A talent CEO says data centers are a 'massive opportunity' for office workers to pivot mid-career

In the wake of widespread layoffs in the tech sector, Carrie Charles, CEO and co-founder of Broadstaff, a staffing firm, is urging displaced office workers to consider a promising career path: data centers. With major tech companies ramping up their AI infrastructure, the demand for skilled technicians and electricians is surging. Charles reports unprecedented inquiries for qualified professionals to help build and maintain the hardware essential for data center operations. "Our phone has never rung so much in our decade-long history as a staffing agency," she remarked, emphasizing the booming nature of this sector. The demand for talent is starkly contrasted by the thousands of laid-off workers struggling to find new positions in traditional office environments. A recent Deloitte study showed a remarkable 64% increase in data center job listings from 2023 to 2025. However, industry executives highlight a significant talent shortage, with 54% of them identifying recruitment as their primary challenge. "The layoffs are creating a shockwave, especially among those in their 40s, but there's a vast opportunity in data centers," Charles noted. While each facility offers a limited number of permanent roles, the overall market is expanding rapidly. Employment in U.S. data centers surged by more than 60% from 2016 to 2023, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. The role of a data center technician is particularly appealing for individuals who prefer hands-on work without completely abandoning the corporate structure. "It’s like a white-collar trade job—technical, yet less sedentary," Charles explained. Data center technicians are responsible for on-site tech support and hardware upkeep, often requiring physical stamina and mobility between sites. As the industry evolves, many companies are establishing training programs for newcomers. For example, the Uptime Institute offers a five-day certification course for aspiring technicians. "Positioning is key," Charles advised, as skills in operations, troubleshooting, and customer experience are highly valued. Entry-level technicians typically earn between $45,000 and $65,000 annually, with potential for rapid advancement into higher-paying roles. With a few certifications and a proactive approach, many can reach salaries of $80,000 to $100,000 within two years. For those willing to invest time in becoming licensed electricians, apprenticeship programs are available through firms like Wachter, which partners with Broadstaff. Although training can take four to five years, the financial rewards are substantial. Senior electricians, especially those skilled in advanced data center technologies, can earn between $200,000 and $300,000 a year. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates 81,000 job openings for electricians each year through 2034, indicating a promising job outlook significantly outpacing other fields. Charles believes that younger generations are already embracing blue-collar trades, and she encourages others to view these careers as viable and lucrative options. "The journey may be challenging and comes with risks, but the opportunities in this sector are monumental," Charles concluded, reminding us that taking a step back can ultimately lead to significant forward momentum.