Blog

With demand for artificial intelligence and cloud computing skyrocketing, data centers are being built across the United States and other countries at a rapid pace. Construction for these data centers requires skilled trades across a variety of categories, including electrical, cooling, plumbing, and mechanical. 

Data Center Construction Is Growing Rapidly 

Ongoing expansion has led to data centers becoming one of the most in-demand sectors of the construction industry. Contractor availability isn’t keeping pace with growth. This increases competition to hire employees with the specialized experience and licensing to perform these skilled trades. 

Building a data center is a complex undertaking with land, power, and communications concerns. Even once approved, projects need the labor to actually put their plans into action. Many regions lack the licensed contractors they need, leading to major delays in construction. These experienced tradespeople can’t be replaced with general labor. 

Electricians Are Essential to Data Center Operations 

Electricians are among the most in-demand skilled workers for data center construction. These facilities require extensive distribution systems, controls, and wiring. They must be installed, tested, and maintained. The technical knowledge required is highly sought after and makes licensed electricians extremely valuable. 

Cooling Specialists Needed for Critical Equipment 

Cooling is essential for the ongoing operation of any data center. They require HVAC and refrigeration professionals with the knowledge and experience to install and service these systems. Controlling temperature and humidity calls for a wide range of HVAC equipment. 

Demand for Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters 

Data centers have extensive water distribution systems. They also require drainage to protect against water damage and thorough fire suppression systems. Skilled workers are needed to assemble, inspect, and maintain these complex piping systems, with a variety of licensed trades required. 

Other In-Demand Skilled Trades 

There are many more examples of skilled trades needed in data center construction. Welders, controls technicians, and equipment operators play essential roles throughout the project lifecycle. Workers who can interpret plans, execute them, and meet code requirements are needed. 

Opportunities Beyond Construction 

The construction phase employs many skilled tradespeople, but there are also opportunities afterward. Data centers require ongoing electrical, cooling, and plumbing maintenance. This means that data centers also provide long-term opportunities, not just work during construction itself. 

Preparing for Data Center Trade Careers 

Skilled tradespeople have a wide range of opportunities with the expansion of data center construction. Now is an excellent time to pursue apprenticeships, prepare for exams, and acquire the knowledge, skills, and licensing to work in a skilled trade. 

Keep in mind that licensing and certification requirements vary by jurisdiction. It’s important to make sure that you’re pursuing the proper license and taking the right exams to work in that specific skilled trade in your state or municipality.  

Equipping Yourself With the Right License 

You can equip yourself with the proper license to pursue a job in these growing skilled trades with help from RocketCert. Accessible online licensing education and exam preparation lets you move toward obtaining your electrician, plumbing, HVAC, or other trade license. Pursue these new opportunities and advance your career with RocketCert.