October 30, 2025
DENVER – Vantage Data Centers, a leading global provider of hyperscale data center campuses, and the Wisconsin Building Trades Council have announced a formal partnership to construct the massive Lighthouse data center campus in Port Washington, Wisconsin. The joint pledge ensures the multi-billion dollar project will be built primarily by union labor.
This privately funded development represents a more than $15 billion investment, described as a "once-in-a-generation" initiative that aims to position Wisconsin as a global hub for sustainable artificial intelligence (AI) digital infrastructure. Over the three-year construction period, the project will require a peak workforce of more than 4,000 skilled tradespeople.
“This pledge recognizes the importance of building complex digital infrastructure with the best skilled professionals who deliver projects safely, on time and to the highest quality standards,” said Emily Pritzkow, executive director of the Wisconsin Building Trades Council. “We are excited to start working on this project, which represents a historic opportunity for Wisconsin workers to complete apprenticeships, support their families and invest in their communities.”
The agreement has been hailed as a significant commitment to the local workforce. As part of the pledge, Vantage has committed to working with its contractors to employ local union workers to the fullest extent possible.
“Wisconsin has one of the most skilled and highly trained workforces in the country, and agreements like this prove it,” said Dan Bukiewicz, president of the Milwaukee Building-Construction Trades Council. “Every job created here means another opportunity for our local tradespeople to showcase their expertise and build careers right at home.”
Simon Casey, chief delivery officer for North America at Vantage Data Centers, emphasized the company's commitment to the region. “Vantage is proud to partner with Wisconsin’s union workers to build a once-in-a-generation, sustainable data center campus in Port Washington,” Casey said. “We look forward to collaborating with local officials, the community and the Governor to break ground on this project with union support.”
The Lighthouse project is expected to deliver substantial immediate and long-term economic benefits to Port Washington, area businesses, and the wider state of Wisconsin.
About Vantage Data Centers
Vantage Data Centers is a global leader in digital infrastructure, serving the world’s most influential AI and cloud providers. With operations across North America, EMEA, and Asia Pacific, the company focuses on delivering capacity with a commitment to operational excellence and customer success.
About Wisconsin Building Trades Council
The Wisconsin Building Trades Council represents 15 member craft organizations and acts as the unifying voice for over 40,000 working men and women across the state, providing the skilled workforce that builds Wisconsin's infrastructure.
Source:aijourn
