Episode 10 July 30
Behind the Bot: Exploring the Infrastructure Powering AI in Education
About This Episode
This final episode pulls back the curtain on the “hidden” infrastructure behind AI, giving educators a clear view of what powers the tools now showing up in classrooms. Panelists explain how data centers, cloud computing, servers, and energy systems make AI possible—and the new workforce opportunities growing around them.
Industry leaders outline emerging roles and skills needed in areas like construction, electrical work, and data center operations, while educators discuss what this means for students, digital access, and school advocacy. The conversation also tackles AI’s environmental footprint and highlights innovations aimed at making AI infrastructure more sustainable, accessible, and effective for teaching and learning.
This vodcast is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by the hosts and guests represent their own personal or organizational perspectives and do not constitute an endorsement or representation by the Utah STEM Action Center.
Meet the Speakers
Amy M. Garner
Amy Garner is a People & Culture executive with more than 13 years of experience in the data center industry, helping organizations scale through rapid growth while keeping people at the center of performance. As Vice President of Workforce Planning & Strategy at Vantage Data Centers, she partners closely with senior leaders to align talent strategies with business expansion—ensuring that the company can grow rapidly with intention.
Throughout her career, Amy has been known for translating complex business demands into clear, scalable people solutions. She is passionate about shaping the future of work in the data center industry, with a particular focus on building resilient talent pipelines, developing leaders, and ensuring that even the most technical environments remain deeply human.
Amanda Trumble
Amanda Trumble is the Data Center Segment Leader for the Americas at ABB, where she focuses on aligning ABB’s capabilities with evolving market needs, ensuring scalable future-ready solutions. With 19 years of industry experience, she brings strong strategic insight and a customer-centric approach. Amanda is an active contributor in Infrastructure Masons, 7x24 Exchange, and WiMCO, championing the advancement of women in the mission-critical space.
Cammie Kannekens
Cammie Kannekens is a 20-year veteran high school teacher turned District Instructional Coach in a rural school district in southern Alberta, Canada where she works to integrate technology and innovation with rural sustainability. She has a master's degree in Educational Leadership and among other edtech certifications is a Google Certified Innovator, Trainer and Coach, ISTE/ASCD Community Leader and a Microsoft Innovative Educator Expert, (MIEE), Microsoft Coach and Master Trainer. She works on providing learning experiences across great distances for both students and teachers by introducing them to AI, pedagogy and digital tools that help them connect and build relationships, and amplify community-based projects. She is a proud edtech consultant for Canada’s Logics Academy, teaches an Edtech course for preservice teachers at her local college, and hosts “Classrooms Beyond Borders” podcast to help folks learn about education in different corners of the world..
Adam Garry
With two decades of expertise in consulting, Adam guides educational institutions on their journey toward digital and student-centered learning transformations. He recently led Dell Technologies' education innovation and strategy for 14 years and has been a speaker at prominent conferences around the world. Over the last 20 years, he has contributed articles, blogs, and podcasts on many aspects of education including personalized learning, assessment, generative AI, and leadership. He is currently supporting school districts and companies across the US and Canada with Generative AI initiatives. Additionally, he has co-written two books: "Teaching the iGeneration" and "Personalized Learning Through Voice and Choice". A former elementary teacher, Adam possesses a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education, a Master's in Teaching and Learning with a focus on Technology, and a Certificate in Administration and Supervision.
YOU MAY NEED TO KNOW
Episode Resources
AI Infrastructure
AI Infrastructure | For the Classroom
-
AI for Education: AI's Impact on the Environment - Classroom Guide + Discussion Questions
- Educating Teachers to use AI without Harming the Planet
Resources From our Experts
- Company Website or follow Vantage on LinkedIn
- Port Washington (Lighthouse) Data Center Campus
- Get involved / learn more locally:
ABB
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This engaging Vodcast series, proudly supported by the Utah STEM Action Center, is expertly produced by STEMCONNECTOR. Through this collaboration, we aim to inspire and empower individuals by showcasing innovative STEM initiatives and insights.

