The Data Center Frontier Show

Matt Vincent, Editor-in-Chief of Data Center Frontier, sits down with Angela Capon, Vice President of Marketing at EdgeConneX, to discuss the groundbreaking collaboration between EdgeConneX and the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award Program. 

Charting the Future of AI Storage Infrastructure In this episode, Solidigm Director of Strategic Planning Brian Jacobosky guides listeners through a tech-forward conversation on how storage infrastructure is helping redefine the AI-era data center. The discussion frames storage as more than just a cost factor; it's also a strategic building block for performance, efficiency, and savings. Storage Moves to the Center of AI Data Infrastructure Jacobosky explains how, in the AI-driven era, storage is being elevated from a forgotten metric like “dollars per gigabyte” to a core priority: maximizing GPU utilization, managing soaring power draw, and unlocking space savings. He illustrates how every watt and every square inch counts. As GPU compute scales dramatically, storage efficiency is being engineered to enable maximum density and throughput. High-Capacity SSDs as a Game-Changer Jacobosky spotlights Solidigm D5-P5336 122TB SSDs as emblematic of the shift. Rather than a simple technical refresh, these drives represent a tectonic realignment in how data centers are being designed for huge capacity and optimized performance. With all-flash deployments offering up to nine times the space savings compared to hybrid architectures, Jacobosky underscores how SSD density can enable more GPU scale within fixed power and space budgets. This could even unlock achieving a 1‑petabyte SSD by the end of the decade. Embedded Efficiency The episode brings environmental considerations to the forefront. Jacobosky shares how an “all‑SSD” strategy can dramatically slash physical footprints as well as energy consumption. From data center buildout through end of lifecycle drive retirement, efficiency is driving both operational cost savings and ESG benefits — helping reduce concrete and steel usage, power draw, and e‑waste. Pioneering Storage Architectures and Cooling Innovation Listeners learn how AI-first innovators like Neo Cloud-style providers and sovereign AI operators lead the charge in deploying next-generation storage. Jacobosky also previews the Solidigm PS-1010 E1.S form factor, an NVIDIA fanless server solution that enables direct‑to‑chip Cold-Plate-Cooled SSDs integrated into GPU servers. He predicts that this systems-level integration will become a standard for high-density AI infrastructure. Storage as a Strategic Investment Solidigm challenges the notion that high-capacity storage is cost prohibitive. Within the framework of the AI token economy, Jacobosky explains that the true measure becomes minimizing cost per token and time to first token and, when storage is optimized for performance, capacity, and efficiency, the total cost of ownership (TCO) will often prove favorable after the first evaluation. Looking Ahead: Memory Wall, Inference Workloads, Liquid Cooling Jacobosky ends with a look ahead to where storage innovation will lead in the next five years. As AI models grow in size and complexity, he argues, storage is increasingly acting as an extension of memory, breaking through the “memory wall” for large inference workloads. Companies will design infrastructure from the ground up with liquid-cooling, future-scalable storage, and storage that supports massive model deployments without compromising latency. This episode is essential listening for data center architects, AI infrastructure strategists, and sustainability leaders looking to understand how storage is fast-becoming a defining factor in AI-ready data centers of the future.

Florida is emerging as one of the most promising new frontiers for data center growth — combining power availability, policy alignment, and strategic geography in ways that mirror the early success of Northern Virginia. In this episode of The Data Center Frontier Show, Editor-in-Chief Matt Vincent sits down with Buddy Rizer, Executive Director of Loudoun County Economic Development, and Lila Jaber, Founder of the Florida's Women in Energy Leadership Forum and former Chair of the Florida Public Service Commission. Together, they explore how Florida is building the foundation for large-scale digital infrastructure and AI data center investment. Episode Highlights: Energy Advantage: While Loudoun County faces a 600-megawatt deficit and rising demand, Florida enjoys excess generation capacity, proactive utilities, and growing renewable integration. Utilities like FPL and Duke Energy are preparing for hyperscale and AI-driven loads with new tariff structures and grid-hardening investments. Tax Incentives & Workforce: Florida's extended data center sales tax exemption through 2037 and its raised 100-megawatt IT load threshold signal a commitment to hyperscale development. The state's universities and workforce programs are aligned with this tech growth, producing top talent in engineering and applied sciences. Strategic Location: As a digital gateway to Latin America and the Caribbean, Florida's connectivity advantage—especially around Miami—is attracting hyperscale and AI operators looking to expand globally. Market Outlook: Industry insiders predict that within the next year, a major data center player will establish a significant footprint in Florida. Multiple campuses are expected to follow, driven by the state's power resilience, policy stability, and collaborative approach between utilities, developers, and government leaders. Why It Matters: Florida's combination of energy abundance, policy foresight, and strategic geography positions it as the next great growth market for digital infrastructure and AI-ready data centers in North America.

This podcast explores the rapidly evolving thermal and water challenges facing today's data centers as AI workloads push rack densities to unprecedented levels. The discussion highlights the risks and opportunities tied to liquid cooling—from pre-commissioning practices and real-time monitoring to system integration and water stewardship. Ecolab's innovative approaches to thermal management can not only solve operational constraints but also deliver competitive advantage by improving efficiency, reducing resource consumption, and strengthening sustainability commitments.

Join Bill Tierney of The Data Center Construction Alliance, as he discusses some of the emerging challenges facing data center development today. Topics will include how increasing collaboration between OEMs, owners, contractors, and sub-contractors is leading to some exciting and innovative solutions in the design and construction of data centers. He will also share some examples of how collaboration has led to new ideas and methodologies in the field. 

AI networks are driving dramatic changes in data center design, especially around power, cooling, and connectivity. Modern GPU-powered AI data centers require far more energy and generate much more heat than traditional CPU-based setups, pushing cabinets to new power densities and necessitating advanced cooling solutions like liquid direct-to-chip cooling. These environments also demand significantly more fiber cabling to handle increased data flows, with deeper cabinets and complex layouts that make traditional rear-access cabling impractical.

In this DCF Trends-Nomads at the Summit Podcast episode, the hosts from Data Center Frontier and Nomad Futurist sit down with Adrienne Pierce, CEO of New Sun Road, to explore the emerging frontier of sovereign and renewable energy solutions for modular data center deployment. With over 1,500 microgrids under management via the company's Stellar platform, Pierce brings a field-tested perspective on how flexible, AI-driven energy controls can empower edge and sub-10 MW data center systems—especially in regions where traditional grid infrastructure can't keep up with AI-era demands. This discussion dives into the real-world opportunities for modular, microgrid-powered data centers to unlock new markets, reduce energy costs, and create more resilient and autonomous compute infrastructure at the edge and beyond. Expect sharp insights into what it means to decouple data center growth from utility bottlenecks—and how the right energy intelligence can accelerate both sustainability and scalability.

In this DCF Trends-Nomads at the Summit Podcast episode, the hosts of Data Center Frontier and Nomad Futurist sit down with UVA Darden MBA candidates Tosin Fashola and Albert Odum for an energizing conversation about next-generation data infrastructure—and why they believe Africa is poised to be its future epicenter. With professional backgrounds spanning data center strategy at KPMG and government-led implementations in Ghana, Tosin and Albert bring fresh, globally-minded perspectives on AI infrastructure, regional power strategy, and the role of connectivity in economic transformation. Expect a wide-ranging dialogue on the untapped potential of African markets, the roadmap to building sovereign cloud capacity and IXPs, and how a new generation of leaders is preparing to close the global digital divide—one hyperscale project at a time.

In this DCF Trends-Nomads at the Summit Podcast episode, Data Center Frontier editors and Nomad Futurist hosts sit down with Greg Stover, Vertiv's Global Director, Hi-Tech Development. The discussion delves into Stover's work at the intersection of advanced cooling technologies, hyperscale growth, and AI-driven infrastructure design. Drawing on his experience guiding Vertiv's strategy for high-density deployments, liquid cooling adoption, and close collaboration with hyperscalers and chipmakers, Stover offers a forward-looking perspective on how evolving compute architectures, thermal management innovations, and market forces are redefining the competitive edge in the data center industry.

