In mid-September, our North America team gathered in Buffalo for their annual Offshore. At Northshore, we host two types of in-person gatherings: Offshores and Onshores. Offshores bring together teams from across regions to align on company-wide goals and strengthen collaboration. Onshores, by contrast, are focused sessions where individual teams dive into their specific priorities and roadmaps. Both play a distinct role in how we stay connected and deliver at scale.
We look forward to our Offshores each year because they give us the chance to step back, reconnect with Northshore’s mission, and reflect on the impact our work is making in decarbonizing the data center industry. For North America, this Offshore was about sharpening our edge, strengthening our culture, and ensuring we can deliver with clarity and capability no matter where our clients are or what challenges they face.
Learning, Alignment, and Partner Insights
The heart of the offshore was built around workshops that reinforced Northshore’s mission and clarified the role each of us plays in delivering global ready solutions. New company gear gave us a visible symbol of belonging, while sessions offered space to think big about our future. Even the unexpected fire drill became a chance for some impromptu bonding — proof that this crew can steady the ship no matter what waves come our way.
A highlight of the week was our visit to a partner’s data center, which offered valuable insight into the infrastructure that keeps delivery afloat. Experiences like this connect the work we do daily to the broader ecosystem that makes it possible, deepening our sense of purpose.
During the workshops, key questions and reflections surfaced. As Brett put it, “How fast can you grow your team without sacrificing the quality of the work, the connection, and the culture that holds it all together?” Diana echoed this, noting that, “Growth and global reach are important, but what really differentiates us is our unique culture. How we preserve that is essential for sustainable success.”
Storytelling and Connection
Another Northshore tradition that always makes waves is the sharing of what we call origin stories. Over dinner, colleagues shared how they first got their start in Northshore, often thanks to close friends or connections who helped open the right doors. These stories not only give us a glimpse into each individual’s journey but also remind us that no one sails alone. By listening to one another, we build the kind of trust and empathy that keeps our culture shipshape.
Juan captured this spirit perfectly, reflecting that, “What really connects our team is meeting more in person whenever possible. Being together helps us communicate better, collaborate more easily, and build stronger bonds. The real commitment is being willing to make the effort, whether that’s traveling to a conference or just coming together for side projects.”
Culture and Shared Experiences
Of course, no offshore would be complete without a few adventures on deck. We kicked things off at the Buffalo Bills’ home opener against the Ravens, an unforgettable game that set the tone for energy and unity throughout the week. From dinners and Monday Night Football to chance encounters at local watering holes (apologies, Ed), these moments provided us with plenty of opportunities to drop anchor and connect outside the workshop setting.
The team also experienced the Maid of the Mist at Niagara Falls, ponchos and all, an awe inspiring reminder of scale and perspective. Evenings often ended with laughter-filled games of liar’s dice, tactical lunch pints, teachings of pickle backs or simple conversations that kept the spirit buoyant and the bonds strong.
Why It Matters
The North America offshore was a clear example of why we invest in these gatherings. They give us space to learn, align, and engage with partners, while also letting us share stories and create memories that will carry far beyond the week itself. That balance of depth and delivery is what makes Northshore truly global ready and ensures we’re always sailing in the same direction.