Please Join us for our February Chapter Event!

Community First: Why Local Engagement Is the First Step in Data Center Site Selection

Thursday, Feb 12, 2026
5 PM - 7:30 PM CT

Norton Rose Fulbright - West Loop
1045 West Fulton Market, 9th floor
Chicago, IL 60607

FREE FOR AFCOM MEMBERS | $25 FOR NON-MEMBERS

Contact Bill Winsininski about sponsorship opportunities!

Agenda:
5:00–5:30 PM – Networking & Arrival
5:30–6:30 PM – Panel Discussion
6:30–7:30 PM – Networking & Continued Conversations

About the Event:
This panel will explore how developers, operators, municipalities, and ecosystem partners can more effectively engage local communities as data center projects scale and gain visibility. The discussion will focus on building trust, aligning long-term economic and infrastructure goals, and earning the “social license to operate” before the first shovel ever hits the ground.  Drinks and hors d’oeuvres will be served. 

Panelists:
John McBride, Partner, Norton Rose Fulbright
Nia Mathis, General Counsel, Eve & Co.
Dale Lewis, Director of Project Development – Data Centers / Mission Critical, Boldt Construction
Bill Winsininski, CEO, CWC Consulting

We look forward to bringing together leaders from across development, legal, construction, and community engagement for a candid, forward-looking conversation—and to continuing the dialogue over networking before and after the panel.