Amazon Web Services re/Start and Momentum: Building pathways for women in tech

Organizations seeking to diversify their cloud talent pipeline have a unique opportunity through Amazon Web Services re/Start and our collaborating organizations that support underrepresented groups, minorities, displaced individuals, young people, and more. As we celebrate Women’s History Month, our collaboration with Momentum—a Calgary-based community economic development organization—demonstrates how workforce development initiatives can help build a more inclusive tech industry while strengthening technical teams.

In this post, you’ll learn about how Amazon Web Services re/Start approaches developing cloud talent, how our graduates bring value to employers, and how your organization can participate.

Developing cloud talent through strategic collaboration

Amazon Web Services re/Start is a comprehensive workforce development program that prepares diverse talent for entry to mid-level cloud roles. Working with collaborating organizations worldwide, we deliver free, cohort-based training that combines technical skills development—from Linux and Python to core Amazon Web Services services—with professional preparation. No technology background is required; instead, we seek candidates with enthusiasm for launching cloud careers and commitment to completing the program.

In collaboration with Momentum, we’re creating concrete pathways for women to enter the cloud computing industry. The Amazon Web Services re/Start Tech Training for Women program exemplifies our commitment to diversifying the tech workforce through comprehensive, hands-on training. This ongoing collaboration, with additional cohorts scheduled for later this year, follows the standard Amazon Web Services re/Start curriculum while uniquely focusing on women in the Calgary area.

During the intensive 20-week program, participants earn their Amazon Web Services Certified Cloud Practitioner certification while gaining hands-on technical experience through real-world scenarios. They 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 our graduates’ experiences, like Mervis Elebe, who shares, “As a new immigrant, Amazon Web Services 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

We’re excited to announce that a cohort of newly certified Amazon Web Services Certified Cloud Practitioners will be seeking work placements this spring. These professionals bring diverse backgrounds—from software engineering to business analysis—and are ready to contribute to your organization’s 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. By hosting work placements for program graduates, providing mentorship opportunities, and considering these newly certified professionals for full-time roles, employers become active partners in developing the next generation of cloud talent. These engagement options are flexible and can be customized to suit your organization’s needs and capacity.

Looking ahead

The Amazon Web Services re/Start program represents our ongoing commitment to breaking down barriers in tech. By combining the global resources of Amazon Web Services with Momentum’s local expertise, we’re creating sustainable pathways for women to build rewarding careers in cloud computing.

Learn more about Amazon Web Services re/Start and our commitment to workforce development here.