able to commit to the weekly schedule and be available to travel for the on-site training portion. All costs associated with on-site training are covered, including flights, accommodations, transportation, and meals.