Finalists are leaders driving innovation in cloud computing, connectivity, and energy efficiency at a time of rapid AI-driven growth, solidifying Virginia's leadership as the world's premier data center hub.
MCLEAN, Va., Feb. 4, 2025 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- The Northern Virginia Technology Council (NVTC), the region's leading technology trade association, proudly announces the finalists for the sixth annual NVTC Data Center Awards. These distinguished nominees are at the forefront of data center innovation, reinforcing Virginia's position as the world's premier data center hub.
The NVTC Data Center Awards recognize excellence in technology, sustainability, and corporate responsibility within the industry. Winners will be unveiled at an exclusive ceremony on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. at Stone Tower Winery in Leesburg, VA.
This year's finalists are revolutionizing cloud computing, connectivity, and energy efficiency at a time of rapid AI-driven growth. Their achievements strengthen Virginia's leadership in a sector vital to the global economy. By celebrating these trailblazers, NVTC fosters collaboration and innovation among its network of industry professionals and executives.
Now in its sixth year, the NVTC Data Center Awards continue to highlight Virginia's data center dominance. Northern Virginia's thriving tech hub—fueled by talent, innovation, and proximity to the federal government—boasts the world's largest data center market, with more than double the capacity of its closest competitor.
With Virginia home to 35% of the world's hyperscale data centers, the industry's economic impact is undeniable. In 2024 alone, Virginia's data centers generated $1 billion in tax revenue, supported 74,000 jobs, and contributed $9.1 billion to the state's GDP, according to the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP).
"We are proud to honor the visionaries who have made Virginia the global leader in data centers," said Jennifer Taylor, NVTC President and CEO. "This industry has become a cornerstone of Virginia's economy, creating billions in revenue and thousands of high-caliber jobs. This event is a testament to its extraordinary contributions to the global digital landscape."
Virginia's data center market continues to expand, with regions like Culpeper, Richmond, Spotsylvania, and Fredericksburg driving growth. According to Cushman & Wakefield's Global Data Center Market Comparison Report, Virginia remains the world's top-ranked data center market, thanks to unparalleled innovation in power management, energy efficiency, and sustainability.
"As Virginia's data center sector experiences unprecedented growth fueled by AI, we recognize the pioneers driving this transformation," said Vinay Nagpal, Chairman of the NVTC Data Center and Cloud Community. "Congratulations to all nominees for their exceptional contributions, both locally and globally." The finalists were selected by an independent panel of judges, recognizing excellence across five key award categories. These individuals and companies are leading the charge in one of the most crucial sectors of the global economy, and their efforts will continue to drive innovation for years to come.
The NVTC 2025 Data Center Award finalists are:
Community Champion Award
Jack Bidlack, Northern Virginia Community College
Luke Marshall, HITT Contracting
Wilberte Paul, Amazon Web Services
Digital Realty
QTS
Data Center Innovation Award
Aligned Data Centers
Google
OVHcloud US
Vantage Data Centers
Data Center Partner of the Year Award
DPR Construction
Holder Construction
The M Group Architects
Rising Star Award
Kevin McHugh, Peterson Companies
Kevin Thomas, OVHcloud US
Larissa Wehling, Southland Industries
Haley Willis, EdgeConneX
Andrew Wood, Sabey Data Centers
Data Center Woman of the Year
Jennifer Andos, Paperfish Creative LLC
Stacy O'Donnell, Clark Technologies
Karen Petersburg, PowerHouse Data Centers
This year's NVTC Data Center Awards are sponsored by Amazon Web Services, Falken Industries, The Baldwin Group, Google, Meta, Equinix, Digital Realty, Peterson Cos, Green Building Initiative, Northern Virginia Community College, E.E. Reed, QTS, Prince William County Department of Economic Development, Vantage Data Centers, CoreSite, Distributed Power Solutions and Loudoun County Economic Development.
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Tarin Horan
Northern Virginia Technology Council (NVTC)
[email protected]
703.946.0319
About the Northern Virginia Technology Council:
NVTC is where the region's tech community comes together. From bold startups to Fortune 100 giants, we represent over 470 members across sectors shaping the future of technology. NVTC drives innovation, fosters connections, and advocates for policies that fuel growth and position Northern Virginia as a global leader in technology. Through its initiatives in cybersecurity, AI, cloud computing, and beyond, NVTC empowers the tech community to shape the future. Whether it's through policy advocacy, peer networks, or industry promotion, NVTC drives innovation that's transforming the world. Learn more at http://www.nvtc.org
Media Contact
Tarin Horan, Northern Virginia Technology Council, 7039460319, [email protected], nvtc.org
SOURCE Northern Virginia Technology Council
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