Episode #38 of the Data Center Go-to-Market Podcast features an interview with Adam Gibson, Vice President of Global DC Development at Megaport (and Quantum Computing Consultant at techvox).
- Discover the unique career paths that can lead to roles in the data center industry
- Explore the diverse range of entry-level positions available, from customer service to technical roles
- Identify strategies for mid-career professionals to recharge their data center career trajectory
- Understand the operational challenges and global nature of data center work
- Gain insights into the rapid growth and evolving trends shaping the future of the data center industry
Host:
Joshua Feinberg, CEO
DCSMI
Special Guest:
Adam Gibson, Vice President of Global DC Development
Megaport
(and Quantum Computing Consultant at techvox)
The conversation between Joshua Feinberg and Adam Gibson focused on the booming demand for data centers, particularly in the US, with an 800-megawatt site underway. Gibson emphasizes the importance of capacity, driven by AI and cloud computing, and the need for diverse career paths in the industry. Gibson advises early career entrants to explore roles in customer service, sales, and IT, and mid-career professionals to leverage LinkedIn for job opportunities. He highlights the growth of regional data centers and the potential of decentralized models. Gibson also touches on the future of data centers, including retrofitting existing facilities and the impact of quantum computing.
Outline
Adam Gibson's Background and Introduction
- Adam Gibson discusses the large-scale construction of data centers, emphasizing the complexity and skills required.
- Joshua Feinberg introduces Adam Gibson, highlighting his roles at Megaport and techvox.
- Adam shares his unique career path, starting in IT and moving into data center roles.
- Joshua and Adam discuss the lack of formal education in the data center space and the various career paths available.
Career Advice for Early Career Entrants
- Adam advises early career entrants to explore roles in customer service, sales, and IT, which can be transferable to data centers.
- He emphasizes the importance of finding a role that aligns with one's interests and background.
- Adam mentions the growing demand for data center staff due to increased construction and operational needs.
- Joshua and Adam discuss the variety of roles available in the data center industry, from facilities to construction and real estate.
Challenges and Opportunities for Mid-Career Professionals
- Adam shares his experience at ITW and advises mid-career professionals on navigating career transitions.
- He suggests leveraging LinkedIn to connect with key industry players and recruiters.
- Adam highlights the importance of understanding one's skills and the current job market.
- He discusses the potential for career growth and the importance of being open to new opportunities.
The Role of Data Centers in Global Markets
- Adam talks about the increasing awareness and attraction of data centers in various global markets.
- He mentions the growth of data centers in regions like Brazil, Spain, and Italy.
- Adam discusses the importance of regionalized data centers for local economies and taxation benefits.
- He highlights the role of cloud providers in driving data center growth and the impact on local infrastructure.
Operational Challenges and Opportunities
- Adam explains the operational challenges of running data centers, including the need for on-site presence.
- He discusses the importance of proximity to facilities to support operations effectively.
- Adam mentions the impact of time zones on global operations and the need for flexible working hours.
- He highlights the importance of having a strong team to manage operations and support growth.
Future Trends and Technological Advancements
- Adam discusses the potential of quantum computing and its impact on data centers.
- He mentions the role of AI and cloud providers in driving data center demand.
- Adam talks about the importance of retrofitting existing facilities to meet modern requirements.
- He highlights the need for innovative cooling solutions and the potential of new energy sources like hydrogen.
The Impact of Decentralized Data Centers
- Adam and Joshua discuss the benefits of decentralized data centers and the role of edge computing.
- Adam explains the different definitions of edge computing and its application in various regions.
- He highlights the growth of tier two and tier three markets and their potential for data center development.
- Adam discusses the challenges of building new data centers in established markets like New York.
The Role of Data Centers in Enabling Digital Infrastructure
- Adam emphasizes the importance of data centers as foundational infrastructure for the digital economy.
- He discusses the increasing demand for data center capacity and the need for new construction.
- Adam highlights the role of data centers in supporting various industries, including IT, legal, and accounting.
- He mentions the importance of having a strong digital infrastructure to support future growth.
Adam's Perspective on the Data Center Industry
- Adam shares his passion for the data center industry and his long-term involvement.
- He discusses the rapid growth and evolution of the industry and the challenges it presents.
- Adam highlights the importance of staying adaptable and open to new opportunities.
- He mentions the potential for continued growth and the need for innovative solutions.
Conclusion and Contact Information
- Joshua thanks Adam for sharing his insights and experiences.
- Adam provides his contact information and encourages listeners to connect with him on LinkedIn.
- He highlights the importance of staying informed and engaged with the data center industry.
- Joshua concludes the podcast, encouraging listeners to subscribe for future episodes.
Guest Resources
- Connect with Adam Gibson, Vice President of Global DC Development at Megaport, and Quantum Computing Consultant at techvox, on LinkedIn
- Follow Megaport on LinkedIn
- Learn About Megaport
- Follow techvox on LinkedIn
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