Jason van Gaal is a P.Eng with a unique breadth of experience across the entire data center lifecycle. With nearly 20 years of experience, he has designed, built, and operated some of Canada's largest data centers, with hundreds of megawatts of engineering, project management, and operational experience across dozens of locations.

As the lead engineer and a Principal at Planus Corp, he was instrumental in the design and construction of over 100 data centers, providing him with a foundational understanding of the industry's technical and operational complexities. This extensive background laid the groundwork for a successful career as an entrepreneur and leader.

Applying this expertise, he co-founded ROOT Data Center, where as CEO and COO, he led the company through a period of explosive growth, achieving 400% year-over-year revenue expansion. During this time, he also engineered and implemented disruptive technologies, such as a simplified Tier III electrical and mechanical distribution system that significantly reduced capex and opex costs. ROOT Data Center was later acquired in 2019 as part of a $3B transaction.

This successful exit was part of a larger, multiple acquisition strategy that began with his earlier venture Granite Networks to Rogers communications in 2013.