The QTS Experience

Greg Stover, Vertiv’s Global Director of High Tech Development, takes us on a wild ride from IBM laser printers to AI-driven liquid cooling solutions. Learn how data centers are saving humanity, embracing renewables, and battling 43kW racks—one kilowatt at a time.

Greg Stover: LinkedIn

Vertiv: https://www.vertiv.com/en-emea/

External References Supercomputing 2024 Conference (SC24): Highlights emerging liquid cooling technologies. https://scconference.org

Nvidia’s Role in Data Centers: Nvidia’s growth and influence in AI-driven data center design. https://www.nvidia.com

Renewable Energy Adoption in Data Centers: Studies on sustainability driven by data centers. https://www.iea.org/reports/data-centre-energy-report 

James Walker, nuclear physicist, engineer, and proud salmon fisherman-accent holder, dives deep into the future of nuclear energy with me on this episode of the QTS Experience. From debunking safety myths and exploring microreactor innovation to tackling the energy sovereignty puzzle, James shares why nuclear is poised to power our data centers, remote islands, and even military bases. We discuss the practicality of modular designs, their environmental benefits, and why he believes nuclear is key to sustainable growth. And yes, we even detour into the mysteries of marriage, 3D-printed reactors, and whether nuclear engineers can really master the mind of their spouses. Spoiler: they can’t.

Get ready to be inspired, challenged, and maybe a little charmed as we explore why nuclear energy is not just a solution for today’s power needs but a critical investment in our collective future.

Bloom Energy’s Jeff Barber joins me to discuss why reliable, sustainable, and innovative power generation is the key to the future of data centers. From his days as a mainframe operator at Chico State to leading the charge with hydrogen fuel cells, Jeff shares his insights into the evolving energy landscape. We tackle the challenges of scaling AI workloads, oscillating power demands, and why your Netflix stream isn’t the only thing at stake when the lights go out. Whether you’re curious about on-site power generation, SMRs, or the economics of energy infrastructure, Jeff’s practical, informed perspective is a must-hear. Plus, find out why his stage name might just be “Four Nines and an Eight.” Tune in for a conversation that’s all about more power, less pollution, and making the future a little brighter (literally).

Adam Black joins me to talk leadership, construction, and the complex world of critical infrastructure. From his early days as a fresh Georgia Tech grad to leading multi-million dollar data center projects, Adam shares how his journey shaped his philosophy: leadership is service to others. We discuss why failures are often the best teachers, how to identify potential leaders (hint: it involves risk and some humility), and the importance of stepping back to see the big picture—even when the pressure’s on. From safety culture to leadership mindset, Adam’s insights are a masterclass in balancing grit, growth, and grace. Plus, he shares his passion for inspiring crews by connecting their work to life-changing innovations. Spoiler: It might involve AI and curing cancer. Join us for a conversation that’s as practical as it is inspiring

Peter Gross, a pioneer in the data center industry, joins me to discuss the seismic shifts reshaping critical infrastructure. From AI-driven innovation to the challenges of power shortages and the rise of Data Center Campuses, Peter delivers a masterclass on why this industry is experiencing explosive growth—and why it’s never been more exciting (or complicated). We explore everything from high-density racks and flexible designs to the surprising role of Nordic countries in the data center ecosystem. Plus, Peter shares his thoughts on AI's mysterious learning processes and why humanity should remain optimistic about its future—despite the occasional regulatory paperwork overload. (Spoiler: Icelandic golf courses make an unexpected appearance.)

Scott Bergs joins the QTS Experience to demystify the world of dark fiber and communications infrastructure. Scott is CEO of Dark Fiber and Infrastructure (DF&I), a private builder, owner, operator of secure dark fiber and conduit infrastructure. From Midwest hog farms to the race for data, Scott shares insights on the urgent need for scalable power, connectivity, and the evolving architecture that underpins AI and machine learning. He and Dave McCall explore the challenging infrastructure demands in today’s digital ecosystem, debating how to manage real impacts on communities and dispel “false claims” about data center development. Scott also reveals his journey from technology lawyer to telecom innovator—and even a bit of family lore on Scandinavian vs. German last names. And for anyone who thought dark fiber sounded mysterious, prepare to learn why Scott might have just as easily named his company the “Plumbers of the Internet.”

