Over the past several years, I’ve had the opportunity to participate in industry forums, leadership meetings, and association panels focused on the future of digital infrastructure. One of the most encouraging changes I’ve observed is the growing presence of women across the conversation—whether in engineering, operations, or strategic leadership roles.
Progress is visible. But it also highlights how much further the industry still needs to go.
In an industry undergoing rapid expansion driven by artificial intelligence and the growing complexity of digital infrastructure, the question is not only about representation—it’s about whether we are fully leveraging the talent available to sustain that growth
The conversation about women in technology often focuses on leadership or STEM disciplines. However, the gap cuts across multiple functions: engineering, operations, services—and also commercial and strategic roles. In a context where demand for skilled professionals exceeds supply, this is not a symbolic discussion; it’s a matter of competitiveness.
Artificial intelligence is raising the technical and operational standards of data centers. Higher density, greater energy demands, and more sophisticated design and operations require teams prepared not only technically, but also in management, coordination, and
World Bank research shows that up to 38% of jobs in Latin America and the Caribbean could be exposed to generative AI. Most of these roles are expected to evolve rather than disappear. But gaps in digital access and skills could prevent millions of workers from benefiting from the productivity gains this technology can unlock—highlighting the urgent need to expand the region’s digital talent base.
Expanding women’s participation is not a symbolic gesture. It is a strategic decision to strengthen the foundation from which future leadership is built.
That’s why initiatives such as the launch of Vertiv Academy in Mexico and Brazil are not only technical training programs. They are an investment in regional competitiveness. Bringing digital infrastructure closer to young professionals, offering hands-on experiences, and making visible the career paths available within the industry creates opportunities for both women and men to build the skills needed to contribute to the sector’s future. These are concrete ways to expand access to talent.
The digital economy will continue to grow. Data centers and their critical digital infrastructure will become increasingly decisive for the stability of multiple sectors. In that scenario, talent—in all its dimensions—is the most strategic resource.
If we want Latin America to compete in the digital economy, we must start by expanding access to the talent that will sustain it.