In this DCF Trends-Nomads at the Summit Podcast episode, the ever-curious, future-focused podcast hosts from Data Center Frontier and Nomad Futurist reunite with Infrastructure Masons CEO Santiago Suinaga for a timely, in-depth follow-up to his impactful debut on the DCF Show. With AI infrastructure growth hitting warp speed, the conversation will dig deeper into Suinaga's vision for how the digital infrastructure community can scale responsibly—without losing sight of net zero goals, workforce development, or supply chain accountability. Expect a candid, high-level exchange on emerging regulatory pressures, the embodied carbon challenge, and why flexible cooling and modular design must be table stakes for the AI-powered data center of the future. Suinaga will also share the latest on iMasons' Climate Accord, job-matching platform, and new cross-sector partnerships—all aimed at fostering sustainability, equity, and innovation in an industry racing to keep pace with exponential demand.

In this DCF Trends-Nomads at the Summit Podcast episode, Chris James, CEO of NoesisAI, delivers a sweeping, insight-rich overview of how different classes of AI models—from LLMs and RAG to vision AI and scientific workloads—are driving a new wave of infrastructure decisions across the data center landscape. With a sharp focus on the diverging needs of training vs. inference, James breaks down what it takes to support today's AI—from GPU-intensive clusters with high-speed interconnects and liquid cooling to inference-optimized, edge-deployed accelerators. He also explores the rapidly shifting hardware ecosystem, including the rise of custom silicon, heterogeneous computing, and where the battle between NVIDIA, AMD, Intel, and hyperscaler-designed chips is headed. Whether you're designing for scalability, sustainability, or the bleeding edge, this conversation offers a field guide to the infrastructure behind intelligent computing.

In this DCF Trends-Nomads at the Summit Podcast episode, the Data Center Frontier and Nomad Futurist hosts engage in a dynamic, behind-the-scenes conversation with two of the most influential voices shaping digital infrastructure communications: Illisa Miller, founder of iMiller PR, and Adam Waitkunas, founder of Milldam PR. With decades of experience guiding some of the industry's most prominent brands through launches, crises, and rebranding efforts, Miller and Waitkunas offer an unfiltered look at what it really takes to cut through the noise in a crowded, technically complex market. From telling the right story about AI and sustainability, to building trust across hyperscalers, investors, and public stakeholders, this episode explores the evolving narrative demands of the data center space—and why strategic communications is now mission-critical to business success. Expect honest reflections, practical PR wisdom, and a few war stories from the front lines of digital infrastructure storytelling.

In this DCF Trends-Nomads at the Summit Podcast episode, the editors of Data Center Frontier and the hosts of Nomad Futurist sit down with Lovisa Tedestedt, Sales Executive at Schneider Electric, where she focuses on colo acquisition accounts. With more than 25 years of experience in international sales management, business development, and leadership, Lovisa has built a career defined by strong client relationships, bold growth strategies, and a passion for delivering excellence. From Sweden to China, Europe to the U.S., Lovisa brings a truly global perspective to the data center industry. In this conversation, she shares insights on strategic planning, high-stakes negotiations, and the importance of adaptability in today's fast-changing market. Beyond her career, Lovisa talks about life outside of work as an avid hockey mom, now based in Des Moines, Iowa with her husband and two teenage children. Join us for a conversation that blends global business lessons, sales leadership, and the personal side of a career in the digital infrastructure world.

In this DCF Trends-Nomads at the Summit Podcast episode, the editors of Data Center Frontier and the hosts of Nomad Futurist sit down with Doug Recker, a telecommunications veteran and edge data center pioneer with more than 30 years of industry leadership. Today, Recker leads Duos Edge AI, driving initiatives to bring multi-access edge data centers (EDCs) to underserved communities, including schools and health facilities across the U.S. From founding Edge Presence (acquired by Ubiquity in 2023) and Colo5 Data Centers (later acquired by Cologix in 2014), to deploying more than 40 TM2500 units worldwide, Recker has consistently been at the forefront of building scalable, resilient infrastructure. His career is marked by multiple honors, including Northeast Florida's Ultimate CEO Award and recognition among Inc. 500's fastest-growing companies. In this conversation, Recker shares insights on the evolution of edge computing, lessons learned from decades in telecom and data centers, and how his time in the U.S. Marine Corps shaped his leadership philosophy. Tune in for a wide-ranging discussion on innovation, resilience, and the future of edge AI.

In this DCF Trends-Nomads at the Summit Podcast episode, Matt Grandbois, Vice President at AirJoule, introduces a game-changing approach to one of the data center industry's most pressing challenges: water sustainability. As power-hungry, high-density environments collide with growing water scarcity concerns, Grandbois lays out a compelling vision for water-positive data centers—facilities that produce more water than they consume. Leveraging AirJoule's advanced atmospheric water harvesting technology, he explains how waste heat, typically seen as a problem to mitigate, can become a valuable resource for onsite water generation. From adiabatic cooling and humidification to local water replenishment, this conversation opens up new possibilities for sustainable design, reduced PUE, and location flexibility—redefining what it means for data centers to be responsible community partners.

Speakers:  Mike Klassen, Director of Business Development, ZincFive Sugam Patel, VP of Product Management, DG Matrix In this DCF Trends-Nomads at the Summit Podcast episode, experts from ZincFive and DG Matrix unpack how medium voltage (MV) UPS architectures are redefining the way data centers power up for AI. As AI densification pushes traditional infrastructure to its limits, MV UPS solutions offer a path forward—boosting efficiency, reducing heat and losses, and reclaiming floor space for compute. The conversation delves into how higher voltage translates into smarter, more scalable designs that not only meet the demands of today's high-performance AI workloads but also future-proof facilities for what's coming next. From design frameworks to deployment strategies, Klassen and Patel provide a grounded, technical look at the UPS shift already underway.

In this episode of the DCF Trends–Nomads at the Summit podcast, we bring together two dynamic voices shaping the future of digital infrastructure: Melissa Farney, Editor at Large for Data Center Frontier and board member of the Nomad Futurist Foundation, and Bill Kleyman, Contributing Editor for Data Center Frontier and CEO of Apolo, who also serves as a member of the Nomad Futurist Foundation. Melissa and Bill join up for a candid discussion on the biggest trends transforming the data center and digital ecosystem. From AI-driven growth and sustainability challenges to the human capital needed to sustain the industry's rapid expansion, they share a unique blend of editorial perspective and executive experience. This episode also dives into the mission of the Nomad Futurist Foundation: inspiring and equipping the next generation of leaders in the digital infrastructure space. Listeners will gain insights not just into market shifts, but also into the values and vision shaping the future of the field. Tune in for an engaging conversation at the intersection of thought leadership, industry transformation, and the mission to build a more resilient, inclusive digital future.

Speakers:  Joseph Ford, Senior Associate – Technology, Bala Consulting Engineers Eric Klaiber, Data Center Design Manager, Bala Consulting Engineers In this DCF Trends-Nomads at the Summit Podcast episode, Joseph Ford and Eric Klaiber of Bala Consulting Engineers offer a consultant engineer's hard-won perspective on the complex realities of designing infrastructure for hyperscale, MTDC, and wholesale data centers. Drawing on years of field experience, they dig into the nuanced choreography required to align incoming duct banks, meet-me room layouts, and overlapping network systems—all while staying within the spatial constraints driven by power and cooling demands. This candid conversation highlights what it really takes to create design harmony across client expectations, design teams, and contractors, with insights into space planning, coordination strategy, and the delicate balance of infrastructure coexistence that underpins modern high-performance facilities.

In this DCF Trends-Nomads at the Summit Podcast episode, Data Center Frontier and Nomad Futurist hosts sit down with Bob Cassiliano, Chairman & CEO of 7x24 Exchange International, for a wide-ranging conversation on the state of mission-critical infrastructure and the evolving challenges facing the data center industry. As the leader of one of the most influential organizations in the space, Cassiliano offers a national perspective on power constraints, workforce development, sustainability pressures, and the cultural shifts reshaping operations and leadership across the digital infrastructure landscape. The discussion also highlights how 7x24 Exchange continues to serve as a vital convening force for collaboration, education, and resilience in an industry tasked with powering the AI era. With decades of insight and a pulse on what's next, Cassiliano shares where the data center sector must go to meet the moment.

AI has pushed liquid cooling from a niche technology to a critical requirement for high density data centers. In this episode, Pat McGinn, COO and President of CoolIT Systems, shares why AI is driving liquid cooling from optional to essential. He explains how CoolIT helps customers deliver AI systems at speed and scale through proven capacity, modular solutions, and dedicated engineering support. Listeners will gain insight into the trends shaping adoption, examples of customer success, and what the future holds for high performance and sustainable cooling.

