Michael Gaughan: Leading Data Center Growth in the AI Era
Michael Gaughan’s career blends technical expertise, international experience, and a passion for shaping the future of data centers. As Vice President at Soben, he drives large-scale projects that power the rapidly evolving AI and digital infrastructure landscape.
Career Journey: From Quantity Surveyor to U.S. Data Center Leader
Growing up in a construction family in Cork, Ireland, Michael’s early exposure to job sites and heavy machinery shaped his career ambitions. Initially considering civil engineering, he was drawn to Quantity Surveying (QS), where he could combine his love of numbers, strategy, and problem-solving.
His career took off with international assignments: first in Belgium, where a planned six-month project turned into two years of transformative experience, and later in Ireland, leading billion-dollar waste management projects. Eventually, Michael embraced a major career move to the United States, first in Iowa, then Chicago, before joining Soben. Today, he leads Soben’s U.S. team from Chicago, building relationships and expanding delivery across America.
Tackling Complex Challenges
One of Michael’s standout projects was a seven-year-delayed data center retrofit in Chicago. The project involved outdated equipment, multiple contractors, and significant cost overruns. Under Michael’s leadership, the team restructured the scope, rebuilt stakeholder confidence, and delivered the project in just 18 months.
“The scars from that project are also lessons,” Michael says. “It taught me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of transparent communication.”
Building the Future: AI-Driven Data Centers
Michael is currently leading a Charlotte-based data center development designed to support the expansion of AI infrastructure. This project represents the cutting edge of construction in the technology space.
“Being part of something that directly enables the future of AI is both a challenge and a privilege. It’s where construction and technology truly meet.”
Defining Moments & Lessons Learned
Travel as a catalyst for growth: Once hesitant to travel, Michael’s international assignments shifted his perspective and opened doors to accelerated career development.
Advice to his younger self: Don’t chase money, chase opportunities to grow. Always plan for the next five years and diversify your experience.
Personal insight: If he weren’t in data center construction, Michael would pursue a lifelong passion for animals, dreaming of running a ranch with horses and donkeys.
Looking Ahead with Soben
At Soben, Michael is driving U.S. growth while strengthening collaboration with clients and teams across the Americas. His mission is clear: to deliver data centers that are faster, smarter, and future-ready, supporting the global demand for AI and digital transformation.
To find out more about Soben’s consultancy services in North America you can contact Michael on the details below:
Vice President