Not Your Father’s Data Center

Compass Datacenters
  • 5.0 (3)
  • TECHNOLOGY
Not Your Father’s Data Center

Welcome to Compass Media, brought to you by Compass Datacenters. We build for what’s next.

  1. 12/10/2024

    Beyond the Cloud: Data Centers' Economic Impact vs. Policy & Sustainability

    In this discussion, Raymond Hawkins, Chief Revenue Officer at Compass Datacenters, engages with Dr. Terry Clower, a distinguished professor of public policy at George Mason University, who also serves as the director of the Center for Regional Analysis and the Stephen Fuller Institute. The conversation delves into the strategic considerations for data center siting and land use, contrasting U.S. practices with European models. Dr. Clower provides insights on the essential role of data centers in the data economy and their impact on regional development. The dialogue touches upon critical issues like power consumption and sustainability, highlighting power planning, renewable energy sources, and the potential to revitalize nuclear infrastructure. The significance of data centers in modern economic development strategies is discussed, especially their influence on local tax bases and low infrastructure strain. Overall, the discussion offers valuable perspectives on how municipalities can integrate data centers into their economies, emphasizing long-term planning and the evolving landscape of utility and energy demands. Timestamped Overview:00:00 Intro00:52 Navigated unstable job market, transitioned to logistics.04:49 Recruited to lead Center for Regional Analysis.08:28 Varied localities' attitudes impact economic development approaches.12:20 Buddy Reiser navigates data center challenges locally.15:25 All data centers need careful land allocation.17:59 Renewables insufficient; old infrastructure revived due to demand.19:43 Data centers’ demand reshaping power industry dynamics.22:51 Exploring nuclear solutions to reduce waste.26:18 Data center proximity doesn't affect property value.30:28 Adapt to data economy or face constraints.35:27 Minor adjustments can help economies grow again.37:41 Northern Virginia's electrician apprenticeships thrive, creating jobs.

    40 min

  2. 11/11/2024

    Deepening Veteran Expertise for Data Center Excellence

    In this engaging episode, Raymond Hawkins, Chief Revenue Officer at Compass Datacenters, interviews Kirk Offel, CEO, and founder of Overwatch. The conversation delves into Kirk’s illustrious military background, highlighting his tenure on the USS Memphis submarine, rigorous deployments, and transition to civilian life. Kirk recounts the challenging yet rewarding experiences at sea and the unique leadership and technical skills honed through military service. Topics include the military's role in fostering discipline and the significant technological advancements veterans bring to civilian industries. Kirk shares insights on his decision to leave a traditional career to establish Overwatch, emphasizing the value of veteran-owned businesses. The discussion explores the evolving tech landscape, veterans' adaptability, and the importance of continuous learning. Raymond and Kirk also reflect on honoring Vietnam veterans, the significance of supportive communities in veteran transitions, and the inspiration behind founding the Data Center Anti Conference (DCAC). Timestamped Overview00:00 Intro01:09 Kirk’s background04:13 Military service inspires veteran entrepreneurship and community.09:36 Gen Z surpassing Baby Boomers in workforce.10:44 Military offers advanced tech training without war risks.16:32 Navy offered broader options than SEER training.18:33 Submarine community: intellectual, rigorous, challenging, competitive.20:54 Real deployments with impactful military missions.25:35 Vietnam vets deserve respect and gratitude.29:33 Lead with empathy and adaptability during transitions.30:37 Community collaboration empowers veterans for meaningful careers.34:25 Empowering veterans through community, networking, and conferences.37:59 Helping veterans is my purpose-driven mission.40:36 Kirk's invite prompts fear of workout readiness.

    43 min

  3. 07/16/2024

    Data Centers and Energy: Addressing Growing Demand and Power Constraints

    In this episode, Raymond Hawkins sits down with Ed Socia, North American Insight Director for datacenterHawk. With a background in community development and sustainability from the University of Vermont, Ed transitioned from managing renewable research platforms to working with top data center teams, including a pivotal role at CBRE. The conversation explores the transformative impact of the pandemic on the data industry, driving remote work and digital transformation. Ed discusses the increased demand for data centers, fueled by technologies like AI, and the resulting power constraints in emerging markets. The dialogue transitions into the complexities of power location planning, the potential of nuclear energy for data centers, and the hurdles posed by regulatory and community acceptance. Ed and Raymond highlight the roles of utilities and tech companies in addressing power demands, emphasizing transparent development and long lead times. They also touch on tracking competitor strategies and the importance of market intelligence.

