Data Centre Magazine October 2021 | Page 113

INFRASTRUCTURE MASONS

Growing up , I was so lucky to have excellent teachers and mentors in my life . There were always people at my school or my work with way more experience than I who would take the time to explain complex technology topics . They would make sure that I understood just how critical new solutions are and how they would impact my life . It ’ s that kind of inspiration that I was always hoping to give back to a younger generation . Looking back at the last couple of years , I quickly saw a growing reliance on digital infrastructure . However , I also saw a disconnect and a gap in how a younger generation understood technology and the wonderful things they could do with it .

To inspire the builders of the next digital age , I have been working with iMasons and the Education Committee to mentor and lecture students from HBCUs on the importance of digital architecture . With many hours spent in the evenings helping design data centres , building networks , discussing applications , and applying what the students have learned throughout their courses , we mentors helped guide engineering and architectural majors better to understand digital infrastructure solutions . This entire experience has been so special for me . I ’ m getting the chance to fulfil my dream of becoming a mentor and a teacher for the digital generation .

Along with other iMasons Mentors , my participation has already helped several of the students land data centre architecture or engineer roles . Driving diversity , inclusion , and equality , this iMasons programme ensures that our digital future is diverse and genuinely inspired . As supporters of iMasons , I am so proud of this work and am very excited to see this programme expand to more HBCUs across the country . datacentremagazine . com 113