Infrastructure
Critical Facilities Technician Training in Columbus
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Accelerate your career. No experience required.
In just 15 weeks, get hands-on training for a career keeping data centers and other critical facilities running. You'll learn to maintain the electrical, mechanical, and cooling systems that keep servers online 24/7 — skills that stay in demand as data centers keep expanding.
Gain job ready skills through:
- Critical infrastructure fundamentals – Learn how electrical, mechanical, cooling, and control systems work together to keep critical facilities running.
- Diagnostics and troubleshooting – Use tools, system readings, and alarms to identify common equipment problems and determine next steps.
- Power & Cooling Systems – Build practical skills working with the systems that provide reliable power and maintain safe operating temperatures.
- Industry Certifications – Prepare for and earn OSHA 10-Hour General Industry, NFPA 70E, and EPA 608 — the credentials employers look for when hiring facilities technicians
- In-Person
No catch. Training and job connections at no cost to you.
Course level
Suitable for all levels ?
Get certified in
- EPA 608
- OSHA 10-Hour General Industry Certification
- OSHA NFPA 70E
Schedule
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In-Person
9AM - 4PM
Monday through Friday
15 weeks -
*Start and end times may vary based on time zone (under 9-4pm) - LIVE & INSTRUCTOR LED
Upcoming course dates
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October 26th, 2026
Application Due October 11th, 2026
Applicants with all levels of experience in tech are encouraged to apply.
While anyone may apply for this course, some technical background may be helpful.
While these courses may include either intermediate or advanced material, technical knowledge specified in these listings will be required as a prerequisite for applicants to be considered for admission.
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The Google IT Support Professional Certificate introduces learners to troubleshooting, customer service, networking, operating systems, system administration and security. No prior experience is required.
CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+) is an IT workforce certification that applies behavioral analytics to networks and devices to prevent, detect and combat cybersecurity threats through continuous security monitoring.
Gain the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively demonstrate an overall understanding of the AWS Cloud and start a career in cloud computing.
This certification establishes the core knowledge required of any cybersecurity role and provides a springboard to intermediate-level cybersecurity jobs. CompTIA Security+ is a globally trusted, vendor-neutral certification that validates the baseline skills necessary to perform core security functions and pursue an IT security career.
The Salesforce Administrator Certification equips you with the knowledge you need to succeed as a Salesforce Administrator.
In-person learning takes place at one of our facilities across the US.
Remote learners must live within commutable distance of a Per Scholas campus to best facilitate our professional development and post-training employment support. For individuals who live outside of a commutable distance, you may be eligible for our National training courses.
Hybrid courses allow flexibility for learners to participate in the course remotely or in-person based on several factors. Learn more about the course you're interested in by reaching out to your admissions lead or attending an admissions overview after applying.
Have questions?
We can help with course selection, and answer questions about eligibility requirements and special circumstances. Contact an admissions team member
Prepare for a Career in Critical Facilities
Launch your technology career with hands-on instruction covering the core concepts, technologies and certifications you need to land entry-level Critical Facilities Engineering roles. This course is a hybrid of remote and in-person learning.
Learn How Critical Facilities Work
Build foundational knowledge of the electrical, mechanical, cooling, and control systems used in data centers and other critical environments.
Build Job-Ready Skills in 15 Weeks
You don't need years of school to build a career in data centers. Get trained and certified in a fraction of the time, with skills built for an industry that's only growing.
Professional Development & Growth Opportunities in Columbus
Our Career Coaches do more than connect you with employers. We prepare you with cutting-edge AI tools to develop a strong job application package, effective job search strategies, and workplace readiness, ensuring you have the professional skills to secure a role in the tech sector.
What jobs can I get as a graduate?
After completing the training, you’ll be prepared to pursue entry-level roles such as:
- Data Center Facilities Technicians
- Critical Facility Technicians
- Industrial Machinery Mechanic
In these roles, you may help monitor and maintain electrical, cooling, mechanical, and automated systems that keep data centers and other critical facilities operating reliably.
What to Expect
- Most entry-level Critical Facilities roles are on-site because the work involves physical equipment and building systems.
