ST Telemedia's FutureGrid and skill development initiatives

ST Telemedia Global Data Centres has revealed two initiatives to strengthen Singapore's stature in the digital and energy sectors. The FutureGrid Accelerator, Southeast Asia’s premiere live AI testbed powered by High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC), comes alongside a collaboration with four key Institutes of Higher Learning (IHLs) in Singapore.

The initiatives align with national objectives to support new graduates amidst a challenging job environment. By focusing on the skills needed for advanced power and digital infrastructure, these efforts distribute a role to AI-ready data centres while concurrently addressing the wider energy ecosystem. Ms Gan Siow Huang, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Trade & Industry, reinforced this national ambition during the project's announcement.

Operating from the Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore), the FutureGrid Accelerator, a joint effort with LITEON, demonstrates HVDC utilization for AI workloads. This high-efficiency setup is poised to enhance data centre architecture by fostering resilience and reducing energy consumption in Singapore's progression towards sustainable energy solutions.

Traditional AC systems face limitations. In contrast, HVDC seeks to offer benefits such as energy savings and a minimised environmental footprint—up to 30% fewer energy demands and a 400-tonne reduction in CO2 emissions per megawatt annually. Additionally, its compatibility with renewable sources further seeks to amplify its appeal, supporting ultra-high-density racks at reduced costs.

STT GDC inked Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with the Institute of Technical Education (ITE), Singapore Polytechnic (SP), NTU, and the National University of Singapore (NUS). These MOUs will impact over 8,000 Singaporeans, fostering skill development in AI infrastructure and sustainable energy systems.

1. Internship Placements: Across ITE, SP, NTU, and NUS, STT GDC will offer real-world experience in data centre operations, supported by industry mentors over a five-year period.
2. Curriculum Development: With ITE, tailored courses will target data centre operations and sustainability, accommodating approximately 800 ITE students annually.
3. Environmental Leadership: Partnering with SP will emphasise sustainable practices through collaborative exploration of green technologies and events to promote eco-friendly solutions.

These initiatives underscore STT GDC’s commitment to cultivating a pipeline of industry-ready professionals.