• Article By | bhobbs

Innovative Learning Environment Prepares Students for High-Demand Careers in Digital Infrastructure

Kennesaw, GA – CROFT & Associates is proud to celebrate the opening of the new Microsoft Datacenter Academy Lab at Atlanta Technical College, a transformative workforce development initiative designed to prepare students for careers in one of the nation’s fastest-growing industries. The facility, officially unveiled during a ribbon-cutting ceremony on May 20, represents one of Georgia’s first dedicated datacenter training academies and provides students with hands-on experience using industry-standard equipment and technology.

Serving as architect and engineer for the project, CROFT partnered with Atlanta Technical College, Microsoft, TA Realty, and TA Digital Group to create a learning environment that bridges the gap between education and industry. The academy is part of Microsoft’s global Datacenter Academy network and features immersive training spaces designed to support workforce development in datacenter operations, networking, cybersecurity, and related technical fields.

Chris Philhower, CROFT Project Manager and Primary Point of Contact, led the firm’s multidisciplinary design team with a vision that challenged traditional classroom design.

“From the beginning, our goal was to make the technology itself the centerpiece of the experience,” said Philhower. “We approached the lab almost like a retail environment, where the datacenter hardware becomes the focal point and students can engage directly with the equipment they will encounter in the workforce. We wanted the space to inspire curiosity, encourage hands-on learning, and create an authentic training experience.”

Rather than hiding infrastructure behind walls and ceilings, the design showcases the equipment, systems, and technology that power modern digital infrastructure. This intentional approach allows students to learn in an environment that closely mirrors real-world datacenter operations while gaining valuable experience with the tools and systems used throughout the industry.

The facility was created to support Atlanta Technical College’s mission of preparing students for immediate success upon graduation. Through simulation labs, industry-aligned curriculum, mentorship opportunities, and direct interaction with advanced equipment, students will graduate with practical skills that position them for employment in high-demand technology careers.

“At CROFT, our purpose extends beyond designing buildings,” said Philhower. “We design environments that help people succeed. Whether it’s a classroom, a laboratory, or a technical training facility, our goal is always to create spaces that empower students to excel in their chosen careers from the moment they enter the job market.”

The Microsoft Datacenter Academy at Atlanta Technical College is supported through more than $800,000 in funding and industry partnerships, creating a direct pipeline between education and employment while strengthening Georgia’s growing technology workforce. The academy will welcome its first cohort of students this fall. As demand for cloud computing, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital infrastructure continues to grow, the facility stands as an example of how thoughtful design and industry collaboration can help prepare the workforce of tomorrow.

ABOUT CROFT & Associates, Inc. 

CROFT, founded in 2004, is a full-service architecture and engineering firm headquartered in Kennesaw, GA, with offices in Lawrenceville and Savannah, GA; Golden, CO; Myrtle Beach, SC; and Charlotte, NC. CROFT completes over 200 projects each year for clients throughout the United States, providing in-house design services that include: architecture, interior design, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and civil engineering. CROFT’s team of architects and engineers designs and manages over $500 million in construction of new and renovated facilities annually. CROFT’s market sectors include K-12 Education, Higher Education, Local Government, Federal Government, Church/Non-Profit, and Corporate/Commercial. CROFT is a privately owned organization with a strong history of philanthropy.

Media Contact:

Barkley Russell | barkley@barkleyrussellagency.com | 770.235.3612