Emerging cooling technologies and career opportunities in thermal engineering, smart systems and sustainable infrastructure in 2025
The rapid advancement of technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), high-performance computing and renewable energy systems is driving unprecedented demand for innovative cooling solutions. As data centres, solar panels and high-density electronics generate increasing amounts of heat, cooling technologies are evolving to meet efficiency, sustainability and scalability challenges.
Liquid cooling for high-density computing
The rise of AI and machine learning workloads has pushed traditional air-cooling systems to their limits, particularly in data centres. Liquid cooling — including direct-to-chip and immersion cooling — is emerging as a dominant solution due to its superior efficiency. Direct-to-chip cooling delivers coolant directly to processors, while immersion cooling submerges hardware in non-conductive fluids to dissipate heat.
According to industry reports, liquid cooling can reduce data centre power consumption by up to 20% compared to air cooling alone. Major tech companies like Microsoft and Meta are adopting these technologies to support AI-driven infrastructure, with the liquid cooling market projected to reach USD 48 billion by 2034.
Hybrid and modular cooling systems
Hybrid cooling systems, which combine air and liquid cooling, are gaining traction for their flexibility and adaptability. These systems allow data centres to balance cost, efficiency and scalability, making them ideal for diverse workloads.
Modular cooling towers, with their scalable designs, are also gaining popularity in HVAC applications. These systems can be deployed quickly and expanded as needed, reducing upfront costs and enabling rapid infrastructure scaling for AI and edge computing.
Sustainable cooling and heat reuse
Sustainability is a key driver in cooling technology innovation. Techniques such as heat reuse — where excess heat from data centres is redirected for building heating or industrial processes — are becoming more common.
Additionally, energy-efficient cooling towers and chillers are being developed with advanced materials and coatings to reduce water and energy consumption.
Smart cooling with IoT and analytics
The integration of the Internet of Things (IoT) and advanced analytics is transforming how cooling systems are managed. Smart cooling technologies use sensors and AI-driven analytics to monitor and optimise performance in real time, reducing energy waste and improving operational efficiency.
For instance, IoT-enabled cooling towers can adjust operations based on environmental conditions, while predictive maintenance reduces downtime. These advancements are critical for data centres and industrial applications where precise thermal management is essential.
Emerging passive and thermogalvanic cooling
Passive cooling technologies, which rely on natural heat dissipation without active energy input, are being explored for use in solar photovoltaics and low-energy environments. These systems reduce operating temperatures and improve efficiency without drawing additional power.
Additionally, thermogalvanic refrigeration — which uses electrochemical reactions for cooling — is showing promise as a low-energy alternative to conventional refrigeration systems.
Career opportunities in cooling technologies
The evolution of cooling systems is unlocking new career opportunities across engineering, technology and environmental science. Below are some of the key roles expected to grow in demand through 2025 and beyond.
Thermal engineers and cooling system designers
Thermal engineers are leading the design of liquid cooling, hybrid solutions and heat reuse systems. These roles demand expertise in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics and materials science. Leading companies such as NVIDIA and Intel seek engineers to integrate cooling into high-performance computing hardware. Salaries in the U.S. typically range from USD 80,000 to 120,000 annually, with senior roles exceeding USD 150,000.
Manufacturing and installation technicians
The production and deployment of cooling equipment — including towers, chillers and modular systems — require skilled technicians. Roles in manufacturing, quality control and on-site installation are expanding as the demand for sustainable infrastructure grows.
Data centre cooling specialists
As data centres transition to liquid and hybrid cooling, specialists who can manage these complex systems are increasingly in demand. These professionals oversee infrastructure, integrate smart technologies and ensure high availability for AI workloads. Certifications in HVAC, data centre operations or mechanical systems management can significantly boost employability. Entry-level salaries typically begin at USD 70,000, rising with experience and specialisation.
Research and Development (R&D) scientists
The development of emerging technologies like thermogalvanic refrigeration and passive cooling systems is driving demand for R&D scientists. These roles often require advanced degrees in physics, chemistry or mechanical engineering and involve close collaboration with tech companies, universities and government labs.
Sustainability and IoT integration experts
As environmental regulations tighten, professionals with knowledge in sustainability, AI analytics and IoT integration are needed to design and manage smart, energy-efficient cooling solutions. These roles are central to ensuring compliance with green building standards, reducing emissions and supporting the global transition to net-zero infrastructure.