Western Digital has opened a new next-generation System Integration and Test (SIT) laboratory in Rochester, Minnesota. This facility is a state-of-the-art test space spanning approximately 2,400 square meters (730 pyeong) and was designed to meet the surging demand for data storage in the era of AI and cloud computing, and to dramatically accelerate the verification speed of high-quality, high-capacity HDD products.

As part of its 'Customer-First' strategy, Western Digital established the SIT Research Center, enabling it to rapidly and reliably deliver customized storage solutions through test infrastructure that simulates actual data center environments. In particular, equipped with a verification system optimized for AI and cloud workloads, the company strengthens collaboration with customers throughout the entire process, from product development to mass production and end-of-life.

Western Digital Chief Product Officer (CPO) Ahmed Shihab emphasized, “In the era of AI innovation, storage is a core infrastructure, and HDDs remain at its center. About 80% of cloud data is stored on HDDs, which is the foundation enabling data collection, processing, and preservation in the AI era.” He added, “This SIT Lab is a symbolic investment by Western Digital to build the future together with our customers.”

The SIT Research Center is connected to a global research network and supports over 2,000 major customer systems in the U.S. and Asia, providing comprehensive engineering services including product development planning, new product testing, certification, and feedback response. In addition, it is strengthening region-specific services through expanded test areas and dedicated customer spaces.

This opening is an extension of Western Digital’s 40-year commitment to community investment and training the next generation of engineers, and is expected to contribute to sustainable growth and the development of a skilled technical workforce.