General FAQs
Your Questions. Straight Answers.
Amazon Web Services (AWS) is developing an AI infrastructure campus in St. Joseph County to support the growing demand for artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing services. The campus represents one of the largest private investments in Indiana's history and will help power technologies used by businesses, governments, healthcare organizations, educational institutions, manufacturers, researchers, and individuals around the world.
This section provides an overview of the campus, why it was built in St. Joseph County, and how AI infrastructure campuses operate.
Who is AWS?
Amazon Web Services (AWS) is the world’s most widely adopted cloud platform, offering services such as computing, storage, networking, and AI tools to millions of customers worldwide—from startups to large enterprises and government agencies. AWS enables businesses to innovate faster, reduce costs, and scale efficiently.
What is a data center?
A data center is a secure facility housing servers, storage systems, networking equipment, and cooling infrastructure. It powers cloud services, AI workloads, and digital applications for businesses worldwide.
What is an AI infrastructure campus?
An AI infrastructure campus is a collection of highly specialized facilities that house the computing systems needed to train and operate artificial intelligence (AI) models and support cloud computing services used by organizations worldwide.
These campuses provide the computing capacity that powers applications ranging from healthcare research and financial services to advanced manufacturing, scientific discovery, education, government services, and everyday digital tools.
Why do data centers matter?
They provide reliable computing power, backup systems, and security, enabling businesses to run critical applications and store data efficiently. Data centers form the backbone of modern digital life, supporting everything from banking and healthcare to e-commerce and entertainment.
What happens inside an AI infrastructure building?
Each building houses thousands of servers and specialized computing equipment that process, store, and transmit data. The equipment operates continuously to provide secure, reliable computing services for AWS customers worldwide.
In addition to computing hardware, each building contains sophisticated electrical, cooling, networking, and monitoring systems that help ensure uninterrupted operations.
What is the AWS project in New Carlisle?
AWS has invested $13.8 billion in St. Joseph County from 2024 – 2026. The campus will feature multiple large-scale buildings (up to 32 shells, each ~200,000 sq. ft.) with advanced infrastructure for AI and cloud computing. Construction will span multiple years, creating a long-term economic impact.
Why was St. Joseph County selected?
AWS evaluates potential locations based on a variety of factors, including access to reliable electric infrastructure, available land, fiber connectivity, transportation infrastructure, workforce availability, and opportunities for long-term growth.
St. Joseph County's strategic location, strong utility infrastructure, skilled workforce, and collaborative public and private partners made it an attractive location for long-term investment.
How many buildings will there be?
The campus will feature multiple large-scale buildings (up to 32 shells, each ~200,000 sq. ft.) with advanced infrastructure for AI and cloud computing. The construction is occurring in phases over several years. By the end of 2026, AWS expects to have 12 buildings completed, with the northern portion of the campus nearing completion while development continues on the southern campus.
Who builds the campus?
At peak construction, approximately 4,000 workers are on site across the AWS campuses. Construction is being led by four general contractors, Clayco, Suffolk, Ryan Companies, and Walbridge, supported by hundreds of subcontractors.
More than half of the construction workforce is from Indiana, and approximately 80% live within 95 miles of the project. Nearly 1,000 regional electricians were on site during peak construction, highlighting the significant role local skilled trades are playing in delivering the project.
As buildings are completed, AWS employees assume responsibility for operating and maintaining the facilities.
How many people work at the campus full-time post-construction?
The New Carlisle campus currently (July 2026) employs approximately 1,056 full-time AWS employees and will have 12 buildings operational at the end of 2026. Approximately 80% of employees live in Indiana, including roughly 450 residents of St. Joseph County. Wages must be an average of 125% of the county wage, meaning workers at AWS earn 25% more than the average worker in St. Joseph County.
As additional buildings become operational, employment will continue growing.
What kinds of careers support an AI infrastructure campus?
An AI infrastructure campus requires employees across many disciplines, including:
• Data center operations
• Engineering
• Electrical and mechanical maintenance
• Facilities management
• Environmental, health, and safety
• Physical security
• Human resources
• Training and workforce development
• Administrative support
In addition to AWS employees, hundreds of contractors and service providers support ongoing campus operations.
Where can I learn about career opportunities?
Individuals interested in employment opportunities with AWS or other regional employers can explore current openings through the South Bend Regional Chamber's AI-powered Jobs Board. The board features hundreds of openings from Chamber member businesses across a wide range of industries, including Amazon positions when they are available.
The Jobs Board is updated regularly and is designed to connect local talent with career opportunities throughout the South Bend Region.
Explore current job openings:
South Bend Regional Chamber Jobs Board