Why Become a Data Center Technician?

Data center technicians help keep critical technology systems running. They work with computer hardware, servers, storage, operating systems, networking equipment, cabling, documentation, and troubleshooting.

As data center, cloud, AI, and server infrastructure continue to grow, employers need technicians who can support the physical and technical systems behind modern computing.

Who Should Enroll?

No advanced IT experience is required, but students should be comfortable using a computer and willing to learn technical concepts.

• Students interested in technology careers
• Adults looking to change careers
• Workers who want to move into IT or data center jobs
• Current IT support employees who want stronger server and Linux skills
• High school graduates seeking a short-term technical pathway
• People who like hands-on work with computers, hardware, and troubleshooting

What Can Data Center Technician Jobs Pay?

Entry-level Data Center Technicians and related IT infrastructure roles in the Amarillo/Panhandle area commonly fall around $17-$24 per hour, depending on employer, experience, shift, travel, and job duties. Roles that require stronger server, Linux, fiber/cabling, networking, or field service skills may pay more. (See Career Paths, top of page.)

Career Pathway

This program can help students begin a pathway into data center operations, IT support, server administration, network support, cloud infrastructure support, cybersecurity support, technical field service, and infrastructure operations.

Students who complete this program may continue into Amarillo College’s Computer Information Systems, Networking/Cybersecurity, or related technical programs.

What You'll Learn

• Computer hardware and troubleshooting
• Server hardware and support
• Operating system installation and support
• Linux command-line basics
• Users, groups, permissions, and file systems
• Basic networking and IP addressing
• Storage, memory, CPU, and power concepts
• Ticketing, documentation, and escalation
• Rack, stack, cable, and label concepts
• Data center safety and professionalism
• Security fundamentals for infrastructure environments
• Preventive maintenance and change-control awareness

Certifications Covered

• CompTIA A+: CompTIA A+ builds the foundation for entry-level IT support. Students learn computer hardware, operating systems, networking, mobile devices, troubleshooting, and basic security.
• CompTIA Server+: CompTIA Server+ focuses on server hardware, installation, administration, storage, troubleshooting, disaster recovery, and security. This certification is especially useful for students interested in data center and infrastructure support roles.
• LPI Linux Essentials: Linux is widely used in servers, cloud systems, cybersecurity, automation, and data center environments. LPI Linux Essentials introduces students to Linux concepts, command-line skills, permissions, users, groups, and open-source technology.

Certification Requirement

All students will be provided with certification vouchers for CompTIA A+ (2 exams), CompTIA Server+, and LPI Linux Essentials. 

Passing the certification exams is a required component of the course for successful completion and credit.