Community, Legacy and Local Impact in Data Centre Development | Live at Datacloud Global Congress 2026

Send us Fan MailIn the fifth episode of our series recorded live at Datacloud Global Congress 2026 in Cannes, Andy Davis is once again joined by co-host Rory Flashman from Spa Communications to explore one of the biggest themes running through this year’s event: community. Joining the conversation: Ilker Essener, Bulk Infrastructure Wes Cummins, Applied Digital Together, they discuss why community engagement has become a central part of data centre development, and why the industry can no longer afford to treat it as an afterthought. The conversation explores how data centre operators can create long-term value in the regions where they build, from jobs and skills to tax revenue, infrastructure investment, apprenticeships and local supply chain opportunities. Wes shares Applied Digital’s experience of developing large-scale infrastructure in smaller US communities, including how data centres can support local economies, create high-quality technical careers, strengthen public services and help bring people back to rural towns. Ilker also discusses Bulk Infrastructure’s approach in Europe, highlighting the importance of local engagement, circular economy thinking, skills development and creating meaningful opportunities for communities throughout the development and operational lifecycle. The episode also looks at the importance of legacy, why listening to local communities matters, and how the industry can support education, vocational training and new career pathways as demand for data centre talent continues to grow. Recorded live at Datacloud Global Congress 2026 in Cannes. Key Topics: Why community engagement is now central to data centre development How operators can create lasting value in the regions where they build The role of data centres in supporting rural and smaller communities How large-scale infrastructure can improve local tax bases, utilities, roads and schools Why technical jobs and career pathways matter for long-term local impact How Applied Digital is working with communities in North Dakota and Louisiana Bulk Infrastructure’s perspective on community value creation in Europe Why listening to local priorities is critical before development begins How operators can support apprenticeships, internships and vocational training The importance of shaping education and curriculum around future industry needs How offsite manufacturing and prefab models can still create local opportunity Why legacy should be part of every data centre development strategy Support the showThe Inside Data Centre Podcast is recorded in partnership with DataX Connect, a specialist data centre recruitment company based in the UK. They operate on a global scale to place passionate individuals at the heart of leading data centre companies.To learn more about Andy Davis and the rest of the DataX team, click here: DataX Connect