2026 Speakers
Discover the industry leaders, innovators, and thought leaders who will be sharing their insights at Data Center World. Our carefully curated lineup of speakers brings together diverse perspectives and cutting-edge expertise to deliver valuable content tailored to your professional growth.
Parker Slaybaugh, Vice-President, Virginia Connects/LINK Public Affairs
Parker Slaybaugh is a Vice President at LINK Public Affairs, a national public affairs firm with extensive experience in improving public sentiment toward data center development at the national, state, and local levels to support zoning and permitting approvals.
At LINK, Parker directed Virginia Connects, a statewide initiative designed to improve public understanding and favorability of data centers. Along with his team, he helped build and execute a targeted communications strategy grounded in community input, stakeholder coalition-building, local government outreach, and data-driven messaging. The effort addressed common concerns and misconceptions related to land use, environmental impact, and workforce benefits.
Parker coordinated multi-channel campaigns—including media relations and digital engagement—that leveraged emotional storytelling to provide transparent information, highlight local economic impacts, and foster constructive dialogue between operators and communities. As a result, Virginia Connects strengthened public trust, reduced opposition to responsible development, and created more productive pathways for permitting and local collaboration.
Parker and his team at LINK Public Affairs have replicated similar campaigns across the country for individual developers supporting approvals for project-specific developments. LINK’s pragmatic, evidence-based approach continues to reframe the conversation around data centers by emphasizing long-term community benefits while prioritizing responsive public engagement.