In this episode, we're joined by Justin Loritz, Product Manager for Large Diesel at Rehlko, to explore how the company is redefining the role of a manufacturer in today's dynamic data center landscape. Rehlko isn't just delivering equipment, they're delivering answers. As Justin shares, Rehlko's philosophy centers on being a true solutions provider: collaborating early, working through complexity, and staying flexible to meet each customer's unique challenges. Whether it's identifying alternative components, navigating supply constraints, or designing systems that meet aggressive density and uptime requirements, Rehlko's engineers partner closely with customers to ensure no detail is overlooked. Their process is driven by a deep understanding of the application, operational goals, and broader market context, allowing them to fine-tune specifications and avoid missteps that could compromise performance or timelines. Justin also discusses how this proactive, collaborative mindset extends beyond the customer relationship. By engaging with industry organizations like iMasons and contributing to shared challenges, like power availability and infrastructure strain, Rehlko helps move the entire ecosystem forward. Key discussion points include: What it means to be a solutions provider in a high-demand, high-stakes environment How Rehlko engineers collaborate to solve challenges before they impact project delivery Why deep application knowledge is essential to right-sizing designs and avoiding over- or under-specification How industry collaboration is key to unlocking new energy strategies, sourcing approaches, and long-term resilience For data center leaders navigating rising demand and tighter constraints, this episode highlights how Rehlko's engineering-first, collaboration-driven approach is helping customers stay ahead, delivering smarter, more resilient infrastructure for the AI-powered future.

As artificial intelligence (AI) reshapes the data center landscape, power resiliency is being tested like never before. With enormous new facilities coming online and operators exploring alternatives to diesel, the backup power market is at an inflection point. In this episode of the Data Center Frontier Show, we sit down with Ricardo Navarro, Vice President of Global Solutions at Generac Power Systems, to discuss how the company is positioning itself as a major player in the data center ecosystem. Diesel Still Reigns — For Now Navarro begins by addressing the foundational question: why diesel remains the primary backup power choice for hyperscale and AI workloads. The answer, he explains, comes down to density, responsiveness, and reliability. Diesel engines respond instantly to the fluctuating loads that are common in AI training clusters, and fuel can be stored directly on-site. While natural gas is gaining traction as a bridging and utility-support solution, true redundancy requires dual pipelines — a level of infrastructure not yet common in data center deployments. That said, Navarro is clear that the story doesn't end with diesel. He sees a future where natural gas, paired with batteries, becomes a cost-effective and environmentally attractive option. Hybrid systems, combined with demand response and grid participation programs, could give operators new tools for balancing reliability and sustainability. “Natural gas might not be the right solution right now, but definitely it will be in the future,” Navarro notes. Scaling Fast to Meet Hyperscaler Demands The conversation also explores how hyperscalers are shaping requirements. With campuses needing hundreds of generators, customers are asking not just about product performance, but about scale, lead times, and support. Generac is addressing that demand by delivering open sets in as little as 30 to 35 weeks — about a third of the wait time from traditional OEMs. That speed-to-deployment advantage has driven significant new interest in Generac across the hyperscale sector. From Generators to Energy Technology Equally important is Generac's shift toward digital tools and predictive services. Over the past decade, the company has invested in acquisitions such as Deep Sea Electronics, Blue Pillar, and Off Grid Energy, expanding its expertise in controls, telemetry, and microgrid integration. Today, Generac is layering advanced sensors, machine learning, and AI-driven analytics onto its equipment fleet, enabling predictive failure detection, condition-based maintenance, and smarter load orchestration. This evolution, Navarro explains, represents Generac's transformation “from being just a generator manufacturer to being an energy technology company.” What's Next for Generac Looking ahead, the company is putting real capital behind its ambitions. Generac recently completed a $130 million facility in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, designed to expand production capacity and meet surging demand from data center customers. With firm domestic and international orders already in place, Navarro says the company is determined “to be in the driver's seat” as AI accelerates the need for scalable, resilient, and flexible backup power. For data center leaders, this episode provides a clear look into how backup power strategies are evolving — and how one of the industry's largest players is preparing for the next wave of energy and infrastructure challenges.  

Columbus Hosts First Nvidia HGX B200 AI Cluster, Scaling AI at the Aggregated Edge In this episode of the Data Center Frontier Show, Matt Vincent sits down with Bill Bentley (Cologix) and Ken Patchett (Lambda) to discuss Columbus, Ohio's first Nvidia HGX B200 AI cluster deployment. The conversation dives into: Why Columbus is emerging as a strategic hub for AI workloads in the Midwest. How Lambda's one-click clusters and Cologix's interconnection-rich campus enable rapid provisioning, low-latency inference, and scalable enterprise AI. Flexible GPU consumption models that lower entry barriers for startups and allow enterprises to scale efficiently. Innovations in energy efficiency, cooling, and sustainability as data centers evolve to meet the demands of modern AI. The impact on regional industries like healthcare, manufacturing, and logistics—and why this deployment is a repeatable playbook for future AI clusters. Join us to hear how AI is being brought closer to the point of need, transforming the Midwest into a next-generation AI infrastructure hub.

Artificial intelligence is changing the data center industry faster than anyone anticipated. Every new wave of AI hardware pushes power, density, and cooling requirements to levels once thought impossible — and operators are scrambling to keep pace. In this episode of the Data Center Frontier Show, Schneider Electric's Steven Carlini joins us to unpack what it really means to build infrastructure for the AI era. Carlini explains how the conversation around density has shifted in just a year: “Last year, everyone was talking about the one-megawatt rack. Now densities are approaching 1.5 megawatts. It's moving that fast, and the infrastructure has to keep up.” These rapid leaps in scale aren't just about racks and GPUs. They represent a fundamental change in how data centers are designed, cooled, and powered. The discussion dives into the new imperatives for AI-ready facilities: Power planning that anticipates explosive growth in compute demand. Liquid and hybrid cooling systems capable of handling extreme densities. Modularity and prefabrication to shorten build times and adapt to shifting hardware generations. Sustainability and responsible design that balance innovation with environmental impact. Carlini emphasizes that operators can't treat these as optional upgrades. Flexibility, efficiency, and sustainability are now prerequisites for competitiveness in the AI era. Looking beyond hardware, Carlini highlights the diversity of AI workloads — from generative models to autonomous agents — that will drive future requirements. Each class of workload comes with different power and latency demands, and data center operators will need to build adaptable platforms to accommodate them. At the Data Center Frontier Trends Summit last week, Carlini expanded further on these themes, offering insights into how the industry can harness AI “for good” — designing infrastructure that supports innovation while aligning with global sustainability goals. His message was clear: the choices operators make now will shape not just business outcomes, but the broader environmental and social impact of the AI revolution. This episode offers listeners a rare inside look at the technical, operational, and strategic forces shaping tomorrow's data centers. Whether it's retrofitting legacy facilities, deploying modular edge sites, or planning new greenfield campuses, the challenge is the same: prepare for a future where compute density and power requirements continue to skyrocket. If you want to understand how the world's digital infrastructure is evolving to meet the demands of AI, this conversation with Steven Carlini is essential listening.  

Are you facing challenges with Edge Computing in your organization? Join us as we explore how Penguin Solutions' Stratus ztC Edge platform combined with Kubernetes management creates a powerful, low-maintenance Edge Computing solution.   Learn how to:  Leverage Kubernetes for scalable, resilient Edge Computing  Simplify edge management with automated tools  Implement robust security strategies  Integrate Kubernetes with legacy operations  Don't miss this opportunity to optimize your Edge Computing infrastructure with cutting-edge tools and practices.  This podcast is ideal for IT leaders and engineers looking to optimize their Edge Computing infrastructure with cutting-edge tools and practices. 

In this episode of the Data Center Frontier Show podcast, we sit down with Martin Renkis, Executive Director of Global Alliances for Sustainable Infrastructure at Johnson Controls, to explore how Data Center Cooling as a Service (DCCaaS) is changing the way operators think about risk, capital, and sustainability. Johnson Controls has delivered guaranteed infrastructure services for over 40 years, shifting cooling from a CAPEX burden to an OPEX model. The company designs, builds, operates, and maintains systems under long-term agreements that transfer performance risk away from the operator. Key to the model is AI-driven optimization through platforms like OpenBlue, paired with financial guarantees tied directly to customer-defined KPIs. A joint venture with Apollo Group (Ionic Blue) also provides flexible financing, freeing up capital for land or expansion. With rising rack densities and unpredictable AI factory demands, Renkis says cooling-as-a-service offers “a financially guaranteed safety net” that adapts to change while advancing sustainability goals. Listen now to learn how Johnson Controls is redefining cooling for the AI era.

