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Episode 13

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Published on:

28th Oct 2025

The Digital Gold Rush: AI and the Future of Data Centres

Peter Dempsey, a seasoned expert in the security industry with over 30 years of experience, joins Security Tech Talk to discuss the rapid evolution of the data centre market, driven largely by advancements in AI and the increasing demand for digital infrastructure. Peter and Steve’s conversation covers the challenges of power supply, the importance of data sovereignty, and the shift towards second-tier countries for data centre investments. They also delve into the security challenges faced by data centres and the innovative technologies being implemented to address these issues. 

About our guest:

Peter Dempsey has spent 25+ years in the security sector undertaking various roles of being responsibility for key elements of mission critical projects across a number of different vertical markets. For the last, three years Peter has focused his attentions on how security technologies best support a business’s security strategy, whilst driving the adoption and elevating the importance of cybersecurity and emerging technologies for physical security practitioners in the Data Centers. Peter’s passion for the industry can be traced back to the huge success in Ireland with Hyper Scale and Multi-Tenant Data Centre (MTDC) deployments over the last number of years.

Connect with Peter on LinkedIn


Chapters:

0:00 - The Digital Gold Rush: Transforming Data Centers

Steve and Peter talk about the exponential growth of data centers fueled by AI advancements, highlighting the shift from traditional data centers to high-demand "AI factories" and the substantial investments reshaping the digital infrastructure landscape.

12:35 - AI's Architectural Mastery and Market Expansion

Focusing on AI's groundbreaking capabilities in designing complex structures, this chapter examines the rapid technological advancements and emerging opportunities in the EMEA market, with a spotlight on countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia as burgeoning digital hubs.

25:20 - Revolutionizing Data Center Security and Compliance

Steve and Peter explore the evolving landscape of data center security, detailing the stringent compliance measures and due diligence undertaken by hyperscale companies to ensure robust protection and operational maturity amidst new regulatory challenges.

38:45 - Navigating the Power Challenge: Infrastructure and Innovation

Addressing the critical issue of power consumption in data centers, this chapter discusses the innovative solutions and strategic decisions being made to accommodate increasing demands, including the importance of power availability and cost in selecting new data center locations.

52:10 - Harnessing Smart Technologies for Enhanced Efficiency

Highlighting the integration of advanced smart sensors and IoT devices, this chapter illustrates how data centers are leveraging technology to improve operational efficiency, monitor environmental factors, and optimize power usage for sustainable growth.


Resources:

Read the European Commission’s NIS2 Directive and the Critical Entities Resilience Directive

Get more information on SIRA (Security Industries Regulatory Agency) in Dubai


Meet your host Steve Kenny: Steve has spent 14 years in the security sector undertaking various roles that have seen him take responsibility for key elements of mission critical, high profile projects across a number of different vertical markets. For the last several years, Steve has focused his attention on how technologies can best compliment day to day operations and specifically address operational issues by supporting the A&E consultant community across EMEA. Steve is a committee member for ASIS International focusing on Education for the security sector and the UK technology advisor for TINYg (Terrorist Information New York group).

Connect with Steve on LinkedIn

More about Axis Communications: Axis enables a smarter and safer world by improving security, safety, operational efficiency, and business intelligence. As a network technology company and industry leader, Axis offers video surveillance, access control, intercoms, and audio solutions. These are enhanced by intelligent analytics applications and supported by high-quality training. 

Axis has around 5,000 dedicated employees in over 50 countries and collaborates with technology and system integration partners worldwide to deliver customer solutions. Axis was founded in 1984, and the headquarters are in Lund, Sweden.

Find out more about Axis Communications - Innovating for a smarter, safer world

https://www.axis.com/


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About the Podcast

Security Tech Talk
Conversations with security industry disruptors and innovators
We talk to security industry leaders, disruptors, and innovators with strong views and opinions on the future of topics like physical security, smart buildings, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and more. We dig into the latest tech trends, explore how security is shaping the world, and delve into those tricky regulations (like NIS2, the Cyber Resilience Act, the EU Artificial Intelligence Act, the UK's Product Security, Telecommunications, Infrastructure Act and more) that keep everyone on their toes. We are here to talk about technology trends, explore the big issues facing the security industry, and provide valuable insights that will support you and your business. Join us as we uncover important information to help you come away feeling well-educated and prepared for the future. This podcast is brought to you by Axis Communications Inc. - innovating for a smarter, safer world.

About your host

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Steven Kenny

Steven Kenny – Manager, Architecture & Engineering Program – EMEA, Axis Communications.
With two decades of experience in the security industry, Steven Kenny has played active roles in numerous high-profile projects, both domestically and internationally. Over the last eleven years, his focus has been on understanding how security technologies can best support business security strategies, all while advocating for the heightened importance of cybersecurity and compliance within the physical security field.

Currently leading a team of Architect and Engineering managers across the EMEA region, Steven remains committed to contributing positively to global security practices. He is actively involved in industry associations and international standards organizations, seeking to collaboratively shape the landscape of security.

In a more behind-the-scenes capacity, Steven has provided consultative support to a national steering group instrumental in establishing the Secure by Design, Secure by Default certification. His close collaboration with the UK Surveillance Camera Commissioner reflects his dedication to enhancing standards in the physical security sector. As a speaker at international security conferences, Steven has modestly shared insights that have contributed to the industry's development and the identification of key technology trends.

Beyond his professional commitments, Steven has volunteered his expertise, previously serving as Director of Systems, Information, and Cyber Security for ASIS International and the UK chapter, before being elected as a board director. He also serves on the EMEA Advisor Council as the emerging technology lead for TiNYg (Global Terrorism Information Network). Additionally, he contributes to various standards committees supporting IoT security and plays a role in the BSI Private Security Management and Services. Steven Kenny's humble dedication has made a meaningful impact on the global security landscape, positioning him as a valued contributor to the industry.