With more than 25 years in the data centre industry and a long military background, we caught up with Trevor Tucker to explore his journey. From transitioning out of the armed forces to returning from retirement, he shares insights into working at Pulsant and how the industry continues to evolve.
What were you doing prior to joining Pulsant?
Prior to joining, I had been in the data centre industry for 25+ years. I came from a military background: joined the Air Force at 17, did 9 years active service, then reserve duty and joined the Territorial Army / Reserve Forces, spending another 16–17 years in the Army before moving into civilian data centre roles.
How did you hear about the role at Pulsant and why did you feel it might be a good fit for you?
I had retired but after 7–8 months I was bored and missed the challenge of data centre work. I wanted the unpredictability and problem-solving aspects; Pulsant offered that environment and the chance to be back in operations during the onset of the AI-driven changes to the industry.
How would you describe your transition from the military into the data centre industry?
It was a slow transition. The main change was moving to a more relaxed working environment with less top-down pressure and more scope for suggesting and implementing process improvements. Moving from strict written orders to collaborative changes was the most difficult part.
The transition involved learning to propose improvements from the bottom-up; when a good idea could be proven, processes could change and be implemented rather than only following top-down orders.
What did you find most challenging about the transition and how did Pulsant help you with this?
The challenge didn’t affect me much personally, but I observed that Pulsant provides strong mentorship (buddy system), excellent team support, comprehensive probation and regular check-ins so new starters are brought up to speed quickly and looked after by management and people teams.
What’s it like to work at Pulsant and how does it compare to your time in the military?
Both environments emphasise processes and regulations. Pulsant is more relaxed but still process-driven. Suggestions that improve speed/efficiency are welcomed and can be implemented if proven.
Tell me about your career with Pulsant so far.
I came back from retirement and joined Pulsant later in life (in my 60s). I found no ageism and the team accepted my experience quickly. I have enjoyed being adopted into the team and leveraging my military and industry experience.
What learning and development opportunities have you had or are available at Pulsant?
Training is available: career progression discussions, added accountabilities leading to training, and technical training on power, UPS, generators, IT cabling, server installation, remote-hands work, switches and infrastructure. Base mandatory training and yearly requirements are covered; first-aid and fire marshal training are also provided.
How does the company support your mental and physical wellbeing?
Pulsant looks after people well: regular surveys with management follow-up and action plans, good support structures. Physically, data centre work is hands-on and active (often 10,000+ steps/day in large sites), and the company recognises and supports those physical demands.
Why can the data centre industry be a good place to develop your career?
The industry is growing rapidly, driven by AI and larger power-density needs. Racks have moved from ~3 kW to options of 120 kW per rack in some cases. Data centres are becoming massive and are a major recruiting area within IT, offering lots of development and change.
What advice would you give someone leaving the military to consider a career in data centres?
If you want a fast-moving environment where no two days are the same, data centres are a great fit. The role involves working with diverse people and skills, and the work ranges from fibre optics to diesel fuel transfers - it’s varied and rapidly evolving with AI.