CNBC · 15 Sep, 12:00 · Artificial Intelligence briefing

Potential AI slowdown is not ‘end of the world’ for data center real estate, says Digital Realty CEO

Digital Realty’s CEO contends that a potential deceleration in artificial intelligence investment will not devastate the data centre real estate sector.

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Digital Realty’s CEO contends that a potential deceleration in artificial intelligence investment will not devastate the data centre real estate sector. Despite market anxieties regarding reduced spending on AI infrastructure, the executive maintains that long-term demand for physical computing space remains robust. The commentary suggests that while short-term fluctuations may occur, the fundamental shift towards digital infrastructure continues to support the industry. Professionals should view this as a sign of sector resilience rather than imminent collapse, indicating that strategic planning and investment in data centre facilities remain viable career and business avenues amidst evolving technological landscapes.

Employer demand for Sustainable Computing skills — indexed growth since 2019
Indicative index of skill mentions in professional job postings for the field this story moves (2019 = 1)

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This stability signals that infrastructure roles remain secure, but the nature of required expertise is shifting. You must pivot from viewing data centres solely as hardware hubs to understanding them as complex, energy-intensive ecosystems. Professionals in facility management and engineering should prioritise skills in sustainable computing and energy efficiency, as regulatory and cost pressures intensify. If you are in finance or strategy, focus on risk management and long-term asset valuation amidst volatile tech cycles. Do not ignore the human element; leadership and project management skills are crucial for navigating this transition. Upskill in green building standards and cloud computing architecture to stay relevant. Your next step is to audit your current skill set against these emerging priorities, ensuring you can deliver value beyond basic operational maintenance in an increasingly sophisticated market.

For this story, the fields that convert it into pay are Sustainable Computing, Green Building Standards, Cloud Computing and Project Management — exactly the programmes matched below. The chart shows the indicative salary uplift certified professionals report in each of those fields; every one of them is a click away, from £79, finishing in as few as 20 days.

Indicative salary uplift in the fields matched to this story
Indicative ranges from published continuing-education salary studies, by field — each field is a recommended course below

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