Data Centers Have a New PR Plan: Your Kid’s Field Trip

The nonprofit 7x24 Exchange International is promoting the data center industry by creating a children's story called "What is a Data Center?" The story involves a honey badger named Honey who takes a guided tour of a data center from a worker named Oliver. Oliver explains that data center employees ensure the services provided by the data center are accessible to everyone at any time.

This initiative is part of a broader trend within the data center industry, which seeks to build positive relationships with communities through various creative methods. Companies and interest groups are employing tactics such as job creation programs, tax breaks, and even organizing school events to garner public support.

One example of this approach is the Potomac chapter of the Association for Computer Operations Management (AFCOM), which sponsored Memorial Day-themed flag-making kits for first graders in Loudoun County, Virginia, also known as Data Center Alley. The kits included informational cards highlighting the positive economic impact of the data center industry on the local area.

Additionally, 7x24 Exchange is responsible for an annual event called "International Data Center Day," aimed at raising awareness of the industry and inspiring future talent.

The group also encourages schools to participate in activities such as data center-themed coloring pages, science projects, and reading materials featuring data center-related adventures. These efforts are part of a broader strategy observed in various other industries that have faced public relations challenges, such as fast food, tobacco, and oil and gas. These industries have historically utilized corporate propaganda in schools to promote their narratives, and data centers are now following suit.