Steve Bandel
Data center construction is unlike many other building sectors. It’s extremely fast-paced, highly technical, and relentlessly driven by uptime, scalability, and speed-to-market. As the demand for digital infrastructure grows, so do the challenges facing construction teams delivering these mission-critical facilities.
From navigating labor shortages and managing complex MEP systems to meeting evolving client expectations, this blog explores the key challenges in data center construction and how BE&K Building Group strategically addresses them to ensure successful project delivery.
1. Compressed Schedules & Speed-to-Market Pressure
In today’s data-driven world, owners and hyperscalers require aggressive delivery timelines, often as short as 16–20 months from initial design through commissioning. These compressed schedules leave little to no room for delays, which can be costly, both financially and competitively.
Solutions:
- Utilize fast-track and phased delivery approaches, such as constructing the building shell first (before the need is urgent) and completing interior fit-outs closer to the time of need.
- Incorporate modular and prefabricated systems to reduce onsite labor and accelerate installation. System options include mechanical systems, skidded or exterior enclosures for electrical systems, containerized generators, and heating and air conditioning systems.
- Facilitate early and ongoing collaboration with the owner’s stakeholders, designers, construction team, and key trade partners to align on critical milestones prior to construction and identify bottlenecks before they can impact the schedule.
2. Labor Shortages & Skilled Workforce Gaps
Specialized trades such as electrical, HVAC, and controls are in high demand across the industry. Labor availability is often inconsistent, especially in remote or rapidly emerging data center markets, making it difficult to maintain project schedules and quality standards.
Solutions:
- Leverage prefabrication and offsite manufacturing to reduce the required quantity of skilled onsite labor.
- Engage trusted trade partners early to secure workforce commitments and align resource availability before finalizing key project milestones.
- Invest in workforce development and upskilling by partnering with trade schools, local unions, and community programs. Conduct early outreach to high school students exploring alternatives to college. Early outreach and training opportunities can help build a sustainable workforce talent pipeline.
3. Complex MEP Systems
Modern data centers, especially those supporting high-density AI workloads, demand robust and redundant mechanical and electrical systems. Any misalignment or oversight in MEP coordination can result in costly rework or system failures.
Solutions:
- Engage key MEP trade partners in the design phase as early as possible to conduct constructability reviews and mitigate potential concerns.
- Foster early collaboration between designers and trade partners utilizing the BIM and supporting clash detection tools, enabling continuous coordination of MEP systems and structural components.
- Standardize proven system designs whenever possible to reduce complexity, simplify installation, and reduce overall risk.
4. Long-Lead Times for Critical Equipment
Key equipment such as transformers, generators, switchgear, and HVAC systems often have lead times exceeding 40 weeks. These extended procurement timelines can present a significant schedule risk if not addressed early.
Solutions:
- Identify long-lead items early in the project lifecycle and begin procurement efforts parallel with the design process.
- Collaborate closely with vendors to forecast availability, anticipate potential delays, and explore options for storing materials and critical equipment on or off site. Maintain clear communication channels with suppliers to remain ahead of shifting market conditions and ensure timely deliveries.
5. Strict Uptime and Reliability Requirements
Data centers must meet stringent Tier I through IV standards and uphold Service Level Agreements (SLAs) that demand near-perfect uptime. Achieving this level of reliability requires flawless execution, rigorous quality control, and comprehensive system testing.
Solutions:
- Begin with the end in mind. Engage commissioning agents at the beginning of the project, during the design phase, to support system design, prepare for turnover documentation requirements, and plan for final commissioning. Do not wait until project closeout.
- Perform Factory Witness Testing (FWT) for all critical equipment and systems to identify and resolve issues before shipment and onsite installation.
- Implement strict QA/QC protocols supported by detailed checklists and field verifications at every stage along the way, including before and after system start-up.
The challenges of data center construction are not going away, but with the right approach, they can be effectively managed. Success begins with collaborative planning, early stakeholder involvement, and implementing proven and innovative delivery strategies. Construction leaders who embrace technology, foster strong partnerships with owners, design teams, and key trade partners, and advocate for standardized, repeatable design approaches are best positioned to deliver with the speed, precision, and reliability today’s digital market demands.
At BE&K Building Group, we understand the high stakes of data center construction. Our team delivers deep expertise, a proactive mindset, and a track record of success in delivering complex, high-performance facilities. We engage early, collaborate closely, and execute with precision to ensure your project remains on schedule, is delivered to your standards, and performs as promised.
Ready to build your next mission-critical facility with confidence? Contact BE&K Building Group to start the conversation.