Exploring the Value Chain of Ethical AI Series

Dive Into Data Centers

There are more than 11,000 data centers globally providing the foundational infrastructure powering the digital economy and enabling the explosive growth of artificial intelligence. In the United States alone, there are more than 4,100 data centers spread across all 50 states.  They are concentrated in several states including Texas (413), Northern California (321), Illinois (244) and Virginia which is home to the single largest number of data centers: 665. 

Growth in data center capacity has been explosive, with hyperscalers like Google, Amazon and Meta set to spend more than $325 billion this year alone. Tracked spending commitments from these and other firms including Microsoft, OpenAI, Oracle and more may exceed $1.4 trillion over the next decade. 

While this trend is projected to continue in the foreseeable future, growth is constrained by numerous factors including land availability, power capacity, semiconductor shortages, supply chain disruptions, talent and labor issues, community concerns and more. As a result, the existing shortfall of ~10 Gw in data center capacity is expected to persist through 2028 despite capacity more than tripling from 21 to ~67 Gw during the five year time period. 

Join us for a dive into the world of data centers at the UVA Darden School of Business on February 17, 2026 from 1-7 p.m. Learn about one of the essential infrastructure components of the value chain of ethical AI through the perspectives of industry experts who are leading the charge in this dynamic sector. We will discuss the current historic growth, the professional opportunities that exist in this dynamic sector, and the business and societal challenges that must be addressed. The event is intended for the entire UVA community: students, faculty, staff and alumni.   

A tentative agenda is below and subject to change. Additional details will be added as they become available — pre-register to be notified when registration opens for this in-demand event.