Let's Get Digital with Carrie Charles

Latest Episodes:

Electrons, Electricians & Inference: What It Takes to Scale AI with Chris Sharp of Digital Realty Oct 28, 2026

Show notes

In this episode, Chris Sharp, Chief Technology Officer of Digital Realty, shares his perspective on what it really takes to scale AI infrastructure beyond the hype. Drawing on more than two decades at the center of cloud, interconnection, and data center technology, Chris explains why today’s infrastructure challenge comes down to three critical elements: electrons, equipment, and expertise, and why time to power and time to market have become increasingly important.

Chris discusses the shift from AI training toward inference, where models move from being built to being continuously used to deliver real-world value. As AI enters this utility phase, he sees infrastructure becoming more distributed and interconnected, with organizations combining public, private, and multiple AI models. At the same time, rising rack densities and next-generation chipsets are fundamentally changing data center design, power architecture, and connectivity requirements.

The conversation explores another critical constraint: people. Chris argues that the industry industrialized electrons faster than expertise, while the talent pipeline remained relatively flat. From electricians and skilled trades to technical and operational professionals, human expertise can determine whether gigawatts of planned infrastructure actually become operational. Digital Realty is addressing this challenge by recruiting beyond traditional data center backgrounds and training new talent for careers in the industry.

Looking ahead, Chris believes data centers will evolve from real estate into industrial machines that manufacture intelligence. Success will increasingly be measured not simply by megawatts or tokens, but by the value and outcomes infrastructure delivers. As AI demand accelerates, he believes the constraints the industry may ultimately wish it had addressed sooner are straightforward: electrons and electricians.

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Moving Compute at the Speed of Demand with Mike Maniscalco of QumulusAI Oct 14, 2026

Show notes

In this episode, Mike Maniscalco, CEO of QumulusAI, shares how his background as a computer scientist and software entrepreneur led him into AI infrastructure and ultimately to QumulusAI. Mike explains how the rapid advancement of AI, particularly reasoning models and agentic tools, made one thing increasingly clear: more capable AI requires more tokens, and more tokens require more compute infrastructure. That realization brought him back to the infrastructure layer powering the AI revolution.

Mike discusses QumulusAI’s differentiated approach to delivering GPU compute through a distributed, inference-first model built around “hyperspeed.” Rather than focusing exclusively on massive, multi-year hyperscale campuses, the company identifies smaller pockets of existing powered data center capacity that can be upgraded and brought online faster. This allows QumulusAI to respond to customers who need compute in months rather than waiting years for new infrastructure.

The conversation explores why inference represents such a significant opportunity as AI moves from training models to putting them into production. Mike also breaks down QumulusAI’s FACTS framework (flexibility, access, cost, trust, and speed) and explains how flexibility across locations, vendors, architectures, and supply chains can help accelerate deployment.

Looking ahead, Mike believes AI infrastructure demand is still in its early innings. As multimodal AI, agentic applications, robotics, autonomous vehicles, and other emerging use cases consume more compute, he sees distributed infrastructure becoming increasingly important, especially as latency and location matter more. QumulusAI’s ambition is to evolve into a true AI cloud capable of moving compute at the speed of demand.

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Who Will Build the AI Boom? Solving America’s Skilled Labor Crisis with Mike Greenawalt of the Greenawalt Foundation Sep 30, 2026

Show notes

In this episode, Mike Greenawalt, former CEO of Rosendin and founder of the Greenawalt Foundation, shares how his journey from electrical apprentice to leading one of the nation’s largest electrical contractors shaped his mission to create debt-free career pathways into the skilled trades. Mike explains why apprenticeships gave him an opportunity traditional education could not, and why America must rethink how it identifies, develops, and invests in the talent needed to build the future of AI and digital infrastructure.

Mike discusses the skilled labor crisis facing the data center industry as AI drives construction at unprecedented speed and scale. While shortages of power, land, equipment, and water receive significant attention, he argues that the shortage of qualified electricians and other tradespeople may be even more critical. Existing apprenticeship programs were already struggling to replace an aging workforce, and the AI boom has accelerated demand far beyond their ability to scale.

