The boom in AI data center construction has led to a shortage of technical workers. Skilled workers are being poached across industries.

Sander van't Noordende, CEO of the world's largest recruitment agency Randstad, said that discussions about the impact of AI on the labor market often focus on the software level, especially on the concern that generative AI will replace white-collar jobs. Another key reality is that artificial intelligence cannot build data centers on its own. Between 2022 and 2026, there has been a 107% increase in demand for robot technicians, a 67% increase in demand for HVAC system engineers, and a 51% increase in job vacancies for industrial automation technicians. The recruitment positions for traditional skilled workers such as construction workers and electricians have also increased by 27%. Due to the overlapping skills required in the energy, defense, and AI sectors, the expansion of data centers and the shortage of skilled workers have led to cross-industry poaching, with various sectors competing for the same pool of skilled workers.