As AI workloads reshape the data center landscape, speed to power has overtaken sustainability as the top customer demand. On this episode of the Data Center Frontier Show, Editor-in-Chief Matt Vincent talks with Brian Melka, CEO of Rehlko (formerly Kohler Energy), about how the century-old power company is helping operators scale fast, stay reliable, and meet evolving energy challenges. Melka shares how Rehlko is quadrupling production, expanding its in-house EPC capabilities, and rolling out modular power blocks through its Wilmott/Wiltech acquisition to accelerate deployments and system integration. The discussion also covers the balance between diesel reliability and greener alternatives like HVO fuel, hybrid power systems that combine batteries and engines, and strategies for managing noise, emissions, and footprint in urban sites. From rooftop generator farms in Paris to 100MW hyperscale builds, Rehlko positions itself as a technology-agnostic partner for the AI era. Listen now to learn how the company is helping the data center industry move faster, smarter, and more sustainably.

Smarter Security Starts with Key & Equipment Management In data centers, physical access control is just as critical as cybersecurity. Intelligent key and equipment management solutions help safeguard infrastructure, reduce risk, and improve efficiency — all while supporting compliance. Key Benefits: Enhanced Security – Restrict access to authorized personnel only Audit Trails – Track every access event for full accountability Operational Efficiency – Eliminate manual tracking and delays Risk Reduction – Prevent loss, misuse, or unauthorized access System Integration – Connect with access, video, and visitor tools Regulatory Support – Comply with ISO 27001, SOC 2, HIPAA & more A smart solution for a high-stakes environment — because in the data center world, every detail matters.

New DCF Podcast Episode Breaks Down the Real Work Behind Energy and Emissions Metrics In the latest episode of the Data Center Frontier Podcast, Editor-in-Chief Matt Vincent sits down with Jay Dietrich, Research Director of Sustainability at Uptime Institute, to examine what real sustainability looks like inside the data center — and why popular narratives around net zero, offsets, and carbon neutrality often obscure more than they reveal. Over the course of a 36-minute conversation, Dietrich walks listeners through Uptime's expanding role in guiding data center operators toward measurable sustainability outcomes — not just certifications, but operational performance improvements at the facility level.

In this episode of the Data Center Frontier Show, Editor-in-Chief Matt Vincent speaks with LiquidStack CEO Joe Capes about the company's breakthrough GigaModular platform — the industry's first scalable, modular Coolant Distribution Unit (CDU) purpose-built for direct-to-chip liquid cooling. With rack densities accelerating beyond 120 kW and headed toward 600 kW, LiquidStack is targeting the real-world requirements of AI data centers while streamlining complexity and future-proofing thermal design. “AI will keep pushing thermal output to new extremes,” Capes tells DCF. “Data centers need cooling systems that can be easily deployed, managed, and scaled to match heat rejection demands as they rise.” LiquidStack's new GigaModular CDU, unveiled at the 2025 Datacloud Global Congress in Cannes, delivers up to 10 MW of scalable cooling capacity. It's designed to support single-phase direct-to-chip liquid cooling — a shift from the company's earlier two-phase immersion roots — via a skidded modular design with a pay-as-you-grow approach. The platform's flexibility enables deployments at N, N+1, or N+2 resiliency. “We designed it to be the only CDU our customers will ever need,” Capes says. Tune in to listen to the whole discussion, which goes on to explore why edge infrastructure and EV adoption will drive the next wave of sector innovation. 

Every second an AI-enabled data center operates, it produces massive amounts of heat. Cooling needs are often thought of separately from heat, and for years, that is how systems were built. In most facilities, waste heat has to be managed, properly expelled, and is then forgotten. The heat may not be needed by the data center, but the question arises, ‘where else could this energy be put to use?' What if energy use was viewed differently by data centers and the systems and institutions around them? Rather than focusing on a data center's enormous power demands, let's recognize data centers are part of a larger energy network, capable of giving back through the recovery and redistribution of thermal waste. The pursuit of heat reuse solutions drives technological advancements in data center cooling and energy management systems. Recovering waste heat isn't just a matter of technology and hardware. Systems need to run smoothly, and uptime is critical. This can lead to the development of more efficient and sustainable technologies that benefit not only data centers but the communities they operate within, creating a symbiotic relationship. Join Trane® expert Esti Tierney as she explores critical considerations for enabling heat reuse as part of the circular economy. Esti will discuss high computing's growing impact on heat production, the importance of a holistic view of thermal management, and why the need to collaborate and plan a heat redistribution strategy early with community stakeholders matters.   Heat reuse in data centers is a crucial aspect of modern energy management and sustainability practices, offering benefits that extend beyond the immediate operational efficiencies. Designing for optimized energy efficiency and recovering waste heat isn't just about saving money. The ability to reduce energy demand on the grid will be critical for all today and into the future. As server densities increase and next-generation chips push power demands ever higher, waste heat is no longer a byproduct to manage — it's power waiting to be harnessed.

As AI reshapes the digital infrastructure landscape, data center design is evolving at every level. In this episode of the Data Center Frontier Show, we sit down with JP Buzzell, Eaton's VP and Data Center Chief Architect, and Doug Kilgariff, Strategic Accounts Manager, to explore the key shifts driving the next generation of compute environments. Topics include: Purpose-built vs. retrofit approaches to AI infrastructure. Liquid cooling requirements for GPU clusters. Modular power design and construction. Behind-the-meter energy strategies. Data center workforce shortages. Eaton's evolving role and insights from its Data Center Vision event. From rethinking site selection to solving for stranded assets and building talent pipelines, Buzzell and Kilgariff provide a practical, forward-looking view on the forces shaping AI-era data centers. Listen now to get the inside track on powering the future of AI infrastructure.

In this wide-ranging conversation, EdgeCore Digital Infrastructure CEO Lee Kestler joins the Data Center Frontier Show to discuss how the company is navigating the AI-fueled demand wave with a focused, disciplined strategy. From designing water-free campuses in the Arizona desert to long-term utility partnerships and a sober view on nuclear and behind-the-meter power, Kestler lays out EdgeCore's pragmatic path through today's high-pressure data center environment. He also shares insights on the misunderstood public perception of data centers, and why EdgeCore is investing not just in infrastructure, but in the communities where it builds.

In this episode of the Data Center Frontier Show, we explore CoreSite's strategic acquisition of the Denver Gas and Electric Building, widely regarded as the most network-dense facility in the Rocky Mountain region. Now the sole owner and operator of the DE1 data center housed within the historic building, CoreSite is doubling down on its interconnection strategy and reshaping the future of Denver's cloud and network ecosystem. Podcast guests Yvonne Ng, CoreSite's Central Region General Manager, and Adam Post, SVP of Finance and Corporate Development, discuss how the acquisition enables CoreSite to simplify access to the Google Cloud Platform onramp and supercharge the Any2Denver peering exchange. The deal also adds over 100 interconnection-rich customers to CoreSite's portfolio and sets the stage for a broader Denver campus strategy including the under-construction DE3 facility built for AI-scale workloads. The conversation explores key themes around modernizing legacy carrier hotels for high-density computing, integrating newly acquired customers, and how CoreSite, as backed by parent company American Tower, is evaluating similar interconnection-focused acquisitions in other metro markets. This is a timely deep dive into how legacy infrastructure is being reimagined to meet AI, multicloud, and edge computing demands. Denver is now positioned as a cloud peering hotspot, and CoreSite is at the center of the story.

