Teaching next gen cloud talent via AWS Academy

Editor’s note: This blog was updated on 9/17/24 to accurately reflect the number of AWS Academy learners trained. 

In an era defined by digital transformation and cloud computing, the last five years have seen a surge in demand for cloud-skilled professionals in both technical and non-technical roles. Amazon Web Services (AWS) has been committed to helping our customers and partners bridge this skills gap with training, industry-recognized certifications, and education programs that help educate the workforce of the future. With cloud skills training aimed at every level of learner, there is something for everyone. Individuals enrolled in one of more than 6,800 higher education institutions across 120 countries globally, can take advantage of AWS Academy courses for a path toward a career in cloud.

What is AWS Academy

Launched in 2017, AWS Academy provides higher education institutions with a free, ready-to-teach cloud computing curriculum that prepares students to pursue industry-recognized certifications and in-demand cloud jobs. AWS Academy curriculum helps educators stay at the forefront of AWS Cloud innovation so that they can equip students with the skills they need to get hired and thrive in some of the fastest-growing industries. With global availability, AWS Academy is helping reach a diverse population of learners and reducing barriers to teaching cloud skills education for tens of thousands of educators around the globe.

Over 2M learners globally have been trained with AWS Academy content and curriculum since the program launched in 2017. This achievement underscores the program’s impact in bridging the gap between higher education and real-world cloud expertise.

“My personal mission as a career educator has always been to make a difference in student lives on a daily basis,” remarked Jess Gilmore, Global Leader of AWS Academy. “Being a part of AWS has made that mission larger than life. I’m so proud that we’ve trained one million students with AWS Academy. This milestone is significant, but we are not done yet! The team is busy creating new content, improving features and functionality, and supporting educators globally so they can prepare the next generation of professionals with the cloud skills necessary to pursue industry-recognized certifications and in-demand cloud jobs.”

In-demand cloud skills training for pre-professional learners

In addition to foundational cloud skills, AWS Academy prepares students for industry-recognized AWS Certification exams, provides networking opportunities in the Emerging Talent Community, where they connect with other learners from around the world, and sets them on a trajectory of life-long learning.

Educators at member institutions have access to 12 courses, 4 lab projects and learning resources that enable students to develop a range of cloud computing skills. Students can get free access to hands-on labs in the AWS Management Console. AWS Academy courses are designed and built to help prepare learners for a variety of AWS Certification exams including AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner, AWS Certified Solutions Architect, AWS Certified Developer, and AWS Certified SysOps Administration.

Educators are choosing to use AWS Academy curriculum to give their students the necessary preparation for cloud careers. Kyong Jin Shim, Professor, Singapore Management University says, “AWS Academy provides well-designed and professionally-developed learning materials for our students. Integration of AWS Academy into our Business Analytics curriculum helps better prepare our students for internships and full-time job placements. Students who completed the course have landed full-time jobs at Goldman Sachs, Visa, Bank of America, and many more.”

Producing cloud-ready pre-professionals

There is no shortage of stories about AWS Academy students who have achieved career goals and made contributions in various industries. Take for example, Hector Rodriguez. Hector came to the United States from the Dominican Republic knowing very little English. When the Covid-19 pandemic hit, he was forced to look for new ways to support his young family when his massage therapy business shut down. Hector sought out AWS Cloud training at AWS Academy member institution Queensborough Community College, and now works as a successful cloud associate at Morgan Stanley.

As technology continues to evolve, the demand for employees with cloud experience and expertise will only increase. “AWS Academy is positioned to continue to change lives by providing flexible, relevant curriculum to institutions and educators who prepare learners to innovate and drive digital transformation in the newest cloud careers,” said Gilmore.

Are you a higher education institution leader or educator interested in learning more about how to bring AWS Academy content to your students? Learn more here.

Connect with Talent from AWS Education Programs

AWS Education Programs are preparing graduates for cloud roles in cities and towns around the world. We designed our curriculum by working backward from employer requirements, ensuring that graduates are qualified and prepared with the skills needed. Find cloud-skilled talent to fill your open roles today.