The Rise of Digital Infrastructure and What It Means for Your Career

As of 2024, there are approximately 17 billion connected IoT devices worldwide. This number is part of the broader ecosystem of connected devices, including smartphones, tablets, computers, and various other smart devices that rely on stable digital infrastructure for their operation. The growth of connected devices is expected to continue, with projections suggesting that by 2025, the number of IoT devices alone could reach around 27 billion, and by 2030, there could be over 30 billion connected devices globally.

These devices depend heavily on stable digital infrastructures, which include reliable internet connectivity, robust cybersecurity measures, efficient data centers, and resilient network infrastructures to function correctly and securely. As the number of connected devices grows significantly in the coming years, major system failures (Crowdstrike ??) highlight just how much we depend on stable digital infrastructures. This further emphasizes the importance of maintaining strong and resilient digital infrastructures to support the increasing load.

If this growing industry sounds like something you might be interested in, here's one sector within the industry that you might find intriguing: Data Centers.

Baidu’s "On-the-Go" Data Center

Baidu, Inc. is just one example of companies that are investing in Data Centers.

Baidu, Inc., which currently holds over 4,600 patents relating to autonomous driving technology, is after 1 more! A couple of months ago, Baidu, Inc. was seeking a patent for a system that would transform autonomous vehicles into mobile data centers, which would then allow them to relocate to areas in need of service.

How It Would Work:

An autonomous vehicle would transform into a data center extension when a cloud service is needed beyond the range of existing facilities. Equipped with advanced hardware, a nearby self-driving car is activated to handle the request, switching from driving mode to "micro data center" mode. The vehicle then operates as a data center, sitting idle to perform data requests when not in use as a car. This innovative approach can significantly enhance the flexibility and reach of data services, particularly in underserved areas.

What Does This Mean: Data Center Industry Trends

After reading the full report of this patent, I immediately put on my investigator hat. I noticed a couple of things that could help job seekers:

1?? Investment in autonomous vehicles is expanding beyond initial expectations, including uses like transportation and delivery.

2?? This is your chance to dust off your skills or learn new skills in AI, cloud computing, and mobility solutions.

3?? Innovation, sustainability, and a reduction of capital costs for data centers seem to be themes here. Those experienced or interested in cost optimization, resource management, sustainable design, or sustainability policy may find job opportunities in this field.

4?? If this project is successful, it has the potential to impact (and bring more jobs to) the following industries:

• IT: expansion of cloud infrastructure and the development of edge computing solutions
• Automotive: accelerate the advancement of autonomous driving technology & diversify revenue streams for the industry
• Telecommunications: connectivity for mobile data centers
• Energy: providing power to autonomous vehicles and data centers
• Manufacturing: producing the hardware components used in autonomous vehicles and data center infrastructure
• Logistics and Supply Chain: deployment and maintenance of mobile data centers
• Regulatory and Compliance: ensuring compliance with safety and security regulations, addressing privacy concerns
• Finance and Investment: provide the necessary funding and resources to support the development and deployment

(Sources: IoT Analytics; Exploding Topics; Techjury)

I enjoy exploring the future of careers and industries. If you find this interesting, shoot me a DM, and I'll do a deep dive into another innovative development in a different industry.

In-Demand Digital Infrastructure Roles

If data centers aren't your thing, here's a list of in-demand digital infrastructure roles you might be interested in.

• Network Engineer: A Network Engineer designs, implements, and manages computer networks that support in-house voice, data, video, and wireless network services. They ensure the network's high availability, performance, and security.

• Systems Administrator: A Systems Administrator is responsible for managing and maintaining an organization’s IT infrastructure, ensuring the smooth operation of servers, networks, and other computer systems.

• Cloud Solutions Architect: A Cloud Solutions Architect designs and manages the cloud infrastructure for an organization, ensuring that it meets business needs and is scalable, secure, and efficient.

• DevOps Engineer: A DevOps Engineer bridges the gap between software development and IT operations, aiming to improve collaboration and productivity by automating infrastructure and workflows.

• Cybersecurity Analyst: A Cybersecurity Analyst protects an organization’s computer systems and networks from cyber threats by implementing security measures and monitoring for breaches.

• IT Support Specialist: An IT Support Specialist provides technical assistance to users, resolving issues related to computer systems, software, and hardware.

• Infrastructure Project Manager: An Infrastructure Project Manager oversees the planning, execution, and delivery of IT infrastructure projects, ensuring they are completed on time, within budget, and meet the specified requirements.

• Database Administrator: A Database Administrator manages and maintains databases to ensure they operate efficiently, securely, and are available to users when needed.

• Network Security Engineer: A Network Security Engineer is responsible for securing an organization's network infrastructure against unauthorized access and threats.

• Cloud Infrastructure Engineer: A Cloud Infrastructure Engineer manages and optimizes cloud-based infrastructure, ensuring it is scalable, secure, and cost-effective.

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