- Day-to-day work may include monitoring equipment, responding to alarms, performing inspections, documenting issues, and helping troubleshoot power or cooling systems.
- Critical Facilities skills can support future growth into more advanced facilities, data center, electrical, mechanical, or operations roles as you gain experience.
- Your first role is a starting point for building hands-on experience and continuing your career growth.
3X On average, Per Scholas graduates earn four times their pre-training wage
Strengthen your Professional Profile
BUILD YOUR CAREER IN A GROWING INDUSTRY
Per Scholas will train you whether you’re new to infrastructure careers or bringing previous technical or hands-on experience. Build practical skills and prepare for your next career opportunity.
Going to Per Scholas and being introduced to information technology is more than just getting something done or trying something new. It’s an investment in yourself.
JOB ATTAINMENT PREP
Build a professional resume and practice your interviewing skills during weekly Professional Development sessions with a dedicated career coach.
My life has completely changed. I’m not stuck in one place. I don’t have to stay in this little box. There are many avenues, and my opportunities have grown. This is endless.
JOB ATTAINMENT ASSISTANCE
Graduates will receive job attainment assistance to identify career opportunities leveraging their new and existing skills. If our primary corporate partner for this course doesn't work out, Per Scholas staff will continue to provide direct job connections with other employer partners.
Instead of being afraid of the tech world...there's a lot to learn, but I think there's a community of students, professors, and administration. And we all know why we are there.
What You'll Learn
Build Foundational Technician Skills
Learn to work safely around the electrical, mechanical, cooling, and control systems used in critical facilities.
Real-Time Critical Infrastructure Experience
Practice using tools, equipment readings, and alarms to identify potential problems with power, cooling, and mechanical systems — the same skills you'll use on the job.
Work With Facility Monitoring Systems
Learn how technicians use Building Management Systems (BMS) and Electrical Power Monitoring Systems (EPMS) to monitor equipment, recognize potential problems, and escalate issues.
Personalized Support
Learners can access the Learner Support Team (LST). LST provides personalized support for life challenges, resources, and tools to manage stressors and strengthen financial capability. LST is here to help learners achieve their personal and financial goals.
Learning That Reflects the Workplace
Per Scholas prepares learners for career success by incorporating workplace simulation into every training. This model ensures that learners do not simply acquire technical knowledge—they also practice applying it in team-based environments that reflect the realities of professional work.
Career Advancement for Alumni
Complimentary upskilling opportunities extended to alumni up to two years post graduation to help them match in demand employer hiring profiles and continue their career growth.
Meet Our Graduates
When you are interviewing a Per Scholas graduate, you already have someone who is committed and prepared for the work world and responsible for their time and availability.
How to Be Considered
- Meet the Learner Profile Requirements
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You may qualify to become a Per Scholas Learner if you:
- Are aged 18 or older
- Can read, write, and speak in English
- Live within commutable distance of the Per Scholas Site
- Must be able to occasionally lift up to 50 lbs
- Must be comfortable standing most of the time while wearing safety shoes
- Must be comfortable working with technical hand tools
- Have a High School diploma, equivalent, or higher
- Meet the pre-training income policy guidelines
- Must be able to provide proof of valid U.S. work authorization
- Can attend classes full-time for the entire duration of the course
- Are able to start a full-time job after course completion
- Are ready to make an important commitment to building your future
*Women, unemployed, underemployed and U.S. Veterans strongly encouraged to apply
- Complete the Multi-Step Admissions Process
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2. Admissions Overview: Once you submit an Eligibility Form, you’ll be directed to our Admissions Overview registration page. During this virtual webinar, you’ll learn more about our admissions process and next steps.
3. Assessments: Each training requires either an academic assessment, tech assessment or both. Information will be provided in detail at the Admissions Overview.
4. Interview: Individuals who meet the assessment score requirements will be invited to attend a behavioral interview.
5. Offer Letter and Onboarding: The Admissions team will review assessment scores and interview results and offer seats to eligible candidates. The learner onboarding process mirrors Employment Onboarding.
