Construction workers are profiting from the surge in artificial intelligence.

AI Expansion Drives Construction Worker Pay Surge

The rapid growth of artificial intelligence is creating lucrative opportunities for construction professionals involved in building the enormous data centers that support this technology. As reported by The Wall Street Journal, those transitioning into data center construction roles are experiencing salary increases of 25% to 30% over their previous positions—and sometimes even more.

For example, DeMond Chambliss left his small drywall company in Columbus, Ohio, to become a supervisor overseeing 200 employees at a data center project. His new role now brings in an annual income exceeding $100,000. “Every day feels surreal,” the 51-year-old shared with the Journal. In Oregon, electrical safety expert Marc Benner earns $225,000 per year, while Andrew Mason, an electrician in Northern Virginia, manages teams across six data centers and makes over $200,000 annually.

But the benefits extend beyond just higher wages. According to the Journal, employers are also offering attractive extras such as heated break areas, complimentary meals, daily cash bonuses, and even opportunities for remote project management. At one site, workers can receive an additional $100 each day as an incentive, significantly boosting their take-home pay.

This construction boom is fueled by major technology companies—including Amazon, Google, and Microsoft—who are rapidly building hundreds of new data centers. The demand for skilled labor is intense, with the Associated Builders and Contractors estimating a nationwide shortfall of about 439,000 qualified workers.