“New Zealand is building strong momentum in AI adoption,” she says. “However, now is not the time to take our foot off the accelerator.

“Studies have shown Gen AI could contribute between NZ$76bn and NZ$108bn to our economy each year by 2038. Making the most of that opportunity means we need to be investing in building those foundation skills. 

“The more New Zealanders who are confident using AI, the more organisations will be able to transform the way they work, for the benefit of the whole economy.”

Expanding access to technical training

Microsoft’s approach focuses on practical learning pathways designed to support different parts of the workforce. Programmes such as Microsoft Elevate for Educators aim to integrate AI into teaching, helping students develop skills relevant to data centre-driven environments.

By introducing AI tools into classrooms, the programme prepares future professionals to work with cloud platforms and digital infrastructure. This supports long-term demand for roles linked to data centre operations, including engineering security and system management.

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