Viewpoint: Data center job predictions don’t add up

An opinion piece published in the Missoula Current raises concerns about the accuracy of job creation predictions for the proposed Sabey Data Center in Butte, Montana. The author, Ayana Gray, a resident of Great Falls and a Master's graduate from the University of Cambridge, questions the claims made by Sabey Data Centers' CEO, John Sabey, who projected around 200 permanent jobs and 600 temporary construction jobs. Gray points out that the job projections appear to stem solely from Sabey himself and that attempts to obtain supporting evidence from the company were unsuccessful. She contrasts Sabey's claims with independent analyses that suggest significantly fewer jobs are created per data center, with some studies indicating as few as 6 people per facility or one permanent job for every $54 million invested. Following this, Sabey's $1 billion investment could potentially result in only 20 permanent jobs. Furthermore, the article touches on the uncertainty of whether the 600 temporary construction jobs will benefit local businesses, noting that Sabey operates its own construction company. The Butte-Silver Bow Committee has also acknowledged the possibility of outside labor being brought in, which could negatively impact local construction companies. The author concludes by emphasizing the need for formalized agreements and concrete evidence rather than speculative claims to ensure genuine job creation for the Butte community.