Northern Virginia’s Data Center Industry Sets Benchmark in Community Reinvestment and Workforce Development

7×24 Exchange DC Chapter reinvests over $222,000 in education, workforce pathways, and community support in 2025

ASHBURN, VA: Northern Virginia’s data center industry continued to demonstrate that growth and community responsibility can move in tandem, as the 7×24 Exchange DC Chapter announced a reinvestment of $222,600 into the local community during 2025. The funds were directed toward charitable giving, scholarships, workforce development initiatives, and veteran and wellness support across the region.

Representing the heart of the world’s largest data center hub, the 7×24 Exchange DC Chapter plays a central role in convening leaders from information technology, engineering, construction, and facilities management. As demand for digital infrastructure accelerates, the Chapter’s members have focused on ensuring that the industry’s expansion delivers tangible benefits to the communities in which it operates. “Data centers power our digital lives, but it’s people who power our industry,” said Lillian Rivera, Executive Director of the 7×24 Exchange DC Chapter. “This year’s impact reflects a shared commitment to reinvesting locally, including supporting students, strengthening families, and building a workforce that is prepared for the future.”

2025 Community Impact at a Glance In total, the Chapter reinvested $222,600 across education, workforce development, and community support initiatives. This included $98,000 dedicated to scholarships and workforce development programs, supporting college-bound students, Loudoun County Public Schools graduates, Northern Virginia Community College students, and individuals pursuing new career pathways into mission-critical industries.

An additional $98,600 was allocated to community support, benefiting a range of local nonprofits such as the Boulder Crest Foundation, Loudoun Education Foundation, America’s Soup Kitchen, Women Giving Back, House of Mercy, Grafton Schools, Sterling Foundation, Haymakers for Hope, and Crossroads Connection. These organizations address critical needs ranging from food security and education to family support and veteran wellness. “Coming from such a digital industry, we look for high-touch opportunities to give back,” said Karen Petersburg, President of the DC Chapter Board. “Our favorite causes help real students afford college, support families facing immediate needs, and develop the skilled workforce required to sustain one of the most critical industries in the world.”

Building Education and Career Pathways Workforce development remained a cornerstone of the Chapter’s mission in 2025. During the year, $50,000 in college scholarships were awarded to eight students pursuing degrees in engineering, cybersecurity, construction management, and related disciplines. An additional $28,000 supported 14 graduating Loudoun County Public Schools students, while $20,000 was contributed through the NOVA Foundation. “This industry offers life-changing career opportunities,” Petersburg said. “Workforce development isn’t just a priority; it’s part of our shared responsibility.”

Honoring a Lasting Legacy The year was also marked by the passing of Brian Brobst, a founding member of the DC Chapter, longtime board leader, and former treasurer, who served the organization for more than 15 years. Widely respected as a mentor and connector within the mission-critical industry, Brobst’s influence continues to shape the Chapter’s work. “Brian believed deeply in people: investing in them, mentoring them, and showing up for them,” Rivera said. “His legacy lives on through the students we support, the careers we help launch, and the community impact we continue in his name.”

In his honor, the Chapter announced the launch of the Brian Brobst Legacy Internship, a paid 10-week summer program offering students immersive, hands-on experience in AI, cloud, and data center operations. The program includes rotational placements with leading organizations, structured mentorship, and direct exposure to real-world engineering and operational environments.

Leadership Recognition and Growth In 2025, Chapter President Karen Petersburg was named Data Center Woman of the Year by DCD Academy, recognizing her leadership, collaboration, and long-term impact within the global data center industry. The Chapter also expanded its Board of Directors, welcoming new leaders with deep expertise across engineering, reliability, education, and business development.

Rooted in Northern Virginia’s Data Center Alley, the 7×24 Exchange DC Chapter continues to serve as a hub for education, collaboration, and reinvestment—ensuring that as the industry grows, the community grows with it. “Our mission is simple,” Rivera said. “Power what comes next—together.”