In this episode, Ilissa Miller, Founder and CEO of iMiller Public Relations, shares how nearly three decades in digital infrastructure have given her a unique perspective on the evolution of data centers, connectivity, and the growing challenges surrounding AI-driven infrastructure development. Drawing on her experience as a communications strategist, industry advisor, and Chair of OIX’s Digital Infrastructure Framework Committee, Ilissa explains why the future of digital infrastructure depends as much on trust, transparency, and community engagement as it does on technology.
Ilissa discusses the changing role of iMiller Public Relations, from shaping industry messaging and introducing new concepts like edge data centers and master-planned data center developments to helping organizations build stronger relationships with the communities where they operate. She emphasizes that successful projects begin with listening, educating, and creating fact-based conversations that address public concerns before misinformation and fear take hold.
The conversation explores some of the industry’s most pressing issues, including AI infrastructure, responsible data center growth, site selection, zoning, power, water usage, and the balance between economic development and community interests. Ilissa explains why developers must prioritize thoughtful planning, transparent communication, and responsible resource management to earn public trust while supporting the next generation of digital infrastructure.
Looking ahead, Ilissa believes the future of data center development will be shaped by collaboration between developers, communities, policymakers, and infrastructure leaders. As AI continues driving unprecedented demand for digital infrastructure, she believes the organizations that succeed will be those that combine innovation with responsible growth, meaningful stakeholder engagement, and a long-term commitment to building infrastructure that benefits both industry and the communities it serves.
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About
Ilissa Miller is the Founder and CEO of iMiller Public Relations, host of NEDAS Live!, and Editor-in-Chief of Data Center POST. With nearly 30 years of experience across public relations, marketing, sales, product development, and digital infrastructure, she advises companies on strategy, messaging, market positioning, and growth across the data center, cloud, telecom, internet, edge, managed services, and network sectors.
Ilissa is also the creator of Groundswell™, iMPR’s community engagement and project-risk communications framework designed to help infrastructure developers, municipalities, and stakeholders navigate public sentiment, local opposition, education, and trust-building around critical infrastructure projects. Her perspective is informed not only by decades of industry experience, but also by her public service as a two-term elected Trustee in the Village of Mamaroneck in Westchester County, New York.
A recognized voice in the global digital infrastructure community, Ilissa serves on the Forbes Agency Council and on the Board of OIX, where she chairs the Digital Infrastructure Framework Committee. She also holds advisory and leadership roles with industry organizations focused on advancing connectivity, digital infrastructure, and community-centered planning.
When you work with iMPR you work with a team of passionate individuals eager to help companies make their mark on the world. We appreciate the important work that the mission critical and digital infrastructure industry is undertaking to reshape the world for a brighter and better connected future.
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