(WAUKESHA, Wis. 11/6/25) – The International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 139 is announcing its support of the proposed QTS data center in DeForest. The proposal represents a $12 billion investment, an unprecedented commitment to renewable energy, and a $50 million pledge to support local initiatives that strengthen education, workforce development, housing, and other critical needs in Dane County.
“Facilities as complex as the proposed QTS data center require highly-skilled professionals for construction. Union workers, like the members of Local 139, are uniquely positioned to build this project safely, on time and within budget,” stated Terry McGowan, President and Business Manager of Local 139. “These large projects have the potential to provide family-sustaining wages to 4,000-5,000 construction workers and meaningful training opportunities for registered apprentices. I am optimistic that QTS will use local union labor to the greatest extent possible for this project.”
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. The full cost of these projects will be funded by QTS, not individual ratepayers. “The QTS data center provides an opportunity to accelerate Wisconsin’s renewable energy transition while offsetting the burden of that transition from existing homeowners, renters, and businesses,” said McGowan.
Despite misinformation campaigns, the QTS data center will not burden Dane County’s water supply. QTS intends to use water-free cooling technology that does not consume water for cooling. “The reality is that data centers are necessary for modern life, including our children’s education, health care delivery, and manufacturing. Wisconsin should seize this once in a generation opportunity to benefit from data center development,” said McGowan.
