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As cloud computing, AI tools, and other advanced technologies continue to expand, data centers are becoming a vital part of the regional economy in North Central Washington. The Apple STEM Network, a regional partnership co-led by NCESD and the NCW Tech Alliance, is committed to providing young people with access to education and career opportunities that can lead to stable, family-wage jobs. After researching the data center industry and analyzing its trends and potential local impacts, the Apple STEM Network is excited to share its findings through a series of community outreach activities this spring.

Data Centers in North Central Washington

The research highlights the economic benefits, workforce opportunities, infrastructure needs, and more, fostering an important dialogue about the role of data centers in the region. Since the construction of the first Yahoo data center in Quincy in 2006, Washington State has seen steady growth in this sector. North Central Washington has attracted data centers from industry leaders like Microsoft, Sabey, Vantage, NTT, and others over the last two decades, thanks to its strategic advantages such as access to land, clean power, and a skilled workforce.

Data centers already have a substantial economic impact in the region. In Grant County, they contribute significantly to local tax revenue, accounting for over 20% of the county’s total property tax revenue, which supports schools, libraries, and public services. Additionally, a 2022 report by the Washington Technology Industry Association (WTIA) found that data centers in rural counties generate an estimated $158 million in annual economic output and $70 million in wages and benefits. Recognizing this growing industry’s importance, Governor Ferguson recently announced plans to assemble a working group to evaluate the long-term impacts of data centers in Washington.

Upcoming Community Events

To further explore these opportunities, the Apple STEM Network invites local businesses, community and nonprofit leaders, educators, workforce experts, and other stakeholders to attend one of two free regional Data Center Summit events:

The events are free to attend, but space is limited to 80 participants per location. Early registration is encouraged.

About Apple STEM Network
The Apple STEM Network is a regional alliance of K-12, Higher Ed, and community partners led by NCESD and NCW Tech Alliance. We represent a diverse region with tremendous potential for STEM industries in agriculture, energy, and innovation. Our collective effort focuses on supporting educators, integrating community mentorship, promoting authentic project-based learning, and engaging students in exploring future opportunities through STEM. Visit www.applestemnetwork.org for more information.

About North Central ESD
The North Central Educational Service District provides a wide array of programs, services and support to the 29 public school districts in the North Central Washington region of Chelan, Douglas, Grant and Okanogan county. The service district provides professional and timely tools to meet the needs of individual schools and districts, and a reliable point of education-related information for the communities served. The NCESD is one of nine respected educational service districts in Washington state. Learn more at www.ncesd.org

About NCW Tech Alliance
Since 1999, NCW Tech Alliance has served as the region’s tech alliance, championing growth and development in North Central Washington. As a 501(c)3, NCW Tech Alliance’s mission is to bring people and technology resources together to support entrepreneurs, STEM education, and technology adoption in North Central Washington. For more information visit www.ncwtech.org.