Please note that this application process is very competitive, and not all applicants will be accepted for our limited slots.
- Submit Enrollment Documentation, Including Tech Prep Work Information
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Get a head start on your course at Per Scholas!
- Complete required Tech Prep Work. Learn more about Tech Prep Work here
- Submit required Enrollment Documentation through our secure portal. Learn more at perscholas.org/enrollment-dvp-checklist
Required Critical Infrastructure Tech Prep Work
You do not need to pay to complete the Tech Prep Work. The full certificate requires payment, but you only need to show proof of completion by taking screenshots.
Required Courses:
- Numbers, Units, and Arithmetic Course (5 Hours)
- Introduction to Electronics Course (10-15 Hours)
Submission Portal:
- Tech Prep Work Submission Portal
- Note: Alison offers learners the option for a paid certificate. This is absolutely optional for learners and is not required to complete the training.
Directions to Upload Certificates:
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Alison’s content is free, but the certificate requires payment. As a result, we ask that you show course completion for each course via the following steps:
- Go to your learner dashboard within via
- You should see the applicable course(s) as Completed Courses.
- Note: A paid certificate of completion is not needed.
- Capture a full screenshot of the two courses below as completed.
- Numbers, Units, and Arithmetic Course
- Introduction to Electronics Course
- Title this screenshot with your full name and courses.
- Upload the screenshot to the submission portal above.
Help Resources:
- Email admissionsadmins@perscholas.org if you need any help troubleshooting
Tech Prep Work Deadline:
Learners must submit their Tech Prep Work before seat offers.
Is this Program Right For You?
This course may be a good fit if you want to start a career in data centers or critical facilities and enjoy hands-on, mechanical problem-solving.
- You don't need professional experience, but you should be comfortable with hands-on physical work — including lifting equipment, standing for extended periods, and working with tools — and ready to learn in an accelerated training.
- You're a careful, detail-oriented person who prefers doing things the right way over the fast way, and you stay level-headed when the stakes are high.
- Prior mechanical or electrical exposure — like HVAC, automotive repair, or vocational training — is a plus, but not required.
You can commit 35 hours weekly to instruction, labs, and career prep (plus 10–20 hours studying outside class).
Frequently Asked Questions
- What kinds of jobs can I get after completing this training?
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This training prepares you to pursue entry-level roles such as Critical Facilities Technician, Data Center Facilities Technician, and Industrial Machinery Mechanic. These roles typically involve monitoring, maintaining, and troubleshooting the power, cooling, mechanical, and control systems used in data centers and other critical facilities.
- How can the course be free? Are there hidden fees?
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Most people who learn about us think: “Too good to be true.” We know it seems that way, but it’s true. Our services are provided at no cost to you, using funds we raise from foundations, corporations, government and generous individuals.
The costs you can prepare for include transportation or childcare—expenses that take care of you so you can focus on your studies.
- What professional certifications can I earn?
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You will prepare to earn the EPA 608 and OSHA certifications. As a Per Scholas graduate, you may have access to advanced certifications, such as the Security+ certification and others.
- I receive unemployment insurance benefits or other benefits that require me to spend time working or looking for work. Can I still enroll?
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Yes. Generally, Per Scholas courses are approved for people receiving unemployment insurance, as well as other benefits that would ordinarily require them to spend time working or looking for work. Your benefits should not be affected. If you have questions or concerns about your situation, please contact us.
- I meet other requirements, but I am not a U.S. citizen and haven’t received my work authorization yet. Can I still apply?
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Unfortunately, we cannot process your application until you have received clearance to work in the U.S. However, if you are experiencing problems, we may be able to refer you to other organizations that may be able to help.
- I have a disability. Can you accommodate me?
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We comply fully with the Americans with Disabilities Act and other relevant laws and regulations. Please contact accommodations@perscholas.org to discuss your specific situation and needs.
- Is there a learner pre-training income policy?
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Yes, Per Scholas learners must meet the pre-training income policy requirements. View our Learner Pre-Training Income Policy here.
- Does Per Scholas have a Non-Discrimination policy?
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We’re proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or national origin. See our full EEO statement here.