Raising Expectations by Harper Harrison

How do we turn data centers into the industry of choice with Kaitlin Schaberg

We're excited to share the third episode of the Harper Harrison Podcast! In this episode, we're joined by Kaitlin Schaberg, Director of Hyperscale Programs at DC Blox and one of Data Center Magazine’s Top 100 Women in the Industry, as we explore how to position the data center sector as a top career destination for future talent. Kaitlin shares her journey into the data center space, the story behind her recent recognition as a top industry leader, and how her passion for cross-functional innovation is helping shape the future of digital infrastructure. From implementing AI-powered tools to navigating complex project and change management challenges, Kaitlin highlights what makes this industry so unique, and why increasing visibility and career pathways is key to overcoming the skills gap. GET TO KNOW KAITLIN:  Kaitlin holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Management Science & Engineering from Stanford University. She currently serves as the Director of Hyperscale Programs at DC Blox and has been part of the data center industry for nearly 8 years, having previously worked at QTS.In the past six months, Kaitlin was recognised as one of Data Center Magazine’s Top 100 Women in the Industry, a well-deserved accolade that reflects the impact she has made within both her organisation and the wider sector. She is particularly passionate about integrating cross-functional project management and change management within high-tech environments. During her time at QTS, she implemented the company’s first AI-based tool for analysing data center contracts. To get in touch with Del Connolly, email: d.connolly@harperharrison.com

Exploring the evolution of the Data Center Industry with Aaron Wangenheim

Welcome to the Harper Harrison podcast, where we explore the latest insights, trends, and innovations shaping the future of the built environment. In this episode, Aaron discusses the evolution of the data center industry over the past 25 years. We explore how, while some challenges remain the same in theory, they have become more complex in practice. We also look at how local communities’ perceptions of data centers have evolved, and how understanding of the industry has changed over the years. As the industry continues to grow, we highlight the importance of making it an industry of choice—particularly in addressing ongoing and significant labour shortages. GET TO KNOW AARON: Aaron is a data center industry veteran with over 25 years of experience. He is the Founder and President of Base Partners—an advisory firm supporting investors, developers, and data center service companies across areas including platform investment, capital raising, and market strategy. Previously, Aaron served as COO and Chief Marketing Officer of T5 Data Centers, and before that held significant real estate experience at The Staubach Company, where he first entered the data center sector in the late 1990s. To get in touch with Del Connolly, email: d.connolly@harperharrison.com

Taking the plunge and setting up a Data Center Development business with Ernest Popescu

Welcome to the Harper Harrison podcast, where we explore the latest insights, trends, and innovations shaping the future of the built environment. In this episode, we dive into the world of Data Centers as we explore the career journey of Ernest Popescu and find out why he decided to move away from the corporate Data Center world and take the plunge and set up his own business. Now, CEO and Founder of Metrobloks, we look at when that vision formed, explore the challenges of leading a start-up and get an insight in to how we was able to secure funding for the venture. It’s a really inspiring story and an extremely honest and frank conversation. A great episode offering real insight in to the first year of becoming an entrepreneur! To get in touch with Del Connolly, reach out at d.connolly@harperharrison.com.

COllaborative. COordinated. CO Architects.

In the last episode of the series, host Jake Bentwood is joined by Jenna Knudsen and Alex Korter of CO Architects. Jake had the opportunity to speak with two firmwide leaders, one of whom oversees recruitment efforts, to discuss the intersection of healthcare design and hiring/attrition. This episode is a must-listen for any design professional interested in the fields of healthcare, health sciences, and S&T! ABOUT JENNA & ALEX: Jenna Knudsen is a brilliant example of a boomerang. Something we see often in this market. Jenna spent 3 years with CO as a project Designer before moving to NYC to spend some time with Rafael Vinoly. In 2004, she returned to CO and has since risen to the heights of Managing Principal. Jenna leads award winning, large scale academic, lab and healthcare projects on university and healthcare campuses across the country. Alex Korter joined CO shortly after Jennas return to the firm, in 2005. With experience across the globe, he now leads the firms building facades group as well as their recruitment efforts. Alex spent 3 years in Manchester, the center of the world, studying and gaining his BArch. Leads recruitment, experienced in Healthcare Architecture, loves Manchester – Alex and I have A LOT to talk about. To get in touch with Jakey Bentwood, reach out at j.bentwood@harperharrison.com.

From Doctor to Architect with Kimberly Montague, CEO at Albert Kahn Associates, Inc.

In episode 9, host, Jakey Bentwood starts off by discussing Kim's initial interest in Biology and her steps to becoming an architect. We get into her career and discuss the sweet spot in her career and trajectory she has taken since the days of Architecture 101. KIMBERLY MONTAGUE: Kim is the ultimate boomerang! Having spent 12 years with Albert Kahn around the turn of 2000, she then left Albert Kahn Associates and she spent time with HKS, Herman Miller and Planetree before now returning to Albert Kahn as President in March of 2023. To get in touch with Jakey Bentwood, reach out at j.bentwood@harperharrison.com.