Powering the Future: How RelyOn is Elevating Electrical Skills and Safety in the Data Centre Industry

The Growing Importance of Data Centres

Data centres are the backbone of the digital economy, enabling everything from cloud computing and AI to financial transactions and streaming services. In the UK, data centre growth is accelerating due to increasing digital demand, regulatory compliance, and the expansion of industries reliant on real-time data processing. As data centre construction surges worldwide, the need for skilled electrical professionals is more urgent than ever to ensure safe and efficient operations.

Collaborating to Develop a World-Class Training Program

Recognising the critical need for electrical expertise, RelyOn partnered with a global leader in digital infrastructure and cloud services in 2024 to develop a specialised Medium Voltage (MV) Operator training course. This initiative aimed to prepare the organisation’s personnel to safely operate within their data centres and address three core objectives:

1. Enhancing Technical Skills and Competencies– Equipping data centre professionals with the necessary expertise for commissioning and operations.
2. Aligning with the client’s Global Electrical Safety Rules (ESR)– Standardising safety protocols to mitigate risks and improve workplace safety.
3. Adapting to Regional Requirements– Customising training content to align with the unique regulatory and operational frameworks of different countries where our client’s data centres are located.

A Comprehensive Learning Experience

The collaboration resulted in an intensive 5-day training program that integrates cutting-edge learning methodologies, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience:

• AI-Driven Adaptive Learning– Pre-learning modules tailor content to individual participant needs, optimising knowledge retention.
• Instructor-Led Theory & Practical Sessions– A balanced approach combining theoretical foundations with hands-on experience.
• Scenario-Based Training– Real-world simulations that develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Emphasis on Safety Culture– Reinforcing best practices to maintain 99+% security and availability of global data and computing services.

Global Pilot and Real-World Impact

RelyOn has rolled out pilot sessions of the MV Data Centre Operator training across multiple countries, engaging participants with diverse electrical backgrounds. The feedback collected is instrumental in refining the program before our client implements it globally.

Innovating with State-of-the-Art Training Hubs

As part of this initiative, candidates attending the MV Operator Training pilot course were among the first to utilise RelyOn’s newly commissioned HV/LV electrical training hubs in Teesside, UK, and Esbjerg, Denmark. These cutting-edge facilities provide realistic, high-voltage training environments that enable problem solving in simulated operating environments.

Lisa Parkinson, RelyOn’s Managing Director of Electrical Services, emphasised the importance of hands-on training:
"Our newly commissioned electrical training facilities provide a safe and realistic environment for hands-on learning. By simulating real-world scenarios, we’re ensuring that operators gain the practical skills and safety mindset required for medium and high-voltage data centre operations."

Strengthening the Future of Data Centre Operations

Our client’s investment in workforce development, combined with RelyOn’s expertise in technical training, ensures that data centre professionals are well-equipped to support the industry’s rapid expansion. By fostering a highly trained, safety-conscious workforce, this initiative is setting new standards for data centre operations and electrical safety worldwide.