Data centers are expanding into rural America. Whether your community is exploring data center development or seeking to better understand this trend, this webinar will provide valuable context and practical perspectives to help you consider what data center expansion could mean for rural economies and how communities could prepare.
Access the presentation slides.
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What Was Explored
Expert practitioners and researchers explored data center expansion in rural communities, including topics such as:
- potential economic costs and benefits of data center development;
- workforce opportunities and skilled labor considerations;
- regional competitiveness and community preparation strategies; and
- real-world perspectives from communities experiencing this trend.
Featured Presenters
- Matt Dunne, Founder and Executive Director, Center on Rural Innovation (Moderator)
- Jim Ladlee, State Program Leader, Emerging and Advanced Technology, Pennsylvania State University
- Mike Turner, Ashburn District Supervisor, Loudoun County Board of Supervisors
About the Rural Community Action Assembly Series
Since 2020, the Rural Community Action Assembly has brought together rural stakeholders across Pennsylvania and beyond to advance actionable research, share best practices, and promote equitable community and economic development models. Each session encourages peer engagement and collaborative problem-solving.
For questions, contact Philip Jones at philip.jones@phil.frb.org.