A new cohort begins its journey toward careers in data, cloud, and AI, supported by learning, community, and opportunity
Last week, SpikeUp.AI officially kicked off its 2026 Bootcamp, welcoming a new group of motivated participants ready to take important steps toward a future in Data & AI. The program will continue until October, guiding this cohort through an intensive learning journey focused on technical growth, professional development, and career readiness.
At SpikeUp.AI, we believe that talent deserves opportunity. Our bootcamp is designed to help participants build strong foundations in data science, data engineering, programming, and cloud technologies, while also developing the confidence and professional skills needed to thrive in the workplace. Alongside technical training, participants strengthen essential skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and collaboration.
Learning by doing
What makes the program especially valuable is its combination of structured learning and human support. Through self-paced study, interactive sessions, hands-on assignments, and real-world projects, participants gain practical experience while growing in confidence. The goal is not only to teach new skills, but to help people see new possibilities for themselves and their future.
Career preparation is also a central part of the SpikeUp.AI experience. Throughout the bootcamp, participants receive support with mentorship, CV guidance, interview preparation, and job-market readiness, helping them move closer to meaningful employment in the Netherlands. In this way, the program creates a bridge between untapped talent and real professional opportunity.
A stronger curriculum in 2026
For the 2026 edition, SpikeUp.AI is proud to strengthen the curriculum with the addition of the Databricks Certified Data Engineer Associate certification.
This new certification joins IBM Data Science Professional, Microsoft Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900), and Microsoft Azure Developer Associate (AZ-204). Together, these certifications help participants build a strong and relevant profile for today’s evolving data and AI job market.
The human impact of the program
The impact of the program can already be seen in the journeys of our graduates. Yeabsira B. Mamo from Yemen, one of our 2025 graduates, will soon start a job at Deloitte. Reflecting on her experience, she shared:
“My curiosity about data & AI brought me to SpikeUp.AI, but the people at SpikeUp.AI made the journey worth it.”
Her words reflect the heart of SpikeUp.AI. Behind every lesson and every certification is also a story of resilience, connection, and growth. The strength of the program lies not only in what participants learn, but also in the encouragement and sense of belonging they experience along the way.
Thank you to our community
We are also deeply grateful for the contribution of our partners, mentors, and volunteers. Their commitment, time, and belief in our mission make this program possible.
Without their support, this kick-off would not have happened, and the impact of SpikeUp.AI would not be what it is today.
Join us in creating opportunities
As the 2026 Bootcamp continues in the months ahead, we invite companies, partners, and professionals to join us in creating opportunities for this talented new cohort.
By partnering with SpikeUp.AI as an employer, mentor, sponsor, or supporter, you can help unlock potential, strengthen inclusion, and contribute to a more diverse future in the Dutch tech industry. Together, we can turn talent into opportunity and create lasting impact.
