Invest in the building blocks of AI and HPC
The trusted authority on modular data center deployment, management, and investing.
Aurum Capital Ventures is a pioneer in the modular data center industry, providing forward-thinking investors with secure access to this emerging space through highly-efficient infrastructure. Confidently invest in a proven process that incorporates state-of-the-art facilities on electric grids with underutilized renewable energy.
Leading the way in modular institutional infrastructure for AI and High Performance Computing.
Aurum aims to convert energy to wealth by offering trusted data center solutions through low-cost, sustainable energy sources. Setting the trajectory for the rest of the industry rather than reacting to competitors.
We want to be your partner in modular data center development
The domestic energy revolution
In 2019, U.S. energy production exceeded consumption on a consecutive basis for the first time since 1957. This was heavily driven by an improper incentive system built around tax credits rather than efficient energy production. Modular data centers are a synergistic component of profitable, clean energy creation by providing innovative solutions to historic problems such as demand response and renewable intermittency.
Executive Team
A seasoned team of IT infrastructure, traditional finance, and energy industry veterans.
JohnPaul Baric
Founder & CEO
As the founder, he has led the company in surpassing $100 million in revenue over the past few years, focusing on modular data center projects. JohnPaul Baric has personally worked with hundreds of landowners to set up modular data centers, collaborating closely with local officials, zoning and city boards, and lawmakers to drive economic growth across the Midwest. His expertise in navigating complex regulatory environments has made him a key player in promoting economic development through data center infrastructure.
JohnPaul Baric is a trusted consultant for large businesses, having acted as an expert witness on the process of locating large data center loads. He brings a deep understanding of the energy markets in both MISO and SPP, where he has worked on bilateral settlement agreements for electricity. He has provided guidance and support to utilities on market-based rate making and Demand Response programs, positioning himself as a leading voice in the energy and data center industries.
His entrepreneurial journey began at a young age, when he started a robotics camp at just 15. Over the years, he has led the development of fifteen modular data center facilities. His combination of technical expertise, industry knowledge, and leadership has positioned him as a key figure in the modular data center industry. With a commitment to innovation and growth, JohnPaul Baric continues to shape the future of modular data centers and energy-efficient solutions across the country.
Mark Schlei
CFO
Mark Schlei is a finance and business leader with more than 25 years of global C-suite experience helping lower- and middle-market companies improve profitability, strengthen operations, and execute strategic growth initiatives. His background spans public companies, private equity-owned businesses, entrepreneurial ventures, and Big-8 public accounting, with deep experience in strategic planning, financial planning and analysis, cash flow management, process improvement, and talent development.
Before founding Schlei Consulting, Mark served in senior finance leadership roles including CFO positions at Sparton Corporation, Paperworks Industries, and Thetford Corporation. He has led capital planning, acquisitions, operational improvement, and international growth across manufacturing and distribution businesses serving markets such as medical devices, aerospace, defense, automotive, and consumer products. He earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater and is a Certified Public Accountant.
Charlie White
Land Agent
He is a seasoned Land Agent with a robust background in sales and sales management. Most recently, Charlie excelled as a District Manager in the renewables sector, demonstrating his adeptness at leading teams and driving success in a competitive market. His career, spanning numerous years, has been marked by a consistent track record of excellence, earning him several “Supplier of the Year” awards and accolades as a top salesman.
Known for his unwavering commitment to honesty and integrity, Charlie takes pride in his work ethic and his ability to own up to mistakes while always striving to do what is right. Outside of his professional life, Charlie enjoys traveling with his girlfriend of eight years, with Cancun being a favorite destination among their twice-yearly tropical getaways.
Jack Z. Sherman
Chief Relations Officer
Over his career, Jack has built an elite base of political, commercial, and individual contacts throughout the world. He uses these contacts and his 30+ years in financing energy projects to provide global development for Aurum by introducing the company to industry-leading energy and financial institutions globally.
Investors & Advisors
focuses on best-in-class security, tax preparation, and investor relations.
Daniel Kauffman
Director of Strategy for Siemens
President at Terracel Energy
Former Field Engineer for Schlumberger
MEM & BSE (Duke University); MBA (Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania)
Mathew Hunsucker
Principal at QR Capital,
Managed an $800M commercial mortgage portfolio and completed over $1.2B in lease transactions on industrial and residential mortgage assets
Karthik Rammohan
Dr. Alessandro Ciacchini
Financial advisor to major technology and finance companies globally.
Brian Bolcar
P.E. Portfolio Manager at North Carolina Department of State Treasurer