The conversation explores how the Greenawalt Foundation is helping students and people in career transition enter registered apprenticeship programs by funding tuition, books, tools, safety equipment, and other barriers to entry. Mike also shares the success of the pre-apprenticeship model he helped launch with Grand Canyon University, which has now served more than 1,000 students and expanded beyond electrical training into construction, cleanroom technology, and CNC machining.

Looking ahead, Mike believes the companies driving the AI boom must take greater responsibility for developing the workforce required to build it. From apprenticeship programs located directly on major data center construction sites to stronger partnerships among industry, universities, nonprofits, and communities, he sees an opportunity to train tens of thousands of skilled workers while creating life-changing careers without traditional college debt.

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AI Meets the Jobsite: The New Reality of Data Center Construction with Jessica Herrala Sep 09, 2026

Show notes

In this episode, Jessica Herrala, Vice President of North America at Buildots, shares how three decades in construction led her from some of the industry's largest contractors into the fast-moving world of construction technology. Jessica explains how Buildots is using AI-powered progress tracking to bring objective, real-time data to complex construction projects, helping contractors and data center developers replace guesswork with greater visibility, accountability, and confidence.

Jessica discusses how Buildots combines 3D models, project schedules, and site imagery to compare planned versus actual construction progress. By tracking activities and identifying potential delays earlier, the platform helps teams make better decisions before schedule problems become costly—an increasingly important capability as massive data center projects are built at unprecedented speed and scale.

The conversation explores how AI is changing the jobsite amid one of construction's greatest challenges: a shortage of skilled labor. Jessica explains that AI isn't about replacing people, but enabling teams to spend less time manually tracking progress and more time focused on safety, quality, planning, and delivering more with limited resources.

Looking ahead, Jessica believes technology and people must evolve together. She shares lessons on building high-performing teams, leading with authenticity, developing women in male-dominated industries, and embracing change with confidence. As AI transforms data center construction, the organizations that succeed will be those that combine objective data, adaptable leadership, and technology with deep industry expertise.

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Doug Recker on How Duos Technologies Is Bringing GPU Power and Edge AI Closer to the Customer Aug 26, 2026

Show notes

In this episode, Doug Recker, CEO of Duos Technologies Group, shares how a career that began in the U.S. Marine Corps and door-to-door telecom sales ultimately led him to building data centers and pioneering a modular approach to edge infrastructure. Drawing on nearly three decades of experience in telecom, fiber, and data centers, Doug explains how Duos Technologies is bringing GPU power and high-performance compute closer to customers in underserved Tier 3 and Tier 4 markets.

Doug discusses how Duos Edge is deploying modular data center clusters in communities where connectivity, available compute, and traditional data center capacity have historically been limited. After initially deploying 300-kilowatt pods, the company discovered growing demand for 1- to 15-megawatt facilities from customers looking for capacity to run GPU clusters. By targeting stranded power and partnering with local schools, healthcare systems, governments, and carriers, Duos is creating infrastructure that can improve connectivity while bringing new revenue, tax dollars, and AI workloads into local communities.

The conversation explores why edge computing is becoming increasingly important as inference, autonomous vehicles, agriculture, and other AI-driven applications require compute closer to the end user. Doug explains how Duos is deploying more than 2,000 GPUs in modular environments, using closed-loop cooling systems that require very little additional water, and protecting high-value equipment with a patented clean-room entry system designed to reduce dust, pollen, and other contaminants. He also shares how Duos Technologies Group combines Duos Edge with Infrastructure Technologies Group, which provides critical infrastructure equipment to data center operators.

Looking ahead, Doug sees enormous opportunity in bringing smaller, distributed GPU clusters closer to where data is created and consumed. Rather than competing for massive gigawatt-scale campuses, Duos is focused on rapidly deploying repeatable 1- to 15-megawatt sites across the country. Underpinning that growth is a team-first culture built around passion, accountability, execution, and doing what you say you will do—principles Doug believes are essential for founders, leaders, and companies navigating the rapidly evolving AI infrastructure market.

