The cloud revolution is here, and it’s moving fast. Organizations across every industry—finance, healthcare, manufacturing, retail, government and others — are migrating to the cloud, leveraging its power to drive innovation, efficiency, and scalability. But while businesses are eager to transform, there’s a pressing issue: a massive skills gap in cloud computing.
At Bellevue University, we’re not just watching this transformation unfold — we’re helping to lead it by teaming up with Amazon Web Services (AWS) Cloud Institute to empower learners with the skills, knowledge, and certifications they need to thrive in the cloud economy.
As one of the first higher education institutions to work with the AWS Cloud Institute, Bellevue University will leverage AWS Cloud Institute across its diverse learner and corporate partner network, connecting more individuals—regardless of their technical background—to cloud computing careers.
Meeting Industry Demand Head-On
The numbers tell a clear story. According to research, cloud computing is one of the fastest-growing fields in tech. Yet, despite the demand, employers across industries report difficulties finding skilled cloud professionals. Many hiring managers say that even candidates with traditional IT degrees often lack the specialized expertise to implement and manage cloud solutions effectively.
Kevin Kelly, Director of AWS Cloud Institute, says, “the availability of skilled cloud talent is one of the largest barriers to industry transformation. Teaming up with Bellevue University allows us to connect with a community of motivated learners eager to build opportunities for their lives and careers. It also opens up new dimensions of conversation with Bellevue University's engaged employer partners who use AWS services, allowing us to explore how they can address their cloud talent needs through reskilling and internal mobility programs.”
A 2022 McKinsey & Company report supports this approach, noting that most cloud hires will come from existing employees who have upgraded their skills. The report also highlights that up-skilling current workers is significantly more cost-effective than hiring new ones.
A New Era of Cloud Learning
Higher education has often been slow to adapt to rapidly evolving industries, but Bellevue University is different. We recognize that the old education model — where students spend years in theoretical study before gaining practical experience — no longer serves today’s workforce needs. The Bellevue-AWS Cloud Institute collaboration represents a new approach to learning that blends academic excellence with hands-on, competency-based education.
Individuals who enroll in AWS Cloud Institute gain in-demand skills and hands-on technical experience through nine courses, 150+ labs, two capstone projects AND preparation for two AWS certifications – AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner and AWS Certified Developer. The program can be completed in as little as nine months, and learners do not need a technical background to enroll.
This collaboration will provide learners with the following:
- Industry-Aligned Curriculum – Developed and delivered by AWS experts, courses are designed to teach students the in-demand skills employers are looking for right now.
- Certification Readiness – Students will be prepared to earn valuable AWS certifications, a key differentiator in the job market.
- Real-World Application – Through hands-on labs and cloud projects, students will work on practical challenges companies face today.
Additionally, AWS Cloud Institute program completers will earn 45 credit hours that can be applied to cloud computing-related college degrees at Bellevue University.
Flexible Learning Options to Fit Any Schedule
Recognizing that adult learners have different schedules and commitments, AWS Cloud Institute is a fully virtual program that allows learners to pick their pace every quarter. The curriculum can be accessed:
- Full-Time (Three Courses Per Quarter) – 30-40 hours per week; complete in nine months
- Part-Time (Two Courses Per Quarter) – 20-30 hours per week; complete in 15 months.
- Part-Time (One Course Per Quarter) – 10-12 hours per week; complete in 27 months
AWS Cloud Institute is also committed to accessibility and affordability, offering need-based grants to learners who face financial barriers.
The Bridge Between Education and Workforce Development
For years, universities and businesses have struggled with a disconnect: graduates enter the workforce lacking the precise skills employers need. At Bellevue University, we see this as an opportunity to redefine what higher education can be. Instead of simply awarding traditional academic credentials, we are helping to build talent pipelines that link learners directly to high-demand careers. We’re doing it through a program tailored to the needs of non-technical, frontline, and other employees so they can continue to add value to their organizations for years to come.
Notably, this collaboration is not just about learners — it’s also about solving a critical workforce challenge for employers. Companies need cloud talent now, and they can’t wait years for the next generation of professionals to catch up. Together, AWS Cloud Institute and Bellevue are providing a direct solution, helping companies solve the strategic workforce planning challenges that come with increased advancements in automation.
“As a university with a deep focus on employee growth planning, we’re uniquely qualified to help adult learners, and the employers we partner with connect with specialized cloud computing education developed and delivered by AWS,” said Dr. Mary Hawkins, President of Bellevue University. “‘It’s cloud on,’ and we’re ready to work together to drive careers and companies forward quickly.”
Leading Innovation in Higher Education
Bellevue University has long been a leader in forward-thinking education. We pioneered online learning back in the mid-1990s, and for decades, we’ve championed transfer-friendly policies that help students maximize their prior learning. This new initiative with AWS Cloud Institute is another step in our mission to provide career-focused, cost-effective education with unmatched care and respect for our learners.
By embracing this opportunity model, we’re setting a precedent for how universities should respond to industry shifts. Education should not be static; it should be dynamic, evolving alongside the job market. Our collaboration with AWS is a signal to higher education leaders everywhere: it’s time to think differently about how we prepare students for the future.
The Future is Cloud-First — And We’re Ready
The cloud isn’t just another tech trend; it’s the foundation of the digital economy. Businesses, governments, and entire industries are being reshaped by cloud computing, and the demand for skilled professionals will only continue to grow. Bellevue University is proud to be at the forefront of this movement, teaming up with AWS Cloud Institute to ensure that our students—and the employers who hire them—are ready for what’s next.
For higher education leaders and administrators, this is a moment to reflect on the role we play in workforce development. Are we preparing our students for yesterday’s jobs or tomorrow’s careers?
At Bellevue University, we choose the future. And teaming up with AWS Cloud Institute ensures that learners from all backgrounds don’t just have the opportunity to keep up with industry change—they can lead it.
Dr. Rich Lombardo is the Executive Director of Bellevue University’s Workforce Academy, and Dr. Matt Davis is Executive Vice President and Dean of the College of Engineering, Technology and Management.
