The demand for datacentre space in Europe has almost doubled since 2015, according to a report by real estate firm Savills. This surge in demand is driven by the increasing reliance on cloud services by big tech firms like Amazon, Microsoft, and Facebook, as well as other organizations that require dedicated datacentre facilities.
As the need for datacentres continues to grow, companies like Datalec Precision Installations are facing challenges in meeting this demand. With the rise of artificial intelligence and the need for high-end computers, the industry is struggling to find enough skilled construction workers to build and maintain datacentres.
Datalec’s operations director, Matt Perrier-Flint, explains that the datacentre market is highly engineered and requires specific skills and expertise. From commissioning equipment to carrying out tests and witnessing processes, the construction of datacentres is a complex and regimented task.
Despite the challenges, experienced electrical installers working on datacentres can earn six-figure salaries. However, the industry is facing a shortage of qualified staff, with the Construction Industry Training Board predicting the need to recruit 50,300 extra workers annually for the next five years.
To address this shortage, companies like Schneider Electric are increasing their intake of apprentices and graduates to develop a more diverse and skilled workforce. Mark Yeeles, vice president at Schneider Electric, emphasizes the importance of investing in apprenticeships and providing career pathways for young people in the industry.
Overall, the datacentre industry is not only facing challenges in meeting the growing demand for space but also in attracting and retaining skilled workers. As technology continues to advance, the need for datacentres will only increase, highlighting the importance of investing in the future workforce of the industry.