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The Next Hyperscale Frontier May Not Be Where You Think: Seth Arndorfer on North Dakota’s Rise Aug 12, 2026

Show notes

In this episode, Seth Arndorfer, CEO of DCN, shares how an unexpected career journey from agriculture and college rodeo to telecommunications led him to the forefront of one of the industry's most exciting growth opportunities. Drawing on nearly three decades of experience, Seth explains how DCN has evolved into a critical provider of fiber connectivity, supporting government agencies, enterprises, wireless carriers, and now hyperscale data center developments across North Dakota.

Seth discusses why North Dakota is emerging as an attractive destination for hyperscale infrastructure, pointing to the state's abundant energy resources, cool climate, underutilized power capacity, and extensive fiber network. He explains how DCN's collaborative model, built on partnerships among rural broadband providers, has created one of the nation's most connected states and positioned it to support the next generation of AI-driven digital infrastructure.

The conversation explores the growing importance of backbone fiber capacity, the Heartland Cyber Project, and the long-term investments required to support hyperscalers as demand for AI, cloud computing, and high-capacity connectivity continues to accelerate. Seth also shares how DCN is addressing workforce challenges by investing in local talent development through partnerships with schools, colleges, and industry, building the next generation of networking and cybersecurity professionals.

Looking ahead, Seth believes the future of connectivity will depend on a diverse technology ecosystem where fiber, satellite, and emerging solutions work together. As AI continues reshaping digital infrastructure, he sees North Dakota playing an increasingly important role by combining reliable connectivity, strategic infrastructure investments, and a collaborative approach to supporting long-term growth.

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Beyond the Hype: Ilissa Miller on Responsible Growth, Data Centers and AI Jul 29, 2026

Show notes

In this episode, Ilissa Miller, Founder and CEO of iMiller Public Relations, shares how nearly three decades in digital infrastructure have given her a unique perspective on the evolution of data centers, connectivity, and the growing challenges surrounding AI-driven infrastructure development. Drawing on her experience as a communications strategist, industry advisor, and Chair of OIX's Digital Infrastructure Framework Committee, Ilissa explains why the future of digital infrastructure depends as much on trust, transparency, and community engagement as it does on technology.

Ilissa discusses the changing role of iMiller Public Relations, from shaping industry messaging and introducing new concepts like edge data centers and master-planned data center developments to helping organizations build stronger relationships with the communities where they operate. She emphasizes that successful projects begin with listening, educating, and creating fact-based conversations that address public concerns before misinformation and fear take hold.

The conversation explores some of the industry's most pressing issues, including AI infrastructure, responsible data center growth, site selection, zoning, power, water usage, and the balance between economic development and community interests. Ilissa explains why developers must prioritize thoughtful planning, transparent communication, and responsible resource management to earn public trust while supporting the next generation of digital infrastructure.

Looking ahead, Ilissa believes the future of data center development will be shaped by collaboration between developers, communities, policymakers, and infrastructure leaders. As AI continues driving unprecedented demand for digital infrastructure, she believes the organizations that succeed will be those that combine innovation with responsible growth, meaningful stakeholder engagement, and a long-term commitment to building infrastructure that benefits both industry and the communities it serves.

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From Site Truth to Revenue: How Decision Ready Digital Twins Are Changing Wireless Telecom with David Pash Jul 15, 2026

Show notes

In this episode, David Pash, CEO of SiteSee, shares how his unconventional journey from engineering, construction, and commercial leadership led him into telecommunications with a mission to transform how wireless infrastructure is planned, managed, and monetized. As an investor turned CEO, David explains how SiteSee evolved from an early digital twin innovator into a telecom-focused software company helping tower owners and mobile network operators make faster, more confident infrastructure decisions through AI-powered digital twins.

David discusses the origins of SiteSee and how customer feedback shaped the company's evolution from an RF planning tool into a platform that creates a trusted digital representation of towers and rooftops. He explains the concept of a "decision-ready digital twin" and how it enables customers to inspect, simulate, validate, and optimize infrastructure remotely, dramatically reducing planning time while improving engineering accuracy and operational efficiency.