The digital geography of America is shifting, and in Wichita, Kansas, that shift just became tangible. In a groundbreaking ceremony this spring, Connected Nation and Wichita State University launched construction on the state's first carrier-neutral Internet Exchange Point (IXP), a modular facility designed to serve as the heart of regional interconnection. When completed, the site will create the lowest-latency, highest-resilience internet hub in Kansas, a future-forward interconnection point positioned to drive down costs, enhance performance, and unlock critical capabilities for cloud and AI services across the Midwest. In this episode of The Data Center Frontier Show podcast, I sat down with two of the leaders behind this transformative project: Tom Ferree, Chairman and CEO of Connected Nation (CN), and Hunter Newby, co-founder of CNIXP and a veteran pioneer of neutral interconnection infrastructure. Together, they outlined how this facility in Wichita is more than a local improvement, it's a national proof-of-concept. “This is a foundation,” Ferree said. “We are literally bringing the internet to Wichita, and that has profound implications for performance, equity, and future participation in the digital economy.” A Marriage of Mission and Know-How The Wichita IXP is being developed by Connected Nation Internet Exchange Points, LLC (CNIXP), a joint venture between the nonprofit Connected Nation and Hunter Newby's Newby Ventures. The project is supported by a $5 million state grant from Governor Laura Kelly's broadband infrastructure package, with Wichita State providing a 40-year ground lease adjacent to its Innovation Campus. For Ferree, this partnership represents a synthesis of purpose. “Connected Nation has always been about closing the digital divide in all its forms, geographic, economic, and educational,” he explained. “What Hunter brings is two decades of experience in building and owning carrier-neutral interconnection facilities, from New York to Atlanta and beyond. Together, we've formed something that's not only technically rigorous, but mission-aligned.” “This isn't just a building,” Ferree added. “It's a gateway to economic empowerment for communities that have historically been left behind.” Closing the Infrastructure Gap Newby, who's built and acquired more than two dozen interconnection facilities over the years, including 60 Hudson Street in New York and 56 Marietta Street in Atlanta, said Wichita represents a different kind of challenge: starting from scratch in a region with no existing IXP. “There are still 14 states in the U.S. without an in-state Internet exchange,” he said. “Kansas was one of them. And Wichita, despite being the state's largest city, had no neutral meetpoint. All their IP traffic was backhauled out to Kansas City, Missouri. That's an architectural flaw, and it adds cost and latency.” Newby described how his discovery process, poring over long-haul fiber maps, researching where neutral infrastructure did not exist, ultimately led him to connect with Ferree and the Connected Nation team. “What Connected Nation was missing was neutral real estate for networks to meet,” he said. “What I was looking for was a way to apply what I know to rural and underserved areas. That's how we came together.” The AI Imperative: Localizing Latency While IXPs have long played a key role in optimizing traffic exchange, their relevance has surged in the age of AI, particularly AI inference workloads, which require sub–3 millisecond round-trip delays to operate in real time. Newby illustrated this with a high-stakes use case: fraud detection at major banks using AI models running on Nvidia Blackwell chips. “These systems need to validate a transaction at the keystroke. If the latency is too high, if you're routing traffic out of state to validate it, it doesn't work. The fraud gets through. You can't protect people.” “It's not just about faster Netflix anymore,” he said. “It's about whether or not next-gen applications even function in a given place.” In this light, the IXP becomes not just a cost-saver, but an enabler, a prerequisite for AI, cloud, telehealth, autonomous systems, and countless other latency-sensitive services to operate effectively in smaller markets. From Terminology to Technology: What an IXP Is Part of Newby's mission has been helping communities, policymakers, and enterprise leaders understand what an IXP actually is. Too often, the industry's terminology, “data center,” “meet-me room,” “carrier hotel”, obscures more than it clarifies. “Outside major cities, if you say ‘carrier hotel,' people think you're in the dating business,” Newby quipped. He broke it down simply: An Internet Exchange (IX) is the Ethernet switch that allows IP networks to directly peer via VLANs. An Internet Exchange Point (IXP) is the physical, neutral facility that houses the IX switch, along with all the supporting power, fiber, and cooling infrastructure needed to enable interconnection. The Wichita facility will be modular, storm-hardened, and future-proofed. It will include a secured meet-me area for fiber patching, a UPS-backed power room, hot/cold aisle containment, and a neutral conference and staging space. And at its core will sit a DE-CIX Ethernet switch, linking Wichita into the world's largest ecosystem of neutral exchanges. “DE-CIX is the fourth partner in this,” said Newby. “Their reputation, their technical capacity, their customer base, it's what elevates this IXP from a regional build-out to a globally connected platform.” Public Dollars, Private Leverage The Wichita IXP was made possible by public investment, but Ferree is quick to note that it's the kind of public investment that unlocks private capital and ongoing economic impact. “This is the Eisenhower moment for digital infrastructure,” he said, referencing both the interstate highway system and the Rural Electrification Act. “Without government's catalytic role, these markets don't emerge. But once the neutral facility is there, it invites networks, it invites cloud, it invites jobs.” As states begin to activate federal funds from the $42.5 billion BEAD (Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment) program, Ferree believes more will follow Kansas's lead, and they should. “This isn't just about broadband access,” he said. “It's about building a digital economy in places that would otherwise be excluded from it. And that's an existential issue for rural America.” From Wichita to the Nation Ferree closed the podcast with a forward-looking perspective: the Wichita IXP is just the beginning. “We have 125 of these locations mapped across the U.S.,” he said. “And our partnerships with land-grant universities, state governments, and private operators are key to unlocking them.” By pairing national mission with technical rigor, and public funding with local opportunity, the Wichita IXP is blazing a trail for other states and regions to follow.

As artificial intelligence surges across the digital infrastructure landscape, its impacts are increasingly physical. Higher densities, hotter chips, and exponentially rising energy demands are pressuring data center operators to rethink the fundamentals, and especially cooling. That's where Shumate Engineering steps in, with a patent-pending system called Hybrid Dry Adiabatic Cooling (HDAC) that reimagines how chilled water loops are deployed in high-density environments. In this episode of The Data Center Frontier Show, Shumate founder Daren Shumate and Director of Mission Critical Services Stephen Spinazzola detailed the journey behind HDAC, from conceptual spark to real-world validation, and laid out why this system could become a cornerstone for sustainable AI infrastructure. “Shumate Engineering is really my project to design the kind of firm I always wanted to work for: where engineers take responsibility early and are empowered to innovate,” said Shumate. “HDAC was born from that mindset.” Two Temperatures, One Loop: Rethinking the Cooling Stack The challenge HDAC aims to solve is deceptively simple: how do you cool legacy air-cooled equipment and next-gen liquid-cooled racks, simultaneously and efficiently? Shumate's answer is a closed-loop system with two distinct temperature taps: 68°F water for traditional air-cooled systems. 90°F water for direct-to-chip liquid cooling. Both flows draw from a single loop fed by a hybrid adiabatic cooler, a dry cooler with “trim” evaporative functionality when conditions demand it. During cooler months or off-peak hours, the system economizes fully; during warmer conditions, it modulates to maintain optimal output. “This isn't magic; it's just applying known products in a smarter sequence,” said Spinazzola. “One loop, two outputs, no waste.” The system is fully modular, relies on conventional chillers and pumps, and is compatible with heat exchangers for immersion or CDU-style deployment. And according to Spinazzola, “we can make 90°F water just about anywhere” as long as the local wet bulb temperature stays below 83°F, a threshold met in most of North America.

The future of AI isn't coming; it's already here. With NVIDIA's recent announcement of forthcoming 600kW+ racks, alongside the skyrocketing power costs of inference-based AI workloads, now's the time to assess whether your data center is equipped to meet these demands. Fortunately, two-phase direct-to-chip liquid cooling is prepared to empower today's AI boom—and accommodate the next few generations of high-powered CPUs and GPUs. Join Accelsius CEO Josh Claman and CTO Dr. Richard Bonner as they walk through the ways in which their NeuCool™ 2P D2C technology can safely and sustainably cool your data center. During the webinar, Accelsius leadership will illustrate how NeuCool can reduce energy savings by up to 50% vs. traditional air cooling, drastically slash operational overhead vs. single-phase direct-to-chip, and protect your critical infrastructure from any leak-related risks. While other popular liquid cooling methods carry require constant oversight or designer fluids to maintain peak performance, two-phase direct-to-chip technologies require less maintenance and lower flow rates to achieve better results. Beyond a thorough overview of NeuCool, viewers will take away these critical insights: The deployment of Accelsius' Co-Innovation Labs—global hubs enabling data center leaders to witness NeuCool's thermal performance capabilities in real-world settings Our recent testing at 4500W of heat capture—the industry record for direct-to-chip liquid cooling How Accelsius has prioritized resilience and stability in the midst of global supply chain uncertainty Our upcoming launch of a multi-rack solution able to cool 250kW across up to four racks Be sure to join us to discover how two-phase direct-to-chip cooling is enabling the next era of AI.

During the 14-minute interview, Walsh discusses MOOG's legacy in designing and manufacturing high-performance motion control products and how the company's experience with mission critical solutions translates into the data center space. He outlines how intelligent cooling controls and maintenance services contribute to overall data center sustainability and explains what sets MOOG's purpose-built data center products apart from the competition. Walsh also discusses recent advancements in motion control and cooling systems for data centers, including a new ultrasonic sensor that measures cavitation in liquid cooling fluids. During the interview, Walsh shares his thoughts on the rise of liquid cooling across the data center industry and the role MOOG plans to play in this transformation.

