Data Centers and Community Partners Fuel Career Pathways

April 28, 2025 – Big Bend Community College (BBCC) hosted a Data Center Career Summit that brought together students, educators, employers, and workforce leaders to explore one of the region’s most rapidly expanding sectors. As data centers continue to grow across North Central Washington, local partnerships are working to ensure that residents have clear, supported pathways into these careers.

“Workforce development is a team sport,” said BBCC President and SkillSource board member, Sara Thompson Tweedy. “We’ve created this, and we’ve created it intentionally.”

Organized in collaboration with BBCC, Microsoft, the Apple STEM Network, NCW Tech Alliance, and the North Central Educational Service District, the summit offered real-world insights from industry, economic development, and workforce professionals. SkillSource Programs Manager Aaron Parrott joined a workforce development panel alongside leaders from BBCC, the Quincy School District, and North Central ESD.

Lifting the Hood on Data Centers

While many think of data centers as simply rows of servers, panelists described them as critical infrastructure powering nearly every aspect of modern life, from banking and medical records, cloud storage and AI, to streaming and search. But behind every machine is a skilled human.

Shaun Devine, from Sabey Data Centers, emphasized that most of their workforce is hired locally, with many employees beginning their careers straight out of high school. “There are multiple entry points,” Devine said, noting that roles typically require only a high school diploma. “From there, it’s all about curiosity and initiative.” He added that 15 current technicians at Sabey came directly from Quincy High School, a clear sign that early exposure and mentorship matter.

Opportunities for Growth

Representatives from Microsoft, including Lisa Karstetter and Esmeralda Ramos, echoed the theme of upward mobility. Entry-level roles provide exposure to the industry, and those who are proactive and adaptable often find pathways into higher-paying positions, leadership roles, or specialized technical fields.

BBCC’s Justin Henley reminded attendees that soft skills like communication, accountability, and time management are often what make the difference. “The due date is not the day you do it,” he quipped, underscoring the professional expectations that come with working in a high-responsibility environment.

A Regional Advantage

Brant Mayo, Executive Director of the Grant County Economic Development Council and SkillSource board member, spoke to the region’s unique advantages: access to clean energy, land availability, and a growing ecosystem of support industries. With demand rising, data centers are creating ripple effects across construction, utilities, administration, and education.