The conversation explores the measurable business impact of SiteSee's technology, including faster colocation approvals, reduced site visits, improved engineering productivity, accelerated time to revenue, and significant cost savings. David emphasizes that the true value of digital twins extends beyond visualization, helping infrastructure owners monetize assets, improve customer experience, and increase enterprise value through smarter workflows and AI-driven decision-making.

Looking ahead, David sees digital twins becoming deeply integrated into the workflows of tower companies worldwide. As AI continues reshaping telecommunications, he believes the future belongs to organizations that embrace intelligent automation, customer-driven innovation, and technology that enables faster decisions, safer operations, and more profitable infrastructure management.

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From Subsea to Satellite: Joel Ogren on the Future of Global Connectivity Jul 01, 2026

Show notes

In this episode, Joel Ogren, Founder and CEO of Assured Communications, shares the remarkable journey that took him from serving in the United States Marine Corps to leading a global communications infrastructure company focused on building resilient, mission-critical networks. Drawing on more than two decades of military leadership, including roles supporting the White House and the Department of Defense, Joel explains how his experience managing high-assurance communications systems shaped his approach to ensuring connectivity in some of the world’s most complex environments.

Joel discusses the evolution of Assured Communications from a small consulting practice into a global infrastructure partner delivering services across subsea cable systems, terrestrial networks, satellite connectivity, data centers, and strategic project development. A central theme throughout the conversation is the importance of taking a holistic view of infrastructure -one that considers not only technology, but also regulation, geopolitics, environmental factors, community engagement, and long-term economic impact.

The discussion explores the realities of managing large-scale infrastructure projects, including permitting challenges, risk management, stakeholder alignment, and the difficult decisions leaders sometimes must make to pause or redirect projects before significant capital is invested. Joel also highlights the growing importance of resilience, emphasizing that successful networks are not those that never fail, but those designed to recover and continue operating when disruptions occur.

Looking ahead, Joel sees tremendous opportunity in Asia as AI, cloud computing, and digital transformation continue to drive demand for connectivity and data infrastructure. He believes the future belongs to organizations that combine technical expertise, trusted partnerships, disciplined execution, and a long-term commitment to building reliable communications systems that support global growth.

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Future Infrastructure Is Playing a Different Game: Christopher Lightfoot on Fiber, Data Centers, and What Comes Next Jun 17, 2026

Show notes

In this episode, Christopher Lightfoot, Vice President of Future Infrastructure, shares a deeply personal and professional journey that has shaped his leadership philosophy and approach to building high-performing teams. From starting his career as a cell site technician and working through roles at AT&T, Mastec, Ericsson, Google Fiber, and private equity-backed ventures, Christopher offers a candid perspective on leadership, collaboration, and the future of digital infrastructure. A life-changing cancer diagnosis became a defining moment in his career, teaching him the value of teamwork, humility, and seeking diverse perspectives when solving complex challenges.

At Future Infrastructure, Christopher is helping drive the company’s evolution into a comprehensive telecommunications and infrastructure solutions provider. He explains how Future combines expertise across fiber deployment, wireless networks, power infrastructure, and emerging data center opportunities, creating a unique position within the rapidly growing digital infrastructure ecosystem.

A major theme throughout the conversation is the convergence of fiber and data centers. Christopher discusses how hyperscale growth is driving demand for integrated infrastructure solutions and why organizations that can connect power, fiber, and construction capabilities under one umbrella will be best positioned to support the next wave of expansion.

The discussion also explores one of the industry's most persistent challenges: breaking down internal silos. Christopher explains how improving communication, collaboration, and cross-functional alignment allows organizations to better serve customers, unlock growth opportunities, and deliver true end-to-end solutions.

Beyond infrastructure, Christopher emphasizes the importance of culture, workforce development, and servant leadership. He shares how Future Infrastructure focuses on creating clear career paths, fostering teamwork, prioritizing safety, and helping employees understand the larger purpose behind their work.

Looking ahead, Christopher sees a future defined by speed, adaptability, and customer-centric execution. As demand for fiber, data centers, and digital infrastructure continues to accelerate, he believes the companies that succeed will be those that combine technical excellence with strong culture, continuous learning, and a relentless commitment to exceeding customer expectations.

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