6 Ways to Bridge the IT Skills Gap in Data Centre Operations

The data centre world is evolving at remarkable speed, with artificial intelligence driving demand and transformation. As UK organisations embrace AI to streamline operations and deliver smarter services, the need for skilled professionals in data centre management is growing rapidly. With global data centre supply projected to rise by over 20% in 2025, operators are facing mounting pressure to recruit and retain qualified talent.

Why is there a shortage of trained personnel to support this growth? And how can operators continue expanding while maintaining seamless operations? This insight aims to explore the causes of the skills gap and outline practical steps that UK operators can take to address them.
 

The scramble for IT talent in data centres

The demand for skilled IT professionals in UK data centres is outpacing supply. As artificial intelligence, cloud computing and edge technologies reshape infrastructure, operators are under pressure to scale quickly while maintaining performance and resilience.

Here are some of the key factors contributing to the skills gap:

• Rapid expansion:
  Global data centre capacity is projected to grow by more than 20% in 2025, with UK operators contributing to this surge.
• AI acceleration:
  The rise of AI workloads requires specialised knowledge in machine learning, data orchestration and high-performance computing.
• Ageing workforce:
  Many experienced technicians are nearing retirement, creating a need for succession planning and knowledge transfer.
• Limited awareness:
  Younger professionals may not view data centre operations as a dynamic or impactful career path.
• Complex systems:
  Modern facilities rely on integrated platforms such as OpenBlue, requiring cross-disciplinary expertise in IT, facilities and cybersecurity.
• Regulatory pressure:
  UK organisations must comply with evolving standards around energy efficiency, data privacy and decarbonisation, increasing the need for specialised roles.

These factors help explain why nearly two-thirds of operators report challenges in retaining staff, sourcing qualified candidates or both. According to a forecast by Uptime Institute, there will be demand for 325,000 new full-time data roles globally by the end of 2025. UK data centre operators should take proactive steps now to close this gap and future-proof their operations.

To stay competitive, UK operators must invest in workforce development, embrace smart technologies and foster inclusive cultures that attract and retain top talent. Learn how Johnson Controls supports data centre solutions with scalable systems and expert guidance.
 

Practical steps that can be taken to mitigate the issues:

1. Build a future-ready talent pipeline

To attract emerging talent into UK data centre careers, early engagement is essential. Providers should collaborate with schools, universities and industry bodies to raise awareness and spark interest. Structured workforce development programmes (such as internships, apprenticeships and mentoring) can help build a steady pipeline of skilled professionals.

Whether supporting colocation facilities or hyperscale operations, strong partnerships with educational institutions can develop a steady pipeline of IT talent, and these foundations help to ensure consistent recruitment and the long-term retention of valuable people.

2. Implement scalable, modular training programmes

Flexible training systems are vital to keep pace with technological change. Microlearning modules delivered via online platforms allow IT teams to acquire skills on demand. This approach reduces onboarding time and ensures alignment with industry developments.

UK organisations can benefit from scalable training that supports both individual learning and enterprise-wide growth.

3. Upskill your existing workforce with cross training

Cross training IT staff beyond their core roles creates a resilient and versatile workforce. It helps maintain seamless operations during absences, turnover or increased workloads. This strategy also boosts employee engagement and retention by offering more career development opportunities.

Mentoring schemes and knowledge-sharing initiatives also foster a culture of continuous learning and preserve in-house expertise.

4. Use technology to offset IT labour shortages

Smart technologies can help UK data centres manage staffing challenges:

• AI-driven diagnostics reduce manual troubleshooting
• Robotic process automation can handle repetitive tasks
• AI-based recruitment tools accelerate hiring and can often match prospects to vacant roles more accurately
• Infrastructure as Code (IaC) simplifies configuration programmatically and help reduce reliance on manual configuration - thereby speeding up the process for onboarding junior staff
• Digital twins (virtual models of your data centre) can be especially helpful if you are short of specialist staff as they allow remote visibility and issue detection, which in turn allows you to spot issues and act on them without having to be on-site

These innovations support operational efficiency and reduce reliance on manual processes.

