Data Center Manager of the Year
Returning for Its Fourth Year!
Winner Announced at Data Center World 2026
Celebrating outstanding leadership within the data center community has never been more important. The Data Center Manager of the Year award continues its mission to honor exceptional professionals who are making a real difference in our industry.
We're looking for that standout leader in your data center organization - the person who embodies the spirit of innovation in mission-critical environments. This could be someone who:
- Demonstrates unwavering commitment to maintaining uptime
- Excels at building and inspiring teams
- Champions sustainability initiatives
- Drives innovation and forward-thinking solutions
- Consistently seeks smarter ways to operate
- Plans strategically for future challenges
- Actively advances their organization's goals
Congratulations to Our 2026 Data Center Manager of the Year
Joseph Gingrich
Data Center Engineer,
GDIT
“As a Senior Engineer, Joseph Gingrich is the technical cornerstone and informal leader of the Data Center Engineering team.
He fosters teamwork not through formal authority, but by actively elevating the entire team's capability, leading complex projects, and ensuring a collaborative, forward-moving environment.”
Meet the 2026 Finalists
David Ashworth, Director, Site Operations, Prime Data Centers
James Black, Senior Director, Virginia Operations, Cologix, Inc.
Joseph Gingrich, Data Center Engineer, GDIT
Anand Mohammed, Senior Director, Western Canada, Cologix, Inc.
Alv Skjellet, Operations Manager, Green Mountain AS
What's at Stake?
The winner will be honored at Data Center World 2026 in Washington, D.C., receiving well-deserved recognition among industry peers.
Finalist and Winner Benefits
All finalists, including the winner, will receive:
- Complimentary standard pass to Data Center World 2026
- Discounted team passes for their colleagues
- Special recognition during the General Session
- Free one-year AFCOM membership
- Commemorative plaque
Ready to Nominate?
The nomination period is currently open. Don't wait - submit your nomination today and help us recognize the leaders who are shaping the future of data center management! Don't forget - self-nominations are welcome and encouraged!
Nominations Window Closed Friday, February 27, 2026