Vertiv backs Zagreb data centre design skills push
Vertiv has partnered with the Zagreb University of Applied Sciences to launch a Data Centre Design Professional Program in the university's Electrical Engineering Department, as demand grows across Europe for skills in digital infrastructure.
The programme focuses on the engineering disciplines that underpin modern data centres, with an emphasis on power systems and electrical design. Applications are open for the first intake, with classes scheduled to start in February.
Course focus
The curriculum covers data centre design and optimisation through practical exercises and engineering problem-solving. Participants will use software tools and computer-aided design systems commonly used for electrical installation design.
Designed to reflect current industry requirements and technologies used in critical digital infrastructure, the programme is led by Associate Professor Dr Stjepan Tvorić, Head of the Electrical Engineering Department.
Tvorić commented, "We are extremely pleased to have launched the Data Centre Design program at the Department of Electrical Engineering, developed in close collaboration with Vertiv, one of the global leaders in the field of digital infrastructure. This partnership provides our participants with direct insight into real industrial processes and the most advanced technologies used in modern data centres.
"Collaborating with Vertiv means we are engaged in discussions about current engineering challenges, using real project examples and case studies, and implementing tools and methods required by today's industry. Participants will build competencies that are highly sought after in the job market - from designing power and cooling systems to optimising infrastructure in line with real-world standards. We believe that programs grounded in real industry knowledge and experience play a vital role in preparing the next generation of professionals to shape the future of electrical and information infrastructure."
Industry links
Vertiv operates in digital infrastructure markets spanning data centres, communications networks, and commercial and industrial facilities. It operates in more than 130 countries and is headquartered in Westerville, Ohio.
Vertiv's contribution to the Zagreb programme includes access to subject matter experts in electrical engineering, data centre infrastructure, and power systems. Participants will also receive practical insights drawn from engineering projects and case studies.
The programme targets electrical engineers and technical professionals from related fields who want to build specialist expertise. It emphasises technical proficiency and analytical skills, including the use of engineering tools commonly deployed in design work.
Participants will design electrical installations and power systems using CAD tools. The course also includes hands-on experience in installation and maintenance.
Funding model
Places are funded through adult education vouchers from the Croatian Employment Service as part of Croatia's national education initiative. The model targets eligible candidates looking to upskill into areas where employers report hiring pressure.
Training routes that combine academic teaching with vendor and employer input are becoming more common across Europe, as governments and industry groups increase their focus on workforce development for data centres, cloud services, and the electricity systems that support them. Croatia has been positioning itself as a regional hub for parts of the digital infrastructure supply chain, from engineering services to equipment production.
Local footprint
Vertiv highlighted its longer-term relationship with the university through joint projects. It pointed to a data centre design studio in Rugvica, alongside links to its local production operations.
Vedran Brzić, vice president for infrastructure solutions for Europe, Middle East and Africa at Vertiv, said, "Vertiv and the Zagreb University of Applied Sciences have built a strong long-term partnership through various joint projects. One of the key outcomes is the launch of a data centre design studio in Rugvica, offering students real-world experience that can be leveraged in career opportunities in a rapidly growing sector.
"We are also proud to employ skilled TVZ alumni at our production facility in Rugvica, empowering local talent. We are seeing strong demand for data centre professionals across all industries, and this initiative helps students gain the skills needed to meet that demand."
The partnership comes as data centre operators and suppliers across Europe report hiring constraints in electrical and mechanical engineering, commissioning, and operations roles. Power availability and electrical safety are also high priorities for new builds and upgrades, as operators plan for higher-density IT loads and tighter efficiency targets.
The Zagreb programme will run within the Electrical Engineering Department and draw on industry participation as it expands. Vertiv and the university expect additional cohorts as demand for data centre design skills continues to rise across the region.