In Ashburn, Virginia, the demand for skilled electricians is surging due to the rapid expansion of data centers fueled by artificial intelligence. Andrew Miller, a veteran tradesman with 26 years of experience, highlights that young Americans can earn six-figure salaries without college debt.
Miller has raised six children while working in the trades, emphasizing the financial independence these opportunities provide. The wealth seen in Northern Virginia is directly linked to data centers and their development. Miller notes areas like California that reject such expansion are witnessing an outflow of wealth.
The growth of data centers offers a promising future for blue-collar workers. Miller states, “They cannot produce enough electricians fast enough,” and has never experienced unemployment, even during recessions.
The federal government’s presence has historically supported employment in Northern Virginia, but the expansion of data centers promises even greater demand. Appropriately dubbed “Data Center Alley,” Northern Virginia hosts over 230 data centers as of March 2026, with 116 more in development.
Bill McGraw from electrical contractor J.E. Richards describes apprenticeship programs through the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 26 as alternatives to traditional college degrees. Participants receive classroom instruction while gaining paid, hands-on experience, starting at about $27 to $28 an hour. Journeymen can earn approximately $62 an hour, which translates to nearly $129,000 annually before overtime.
Don Slaiman reports Local 26’s hiring hall has grown significantly amid the data center boom, from fewer than 9,000 to over 17,500 workers. The demand spans beyond construction, requiring ongoing maintenance and infrastructure upgrades, ensuring continuous employment opportunities.
Miller shares that a single data center project can employ up to 2,000 craft workers, which benefits local businesses like restaurants and housing providers. The AI-driven boom also extends to other trades, creating jobs for plumbers, heavy-equipment operators, and others crucial to building and maintaining technological infrastructure.
Slaiman underscores that the industry provides pathways to financial stability, enabling workers to support their families and “live the American dream.” As construction and demand grow, the data center boom will continue to offer great careers for workers.
Amanda Macias covers business, economics, and politics, focusing on policy decisions’ impact on markets and American workers.
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