On November 6-7, 2024, DCD>Connect | Virginia brought together over 1,800 senior leaders from the cloud and colocation ecosystem at Lansdowne Resort & Spa for a premier industry event focused on designing, building, and operating next-generation data centers. This dynamic conference delivered a rich lineup of content sessions and exclusive networking opportunities, allowing professionals to share insights and solutions for some of the industry’s most complex challenges.

Attendees experienced 48 hours packed with compelling presentations and vibrant discussions. This year’s agenda addressed a range of forward-looking themes, including sustainability, AI’s role in data center operations, innovative construction strategies, and the balance between local community perspectives and industry development. Key topics, such as “The Calm Before the Storm” session on tackling sustainability and extreme weather challenges, and “Machine vs Man,” a debate on AI’s impact on human roles within data center operations, sparked thought-provoking conversations among participants.

DCD>Connect | Virginia is known for fostering a strong sense of community, and this year’s event was no exception. Delegates engaged in various activities designed to deepen connections and encourage collaboration. From closed-door debates and technology exchanges to icebreaker parties, lunch briefings, a 5k run, and a pickleball tournament, the event provided plenty of opportunities to build relationships in a more relaxed environment. An exclusive cocktail hour for professionals under 30 underscored the event’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of industry leaders.

As the event wrapped up, attendees left with fresh ideas, new contacts, and actionable strategies to navigate the rapidly evolving digital infrastructure landscape.

Save the date for DCD>Connect | Virginia 2025, returning to Lansdowne Resort & Spa on November 3-4, 2025, where industry leaders will again convene to explore, connect, and drive progress in the world of data centers.