The data centre industry is grappling with a major talent shortage as demand for cloud computing, AI and sustainability expertise soars. With critical skills in energy management, cybersecurity and automation in high demand, companies are investing in training, partnerships, and upskilling initiatives to close the gap. As experienced professionals retire, the industry must modernise its image to attract new talent and future-proof its workforce.
From competitive compensation to leadership development, a multi-faceted approach is essential to ensuring data centres can meet the challenges of a rapidly evolving digital landscape. We hear from three experts on data centre employment, showcasing the issues, in-demand skills, possible solutions and examples of how to combat the talent shortage in the data centre sector.
Jad Jebara, CEO of Hyperview:
The data centre industry is facing a talent shortage at a time of rapid technological change. As cloud computing, AI and high-performance computing grow, the demand for skilled professionals has surged. However, a widening skills gap threatens to slow progress.
In 2023, 58% of data centre companies reported difficulty sourcing qualified candidates, a trend that continues to grow. To stay ahead, the industry must identify the most in-demand skills and implement strategies to attract and retain top talent. More recently, ManpowerGroup released their 2025 UK Talent Shortage Research, which revealed that the UK is currently experiencing a 76% talent shortage, with IT and data skilled workers being the hardest to find.
Cloud and virtualisation expertise are crucial, with demand for professionals experienced in AWS, Azure, Google Cloud and platforms like VMware and Hyper-V. AI’s rise also affects workforce needs, with a focus on AI-driven workloads, automation, and Machine Learning operations to enhance efficiency, security and sustainability in data centres.
As sustainability becomes a key priority, there is increasing demand for professionals skilled in energy-efficient solutions, renewable energy and innovative cooling technologies. Familiarity with Data Centre Infrastructure Management (DCIM) tools is essential for reducing energy consumption. Cybersecurity skills are equally critical, with expertise in risk management, GDPR, and ISO 27001 essential for maintaining operational resilience.
Despite this demand, the industry faces a major challenge in filling roles, as many professionals are nearing retirement. Additionally, data centres struggle to compete with more visible tech sectors. To attract young talent, data centres need to modernise their image and emphasise the sector’s importance.
To bridge this gap, companies must invest in education and training initiatives, such as university internships, mentorships and hands-on learning. Leveraging emerging technologies like virtual reality can help demystify the industry. Internal upskilling programmes and AI-powered solutions can also alleviate staffing pressures. The future of data centres depends on closing the skills gap and positioning the sector as an exciting career destination.
Shanna Whelan, Talent Acquisition Lead EMEA, VIRTUS Data Centres:
The data centre industry is central to Digital Transformation, fuelled by technologies like cloud computing, AI and the Internet of Things (IoT). As these technologies advance, the demand for skilled professionals has skyrocketed and addressing the talent shortage is a top priority.
Key skills in demand:
- Energy Management and sustainability: Data centres consume vast amounts of energy, making sustainability a critical focus. There’s a growing need for professionals who can optimise energy usage, reduce carbon footprints and integrate renewable energy solutions. Skills in energy management, power strategies and green technologies are essential as companies work toward meeting sustainability goals. For example, sustainability managers develop energy-efficient infrastructure and adopt renewable energy sources like solar and wind.
- Engineering and operations skills: Engineers in electrical, mechanical and civil disciplines are needed to maintain complex data centre infrastructure. These professionals ensure smooth operations by managing cooling systems, optimising data storage and ensuring server uptime. Mechanical engineers, for example, design energy-efficient cooling systems that maintain optimal temperatures while reducing energy consumption.
- Cybersecurity and compliance: As cyberthreats increase and data privacy regulations tighten, the demand for cybersecurity professionals continues to grow. These experts are responsible for implementing security protocols, safeguarding data and ensuring compliance with global standards like GDPR and HIPAA. The
- sophistication of data breaches makes the need for specialised cybersecurity talent more urgent than ever.
- Cloud and automation expertise: Cloud integration and automation are transforming data centre operations, driving efficiency and reducing costs. Professionals skilled in cloud services, AI-driven monitoring and automation tools are essential to streamline operations and improve scalability. Cloud engineers, for example, integrate public cloud services with on-premises data centres to enhance data flow and flexibility.
Addressing the talent shortage:
- Training and development: Companies are upskilling existing staff in emerging technologies like cloud integration, cybersecurity and energy management.
- Partnerships with educational institutions: Collaborations with universities and technical colleges help ensure curricula align with industry needs.
- Diversity and inclusion initiatives: By promoting inclusive hiring practices, the industry is broadening the talent pool.
- Competitive compensation and career growth: Attractive compensation packages and career development opportunities help attract and retain top talent.
These efforts play a crucial role in bridging the talent gap, ensuring that the data centre industry has the skilled workforce needed to keep pace with rapid technological advancements. By investing in training, fostering strategic partnerships and embracing diversity and inclusion, the industry is not only addressing immediate staffing needs but also future proofing its workforce for long-term growth.
As companies continue to attract and retain top-tier talent through competitive compensation and career development opportunities, they are positioning themselves for sustained success. This proactive approach to talent management is driving innovation, increasing operational efficiency and ensuring the industry remains at the forefront of Digital Transformation.
Caff Allen, Global Director Learning & Development, Black & White Engineering:
The fast-paced evolution of the data centre industry requires professionals who can stay ahead of emerging trends. To address this, we invest heavily in structured learning and development, combining technical training with professional skills development. Our global and regional engineering conferences provide a platform for teams to share research and insights, fostering knowledge exchange across our organisation.
Through our ongoing technical partnerships, we deliver monthly sessions on key industry topics, complemented by additional local-level training. Internally, we provide specialised learning resources developed in collaboration with our subject matter experts.
Beyond technical training, we focus on developing the next generation of industry leaders. Our management and leadership development programmes equip professionals with the skills to effectively lead teams in a rapidly evolving industry, while targeted business and communication training covers stakeholder engagement, strategic thinking, problem-solving and cross-cultural collaboration.
By investing in both technical and human skills development, we ensure our teams are prepared not just for today’s challenges but for the future of the data centre industry.
