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Six skilled trades and functions behind AI infrastructure

Compare power, cooling, networking, facilities, construction, and physical-security work without treating unlike occupations as interchangeable.

Reviewed August 21, 2026

Different functions, connected infrastructure

These tracks organize unlike occupations by what they support. They do not make programs interchangeable or promise a particular worksite.

Power and electrical

Function
Install, maintain, and repair electrical wiring, equipment, and fixtures.
Reviewed occupation titles
  • Electrician Inside Wireman (Construction)
Transferable practice to investigate
Test electrical systems, diagnose malfunctions, and inspect systems for hazards or defects.
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Cooling and HVAC

Function
Install or repair heating, air-conditioning, HVAC, and refrigeration systems.
Reviewed occupation titles
  • AC & Refrigeration Technician
  • Air Balance Testing Technician
  • Environmental Control System Servicer/Installer
Transferable practice to investigate
Test electrical circuits, inspect systems, adjust controls, and repair defective components.
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Networking and fiber

Function
Install, service, or repair communications equipment and communications wiring.
Reviewed occupation titles
  • Communication & Systems (Craft) Installer
  • Communications Technician
  • Electronic Systems Technician (Sound Technician)
  • Sound and Communication Installer
Transferable practice to investigate
Test communications equipment and connections, run wiring, inspect equipment, and repair electronic equipment.
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Facilities operations

Function
Operate or maintain stationary engines, boilers, and other mechanical equipment that provide building or industrial utilities.
Reviewed occupation titles
  • Stationary Engineer
Transferable practice to investigate
Monitor equipment operation, inspect equipment, troubleshoot system problems, and record operational data.
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Construction

Function
Construct, assemble, maintain, and repair stationary steam boilers and boiler-house auxiliaries.
Reviewed occupation titles
  • Boilermaker
Transferable practice to investigate
Review blueprints, assemble equipment, weld metal components, and operate hoists or other lifting equipment.
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Physical security

Function
Install, program, maintain, and repair security and fire-alarm wiring and equipment.
Reviewed occupation titles
  • Limited Energy Technician Class A
  • Security Systems Technician
Transferable practice to investigate
Test and repair circuits and sensors, lay cables to connect equipment, and inspect equipment for electrical problems.
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