From Vision to Reality: McKinstry’s Turnkey Approach to Next-Gen Data Center Infrastructure

The acceleration of generative AI technologies—platforms like ChatGPT, Midjourney and Gemini—is fundamentally reshaping demand across the built environment. As these tools become embedded in daily workflows, the infrastructure required to support them must evolve just as rapidly. Behind the interface is a growing need for data centers to deliver high-performance computing at scale with efficiency and resilience.

AI already accounts for approximately 20% of global data center capacity. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), electricity demand from data centers worldwide is set to more than double by 2030, with AI being the most significant driver of this increase. Meeting this demand requires rethinking how we design, build and operate mission-critical infrastructure from the ground up.

To address these challenges, McKinstry delivers fully integrated solutions that combine technical and operational expertise across every project phase. Through a turnkey model, we help clients future-proof their assets while maintaining speed to market. AI and high-density computing demand infrastructure that goes beyond conventional mechanical and electrical systems. With increased heat loads, stricter uptime requirements and greater complexity in commissioning, McKinstry integrates mechanical, construction, manufacturing, technical and energy capabilities into a single delivery team. This multidisciplinary model enables us to optimize performance, streamline timelines and reduce risk. But delivering capacity is only part of the story. We prioritize flexibility, reliability and long-term value to support sustained high-performance operations in a rapidly evolving landscape.

Sustainability is embedded in every decision. As data center operators work to support exponential growth while meeting climate targets, McKinstry delivers solutions that do both. High-efficiency cooling, renewable energy and advanced power management are not add-ons—they’re foundational. We engineer systems that reduce environmental impact without compromising performance, helping clients meet ESG and business goals simultaneously.

One way we deliver impact is by self-performing across disciplines. From early design and fabrication to commissioning and long-term support, McKinstry serves as a single point of accountability. This integrated approach keeps teams aligned and execution predictable. Whether optimizing cooling layouts, right-sizing backup power or enabling water reuse, we focus on system-level strategies that drive measurable results.

As AI reshapes how data centers operate, infrastructure must evolve to keep pace. McKinstry’s adaptable, high-efficiency designs are built to scale with sustainability at their core. We don’t just respond to change—we help shape what comes next. If you’re planning for the next wave of growth in data and AI, we’re ready to build what’s next together.

Explore Other Insights

Share: