Vertiv, IIT Madras Expand Data Center Skills Program in Maharasht

Vertiv, IIT Madras Pravartak Technologies Foundation and Ratan Tata Maharashtra State Skills University are expanding a data-centre skills programme to Maharashtra. The initiative aims to train 1,500 engineering students in data-centre operations and digital infrastructure management.

Vertiv, IIT Madras Pravartak Technologies Foundation and Ratan Tata Maharashtra State Skills University (RTMSSU) are expanding their data-centre skills development programme to Maharashtra, with the aim of preparing engineering students for careers in digital infrastructure and data-centre operations. The initiative will provide free training to 1,500 engineering students during 2026.

The programme builds on a collaboration launched by Vertiv and IIT Madras Pravartak Technologies Foundation in 2025 to strengthen India's talent pipeline for the rapidly growing digital infrastructure sector. Under the expanded initiative, RTMSSU will use its network of pre-incubation centres across 60 colleges in Maharashtra to extend the programme to a wider student base.

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Participating students will receive certified online training covering data-centre operations and digital infrastructure management. The programme is also expected to provide selected students with opportunities for internships and mentorship, giving them exposure to industry practices and workplace requirements.

The initiative comes as demand for data centres increases alongside the expansion of cloud computing, artificial intelligence and other digital services. The growth of AI-ready infrastructure is creating demand for professionals with specialised knowledge of data-centre operations, power systems, cooling technologies and infrastructure management.

Vertiv, which specialises in power, cooling and critical digital infrastructure, is contributing industry expertise to the programme. The company has previously worked with IIT Madras and IIT Madras Pravartak to train students in data-centre operations and maintenance. That earlier programme included a 35-hour self-paced course for more than 2,000 STEM students, with 160 selected participants receiving an immersive five-day programme at the IIT Madras campus.

The expanded programme is designed to bridge the gap between academic education and the practical skills required by the digital infrastructure industry. Students will gain exposure to operational processes and technologies used in modern data centres, helping them understand the requirements of an increasingly AI-driven digital economy.

RTMSSU's involvement will allow the programme to reach students beyond major technology hubs by using its network of colleges across Maharashtra. The partnership also reflects the growing role of industry-academia collaboration in developing specialised technology talent.

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The initiative is expected to strengthen India's workforce for the data-centre sector while giving engineering students access to industry-oriented learning, certification, internships and mentorship. As investments in AI and digital infrastructure continue to expand, such programmes could help address the industry's growing requirement for skilled professionals.