Microsoft has completed construction of its first data centre facility in the Village of Mount Pleasant, Wisconsin, US and commenced complete operations.
The move comes following equipment installation and initial startup activities that took place in April. This marks a key stage in Microsoft’s long-term investment plans for Southeast Wisconsin.
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The completion of the data centre comes nearly two years after construction began, with approximately 10,000 workers contributing to the project.
Microsoft reported that this initial stage was finished ahead of schedule. Currently, close to 550 full-time employees are working at the site, with further recruitment ongoing.
Both Microsoft and its contractors anticipate that the workforce will expand as the operation grows.
Microsoft vice chair and president Brad Smith said: “With our Fairwater datacenter now fully operational, Wisconsin is now home to the world’s most powerful supercomputer.
“This campus will help power the next generation of AI innovation globally and provide long-term economic opportunity locally through hundreds of highly skilled jobs and continued investment in the region.”
Mount Pleasant Village president David DeGroot said: “This is a historic milestone for Mount Pleasant and all of Racine County as we become home to one of the most advanced technology campuses in the world.
“Microsoft’s decision to invest here elevates our community into a destination for innovation and advancement. As this campus continues to grow, it will create lasting opportunities for residents, strengthen our regional economy and help position Wisconsin for long-term success.”
According to Microsoft, spending on hyperscale construction in the state is expected to total $4.7bn between 2024 and 2028.
The company has made direct purchases from 29 businesses located in 11 Wisconsin counties, including suppliers and manufacturers involved in construction and equipment.
Work on a second, adjacent facility in Mount Pleasant is in progress, with completion scheduled for 2028. Microsoft anticipates that the local workforce will reach around 800 full-time roles when both facilities are operational.
