Evgeny Virtser, CEO of Open Technologies Engineering, Participates in the International Forum Data Center & Cloud Kazakhstan

In early October, Evgeny Virtser, CEO of Open Technologies Engineering and Founder of the Key Point Group, participated in the annual international forum Data Center & Cloud Kazakhstan in Almaty. This major event, the largest of its kind in Kazakhstan for the data center industry, was organized by X Media Group.

During the plenary session of the forum, Evgeny Virtser shared his plans for the development of an international data center network, which Open Technologies Engineering is currently building for the Key Point Group. He noted that the volume of data storage and processing is growing every year, new technologies are emerging, and artificial intelligence is advancing worldwide, including in the Republic of Kazakhstan. According to last year's results, the IT market in Kazakhstan grew by 41.1% compared to the previous period, while the export of IT services increased tenfold. To support domestic demand for content and services from international suppliers, it is essential to host their local resources on domestic platforms. Additionally, from a geopolitical perspective, Kazakhstan holds a strategic position as a transit hub between China and Europe. This is why it was decided to build the first Key Point Group facility outside Russia in Kazakhstan. The data center, with a capacity of 880 IT racks at 7 kW each and a total design capacity of 11 MW, is planned to be constructed in Almaty and commissioned by 2026. The facility is expected to undergo Uptime Institute certification to meet the Tier III fault tolerance level, and its modern, reliable engineering infrastructure is designed to meet the needs of most future customers.

Evgeny also participated as an expert in the discussion titled "The Future of the Data Center Industry and Cloud Providers in the Republic of Kazakhstan." During the session, participants discussed the role of data centers and cloud providers in the country's development strategy up to 2030, ways to build a positive reputation for commercial data centers among customers, the export potential of Kazakhstan's data centers, and shared their experiences in addressing HR challenges in the industry.

"The staffing situation in Russia has recently become quite challenging. The number of qualified experts available is significantly lower than the number of tasks that need to be addressed. Poaching skilled personnel from competitors does not solve the problem, as they can do the same to you tomorrow. Typically, a project lasts 2-3 years, and it is ideal when a single team works on it from the concept stage through to commissioning. Any staff changes during the project result in losses.

We believe that the best solution to the staffing issue is to train the people we need. For the past two years, Open Technologies Engineering, which implements all Key Point projects, has been collaborating with the Moscow Power Engineering Institute (MPEI) in the field of BIM design. The company's professionals deliver lectures and conduct seminars on digital design. MPEI students undergo practical training and internships at Open Technologies Engineering, which has led to the recruitment of 12 young designers. This year, with the support of MPEI, the company established a fundamental Data Center Department. Students will study six specialized subjects and receive state-approved diplomas upon graduation. Plans are also underway to cooperate with professional colleges, as the market requires not only designers but also engineers who can work directly at the facilities. If every industry participant contributes to developing talent, it will undoubtedly yield positive results," said Evgeny Virtser.