AI is pushing data centers beyond what they were ever designed to handle—and the industry is being forced to adapt fast.

In this episode of The Pete Sacco Podcast, part of The Data Center Edge series, Pete sits down with David Quirk, CEO and Owner of DLB Associates Consulting Engineers, to examine how AI workloads are transforming data center design, cooling, and power strategy.

They discuss high-density racks, direct-to-chip liquid cooling, refrigerant-based solutions, and why nuclear energy is re-emerging as a serious option for powering next-generation facilities. The conversation also explores the shift from AI modeling to large-scale inferencing—and what that means for infrastructure, services, and software innovation.

With more than 25 years in the mission-critical industry, David is a licensed Professional Mechanical Engineer in 48 states, a Certified Energy Manager, a LEED Accredited Professional, and former chair of ASHRAE’s Mission Critical Facilities committee. Having authored hundreds of papers and delivered over 100 presentations, he brings practical insight into where the industry is heading.

This isn’t just a technical discussion—it’s a leadership conversation about building resilient infrastructure for the AI era and making decisions today for tomorrow.

👤 Guest

David Quirk

CEO & Owner, DLB Associates Consulting Engineers

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-quirk-258b8b40/

Living in Bliss

Living in Bliss is a practical guide to mastering mindset, leadership, and self-awareness so you can navigate rapid change, align with purpose, and create lasting success in life and work.

The Bridge

What if your fear about AI is actually an invitation to evolve?

The Bridge explores why AI anxiety isn’t about technology—it’s about the tension between human consciousness and the systems we’ve built around identity and success.

Pete Sacco builds AI’s physical infrastructure while pursuing deep consciousness work through meditation and somatic practices. In this essay, he explores:

• Why AI triggers existential anxiety • The principles linking technological and human intelligence • How your nervous system shapes your AI relationship • Why optimization drains but alignment empowers • Seven pillars of conscious leadership in the AI era

This isn’t about using AI better. It’s about evolving fast enough to guide what we’re building.

Are you ready to become The Bridge?

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🎙️ The Data Center Edge

A segment of The Pete Sacco Podcast exploring AI, data centers, energy, and critical infrastructure.