I believe technologies at the edge will drive the future of how we interact and extend the Internet to areas that struggle to have reliable services. For example, edge data centers with faster performance and lower latency will move data to critical areas such as telemedicine, emergency services, and other smart city initiatives. In addition, edge data center technologies will carry and optimize 5G networks and increase content delivery, including gaming, autonomous vehicles, and more to every corner of our communities.

The telecom industry needs to standardize what it means to be “sustainable.” Until the industry establishes clear guidelines and criteria that a data center – and its vendors – must meet to be classified as sustainable, we will continue to see surface-level claims without any substance, authentication, or verification. Without clear benchmarks, standards, and definitions to achieve and maintain sustainability, we won’t know how performance and success can be measured and adjusted. The industry is thirsty for a clear and attainable blueprint to navigate these unchartered waters. I address the topic in a co-authored Amazon best seller, Greener Data, alongside a number of industry professionals hoping to make an impact on sustainability in our field.

Companies need to innovate their offerings regarding sustainability. As we try to find the middle ground between meeting demand while maintaining or achieving sustainable operations, the industry must pioneer practices to be energy-efficient and reduce carbon footprints. The data center industry accounts for 2 to 3% of the world’s electricity consumption. We need to expand the discussion around sustainable building processes and guidelines while also holding our vendors accountable.

MCFI is thrilled to be a part of PTC. The organization’s extensive network with industry leaders, cutting-edge research, and best practices aligns perfectly with MCFI as we deliver innovative and sustainable solutions to enhance our industry and serve our communities globally. With MCFI projects deployed around the world, we value the Pacific region as a place for opportunity, growth, and importance in our communications ecosystem.

There’s no better place to collaborate, innovate, and network than with the PTC Community. As our industry moves the needle from sustainability to cutting-edge technologies, PTC provides a safe place to discuss, grow, and cultivate the future of telecommunications.

My best advice would be to find a mentor in the industry to gain insights, advice, guidance, and opportunities throughout your telecom career. In this industry, the connections with peers and colleagues run deep and it’s important to build your network to help you grow and make an impact in our community.

I have been a lifelong New Orleans Saints fan in a family that has held season tickets since 1968.

I am an electrical engineer with a computer architecture specialization who started my career as a gas turbine commissioning engineer on 50MW and 85MW gas turbines.