Join us for an insightful conversation with Jenny Zhan, the newly appointed EdgeConneX Chief Transformation Officer, as she shares her unique perspective on leading organizational change in today's fast-paced, competitive environment. Transitioning from her previous role as Chief Accounting Officer to spearheading digital transformation efforts, Zhan brings a wealth of expertise and a fresh approach to the role.

In this episode of the Data Center Frontier Show, we sit down with Kevin Cochrane, Chief Marketing Officer of Vultr, to explore how the company is positioning itself at the forefront of AI-native cloud infrastructure, and why they're all-in on AMD's GPUs, open-source software, and a globally distributed strategy for the future of inference. Cochrane begins by outlining the evolution of the GPU market, moving from a scarcity-driven, centralized training era to a new chapter focused on global inference workloads. With enterprises now seeking to embed AI across every application and workflow, Vultr is preparing for what Cochrane calls a “10-year rebuild cycle” of enterprise infrastructure—one that will layer GPUs alongside CPUs across every corner of the cloud. Vultr's recent partnership with AMD plays a critical role in that strategy. The company is deploying both the MI300X and MI325X GPUs across its 32 data center regions, offering customers optimized options for inference workloads. Cochrane explains the advantages of AMD's chips, such as higher VRAM and power efficiency, which allow large models to run with fewer GPUs—boosting both performance and cost-effectiveness. These deployments are backed by Vultr's close integration with Supermicro, which delivers the rack-scale servers needed to bring new GPU capacity online quickly and reliably. Another key focus of the episode is ROCm (Radeon Open Compute), AMD's open-source software ecosystem for AI and HPC workloads. Cochrane emphasizes that Vultr is not just deploying AMD hardware; it's fully aligned with the open-source movement underpinning it. He highlights Vultr's ongoing global ROCm hackathons and points to zero-day ROCm support on platforms like Hugging Face as proof of how open standards can catalyze rapid innovation and developer adoption. “Open source and open standards always win in the long run,” Cochrane says. “The future of AI infrastructure depends on a global, community-driven ecosystem, just like the early days of cloud.” The conversation wraps with a look at Vultr's growth strategy following its $3.5 billion valuation and recent funding round. Cochrane envisions a world where inference workloads become ubiquitous and deeply embedded into everyday life—from transportation to customer service to enterprise operations. That, he says, will require a global fabric of low-latency, GPU-powered infrastructure. “The world is going to become one giant inference engine,” Cochrane concludes. “And we're building the foundation for that today.” Tune in to hear how Vultr's bold moves in open-source AI infrastructure and its partnership with AMD may shape the next decade of cloud computing, one GPU cluster at a time.

Explore the critical intersection of Data Center Infrastructure Management (DCIM), Common Data Center Security issues and Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA) with a special focus on how our innovative OpenData solution can help. As data centers face increasing security threats and regulatory pressures, understanding how to effectively integrate DCIM into a Zero Trust framework is essential for safeguarding operations and ensuring compliance.

As the digital economy accelerates on the back of AI and hyperscale infrastructure, the question of who will build and run tomorrow's data centers has never been more urgent. Since its inception in 2015, International Data Center Day (IDCD), organized by 7x24 Exchange International, has steadily grown into a global campaign to answer that question—by inspiring the next generation of mission-critical talent. This year's IDCD, observed in March but increasingly seen as a year-round initiative, was the subject of a recent Data Center Frontier Show podcast conversation with 7x24 Exchange International Chairman and CEO Bob Cassiliano and Aheli Purkayastha, Chief Product Officer of Purkay Labs and President of the New England Chapter. The two industry leaders outlined how 7x24 Exchange is advancing the mission of IDCD through grassroots engagement, structured resources, and a growing constellation of strategic partnerships. A Response to the Talent Shortage The origin of IDCD traces back to 7x24 Exchange's recognition—at a 2015 leadership event—that there was not only a lack of awareness of data center careers among students, but also a vacuum of visibility in the educational system. In response, the organization launched IDCD to build a long-term pipeline by introducing the industry to students early, consistently, and accessibly. Today, that mission is more critical than ever. As generative AI workloads surge and new builds stretch power and land capacity, the need for skilled, motivated professionals to support design, operations, and innovation across the lifecycle of data centers has intensified. Turning Awareness Into Action In 2025, IDCD expanded its reach through a broad range of local chapter events and partner activations. These included data center tours, educational presentations, interactive demos, 5K runs, and a hackathon hosted by the New England Chapter. The hackathon stood out as a model for applied learning, pairing 50 high school students with industry professionals in a challenge to design a data center in space—all in just five hours. The result: heightened student interest, deeper industry engagement, and a clear illustration of the educational value these events can offer. While university students remain a key audience, organizers have recognized the need to reach even younger learners. Initiatives are increasingly targeting elementary and middle school students through age-appropriate programming, with a special emphasis on encouraging young women to consider careers in mission-critical infrastructure. Resources, Reach, and Real Outcomes The IDCD campaign is more than a collection of events—it is supported by a robust infrastructure of tools, templates, and thought leadership. At the core is InternationalDataCenterDay.org, a centralized hub offering educational content tailored to different age groups, a career path “tree,” and a library of interviews with professionals across the ecosystem. These resources empower volunteers, educators, and sponsors to create consistent, high-impact programming. The outcomes speak for themselves. IDCD has helped catalyze the development of data center curricula at both the secondary and postsecondary levels. The Carolinas Chapter, for instance, played a key role in helping Cleveland Community College secure a $23 million grant to develop a full-fledged data center program. Elsewhere, scholarships are on the rise, and growing numbers of students and faculty are attending industry conferences. Supporting these gains are complementary 7x24 Exchange programs such as WIMCO (Women in Mission Critical Operations), STEM mentoring, and Data Center 101 sessions—designed to provide clear entry points for newcomers while reinforcing the industry's inclusive, interdisciplinary nature.

The data center industry is undergoing rapid transformation, driven by technological advancements, sustainability concerns, and evolving market demands. This conversation with JLL data center expert Sean Farney explores the world of data center project management, offering insights into current challenges and opportunities. One of the most significant trends in the industry is the growing need for liquid cooling retrofits. With only 4.6% of global data center critical load currently supporting liquid cooling, there's a substantial opportunity for upgrading existing facilities to meet the demands of high-density computing. This shift is driven by rapid advancements in chip technology, forcing data centers to adapt quickly to maintain efficiency and performance. Adaptive reuse has emerged as another key strategy in the data center sector. This approach involves converting non-traditional spaces into data centers or updating existing facilities for new technologies. Beyond addressing capacity demands, adaptive reuse offers significant sustainability benefits, aligning with the industry's growing focus on environmental responsibility. Energy efficiency and sustainability are critical considerations in modern data center design and operations. Often driven by cost savings, these initiatives are reshaping the industry. For instance, some estimates suggest that liquid cooling can reduce carbon impact by up to 40% in new facilities, highlighting the potential for both operational and environmental improvements. The global nature of data center operations presents unique challenges for project managers. Navigating complex regulatory environments across different markets requires a deep understanding of local codes and standards while meeting global corporate objectives. This complexity underscores the need for project management teams with both global reach and local expertise. As the industry grapples with a significant talent shortage, innovative approaches to attracting, training, and retaining skilled professionals are crucial. Comprehensive training programs and strategies for bridging the skills gap are becoming increasingly important in this rapidly evolving field. Emerging technologies continue to shape the future of data center project management. The integration of AI and machine learning in facility management is becoming more common, while the potential impact of quantum computing looms on the horizon. Project managers must stay ahead of these technological shifts to deliver future-ready facilities. As the data center industry continues to evolve, project management will play a crucial role in delivering cost-effective, efficient, and future-ready facilities. By addressing key challenges such as energy efficiency, technological adaptation, global operations, and talent management, project managers can help transform data center portfolios into strategic assets that support critical business objectives.  

In today's podcast, Matt Vincent, Editor in Chief of Data Center Frontier is joined by Bala Naidu, Vice President – Energy Transition Solutions at Bloom Energy to discuss how the exponential growth of data centers in the United States is putting immense pressure on the power infrastructure. With traditional power sources struggling to keep up, data centers are facing a critical challenge: how to secure timely access to affordable power while adhering to sustainability and permitting regulations.