    26 min

  4. 06/18/2024

    The Road Ahead for Digital Infrastructure

    Today, host Raymond Hawkins chats with Mike Netzer, VP of Sales at datacenterHawk, a professional with a diverse background, from managing pension portfolios to diving deep into the data center industry. Originating from the Northeast with stints in Idaho, Connecticut, Florida, and Texas, Mike brings a rich mix of experiences and insights to the table. The dialogue meticulously covers a range of timely topics concerning the data center industry. Mike and Raymond delve into the increasing demands on power generation driven by growing data center capacities and touch upon the economic shifts brought on by large tech deals, specifically in the realms of Artificial Intelligence (AI). The significance of viewing data centers as critical infrastructure similar to roads and water treatment facilities is comprehensively analyzed, reflecting on their indispensable role in modern societies. The discussion further explores the impact of AI on technological advancements, the potential adaptability of nuclear energy in data centers, and the broader implications of energy pricing on the industry's economic viability.

    40 min

  5. 05/27/2024

    Veteran Stories and the Mission Critical Mindset with Garett Jaco and Wayne Watson

    In this Memorial Day special episode, host Raymond Hawkins holds a profound conversation with seasoned data center experts Garett Jaco, a Marine Corps veteran with a strong background in nuclear weapons security and marine security, and Wayne Watson, vice president of North American operations at Compass Datacenters, with a past in the Navy as a nuclear electrician. The dialogue dives into the intersection of military experience and data center proficiency. Tapping into their naval and military backgrounds, Watson and Jaco discuss the transferable skills that veterans bring to the industry, focusing on meticulous attention to detail and the importance of procedure adherence in handling critical equipment.The episode also explores the personal army stories, illuminating the lighter side of their service, and the conversation turns toward the serious topic of mental wellness within the industry. Thoughts on Memorial Day close the conversation, honoring war fighters' sacrifices and advocating for support and de-stigmatization of mental illness post-combat. Overall, this exchange offers a unique perspective on the untapped talent of veterans in the data center sphere and the essential correlation between military service and industry excellence.

    33 min

  6. 02/22/2024

    The Foundations of Digital Infrastructure with George Rockett

    In this engaging episode, Raymond Hawkins, the Chief Revenue Officer at Compass, is joined by George Rockett, the founder of DatacenterDynamics & Co-Founder of Yotta. George shares his journey from being a humble advertising salesperson to the inception of DatacenterDynamics magazine in 1998. Their conversation unfolds to cover the evolution of enterprise data centers, the burst of the .com bubble, and the concept of zero downtime. The historical context of data centers and the early days of technology are discussed, shedding light on the industry's development and perception over time. With some fantastic analogies, the episode delves into topics such as systems thinking, integrating polymaths to address industry challenges, and the urgency for quicker action due to vast opportunities. George presents his innovative endeavor, Yotta, and stresses the unification of language and communication within the digital infrastructure industry. George’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-rockett-b18a3b4/?originalSubdomain=uk

    35 min

  7. 01/23/2024

    Innovations in Data Center and Electrical Systems Management with Phanney Kim Brevard

    In this discussion, Raymond Hawkins, Chief Revenue Officer at Compass Datacenters engages with Phanney Kim Brevard, Chief Strategy Officer and newly appointed Chief Information Officer, of ETAP-Operation Technology at Schneider Electric.  The conversation delves into the complex world of data center management and electrical systems. ETAP, a hardware-agnostic software company acquired by Schneider, specializes in designing and simulating electrical systems for various industries, with a focus on energy optimization, compliance, and safety. The dialogue touches upon the significance of digital twins in modeling and simulating electrical systems, providing real-time insights and ensuring operational efficiency. The hardware-agnostic nature of Etap's solutions is emphasized, allowing connectivity with diverse power systems.  The conversation also highlights the importance of a centralized platform for stakeholders in the data center value chain, ensuring a shared and accurate version of the truth. The episode concludes with a reflection on the evolving landscape of technology and the transformative impact of digital twins on electrical system management. Overall, the discussion offers valuable insights into the critical role of innovative software solutions in enhancing the safety, sustainability, and efficiency of data center operations. Phanney’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/phanneykimbrevard/

    33 min

  8. 12/11/2023

    College Football Bowl Preview Picks

    In this episode, Raymond dives back into the world of college football as the playoffs take center stage. Joined by esteemed guests Mike Baudendistel, Director of Sales for the Data Center sector at Bloom Energy, and Buddy Rizer, the Executive Director of Economic Development in Loudoun County, Virginia, the episode promises a lively discussion on the recent playoff selections. As the first week of December unfolds, we take a break from the tech talk to share insights on the college football landscape. From Michigan's anticipated presence to the controversies surrounding Florida State's exclusion, Raymond, Mike, and Buddy provide a unique blend of humor and expertise. Join the conversation as they break down the committee's decisions, discuss the surprises and snubs, and prophesize the outcomes of the season. Whether you're a die-hard football fan or just looking for a fun departure from the data center discussions, this episode promises some good old fashion sports banter.

    52 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Welcome to Compass Media, brought to you by Compass Datacenters. We build for what’s next.

Information

  • Creator
    Compass Datacenters
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2024
  • Episodes
    70
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 811027

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