Data Centers, Cooling Trends & What’s Coming in 2026
A look at the major trends shaping the data center and HVAC industries in 2026. Key topics include the growing role of high-voltage DC for improved power quality, the rise of liquid cooling, and how air-cooling technologies continue to play a critical part across the data center ecosystem.
Industry discussions also touch on innovation momentum coming out of recent events, shifting demand toward high growth markets, and the increasing importance of localized manufacturing to reduce lead times, navigate tariffs, and strengthen supply chain resilience—especially as AI driven data center expansion accelerates.
Themes such as energy efficiency, grid capacity limitations, hybrid cooling approaches, and system level optimization frame a broader question for operators and suppliers alike: Where do you fit within the data center system, and how are you preparing for what comes next?
Tom Carroll serves as Director of Data Center within the ACV Strategic Business Field at ebm-papst Americas, the global leader in heating and air movement technology. With more than 15 years of experience in air moving, motor, and electronic systems— including 11 years with ebm-papst—he leverages deep technical expertise and leadership across the HVAC and data center ecosystem to drive innovation and growth in high efficiency cooling solutions. He works closely with OEM partners and ebm-papst’s R&D teams to develop advanced solutions for the evolving data center and HVAC markets. Tom holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering and an M.S. in Management of Technology from Fairfield University.
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