In this DCD Broadcast, DCD Data Center Construction, industry experts explore where AI data centers are being built today, how site selection is evolving as workloads move from training to inference, and how operators can balance speed-to-market with long-term flexibility. The session also highlights emerging global hotspots for large AI training facilities and edge inference sites.

Source: Charting the next wave of AI data center expansion

"The need for large-scale AI training facilities has resulted in the emergence of rural facilities as large urban Tier 1 hubs run out of space and power. The trend for data centers to be brought to the power is continuing, but with inference requiring a greater need to be near urban hubs, are we sitting on the precipice of a shift? This episode will explore:

• Where are the data centers? Mapping major AI training hubs globally

• The impact on site selection as training moves to inference

• Building in longevity - managing speed-to-market and flexibility

• Hotspots for large AI training centers and edge inference sites"

This session took place on January 29, 2026.

→ Watch the Broadcast Here

Speakers:

• Lottie Tollman , Colliers

• Marcel Mendes da Costa , Borealis Data Center

• Emma Brookes , DatacenterDynamics

• Robert LoBuono , Gensler