AI and work
Jobs Powering the AI Boom
Data centers used about 4.4% of U.S. electricity in 2023 and could use 6.7% to 12% by 2028, according to a Department of Energy report. Someone has to build the power lines, wire the buildings and keep them cool. These trades pay well, and most are learned through paid apprenticeships.
Trades behind the power and cooling
Pay and outlook for all workers in each job, not only data center work. BLS projects these figures for the whole occupation and does not tie them to AI.
| Job | Median pay, May 2025 | Projected change, 2025–35 | Openings a year | Next step |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electricians | $63,190 | 9% | 72,700 | Open jobs · Step-by-step path |
| HVAC mechanics and installers | $61,010 | 11% | 40,600 | Open jobs · Step-by-step path |
| Electrical power-line installers and repairers | $95,320 | 10% | 10,900 | Open jobs |
| Plumbers, pipefitters and steamfitters | $63,800 | 7% | 42,000 | Open jobs |
| Solar photovoltaic installers | $53,140 | 37% | 4,200 | Open jobs |
How to start
- Find a registered apprenticeship
Search the official Apprenticeship Job Finder . Apprentices are paid while they train.
- Check your state's license rules
Electricians, plumbers and HVAC technicians usually need a state or local license.
- Apply to helper and trainee jobs while you wait
Open apprentice and trainee jobs from employers' official boards.
Questions
Do I need a college degree?
No, not for these trades. Most start with a high school diploma or GED and an apprenticeship.
Which one grows fastest?
Solar photovoltaic installers, at a projected 37% for 2025–35, but it is a small job with about 4,200 openings a year. Electricians have the most openings in this list.
Sources
- U.S. Department of Energy — DOE releases new report evaluating increase in electricity demand from data centers (2024-12-20)
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics — Occupational Outlook Handbook: Electricians
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics — Occupational Outlook Handbook: Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics — Occupational Outlook Handbook: Line Installers and Repairers
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics — Occupational Outlook Handbook: Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics — Occupational Outlook Handbook: Solar Photovoltaic Installers
Checked 2026-10-24.