The world is evolving rapidly, and the World Economic Forum predicts that by 2030, core skills in networks, security, AI, and technological literacy will be essential across various industries. However, the IT sector is already experiencing a shortage of skilled professionals, with 76% of firms struggling to fill technological roles by late 2025. The upcoming retirement of 25% of network engineers in the next five years could exacerbate this skills gap.
To address these challenges, the Interconnection Academy and Nomad Futurist Foundation are enhancing their training programs. Starting in January 2026, the Interconnection Academy will introduce new modules focusing on networking and interconnection ecosystems, with additional courses planned later in the year.
By collaborating and sharing specialist content, these two academies aim to enrich their educational resources and strengthen their learning platforms. This strategic partnership coincides with their joint participation in the annual PTC Beyond Masterclass 2026 in Hawaii, where DE-CIX’s CEO, Ivo Ivanov, will deliver a keynote address.
Established in 2021, the Interconnection Academy offers a platform for learners to incorporate interconnection practices into their IT environments through industry partnerships. On the other hand, the Nomad Futurist Foundation’s Nomad Futurist Academy engages learners by exploring the complexities of digital infrastructure and connecting technological skills with real-world applications.
Participants can anticipate a collaborative approach between the two academies, with Nomad Futurist contributing foundational data center infrastructure courses to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical experience. This partnership emphasizes the importance of continuous professional development and expanding educational access to foster shared learning and innovation in the digital infrastructure sector.
Nabeel Mahmood, Co-Founder and CEO of Nomad Futurist Foundation, encapsulates the mission of the partnership by stating, “By teaming up with the Interconnection Academy, we are bridging the gap, simplifying complex concepts, and empowering individuals to envision a future within this industry. Education serves as the gateway to inclusion, innovation, and long-term impact.”
