Thinking about careers that actually help the planet?
Here’s the problem…
Our planet’s insatiable demand for data is powering an energy crisis. Data centers support everything from our favorite video streaming services to unimaginably large AI compute clusters. And they’re consuming an increasing amount of electricity as we demand more computing power.
In fact…
Global electricity consumption by data centers is expected to double by 2030, reaching 945 TWh. That’s right around Japan’s total annual electricity demand today.
Fortunately for the planet (and you)…
Engineers are on the case. The demand for techies who know how to solve these types of problems has never been greater. Data centers are scrambling to become more sustainable and energy efficient. By filling green IT jobs, you can help solve this crisis and build a rewarding career doing it.
Here’s what you’ll learn:
- Why Data Centers Need Sustainability Engineers
- How Plastic Panels Eliminate Cooling Inefficiencies
- The Best Green IT Jobs for Solving Climate Change
- Skills You’ll Need to Land the Job
Why Do We Need Sustainability Engineers at Data Centers?
No prizes for guessing that data centers are huge energy consumers. If you guessed “massive” you’re barely scratching the surface.
Did you know nearly 40% of total energy consumption at today’s data centers goes towards cooling? Cooling giant banks of IT equipment prevents overheating. However, most data centers use outdated cooling methods that waste energy like there’s no tomorrow.
Here’s why…
When server racks aren’t properly cooled, hot air escapes into the cooling aisle. That hot air then mixes with cold air meant to cool other servers. Those servers then overheat. Facility managers respond by blasting the A/C. Everyone wastes more energy and productivity suffers.
There’s a better way…
Engineers are finding solutions to these common airflow problems. Specializing in containment and thermal management allows data centers to run much more efficiently. By installing lightweight plastic containment panels between server racks, hot and cold air doesn’t mix. That means servers operate more efficiently and cooling costs plummet.
Consider the impact…
Eliminating cooling inefficiencies gives data centers a quick payback on their investment. Lower energy bills, a smaller carbon footprint, and happier employees? That’s a win across the board.
If you have the skills and expertise to help data centers solve these types of problems, you’re in high demand.
How Installing Plastic Panels Eliminates Cooling Inefficiencies
As mentioned above, many data centers fight cooling inefficiencies with cold air. Literally.
Computer servers generate massive amounts of heat. Without proper cooling, that heat can cause total system failures. To prevent this, data centers point cold air blowers right at server racks. Problem is: those blowers blow hot air right back.
It’s a big problem…
Running air conditioning to cool air that’s already cold wastes a ton of energy. Not only do data centers pay for that energy, but they have to spend more to keep server rooms cool for employees. That’s why savvy facility managers are turning to containment panels.
When installed correctly, plastic containment panels create solid barriers between hot and cold air. That means:
- Hot air can’t escape server racks
- Cold air doesn’t blow back into hot aisles
- Energy bills shrink as cooling efficiency increases
Data centers that install containment systems see immense benefits. DOE estimates show containment can improve fan energy consumption by 20% to 25%. When you throw in reductions to chiller energy use (also around 20%), some data centers see cooling cost savings of up 40%.
Those are dollars that add up to real money. Money that’s saved each and every month.
How quickly can you pay for containment? Sometimes as little as 6 to 18 months if you keep it simple. Many data centers see ROI in just 2 years.
Data Center Sustainability Careers to Look Into
Ready to find a career path that lets you help save the planet? Here are a few green IT careers to consider:
Data Center Sustainability Engineer
Running an energy efficient data center is hard work. From airflow management to cooling systems, data center engineers ensure computer servers operate efficiently.
Thermal Management Specialist
Heat is the enemy of IT equipment. Engineers that specialize in thermal management develop innovative ways to keep equipment cool…and efficient.
Green IT Consultant
Not sure where to start on your sustainability journey? Consultants work with businesses of all sizes to plan and implement more efficient operations.
Renewable Energy Data Center Engineer
Data centers need power…a lot of it. Renewable energy engineers specialize in weaning centers off grid power. Solar, wind, and other renewable sources are the name of the game.
Environmental Compliance Manager
Data centers need to run efficiently, but they also need to meet government regulations. Environmental Compliance Managers work within data centers to keep things green and compliant.
Skills You Need for Green IT Jobs
Just what sort of skills do you need for green IT careers? Here’s the bare minimum:
Solid technical skills
Managing data center sustainability means understanding how HVAC, cooling, and airflow works. You should understand the technology behind data centers inside and out.
Analytical mindset
You’ll need to know where energy is being wasted before you can improve efficiency. Analyzing data and identifying opportunities for improvement are key skills.
Project management
Implementing new technology and facilities takes cross-functional collaboration. Project management skills will ensure you hit your goals every time.
Regulatory knowledge
Environmental regulations vary from country to country. You should understand which regulations your customers need to comply with and how to do it.
Communication
Last but not least, you’ll need to be able to communicate your findings. Data centers will want you to make a business case for any recommendations you have.
The Future of Sustainable Data Centers
The future of sustainable data centers? It’s already here.
Innovative cooling technologies like liquid cooling are helping solve cooling inefficiencies. Meanwhile, AI powered systems help monitor data centers and airflow in real-time.
Not to mention, more and more regulations requiring data centers to be sustainable are coming into effect. Data centers that aren’t prepared will fall behind.
The demand for qualified IT professionals hasn’t stopped growing. Every day there are more and more jobs looking for skilled experts that understand sustainable solutions.
Get Started in a Green IT Career Today
So, are you ready to save the world? Green IT careers are a great place to start.
If you’re fresh out of school or looking to make a change, start by learning all about IT infrastructure. How do data centers work? What kinds of cooling technologies are used? How is power managed and distributed?
Once you’ve got a firm grasp on the basics. Start learning about thermal management, containment technologies, and energy efficiency.
And don’t forget about certifications. Whether you choose to get LEED certified or a certification in data center management, take advantage of resources that can help set you apart.
There are tons of green IT careers out there. And they’re only becoming more plentiful as data centers continue to scale for AI and increased cloud capacity.
Wrapping It Up
This is a big deal. If you have the skills and expertise to help companies save energy, you can help save the planet.
Not to mention, you can have a fun, lucrative career doing it.
Seriously think about learning more about sustainability jobs. Data centers are driving the energy crisis, but they don’t have to be.
Green IT professionals are proving you can have efficient, powerful data centers that don’t cost the earth.
Will you be the engineer that helps make it happen?
