As the Job Market Cools, Data Center Opportunities Will Remain Hot
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By Bill Jabjiniak , Bill Jabjiniak at EdgeCore Digital
- Best Practices,
EdgeCore’s Bill Jabjiniak offers insight on how as the job market cools, data center opportunities will remain hot. This article originally appeared on Solutions Review’s Insight Jam, an enterprise IT community enabling the human conversation on AI.
When ChatGPT was released, artificial intelligence (AI) quickly gained attention, putting immense pressure on data centers and triggering the development of many new, modern facilities – with no signs of slowed growth in sight.
According to recent forecasts, the United States data center market is projected to grow by a multiple of 2-4x over the next 4-6 years, triggered largely by the continuous demand for AI-related development. Data centers are the backbone of the digital world and it takes skilled personnel run them properly.
Today, providers are searching nationwide for the right talent to bring the new wave of modern data centers to life, quickly and effectively. Whether you’re kicking off your career or seeking a career change, the data center industry is in its employment prime, offering a vast array of career opportunities, which will only continue to blossom in our digital-first landscape.
The State of the Data Center Job Market
To support AI’s density requirements and meet the unique needs of hyperscalers, modern data centers must be built with precise intention. These facilities call for new, sophisticated approaches to facility design and infrastructure, along with talent across virtually every discipline and domain. In fact, many roles needed to drive data center growth, like electricians, plumbers and safety professionals, are in higher demand than ever. As an example, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that the demand for electricians will grow 6% annually through 2032, doubling the rate of other jobs.
This career path allows workers to get their hands in a rapidly growing, innovative industry, touching cutting-edge automation and tackling engaging problem-solving with a healthy compensation to top it all off. The pay for data center technicians has jumped 43% in the past three years and once individuals are in the role, there’s continued growth. Just last year, 77% of data center professionals experienced salary increases, reflecting a growing need for their expertise. Transformation across the industry will only continue, creating the perfect opportunity for more workers to start or pivot their careers in this direction.
The Pathway to a Data Center Role
In addition to offering reliable, well-paid career opportunities, there are many pathways into data center roles, like pursuing data center courses at community colleges. Such classes are currently being rolled out in many areas, including in the growing data center hub of metro Phoenix.
In August 2024, Estrella Mountain and Mesa Community Colleges in Arizona began offering ‘Introduction to Data Center Operations’ courses that provide the foundational aspects of the data center world, including compliance, operations and physical infrastructure. Students are introduced to mission critical data center operations, digging into the rundown of the physical components, its interoperability and the usage of data center equipment. These courses are run by experts in the field, like Kendall Ellison, Director of Operations at EdgeCore Digital Infrastructure, giving students an accurate look into the industry demands and expectations. This class prepares students to become industry experts, capable of landing fulfilling careers and earning rewarding salaries within a few short months.
While the learning opportunities at community colleges can provide students with a direct path to data center employment, they’re not the only gateway to professional success in this field. For example, many operators recruit military veterans given their skillset applicability for jobs in the data center industry. Their military training positions them to succeed in various roles, including data center management, operations, security and much more.
Data center roles also have no geographic bounds. With the rapid emergence of secondary and tertiary markets, data center professionals don’t need to live in major hubs to pursue this career path. As of March 2024, there are 5,381 data centers scattered throughout the United States, the most of any other country worldwide.
The Staying Power of the Data Center Field
Recent data and industry experts are telling the same story: the data center market is positioned for continued and sustainable growth. Studies reveal that the industry is projected to double in size by 2030 and it has become increasingly apparent that we need the people and talent to drive this innovation. Whether a new grad or experienced professional in need of a fresh start, the data center industry offers well-paying job opportunities and the ability to play an important role in the AI revolution.
- As the Job Market Cools, Data Center Opportunities Will Remain Hot - November 8, 2024
