Join this lecture to understand how and why Virginia is a data center and AI infrastructure hotspot and what this means for residents of the state. What are the costs and benefits of Virginia's data center expansion? As the prolific use of AI supercharges data center growth, tech companies are investing heavily in Virginia. The material requirements for cloud computing will be unpacked as the 'winners' and 'losers' of policies and developments in the state are discussed. Efforts to educate AI users and prepare impacted communities are key to assure more ethical and greener computer operations for universities and other institutions located in the Commonwealth. Part 2 will be a small, follow-up workshop.