We would like to express our sincere gratitude to everyone who participated in our highly successful International Data Center Day event on March 22, 2023. Our panel of experts - Nabeel Mahmood, Phillip Koblence and Carrie Goetz - spoke to a standing-room only crowd.  It was an engaging and thought-provoking day filled with insightful conversations about the future of Data Centers and how to adapt your career to the upcoming changes. 

Key Takeaways and Insights:

Exploring the Next Generation of Data Centers:

Throughout the event, our esteemed panel of experts delved into the exciting advancements and transformations awaiting the data center industry. From innovative technologies to expanding infrastructure needs, the conversations sparked a collective understanding of the significant role data centers will play in our technology-dependent future. 

Need for a Common Data Center Training Curriculum

One key takeaway was the urgent need for a standardized curriculum to train and educate aspiring data center professionals. Currently, there is a lack of consistency in teaching methods and content, hindering the industry's growth and creating challenges for employers seeking qualified candidates. By establishing a common curriculum, we can ensure that individuals entering the field receive a comprehensive education, covering essential technical skills and industry knowledge. This collaborative effort among educational institutions, industry organizations, and professionals will elevate the professionalism of data center workers, foster industry-wide standards, and pave the way for successful careers in this rapidly evolving field.

The Impact of AI on Data Center Workers:

One of the most intriguing topics revolved around the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in data centers and its potential impact on the workforce. The speakers and participants had a lively discussion about possibilities and challenges presented by AI integration. While there was consensus that AI will undoubtedly enhance operational efficiency and streamline certain tasks, there were concerns that AI would replace the Data Center worker. The question remained - How do we balance the irreplaceable value of human expertise and creativity in data center operations? 

Resources:

• Get your copy of Jumpstart Your Career in Data Centers Featuring Careers for Women, Trades, and Veterans in Tech and Data Centers here. 

• Want to help teach kids about the Data Center Industry, sign up to make a 1 minute video about your job for our Career Tree.  

• For more resources, including the future Data Center trainings and supporting the next gen, please visit http://nomadfuturist.org/

Conclusion: 

Thank you once again to all our participants, speakers, sponsors and volunteers for making this event a resounding success. Together, we will shape the future of the data center industry and embrace the opportunities that await us. Stay tuned for more exciting events and discussions as we continue our journey of knowledge and innovation!