October 10, 2023
The Data Center Evolution: Redefining Infrastructure Landscape
In our modern world, data is as valuable as gold, shaping industries, innovation, and our interconnected lives. Think of data centers as the mighty fortresses where this invaluable resource is stored and managed.
Within the sprawling campuses of hyperscale and co-location data centers, a transformation is unfolding. Join us as we explore how these data centers are changing the United States’ digital landscape, as companies engage in a relentless race to construct colossal data campuses to meet the ever-growing demand.
The Need for Speed in Data Center Construction
Ben Gehrts, Commercial Director for the Central US at Oldcastle Infrastructure, perfectly sums up the phenomenon: “It’s like an ongoing race for storage.”
To put this race in perspective, Gehrts takes us behind the scenes:
“Imagine working with just 30-40% of the project’s details in hand. We must be readily available and understand the urgency required to complete the work. The project’s schedule plays a pivotal role.” Speed is the essence of this digital race, and Karen Brock, Oldcastle’s Commercial Director for the Northeastern market, highlights the pressure on contractors, noting that “the return on investment doesn’t materialize until the facility is fully operational.”
Oldcastle Infrastructure’s Vital Role in Data Center Evolution
Oldcastle Infrastructure takes center stage in this dynamic environment.
Gehrts proudly states, “In the realm of underground infrastructure, we excel in managing projects.” We bring our expertise to various aspects, including stormwater management, sanitary systems, cable management, and the creation of impressive vaults, some as large as 10 feet by 20 feet.
We also offer maintenance solutions when the need arises.
Statista, the global provider of business and consumer information, predicts that revenue from the data center market will exceed $342 billion in 2023, with an annual growth rate of 4.66%. By 2027, the market is projected to reach a staggering $410 billion. This growth is visible in the proliferation of data centers across the nation. “Think of the cloud as a vast farm field in Iowa,” Gehrts suggests, underscoring the far-reaching impact of this market. Karen Brock adds, “Witnessing a site evolve into a complete data center campus is truly remarkable.”
Navigating the Challenges of Data Center Infrastructure
While constructing infrastructure for data systems, meticulous attention to detail is crucial. Brock explains, “What’s most intriguing is the heightened focus on data security and the need for customized accessories. For instance, every vault we produce is assigned a unique serial number for tracking, ensuring it is watertight, and often requiring specialized hardware for secure access.”
Moreover, Gehrts emphasizes the importance of serving both the general contractor and the owner, stating, “We provide certainty. Drawing from our wealth of experience, we refine and enhance our designs based on lessons learned from previous projects, ensuring success for the next client.”
In this ongoing quest for storage, data centers stand as pioneers, where technology giants, corporations, and our interconnected world unite to secure the future of data. The journey is well underway, and Oldcastle Infrastructure leads the way, dedicated to ensuring that the information highway remains robust and secure as we continue to navigate the digital age.