The data center industry is experiencing substantial growth, placing increasing pressure on the power grid to meet the rising demand. These facilities necessitate continuous power supply with zero interruptions and demand highly reliable backup power to minimize downtime. The expansion of data centers is contributing to a disparity between the demand for power and the capacity of the grid to supply it, which may result in gaps ranging from several months to multiple years. Consequently, numerous developers are exploring alternative power supply options to address these challenges. Solutions that act as a bridge to grid power, commonly referred to as bridge power, are becoming increasingly essential. Reliable bridge power solutions are critical for enabling stakeholders to expedite revenue generation and enhance the resilience of these mission-critical developments.  Users may also decide to forgoe the utility and procure a self-generated behind-the-meter permanent solution. When considering a bridge power or self-generation behind-the-meter solution, one of the first factors to examine is the length of time from power need to utility availability. A key question arises: when can we expect the utility power to be available? Accurately assessing the length of time for which the bridge solution is required is vital in determining various other components of the power system.  A bridge power solution acts as a temporary or permanent on-site power plant for a data center, providing not only immediate energy needs but also the potential for long-term flexibility and scalability. This adaptability in both duration and equipment selection significantly accelerates the ability to respond to market demands, ensuring that the data center capacity can continue to expand to meet data storage needs. The next critical consideration in the development of bridge or behind-the-meter power energy solutions is fuel, as it represents one of the most significant ongoing expenses for projects that operate continuously, 24/7.  Natural-gas-fueled reciprocating engine generators have been proven to be highly effective in distributed generation applications. They offer reliable power supply, straightforward maintenance procedures, and low life-cycle costs, making them an attractive option for many operators. Additionally, natural gas is widely available across most regions in the country, and its comparatively low market prices in various areas enhance the appeal of reciprocating engines, making them a cost-effective solution.  As projects extend into longer timeframes, the option to incorporate gas turbines becomes increasingly relevant. These turbines are particularly well-suited for long-term applications and can be effectively combined with reciprocating engines to optimize capacity and ensure an uninterrupted power supply. This combination allows operators to leverage the strengths of both technologies, ensuring efficiency and reliability in energy production.  In situations where natural gas is not accessible, but the project's duration justifies the use of natural gas solutions, a virtual pipeline system can be deployed. A virtual pipeline consists of a modular approach utilizing either Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) or Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG). These gases can be transported through various modes effectively bridging the gap in areas lacking direct natural gas infrastructure. The flexibility of virtual pipelines enables efficient delivery of fuel to remote sites well before a conventional pipeline is constructed. A bridge or behind-the-meter power solution represents a substantial investment, and like any significant financial commitment, it comes with various inherent risks the project. These risks can be categorized into several areas including: technology risks, environmental permitting risks, construction risks, and financial risks.  To streamline the complexities of the project, it is advisable to collaborate with an experienced partner specializing in bridge and permanent power solutions.  The ideal partner should demonstrate a robust track record of installing and servicing comprehensive power solutions and employ a network of service technicians. These experts can offer a wide range of support, from basic planned maintenance and overhauls to detailed long-term service agreements that ensure sustained performance.  Moreover, the partner should ideally manage the entire project lifecycle, handling engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) while supplying all necessary components, including engines, generators, transformers, switchgear, fuel treatment systems, and other essential ancillary equipment.  Another crucial aspect is the partner's diverse financing capability.  This includes the ability to finance the entire infrastructure rather than just the generation equipment and to provide flexible financing programs tailored to meet unique project needs. To address the surging demand for power, companies are actively exploring alternative generation solutions such as permanent self-generation, bridge power, and enhanced load flexibility. This examination of options underscores the urgent need for technology-agnostic strategies, highlighting the effectiveness of a holistic solutions approach. In an industry striving to expand data center capacity to meet insatiable demand, adopting these innovative solutions is essential for long-term success and competitive advantage.

For this episode of the Data Center Frontier Show podcast, DCF Editor-in-Chief Matt Vincent and Senior Editor David Chernicoff sat down with Tony Grayson, President and General Manager of Northstar Technology Group's Enterprise and Defense unit, to unpack a strategic acquisition that's shaking up the edge and modular data center space. The conversation centered on Northstar's acquisition of Compass Quantum, a company known for its rapidly deployable, composite-based modular infrastructure tailored for both enterprise and defense applications. From Compass to Northstar: A Strategic Realignment “We were developing a modular brand at Compass,” said Grayson. “Where Compass was building the gigawatt-scale campuses, I was building the smaller campuses using building blocks of modules—versus, you know, kind of a stick build.” That smaller-scale focus gained traction with enterprise clients, including several Fortune 50 companies, but new opportunities in the defense sector introduced regulatory friction. “Compass is Canadian-owned, and that goes against some of the rules that the U.S. government has,” Grayson explained. “Chris Crosby was a huge supporter… he wanted to sell us so he wouldn't hinder us from growing the company or servicing U.S. defense needs.” Enter Northstar Technology Group, which brings a strategic partnership with Owens Corning—the manufacturer and IP holder behind Compass Quantum's composite materials. With engineering, manufacturing, and construction capabilities now integrated under one roof, Grayson sees the acquisition as a natural fit. “Everything is now in-house instead of trying to go outside to other consultants,” he said. AI-Ready Modulars in 5MW Increments As hyperscale demands evolve, Grayson noted growing customer appetite for 5 megawatt modular units—mirroring the scale at which Nvidia and others are now building AI infrastructure. “You've seen Wade Vinson talk about it at Data Center World, and you see Jensen [Huang] talking about 5 megawatts being the line where you cross between the L2 and L3 network,” he said. “We can build in 5 megawatt increments and drop that stuff in parking lots—either as an operating lease or as a sale.” That flexibility extends to Northstar's channel partners, who are increasingly seeking a variety of procurement models. “Some want sales, not just leases. It gives us more freedom to do that kind of stuff,” said Grayson. “Sometimes it's better to be lucky than good, and I feel like the timing of this couldn't have been better for where the industry's at right now.” Veteran-Led Advisory Team Strengthens Defense Strategy In addition to the materials and platform innovations, Northstar's defense ambitions are underpinned by what Grayson describes as a “dream team” of senior military advisors. “We basically have every outgoing ‘six'—the people in charge of IT and comms for the Air Force, Marine Corps, Army, and Navy—as advisors,” he said. “Some will be coming on full time.” These high-level advisors, many of whom retired as three-star generals, are instrumental in helping Northstar align its solutions with evolving defense requirements, particularly in distributed compute and real-time data processing. “We're making huge progress on the enterprise side, but the defense side is where we need to catch up,” Grayson added. “Defense globally needs distributed compute… they're ahead of enterprise when it comes to inference platforms.” He also highlighted Northstar's engagement with the Navy, particularly around airborne systems. “That's why we have the old air boss, Admiral Weitzel. He helps us with aircraft systems. These planes generate so much data, and we need advice on how best to internalize and analyze it.” Material Advantage: Why FRP Composites Are a Game-Changer: Durability, Customization—and No Tariffs A key differentiator for Northstar's modular approach is its use of fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites instead of traditional steel or concrete enclosures. As Grayson explained, “There's no tariffs involved in any of this stuff. It's all locally sourced and rather easy to get from Owens Corning.” This material advantage extends far beyond sourcing. FRP composites allow Northstar to customize modules for specific use cases, including: Fire resistance: Two-hour fire ratings. Extreme weather: Withstanding 250 mph winds—Category 5 hurricanes and F5 tornadoes. Military resilience: Ballistic protection up to 7.62mm and .50 caliber rounds. And despite their strength, these modules are extremely lightweight—“30% lighter than aluminum,” said Grayson. “I don't know if you've ever seen the picture of me holding the 15-foot I-beam. I'm a sub guy, not Army tough. I definitely couldn't hold that up if it were steel.”

Global demand for data center capacity is expected to grow between 19 and 22 percent annually through 2030, according to McKinsey & Company.  As data center capacity expands, so does the challenge of managing the heat generated by high-performance chips. This includes heat at the chip, as well as external heat rejection and room cooling. LG, a global HVAC technology leader, discusses the evolving landscape and the latest technology to ensure efficient, reliable cooling for data centers. This includes the full suite of data center cooling solutions that LG debuted at Data Center World 2025. The cutting-edge cooling technologies, including direct-to-chip, room, and chiller plant cooling capabilities, are intended to meet the challenge of increasing data center capacity head-onm helping provide reliable, energy-efficient solutions.

