What are the commercial real estate market conditions like today—and what kind of outlook are we looking at for different sectors next year? Rich Traub, partner at Smith, Gambrell & Russell, joins the Buildings Podcast to offer reasons for optimism as we head into 2026.

This bonus episode of EC&M On Air, sponsored by Wesco, explores how the rapid growth of AI, cloud computing, and digital infrastructure is reshaping the data center market and pushing development beyond traditional core locations. Host Ellen Parson is joined by Wesco subject matter expert David Speidelsbach to examine the forces driving unprecedented demand, the strain being placed on established data center hubs, and why emerging and tertiary markets are becoming the next frontier for development.

The conversation dives into the benefits and challenges of building data centers in these new regions, including cost advantages, access to land and renewable energy, tax incentives, and the realities of labor, water, and infrastructure constraints. David also shares guidance for electrical contractors navigating these complex projects, highlighting the importance of early collaboration, strong partnerships, and supply chain coordination. Throughout the discussion, listeners gain practical insight into how contractors and suppliers can successfully support large-scale, mission-critical data center builds in an evolving market.

The demand for green leases is growing fast—and not just because it’s good PR. Cities across the country are tightening energy codes and requiring emissions tracking. Here’s how to stay on top of these requirements as a property professional.