What You’ll Learn

• What a data center technician does, from managing physical servers to supporting cloud and AI infrastructure
• Why demand for this role is growing and how salaries compare to other IT careers
• The five essential steps to get started, including the exact skills and certifications employers are looking for
• How to move from a help desk or support role into a data center position
• Which training and certification paths—like CompTIA Server+, CCNA, and VMware—can help you break in and level up

How to Become a Data Center Technician: A Growing Career in High Demand

With the rise of cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and data-driven services, data center technicians are in greater demand than ever. These professionals play a critical role in maintaining physical infrastructure like servers and cooling systems, ensuring seamless operations for organizations that rely on digital services. As the need for secure, scalable data storage grows globally, companies are actively hiring skilled professionals to prevent downtime and optimize performance, making this a lucrative and stable career path in tech.

Why Data Center Technicians Stand Out

If you’re researching how to become a data center technician, you’ll find that this role offers a unique blend of physical, hands-on work and technical expertise. From cloud servers to AI systems, data center technicians are the frontline workers who keep the digital world running smoothly.

What makes this role special is its combination of manual tasks—like physically managing servers—with the technical skills typically found in white-collar IT jobs. As AI, cybersecurity, and enterprise computing continue to evolve, demand for skilled workers who can manage the underlying infrastructure will only grow. Data center technicians are indispensable in this landscape.

A Job with Growing Demand and Solid Pay

Data center technician jobs aren't just essential today, they’re on the rise to support the future. While some tech roles face stagnation, job openings for data center technicians have increased by 18% since 2020. According to CompTIA, the average salary has jumped 43% in the past three years, with a median income of $75,100. With experience and certifications, six-figure salaries are possible. It’s a compelling path for anyone seeking a stable, well-paying job in IT.

How to Become a Data Center Technician: Step-by-Step

So, how do you become a data center technician? Whether you’re transitioning from a help desk role or starting fresh, here’s a clear path to get started:

1. Build Your Hardware Knowledge

Data center technicians work directly with servers, routers, and switches. Take foundational courses in hardware and infrastructure to gain the necessary hands-on experience.

2. Learn Cooling and Power Systems

Because data centers generate heat, technicians must understand HVAC systems, cooling methods, and backup power systems to ensure uptime.

3. Get Certified

Earning certifications is key when exploring how to become a data center technician. Top options include:

• CompTIA Server+
• CompTIA Data+
• Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
• Certified Data Center Technician Professional (CDCTP)

These credentials validate your ability to manage data center equipment, networking, and performance.

4. Gain Practical Experience

Look for internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level jobs that offer hands-on opportunities with hardware and network configurations.

5. Stay Updated

Data centers evolve quickly. Stay current on cloud infrastructure, virtualization, and emerging tech like AI and edge computing.

Best Courses to Help You Become a Data Center Technician

To launch your career, focus on training in networking, server management, and infrastructure operations. Here are recommended learning paths:

• Networking Fundamentals – Understand IP addressing, routing, and switching
• Server Administration (Microsoft/Linux) – Learn to configure and troubleshoot server environments
• Virtualization Tools – Tools like VMware vSphere are widely used in data centers

Certifications that strengthen your resume include:

• CompTIA Server+
• CompTIA Network+
• Cisco CCNA
• VMware VCP-DCV
• CDCTP

ACI Learning Can Help You Start Your Career in Data Centers

ACI Learning offers the training and certifications needed to become a data center technician—whether you’re just starting out or transitioning from another IT role.

Explore these course options:

• CompTIA Server+ – Learn server architecture, storage, and troubleshooting
• CompTIA Network+ – Build core networking knowledge
• Cisco CCNA – Master routing, switching, and connectivity
• VMware VCP-DCV – Train in virtualization, a critical skill for modern data centers

If you’re ready to take the next step, ACI Learning provides 7,250+ hours of IT and cybersecurity content designed to help you earn certifications and launch your career as a data center technician.