# Data Centers Need Local Skills

> Data centers must build local workforce skills, not just capacity, to support community infrastructure.
- Title: Data Centers Need Local Skills · Newsweek | Shortify
- Summary: Data centers must build local workforce skills, not just capacity, to support community infrastructure. Data centers should include workforce training and…
- Keywords: data centers, workforce training, local businesses, community infrastructure, ai facilities, construction projects, apprenticeships, Data, Centers, Need, Local, Skills
- Source: Newsweek — https://newsweek.com/data-centers-must-build-lasting-local-workforce-12587592
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: data centers, workforce training, local businesses, community infrastructure, ai facilities, construction projects, apprenticeships
## Data Center Development Challenge
Communities face a dilemma between new investment and infrastructure repairs.
## Workforce Shortages Impact Construction
92 percent of construction firms reported difficulty finding qualified workers in 2025.
## Data Centers and Energy Use
Data centers used 4.7 percent of U.S. electricity in 2024.
## Workforce Development Strategy
Developers should include funded apprenticeships and on-the-job training in construction plans.
## Small Business Inclusion
Developers must publish contracting opportunities early and require appropriately sized work packages.
## Community Benefits
Investment can create skilled workers, stronger local businesses, and clearer infrastructure plans.
## Key takeaway

Data centers should include workforce training and small business participation in planning to ensure long-term community benefits.