In this episode, I sit down with Ciaran Flanagan, VP & Global Head of Data Center Solutions & Services at Siemens, to discuss the future of data centers amidst the challenges of the "Energy Trilemma"—balancing cost, reliability, and decarbonization. Ciaran shares his insights into how Siemens leverages digital twins to enhance data center design, real-time operations, and risk management. We explore the heightened energy demands brought by AI and the importance of collaboration with utilities to ensure sustainable growth. With his vast industry experience, Ciaran offers a fresh look at how regulation, innovation, and digital transformation are reshaping the data center landscape.

Ciaran Flanagan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ciaranflanagan/

Siemens: https://www.linkedin.com/company/siemens/ 

Ciaran Flanagan. Is Group Vice President & Head of Global Datacenter Solutions, Siemens.

He is tasked with the continued development of Siemens as a technology provider to the global datacenter industry and growing Siemens presence in this exciting market. Prior to Siemens Ciaran held several leadership positions in the datacenter industry, most recently as Managing Director with ISG Ltd and previously as Vice President at ABB. Ciaran was Head of Datacenter Strategy at Nokia/Microsoft & previously held Consulting and Business leadership roles at Cirrascale Cloud Services & Intel Corporation. Ciaran has consulted with several Fortune 100 companies in the area of Datacenter operations, technical architecture, energy efficiency, procurement strategy and financial planning. He was a Founding Contributor to the EU Datacenter Code of Conduct and a Contributing Member of The Green Grid and the Open Datacenter Alliance. Ciaran has served as a Judge for Uptime Institute's Green Enterprise IT Awards and is a regular speaker and contributor to various industry bodies. Ciaran lives in Dublin, Ireland & graduated from Trinity College Dublin with BSc. in Computer Science and holds a postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration from Henley Management College and a diploma in executive leadership from IMD, Lausanne. Additionally, Ciaran holds an undergraduate Diploma in Electrical & Electronic Engineering & a post graduate Diploma in Sustainability Leadership in Business.

Buddy Rizer: LinkedIn

Loudon County Economic Development Authority

Buddy Rizer is the Executive Director of the Loudoun County Department of Economic Development, the 2021 Economic Development Organization of the Year. During his tenure, Rizer and his team have attracted more than $50 billion in new commercial investment and more than 50 thousand new jobs. During this time, the growth in the commercial base has help lower the tax rate in Loudoun by more than 41 cents on the dollar, saving residents thousands of dollars annually on their tax bill. 

Mr. Rizer has been named a Tech Titan 7 times by Washingtonian Magazine, has been named one of the 50 most influential Virginians 6 times by Virginia Business Magazine, is a 4-time member of Virginia’s Power 500, and was three times named to the Washington Business Journal’s Power 100 as one of the most influential businesspeople in Washington, DC. 

Mr. Rizer is a Certified Economic Developer, a certified Entrepreneurship Development Professional, and a graduate of Virginia Tech's Local Government Management Graduate Certificate Program.

In this episode, I sit down with Bill Kleyman, CEO of Apolo, to discuss the rapid evolution of the data center industry and the impact of AI on design and operations. We explore how AI-driven platforms are changing the game with higher-density racks, liquid cooling, and managed services for enterprise customers. Bill shares insights on the market's "micro shifts," why bravery is essential in this fast-paced era, and how Apolo is enabling data centers to stay ahead by offering AI services at scale. Tune in to learn about the future of AI workloads, the role of innovation in a rapidly evolving landscape, and what it takes to thrive as a data center operator in today’s AI-driven world. Don't miss this conversation on navigating risk and seizing new opportunities!

Bill Kleyman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/billkleyman/

Apolo.us: https://www.apolo.us/

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In this episode of The QTS Experience, David McCall is joined by Jon Trout, CEO of Chekhub and an expert in data center operations and workflow. They delve into the transformative potential of AI for workforce enablement, exploring how AI can be used to build efficient processes and procedures, convert raw data into actionable insights, and ultimately enhance operational efficiency. Jon also shares his insights on the importance of data privacy, avoiding AI hallucinations, and connecting to a higher purpose in the data center industry. Join us for this insightful conversation on the next QTS Experience.