Construction workers are cashing in on the AI boom

The surge in artificial intelligence is creating a lucrative opportunity for construction workers involved in building the data centers that support this technology. Recent reports indicate that these workers are experiencing salary increases of 25% to 30% compared to their previous roles, with some earning even more. One notable example is DeMond Chambliss, who transitioned from running a small drywall business in Columbus, Ohio, to a supervisory position overseeing a team of 200 at a data center. His annual income now exceeds $100,000, prompting him to express his astonishment at his newfound success, stating, "I pinch myself going to work every day." In Oregon, electrical safety specialist Marc Benner is earning an impressive $225,000 annually, while electrician Andrew Mason manages six data centers in Northern Virginia, bringing in over $200,000. Beyond just higher salaries, companies are enhancing their offers with attractive benefits, including heated break tents, complimentary lunches, daily bonuses, and remote project management roles. For instance, one construction site provides workers with a daily incentive of $100, which can accumulate significantly over time. This boom in data center construction is largely driven by tech giants like Amazon, Google, and Microsoft, who are racing to establish hundreds of new facilities. Meanwhile, the industry is grappling with a shortage of around 439,000 skilled workers, as reported by the Associated Builders and Contractors trade group.