This episode will explore how Tecto Data Centers is shaping the future of digital infrastructure in Latin America through its operations in Fortaleza, Brazil. André Busnardo, Head of Data Center Sales at Tecto, discuss why the region is considered one of the most important connectivity hubs in LATAM and how the company's investment strategy is helping address the growing demand for reliable, neutral, and scalable infrastructure.

Global power deficit and solutions   The discussion will address the power deficit we are experiencing and how new demands for power are navigated across different regions.

WASHINGTON, D.C.— At this year's Data Center World 2025, held earlier this month at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, the halls were buzzing with what could only be described as industry sensory overload. As hyperscalers, hardware vendors, and infrastructure specialists converged on D.C., the sheer density of innovation underscored a central truth: the data center sector is in the midst of rapid, almost disorienting, expansion. That made it the perfect setting for the latest episode in our ongoing podcast miniseries with Nomad Futurist, aptly titled Nomads at the Frontier. This time, I sat down in person with Nabeel Mahmood, co-founder and board director of the Nomad Futurist Foundation—a rare face-to-face meeting after years of remote collaboration. “Lovely seeing you in person,” Mahmood said. “It's brilliant to get to spend some quality time at an event that's really started to hit its stride—especially in terms of content.” Mahmood noted a welcome evolution in conference programming: a shift away from vendor-heavy pitches and toward deeper, mission-driven dialogue about the sector's true challenges and future trajectory. “Events like these were getting overloaded by vendor speak,” he said. “We need to talk about core challenges, advancements, and what we're doing to improve and move forward.” A standout example of this renewed focus was a panel on disruptive sustainability, in which Mahmood joined representatives from Microsoft, AWS, and a former longtime lieutenant of Elon Musk's sustainability operations. “It's not just about e-cycling or carbon,” Mahmood emphasized. “We have to build muscle memory. We've got to do things for the right reasons—and start early.” That starting point, he argued, is education—but not in the traditional sense. Instead, Mahmood called for a multi-layered approach that spans K–12, higher education, and workforce reskilling. “We've come out from behind the Wizard of Oz curtain,” he said. “Now we're in the boardroom. We need to teach people not just how technology works, but why we use it—and how to design platforms with real intention.” Mahmood's remarks highlighted a growing consensus among forward-thinking leaders: data is no longer a support function. It is foundational. “There is no business, no government, no economy that can operate today—or in the future—without data,” he said. “So let's measure what we do. That's the KPI. That's the minimum threshold.” Drawing a memorable parallel, Mahmood compared this kind of education to swimming lessons. “Sure, you might not swim for 20 years,” he said. “But if you learned as a kid, you'll still be able to make it back to shore.” Inside-Out Sustainability and Building the Data Center Workforce of Tomorrow As our conversation continued, we circled back to Mahmood's earlier analogy of swimming as a foundational skill—like technology fluency, it stays with you for life. I joked that I could relate, recalling long-forgotten golf lessons from middle school. “I'm a terrible golfer,” I said. “But I still go out and do it. It's muscle memory.” “Exactly,” Mahmood replied. “There's a social element. You're able to enjoy it. But you still know your handicap—and that's part of it too. You know your limits.” Limits and possibilities are central to today's discourse around sustainability, especially as the industry's most powerful players—the hyperscalers—increasingly self-regulate in the absence of comprehensive mandates. I asked Mahmood whether sustainability had truly become “chapter and verse” for major cloud operators, or if it remained largely aspirational, despite high-profile initiatives. His answer was candid. “Yes and no,” he said. “No one's following a perfect process. There are some who use it for market optics—buying carbon credits and doing carbon accounting to claim carbon neutrality. But there are others genuinely trying to meet their own internal expectations.” The real challenge, Mahmood noted, lies in the absence of uniform metrics and definitions around terms like “circularity” or “carbon neutrality.” In his view, too much of today's sustainability push is “still monetarily driven… keeping shareholders happy and share value rising.” He laid out two possible futures. “One is that the government forces us to comply—and that could create friction, because the mandates may come from people who don't understand what our industry really needs. The other is that we educate from within, define our own standards, and eventually shape compliance bodies from the inside out.” Among the more promising developments Mahmood cited was the work of Rob Lawson-Shanks, whose innovations in automated disassembly and robotic circularity are setting a high bar for operational sustainability. “What Rob is doing is amazing,” Mahmood said. “His interest is to give back. But we need thousands of Robs—people who understand how it works and can repurpose that knowledge back into the tech ecosystem.” That call for deeper education led us to the second major theme of our conversation: preparing the next generation of data center professionals. With its hands-on community initiatives, Nomad Futurist is making significant strides in that direction. Mahmood described his foundation as “connective tissue” between industry stakeholders and emerging talent, partnering with organizations like Open Compute, Infrastructure Masons, and the iMasons Climate Accord. Earlier this year, Nomad Futurist launched an online Academy that now features five training modules, with over 200 hours of content development in the pipeline. Just as importantly, the foundation has built a community collaboration platform—native to the Academy itself—that allows learners to directly engage with content creators. “If a student has a question and the instructor was me or someone like you, they can just ask it directly within the platform,” Mahmood explained. “It creates comfort and accessibility.” In parallel, the foundation has beta launched a job board, in partnership with Infrastructure Masons, and is developing a career pathways platform. The goal: to create clear entry points into the data center industry for people of all backgrounds and education levels—and to help them grow once they're in. “Those old jobs, like the town whisperer, they don't exist anymore,” Mahmood quipped. “Now it's Facebook, Twitter, social media. That's how people get jobs. So we're adapting to that.” By providing tools for upskilling, career matching, and community-building, Mahmood sees Nomad Futurist playing a key role in preparing the sector for the inevitable generational shift ahead. “As we start aging out of this industry over the next 10 to 20 years,” he said, “we need to give people a foundation—and a reason—to take it forward.”

As the data center industry continues to expand, two powerful forces are reshaping the search for next-generation power solutions. First, the rapid expansion of AI, IoT, and digital transformation is significantly increasing global power demand, placing increased pressure on traditional grid systems to meet the energy needs. The International Energy Agency forecasts that electricity consumption by data centers and AI could double by 2026, adding an amount equal to the entire current electricity usage of Japan. The second force is the urgent need for a smaller environmental footprint. As energy consumption rises, the drive for decarbonization becomes more critical, making it harder for data centers to balance environmental sustainability with performance reliability. In response to these challenges, data center leaders are looking beyond conventional solutions and exploring innovative alternatives that can meet the demands of a rapidly evolving industry. This podcast will focus on hydrogen fuel cell technology as a potential fuel source. This emerging technology has the potential to transform how data centers power their operations, providing a sustainable solution that not only helps reduce carbon emissions but also ensures reliable and scalable energy for the future. Hydrogen fuel cells present an opportunity for data centers. Unlike traditional fossil fuel-based systems, hydrogen fuel cells generate power through an electrochemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen, with water and heat as the only byproducts. This makes them a virtually emission-free, environmentally friendly power solution. Moreover, hydrogen fuel cells can reduce data center emissions by up to 99%, providing one of the most effective means of decarbonizing the industry. The environmental benefits are matched by their impressive efficiency, as fuel cells operate with fewer energy losses compared to traditional combustion-based systems. In this episode, Ben Rapp, Strategic Product Development Manager at Rehlko, will explore the science behind hydrogen fuel cells, offering an overview of the key components that make them a viable power solution for data centers. He will also highlight the practical advantages of hydrogen fuel cells, particularly their ability to deliver reliable, on-demand power with minimal disruption. This episode also addresses the challenges of adopting hydrogen fuel cells, including infrastructure development, cost, and the need for a robust hydrogen distribution network. Additionally, we talked to Ben about Rehlko's hydrogen fuel cell project and the partnerships involved. As part of this initiative, Rehlko has collaborated with companies like Toyota to develop a 100-kilowatt hydrogen fuel cell solution aimed at reducing the carbon footprint of data centers. We'll go over the progress of this partnership and the practical steps being taken to make hydrogen fuel cells a viable and scalable power solution. Finally, Ben will talk about his perspective on the future role of hydrogen fuel cells in data centers worldwide. With the industry facing increasing pressure to meet sustainability targets while ensuring performance reliability, hydrogen fuel cells are poised to play a critical role in the evolution of data center power systems. They offer both environmental and operational benefits that are essential for the industry's future. Whether used as a primary power source, backup system, or for grid stabilization, hydrogen fuel cells are poised to become a key player in the future of data center energy management.