• Stem Babe
  • Posts
  • Career Change into Blue Collar Tech

Career Change into Blue Collar Tech

February 11, 2026

Hi everyone,

The next set of high-paying jobs in tech aren’t in JUST software. They’re in the roles physically building and maintaining the systems that power AI and tech… the data centres. These are the engineers, plumbers, electricians!

These are what I call blue collar tech roles hands-on careers at the heart of the AI/tech economy.

And right now, Amazon is recruiting apprentices into exactly these kinds of positions.

IF THEY ASK HOW DID YOU HEAR ABOUT THIS ROLE PLEASE SAY stem_babe_ from Instagram!!!!!

1️⃣ Data Centre Electrical Engineer Apprentice

Power the Future of Cloud Infrastructure

This is a Level 4 Electrical Power Networks Engineer apprenticeship (36 months) inside an AWS data centre.

You’ll learn how to operate and maintain the systems that keep the cloud online — including:

• Electrical distribution systems
• Generators and UPS backup power
• Cooling systems
• Building Management Systems
• Critical infrastructure testing and maintenance

This is the kind of role where you understand how power flows through a building, how cooling prevents overheating, and how faults are prevented before they cause outages.

If you’ve ever wondered how Netflix streams don’t crash or how AI tools stay online this is the engineering behind it.

Eligibility highlights:
• 18+ by September 2026
• 5 GCSEs (including Maths & English)
• A Level or BTEC in STEM (or equivalent)
• Willing to travel to Chester twice per month
• 40-hour week (including possible shift work)

You do NOT need previous engineering experience.
You need curiosity and willingness to learn.

Start date: September 2026
Applications: Rolling (apply early)

2️⃣ Data Centre Support Engineer Apprentice

Empower Innovation Through Technology

This is a Level 3 Information Communications Technician apprenticeship (18 months) focused on IT infrastructure inside AWS data centres.

You’ll work on:

• Server installation and maintenance
• Diagnosing hardware and system faults
• Supporting AI infrastructure
• Monitoring system performance
• Replacing components safely
• Troubleshooting technical issues
• Supporting large-scale cloud operations

This role is ideal if you’re interested in:
• IT infrastructure
• Cloud computing
• AI systems
• Cyber security principles
• Practical, hands-on technology work

Eligibility highlights:
• 18+ by September 2026
• 3 GCSEs at grade 4+
• English & Maths at grade 3+
• No similar qualification at same or higher level

Duration: 18 months
Start: September 2026
Applications: Rolling basis