5. Foster an inclusive and purpose-driven culture

Creating a workplace where everyone can thrive is vital for attracting and retaining top talent. UK operators should prioritise clear leadership, two-way communication and equitable growth opportunities.

Make sure hiring and promotion work is fair across all data centre IT roles, from technicians to senior engineers. Encourage employee resource groups (ERGs) or business resource groups (BRGs), to provide valuable peer support and knowledge sharing, while bias training and cross-functional data projects help teams collaborate more effectively.

Data analytics can also help identify and address disparities across roles and teams.

These consistent approaches will foster stronger, more resilient IT teams and better staff retention rates.

6. Choose a solutions partner who understands UK data centres

Given the critical nature of data centres, reliable solutions and trusted partnerships are essential. Johnson Controls supports UK operators with integrated offerings across thermal management, building automation, security and fire suppression.

Our Advanced Development Engineering Centre rigorously tests systems for data centre applications, enabling rapid deployment and innovation. Through our Global Data Centre Solutions Division, we embed engineers in client design processes to ensure tailored, long-term support.

The real competitive edge: Technology and Talent

UK data centre operators can turn the skills gap into a strategic advantage by combining inclusive hiring, scalable training and smart technologies. Promoting new roles (such as digital twin specialists, AI operations analysts, and remote infrastructure managers) will help attract fresh talent and reshape perceptions of careers in this sector.

By acting now, operators can build resilient, high-performing teams and future-proof their operations.

Start taking steps to close or prevent a skills gap in your data centre operations now – embrace inclusive hiring, invest in smarter training, get the right mix of tools and technologies, and partner with experts to build and retain resilient, high-performing teams.

FAQs About the IT Skills Gap

Q. Why is the IT skills gap a problem for data centres?

A shortage of skilled IT professionals can have serious consequences for data centre operations. Here are six ways it may impact performance:

1. Downtime and errors reduce operational efficiency and compromise security.
2. A lack of innovation limits competitiveness and reduces appeal to customers and investors.
3. Persistent pressure and limited career progression can lead to burnout and high staff turnover.
4. Non-compliance with regulations may result in legal issues, financial penalties and loss of client trust.
5. Rising costs are driven by the scarcity of skilled workers and the need for ongoing training.
6. Staff shortages can lead to missed deadlines and increased business risk.

Q. How can companies attract young talent to IT careers in data centres?

Young people at the start of their careers need a clear understanding of how IT shapes the modern workplace and what opportunities lie ahead. Here are five ways to make data centre careers more appealing:

1. Engage early with potential candidates. Refresh your brand, appear in the media they use most and use storytelling to highlight the real-world impact of data centre technology.
2. Invest in internships and apprenticeships. Partner with universities and coding academies to provide hands-on experience and attract career-focused individuals.
3. Promote continuous learning. Offer access to certifications, online courses and platforms such as Coursera, LinkedIn Learning and Udemy.
4. Use education to showcase the power of advanced technologies in data centres, such as digital twins. This can spark curiosity and inspire future innovators.
5. Work to shift perceptions of data centre careers, which may not seem as exciting as roles in cyber security or software development.

Q. What technologies help offset the IT skills shortage in data centres?

Adopting emerging technologies can help data centres manage staffing challenges and expand their talent capabilities:

• AI-powered predictive maintenance tools can optimise operations by identifying maintenance needs and adjusting to energy and cooling demands in real time.
• Digital twins enable smaller teams to monitor facilities and test changes, such as new equipment, in a virtual environment before implementation.
• As virtual and augmented reality tools become more advanced, experienced managers will be able to guide less-experienced staff remotely through complex maintenance tasks.

Q. How long does it take to train a new data centre technician?

Training timelines vary depending on the complexity of the role and the candidate’s prior experience. As a general guide:

• A bachelor’s degree in computer science, IT, network engineering or electrical engineering typically takes four years to complete.
• Entry-level certifications may require three to six months of study.
• Advanced certifications can take six to twelve months, depending on the individual’s background.

Tailored onboarding and continuous development are essential to ensure technicians are fully prepared to meet the demands of modern data centres.