Kao Data: Uplifting Women Powering the Data Centre Industry

Despite the critical importance of the data centre industry, it has historically struggled with diversity and representation.

Yet as the sector heads for a mass retirement cliff, space is expanding that needs to be filled to drive the sector forward – creating a rare opportunity for a new and diverse generation to make up an accelerating industry.

The data centre industry seemed more dormant years ago, before AI and reached new heights. Today, it is one of the most vital sectors in the world, as without them, technology and AI cannot thrive. 

Now, from facility engineers to strategic negotiators securing partnerships with tech giants, women are playing vital roles throughout the sector – though many of their stories often remain untold.

As the industry expands, so does the need for diverse perspectives in solving complex technical challenges – and recognising this, Kao Data has taken tangible action.

With an initiative aimed at highlighting women's contributions to digital infrastructure to inspire other women across the world, Kao Data has released Critical Careers: Celebrating Women in Digital Infrastructure.

AI’s potential for a more diverse workforce 

As AI is a fairly new and fresh sector compared to the data centre industry, it has created jobs that require new skills, perspectives and knowhow for a younger and more diverse workforce.

The data centre industry comes hand in hand with the AI industry – as without the people driving the former, the latter doesn’t exist.

The sector is having to expand rapidly to support AI workloads, which require substantial computing power and specialised cooling systems – both demanding new skills and jobs.

Highlighting the opportunities for women in both sectors and STEM more broadly, Kao Data’s project includes interviews with women working in engineering, real estate, marketing and human resources within the data centre industry.

Participants range from established industry leaders to professionals who may be less recognised publicly but contribute to sector operations.

“Women in the data centre industry bring a balance that is essential for holistic problem-solving and innovation,” says Cláudia Alves, Strategic Negotiator at Google.

“By integrating different perspectives and approaches, teams can achieve more balanced and effective solutions.

“Critical Careers is showcasing all the ways women are making a difference in the data centre industry and that there's no one way to lead, contribute or succeed.”

What women bring to the data centre industry that is unique 

The interviews in the initiative explore career paths and experiences from women across different geographical markets and age groups.

Libby Milne, Project Manager at Buro Four who is featured in the initiative says: “I had a conversation with my dad, who worked in construction. He took me to an open day at a construction site and that’s where something clicked.

“I got to see all the different roles and innovations – BIM, sustainability, 3D modelling – and it caught my interest. 

“The thing I find fascinating in talking to others in the industry is that there is no set career path into it. There aren’t university courses or clear training programs – most of us stumble into it without knowing what it is. But that’s part of what makes it exciting.”

Candace Kumi, Assistant Project Manager at LMG, is also featured in the initiative and says: “The women in this industry are very intelligent – not just book-smart but really savvy in handling discussions.

“They often take a measured approach, actively listening, absorbing information and then gently guiding the conversation, suggesting alternative views or probing deeper into the issues.

“It’s almost like they’re playing chess, making moves that benefit them and by extension, the project’s success.”

The key to industry expansion and career opportunities

Career paths within digital infrastructure span technical roles including facility engineering and network operations, alongside business functions such as site acquisition, regulatory affairs and customer relationship management.

The sector also requires specialists in power management, as data centres typically consume significant electricity for server operations and cooling systems.

For example, edge computing, which involves deploying smaller data centres closer to population centres, has created additional opportunities in markets previously underserved by large-scale facilities.

Meanwhile, data centre operators must navigate planning regulations, environmental requirements and grid capacity constraints whilst meeting customer demands for computing power and network connectivity.

As a result, the sector increasingly focuses on sustainability initiatives including renewable energy procurement and waste heat recovery systems, creating even more opportunities.

“What we discovered is that no two stories are the same, but together they reflect the importance of diverse experiences in driving progress and innovation in mission-critical infrastructure,” says Kalay Moodley, Chief People Officer at Kao Data.

“Critical Careers aims to celebrate the remarkable women who are thriving in digital infrastructure.

“We wanted to take an in-depth look at the countless, impactful contributions women from all disciplines and at all stages of their careers are making to the industry.”

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