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Data center construction is in overdrive right now, and it’s all being fueled by one thing: AI. The world’s largest tech companies, known as hyperscalers, are racing to build more data centers faster than ever to keep up with the massive computing power AI requires. Industry-wide, spending on data centers is projected to reach nearly $7 trillion by 2030, with hyperscalers driving roughly 80% of that demand. In this environment, speed isn’t just helpful, it’s a serious competitive advantage.

That’s where DEWALT’s latest announcement comes in.

On January 20, 2026, DEWALT, a Stanley Black & Decker brand, introduced the world’s first downward drilling, fleet-capable robotic solution designed specifically to automate one of the most time-consuming parts of data center construction: drilling thousands of precise holes into concrete slabs. Developed in collaboration with August Robotics, this system is already being piloted on real projects, and the results are changing how large-scale construction can be done.

Built for One of the Toughest Phases of Data Center Construction

During a data center build, crews must drill massive numbers of holes into concrete floors. These holes are used to install server rack stops and the structural supports that hold overhead mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. It’s repetitive, physically demanding work that takes serious time, especially at hyperscale.

DEWALT’s robotic solution is purpose-built for this exact task. It drills downward into concrete slabs from above, and it’s designed to operate as part of a coordinated fleet, not just as a single standalone unit. Powered by August Robotics’ autonomous drilling and fleet orchestration platform, multiple robots can be deployed across a jobsite to dramatically increase output while maintaining tight precision.

Real-World Results From a Major Hyperscaler Pilot

This isn’t theoretical technology. DEWALT reports the robot has already completed 10 phases of data center construction with one of the world’s largest hyperscalers as part of an ongoing pilot program.

Across those projects, the robotic system delivered results that are hard to ignore. Construction timelines were reduced by a combined 80 weeks, helping accelerate project delivery on a scale that traditional methods simply can’t match. The system drilled more than 90,000 holes with 99.97% accuracy in both location and depth, which is critical in high-spec environments like data centers where rework can cause major delays.

Speed is another major factor. DEWALT says the robot can drill at rates up to 10 times faster than traditional methods. And beyond time savings, cost savings followed as well, on one project, the cost per hole dropped from $65 down to $20 per hole.

A Bigger Strategy for the Future Jobsite

DEWALT isn’t positioning this robot as a standalone innovation. Instead, it fits into the brand’s broader push to support high-demand construction environments like data centers. The company highlighted how this robotic solution complements its PERFORM AND PROTECT lineup, which focuses on reducing vibration and dust while improving user control, along with DEWALT’s ICC anchoring solutions, a key component in slab-based construction workflows.

The idea isn’t to replace skilled trades, it’s to automate the most repetitive, physically demanding tasks so crews can focus on higher-skill installation and coordination work that still requires human expertise.

When and Where You’ll See It

The robotic drilling system is expected to be commercially available in mid-year 2026. Giving contractors and industry pros a first look at how this technology operates on the jobsite.

This isn’t just another “cool tech” announcement. It’s a real solution aimed directly at one of the biggest bottlenecks in modern data center construction.

When a system can drill 10 times faster, maintain 99.97% accuracy, reduce costs from $65 to $20 per hole, and cut 80 weeks off major project schedules, it has the potential to reshape how hyperscale facilities get built. As AI demand continues to push construction timelines tighter, tools like this robotic drilling fleet could quickly become part of the new standard.

DEWALT is making it clear that the future jobsite won’t just be powered by better tools, it will be powered by smarter automation working alongside the crews who build it. Don’t hesitate to reach out at cs@ohiopowertool.com or 614-481-2111 with any questions, comments, or concerns, and be sure to follow us on all your favorite social media channels to stay in the know on all the latest announcements, deals, news, and more!