Data centre construction is driving an unprecedented influx of electricians to central Washington state, where abundant hydropower and tax incentives have attracted major tech companies building AI infrastructure.

According to the New York Times, Microsoft alone projects needing 2,300 electricians in coming years for facilities across three counties along the Columbia River. Union electricians earning up to $2,800 weekly after taxes are transforming agricultural communities like Quincy, where data centres now account for 75 per cent of local tax revenue.

It is swings and roundabouts thing though.  While demand for sparkies is high rising housing costs and limited long-term employment opportunities raise concerns about sustainable economic benefits for longtime residents.