To all Hiring Mangers in Construction and Commissioning:
The military is known for its rigorous, structured training across various skill sets, many of which transfer well to data center construction and commissioning.
Technical Skills
Electrical and Mechanical Systems: Military service often includes hands-on training in complex electrical and mechanical systems—skills directly applicable to data center construction. For instance, a military electrician would be familiar with large-scale power distribution, which is helpful in managing a data center's power needs.
Information Technology: Many military roles demand expertise in IT infrastructure, networking, and cyber-security, all vital for data center operations. For example, a military communications specialist would already have a grounding in network management.
Engineering: Roles in military engineering, ranging from civil to systems engineering, provide relevant knowledge for constructing and maintaining data centers. Combat engineers, for example, have experience in building temporary facilities under tight deadlines.
Project Management and Logistics
Planning and Execution: Precise planning and execution are essential in military operations and data center projects. For example, the military's detailed project timelines can easily translate to managing a data center buildout.
Resource Management: The military teaches efficient use of resources like time, personnel, and equipment—skills critical for data center construction. Logistical roles in the military often involve similar challenges to data center resource allocation.
Risk Assessment and Mitigation: The military excels at risk planning, an essential skill for ensuring the reliability of data center infrastructure. For example, a military risk assessment template could be adapted to identify vulnerabilities in a data center's cooling system.
Adaptability
High-Stress Environments: Military training prepares personnel for high-stress, fast-changing scenarios, much like data center construction and commissioning demands.
Global Experience: Many military roles involve international service, which helps individuals adapt to different cultures and environments. This is a plus in the global data center industry, where understanding local customs and regulations can be crucial.
Problem-solving: The military prepares personnel to solve problems in stressful situations and helps tackle unexpected challenges in data center projects. Crisis management training in the military equips individuals to handle emergencies like system failures.
Still not convinced, reach out because I have plenty of examples, and so do Carrie Goetz, Nancy Novak, and Amy Marks!
Compass Datacenters Infrastructure Masons
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