Building Pathways for Women in Tech through AWS re/Start and Momentum
Organizations looking to diversify their cloud talent pipeline have a unique opportunity through AWS re/Start and its collaborating organizations. As we celebrate Women’s History Month, the collaboration with Momentum—a community economic development organization based in Calgary—demonstrates how workforce development initiatives can help create a more inclusive tech industry while strengthening technical teams.
Developing Cloud Talent through Strategic Collaboration
AWS re/Start is a comprehensive workforce development program designed to prepare diverse talent for entry to mid-level cloud roles. By working with collaborating organizations worldwide, the program delivers free, cohort-based training that combines technical skills development with professional preparation. The training covers essential technical skills, from Linux and Python to core AWS services, and doesn’t require a technology background. Instead, it seeks candidates with enthusiasm for launching cloud careers and a commitment to completing the program.
In collaboration with Momentum, AWS re/Start is creating concrete pathways for women to enter the cloud computing industry through the AWS re/Start Tech Training for Women program. This initiative exemplifies the commitment to diversifying the tech workforce through comprehensive, hands-on training. The program follows the standard AWS re/Start curriculum while uniquely focusing on women in the Calgary area.
Program Impact
During the intensive 20-week program, participants earn their AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner certification while gaining hands-on technical experience through real-world scenarios. They also develop essential professional skills, receive guidance from industry mentors, and connect with employers for work placement opportunities upon graduation. The program’s impact is best illustrated through the experiences of graduates like Mervis Elebe, who shares, “As a new immigrant, AWS re/Start didn’t just provide technical training—it opened doors to Calgary’s technology ecosystem. The program has enabled me to build a sustainable future for my daughters while contributing to the growing cloud computing industry.”
Building the Pipeline: Upcoming Opportunities
A cohort of newly certified AWS Certified Cloud Practitioners will be seeking work placements this spring, bringing diverse backgrounds—from software engineering to business analysis—and readiness to contribute to organizational cloud initiatives. Additional cohorts are scheduled for later this year, providing ongoing opportunities to engage with skilled cloud talent.
Organizations can contribute to building a more inclusive tech future in several ways:
- Host work placements for program graduates
- Provide mentorship opportunities
- Consider newly certified professionals for full-time roles
These engagement options are flexible and can be customized to suit organizational needs and capacity.
Looking Ahead
The AWS re/Start program represents an ongoing commitment to breaking down barriers in tech. By combining AWS global resources with Momentum’s local expertise, sustainable pathways are being created for women to build rewarding careers in cloud computing. Learn more about AWS re/Start and its commitment to workforce development here.
