HICKORY, N.C.— The Catawba Valley Community College Foundation has received a $50,000 contribution from Microsoft to support the expansion of CVCC’s Valley Datacenter Academy. The funding will be used to complete the upfit of the Valley Datacenter Academy and to purchase additional devices to meet program needs. The grant supports workforce development initiatives that expand access to career pathways in technology and infrastructure.

“At Microsoft, we’re committed to helping communities build clear, equitable pathways into technology careers. Through the Datacenter Academy program, we’re investing in the training, tools, and engagements that prepare learners for the jobs powering today’s digital world,” said Kristin Vaughan, Community Affairs Region Manager, Microsoft.

The CVCC Valley Datacenter Academy equips students with hands-on learning experiences designed to prepare them for high-demand careers in information technology and datacenter operations. Through this grant, the college will enhance its instructional environment and ensure students have access to the modern tools and technology required by today’s employers.

“We are deeply grateful to Microsoft for this generous grant, which strengthens our ability to deliver cutting-edge workforce training aligned with industry needs”, states CVCC President, Dr. Garrett Hinshaw. “This investment in CVCC’s Valley Datacenter Academy ensures our students have access to modern, enterprise-level learning environments and the technology required to succeed in high-demand IT and datacenter careers. Partnerships like this are critical to preparing a skilled talent pipeline that benefits both our students and the regional economy.”

Jennifer Jones, Chief Development Officer and Executive Director of the CVCC Foundation, also highlighted the broader significance of the grant. “This grant represents more than an investment in equipment—it is an investment in students, opportunity, and economic mobility. We are thankful to Microsoft for recognizing the impact of CVCC’s mission and for supporting the completion of the Valley Datacenter Academy upfit and the acquisition of additional technology devices. Their support allows us to respond directly to program needs and ensures our learners are prepared with the tools, skills, and confidence required by today’s technology workforce.”

“We are sincerely grateful for Microsoft’s continued collaboration and investment in CVCC,” states Aden Cranford, Dean of the School of Career and Technical Education. “As technology evolves, so must workforce education. This grant allows us to remain agile, relevant, and aligned with industry expectations—ensuring our students graduate with the skills, credentials, and real-world experience needed to thrive in high-demand datacenter and IT careers. Together, we are strengthening a talent pipeline that supports innovation and economic growth across our region.”

For more information about CVCC’s Valley Datacenter Academy and workforce training programs, visit www.cvcc.edu.