Learning in context: Practice-oriented training for sustainable data growth

How Connected Data Academy and Connected Data Group reinforce each otherHoe Connected Data Academy en Connected Data Group elkaar versterken

In this world, where data drives innovation, training data professionals is more than just transferring knowledge. It requires context, practical experience, and a vision for sustainable development. At Connected Data Academy, we believe that learning only has a real impact when it is connected to the reality of the workplace.

That is why we are not a standalone training provider, but an integral part of Connected Data Group — a network of experts and organizations working together on data-driven transformation.

The power of the group

Connected Data Group supports organizations in designing and implementing their data and AI strategy. From data governance to data architecture, from ethics to implementation: we work on complex issues for organizations such as healthcare institutions, housing associations, financial service providers, and central and local governments. These are areas where data makes a difference.

Since its founding in 2017 by Erik Fransen and Antoine Stelma, Connected Data Group has grown into a leading player in data architecture, virtualization, and AI solutions. As part of Open Line Group, we combine expertise in technology, strategy, and change management. You can see that strength reflected in our Academy!

The vision behind Connected Data Academy

At Connected Data Academy, we believe that learning only has a real impact when it is connected to practice. Our training programs are not standard courses, but practical programs that reflect the reality of the workplace. We train data professionals for the challenges of today and tomorrow — with trainers who know what is going on and can convey that knowledge.

As a consultant at Connected Data Group and one of the Academy’s first trainers, I — Ferry Eijgel — see every day how big the gap between theory and practice can be. That is precisely why we are committed to closing that gap with training courses that are truly relevant to the professional field.

Our trainers are more than just teachers. They are consultants, project leaders, and strategists who work daily on data-driven solutions in sectors such as healthcare, public housing, government, and financial services. They bring that experience into the classroom — not as anecdotes, but as the foundation for the learning process. This creates learning in context: current, applicable, and directly connected to practice.

A good example is Jolanda van Gilst, Senior Data Architect and trainer at Connected Data Academy. Her transition from consultant to trainer was a natural development. What started with guest lectures grew into a broad portfolio, including training courses in Data Modeling, Architecture, and Virtualization. Jolanda translates her consulting experience directly into applicable insights in the classroom.

“I had already taken the Fundamentals training and was very enthusiastic,
especially about the trainers. They have earned their stripes in the field
and really provide depth. They provoke discussions, which I enjoy the most.”
— Ben Teunissen, Enterprise Architect, The Future Group

What makes Connected Data Academy unique?

With us, you learn in context. That means:

• Up-to-date and relevant training courses, tailored to what is currently happening in the field
• Trainers with practical experience, who know what works and what doesn’t
• Continuous learning pathways, from Fundamentals to CDMP certification
• Realistic cases and tools, taken from real projects
• Connection to roles and responsibilities in the field

“The training offered exactly what I was looking for — maybe even more.
The insight that you sometimes need to first consider the how and why of metadata management
and that you need to continue to do so together with your team really helped me move forward.”
— Anke Ruigrok, Freelance Data Consultant, Flex4data

Our new website better shows how learning and practice come together. You will find:

• An up-to-date overview of training courses that address the challenges in the field
• A clear overview of our learning pathways, from Fundamentals to CDMP certification
• Interviews and practical stories from trainers and participants who are at the heart of the data profession

Connected Data Academy offers practical training courses in data and AI, embedded in the expertise of Connected Data Group. As a trainer and bridge builder between strategy and implementation, I invite you to discover what learning in context can mean for you!

View our training offerings: www.connecteddataacademy.nl: www.connecteddataacademy.nl
Read how Connected Data Group helps organizations transform: www.connecteddatagroup.nl
Contact: academy@connecteddatagroup.nl
Phone: 0345 – 228 592

Author:
Ferry Eijgel
Data Management Professional (DAMA CDMP) | Sr. Projectcoördinator Data & Analytics Connected Data Group & Connected Data Academy | Consultant | Trainer |