The North Central States Regional Council of Carpenters (NCSRCC) fully supports the proposed QTS data center in DeForest. The proposal represents a $12 billion investment over a decade and positions Wisconsin to be a global hub for sustainable Artificial Intelligence (AI) digital infrastructure. This investment will support more than 5,000 construction trades jobs over the next decade.
Union Carpenters are already helping build state-of-the-art data centers across Wisconsin. “Our members are highly skilled professionals who deliver projects safely, on budget, and to the highest quality standards,” said Patrick Nilsen, Executive Secretary-Treasurer of the NCSRCC. “Major, long-term projects like these are essential for our members, they sustain good careers, expand apprenticeship opportunities, provide family health benefits, and strengthen local economies. Let’s get to work.” Nilsen added.
To provide energy for the data center, Alliant Energy and QTS have announced an agreement to bring on 750 MW of new renewable-generation resources like wind and solar. Alliant Energy has signed the Wisconsin Utility Labor Pledge which means union workers will build Wisconsin’s clean energy infrastructure. “This project means even more opportunities for local carpenters, from constructing the QTS site to building the renewable energy that keeps it running,” Nilsen concluded. The full cost of these projects will be funded by QTS and not other ratepayers.
Data centers offer local governments a steady stream of property tax revenue without significantly increasing the need for city services. This enables communities like DeForest to expand services for residents and deliver property tax relief. In addition, QTS is stepping up with a $50 million community investment directly for Dane County, the Town of Vienna and Village of DeForest.
The North Central States Regional Council of Carpenters (NCSRCC) looks forward to partnering on the proposed QTS data center, an investment that will drive local growth, support good union jobs, and reinforce Wisconsin’s position as a leader in modern infrastructure.
