Setting the Standard for Data Center Development Consulting

As demand for data centers continues to surge, driven by AI, cloud computing, and our ever-growing reliance on digital connectivity, developers are under increasing pressure to deliver projects faster and more efficiently. With global data center financing projected to hit another record in 2025 — reaching an estimated $170 billion in asset value — navigating the complexities of site selection, permitting, and entitlements has never been more critical.

To help Bohler’s clients stay ahead in this evolving landscape, Megan Baird, PE, has stepped into the role of Director of Market Advancement for Mission Critical. Over the past 12 years, Megan has played a pivotal role in guiding data center projects from due diligence to completion, overseeing the development of more than 9 GW of capacity.

As an experienced professional engineer, Megan has developed a deep understanding of complex project requirements. Now, she’s focused on helping data center clients across the firm receive consistent service, and developers navigate site selection, zoning challenges, leveraging incentives, and deliver speed-to-market.

We sat down with Megan to discuss how her new role will help Bohler’s clients seize opportunities in the growing mission critical sector.

What does your role as Director of Market Advancement for Mission Critical entail?

My role is focused on providing Bohler’s data center clients with a consistent experience across all our offices. As data center development accelerates, it’s critical that our teams — no matter where they’re located — understand the unique nuances and technical requirements of these projects.

I have been working closely with our internal continuing education and technical support teams to create training programs that prepare our employees to manage the increasing volume of data center work. This means equipping them with the knowledge, tools, and strategies to help clients navigate site selection, permitting, and strategic approaches to combat speed-to-market challenges.

Ultimately, my goal is to offer clients the partnership and problem-solving approach that Bohler is known for.

How does this effort benefit Bohler’s data center clients?

By strengthening our team’s knowledge and skills in data center development, we’re able to stay ahead of industry demands and scale our operations more efficiently. We are consistently educating our dedicated data center team on the regulatory, environmental, and community challenges our clients face.

With key designers and project managers strategically positioned across our footprint, we combine technical expertise with deep local insight, helping clients navigate complex zoning, permitting, and design constraints with confidence.

Given how quickly this industry is moving, ability to help advise our clients for expeditious decision-making is critical. Being at the forefront of data center development is something we take great pride in, and we remain committed to helping our clients succeed in this fast-growing market.

You’re a licensed PE in this role. How does that set Bohler apart from other consultants in data center development?

Having a technical background as a licensed Professional Engineer gives me a unique perspective in this role and sets Bohler apart in the mission-critical space. I am able to relate to our client needs because I have been in the trenches of site feasibility, permitting, design, and construction administration. My engineering experience allows me to blend strategic market with technical expertise, anticipating many potential roadblocks before they become costly delays. The result is practical, engineered solutions that help to keep data center projects moving forward efficiently

The data center industry is highly complex, with constantly evolving local, state, and federal compliance requirements. Having a PE in this role means our clients don’t just receive high-level strategy — they partner with a consultant who understands the technical intricacies, regulatory nuances, and design challenges firsthand.

My role allows me to bridge the gap between market growth and project execution, helping our teams deliver solutions that set projects up for long-term success.

Data center regulations are evolving rapidly. What trends are you seeing across the country?

As data centers expand beyond traditional hubs like Northern Virginia, we’re seeing jurisdictions update their zoning ordinances to better define and regulate these facilities. Unlike warehouse and distribution centers, data centers don’t generate significant traffic or daily truck deliveries, but they do have specialized equipment and operational impacts that require a tailored regulatory approach.

One of the biggest trends is the push for clearer, more consistent zoning regulations that address factors like architectural requirements, setbacks, buffering, screening, and stormwater management. The goal is to balance the unique needs of data centers with the concerns of surrounding communities, particularly in suburban and rural areas where development is expanding. Generally, jurisdictions are working to attract data center investment while addressing environmental and political considerations.

We’re collaborating with county officials to help shape smart, practical regulations that don’t just create hurdles for developers but instead foster responsible, well-planned growth. By proactively engaging in these discussions, we’re helping clients navigate evolving policies in new and emerging markets.

What’s your advice to development teams breaking into the data center market?

Success in data center development isn’t just about finding a consultant — it’s about building a strategic partnership with a team that truly understands the nuances of your business and long-term goals. The right partner doesn’t just execute a project; they integrate seamlessly with your team, help to anticipate challenges, and work with the team to develop customized solutions that enhance efficiency and speed to market.

Data center projects move at an incredibly fast pace, and delays can be costly. By working with experienced partners across all disciplines — land development consultants, land use attorneys, architects, geotechnical engineers, and more — teams can streamline site evaluations, permitting, and design processes while navigating complex regulatory landscapes.

Our mission-critical team takes the time to understand our clients’ operations, helping them develop tailored guidelines and processes that support both immediate project needs and many aspects of long-term scalability. Having a team that’s proactive, adaptable, and aligned with your vision is critical to breaking into this competitive market.

Ready to move your next data center development forward faster? Connect with Megan.