Exclusive Insight into America’s Data Center Expansion
As data centers pop up across the nation to fuel the surge in artificial intelligence, industry leaders argue that their value goes well beyond just technology.
During a unique visit to Compass Datacenters’ expansive site in Red Oak, Texas, Fox News Digital gained insight into the underpinnings of the nation’s escalating demand for computing power.
The access took about three months to secure.
Upon arrival, the Fox News team navigated six layers of security and donned protective gear before entering a facility where photography and recording were strictly forbidden. Inside, surprisingly, the environment was notably clean and much quieter than one might anticipate from a facility operating continuously.
Rows of towering server racks filled the space, surrounded by essential electrical and cooling systems maintaining optimal functioning.
At the Red Oak site, Compass has innovatively opted for a closed-loop cooling system that reuses coolant, avoiding the constant extraction of water for cooling needs.
Benefits to American Communities from the Tech Boom
Chris Crosby, CEO of Compass, emphasized that their Red Oak campus has never relied on water for cooling since its inception. “Water is precious in North Texas,” he remarked, highlighting a commitment to resource conservation.
Security is also a top priority for facilities housing sensitive computing infrastructure. According to Crosby, the high level of security isn’t merely for secrecy; it’s about safeguarding critical data. He addressed concerns about hacking, stating, “If people knew that a bank or a government was operating at a particular facility, they could infiltrate that facility.” Thus, the stringent security measures at their campuses are crucial.
The campus, located approximately 20 miles south of Dallas, is set to consist of ten data center buildings encompassing around 2.6 million square feet. It will also house a Schneider Electric manufacturing facility and a workforce training center in collaboration with Texas State Technical College.
The Unexpected Boom in Blue-Collar Jobs
Crosby pointed out that the overwhelming growth in data centers often overlooks the surge in blue-collar jobs. He expressed optimism, stating, “Data centers are where the economic engine is going to be going forward,” referencing the plethora of job opportunities and economic benefits the industry spurs.
Currently, about 600 individuals are employed by Compass, plus another 300 at Schneider Electric, with thousands of construction workers having participated since 2019. “We can’t get enough people into this career,” he added, noting a significant demand for workers.
This demand hastened the establishment of MEI Pathways, a workforce development initiative in partnership with Texas State Technical College. The facility, costing $12.6 million, offers a 12-week training course tailored for electricians, mechanics, and technicians eager to enter the field.
Building these data centers also requires many skilled trades, including carpentry, welding, and concrete work.
Reflecting on the trend in job education, Crosby mentioned a shift in perceptions, stating, “There was a war on blue-collar jobs for a long time — everybody had to get a four-year degree. I’m so glad that’s over with.”
Compass has partnered with local officials to improve infrastructure, contributing $15 million towards a new animal shelter following the closure of the previous one in Ellis County.
Such investments come at a time when Texas is trying to navigate the substantial electricity demands fueled by this industry’s expansion while ensuring the power grid’s reliability.
Crosby expressed frustration over the discussion about jobs created by this industry when he said, “I am tired of the elitism that this doesn’t create jobs.”
