Students from Butler Middle School stepped behind the scenes of the digital world during a “Data Center Discovery Workshop” hosted by the Markley Group. The event provided local youth with a hands-on look at the physical infrastructure that powers the modern internet and the growing field of artificial intelligence.
During the three-hour immersive experience, students participated in guided tours and a technical scavenger hunt, identifying the critical components that keep global services like streaming, gaming, and cloud computing operational.
The workshop aimed to demystify data centers, framing them not just as buildings but as essential to our digital life and the regional economy.
“Data is becoming the backbone of our new economy, and it is our responsibility to prepare the next generation for this shift,” said Neyder Fernandez, Community School Manager at the Butler Middle School. “By bringing students into these spaces, we aren’t just teaching them about hardware; we are teaching them how to use technology safely, effectively, and sustainably. Understanding how data moves and where it lives is the first step in becoming responsible citizens.”
Markely representatives stated that “We were pleased to host our young neighbors, and we hope they were inspired by the world-class technology that’s right in their backyard.”
In addition to exploring technical hardware, the workshop highlighted the diverse career paths required to maintain modern infrastructure. Students engaged with professionals across multiple disciplines, learning that the “tech sector” relies as much on skilled trades, including electricians, plumbers, and HVAC technicians, as it does on software engineers.
Markley Group also presented students with participation certificates and a sponsorship award of $3,500 to support continued college and career readiness at the Butler, reinforcing a shared commitment to local educational investment.
As Lowell continues to grow as a hub for technological innovation, programs like these bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application, ensuring that local students are positioned at the forefront of the evolving digital landscape.
Markley Lowell employs 100 full-time staffers as well as four dozen union electricians and three dozen union pipe fitters. Clients include hospitals, fire departments, police departments, airports, and other backbone operations of major functions in the state of Massachusetts.
Disclaimer: The inclusion of external organizations or funding sources in this communication does not constitute endorsement by Lowell Public Schools or Butler Middle School. All partnerships and financial contributions support educational and enrichment programming.
