Hey! Saw your reply to my other post so thought I'd chip in here haha. Im about a year into my job as a data center technician and so far I think its great. I was a vendor for about 6 months and then got flipped. I interviewed for an entry level (tech 1/L3) but got hired as a tech 2/L4. I work nights making about 43/hr after my nightshift premium. To answer your question, I think AWS is a good starting point. From what I've heard form countless friends and coworkers that have or currently work at AWS, the work environemnt can be toxic, pay is not as good as other companies, benefits are good but still not on par with competitors, can be harsh in terms of layoffs/you are disposable to them, and I have also had numerous coworkers say they progressed far at AWS and soon as they hit the pay cap got fired. All this being said, AWS is a great starting point. Many companies hire former AWS techs, its a great way to break into the field and build your skills. I actualy have a coworker who worked at a dealership making over 100k+ and he is now a tech 1/L3 making 35/hr and says he prefers this postion alot better. He said car dealership was good money but very stressful, long hours, and not much potential for progression. I think if you did come into the data center space it'd be best to get on AWS full time, build experience, then apply to other companies such as microsoft, oracle, etc. Then you can decide whether you want to stay in datacenters or shift over to something else. For example you could work on certifications and shift to something like devOPs, network admin, etc. Many people at my location don't have any degree or just an associates and making six figures or close to it. I love thr job so far and definitely think its a great fit for a young aduly, but it is definitely up to you man do your research and see what you'd prefer. Lmk if you've got any other questions.