Growing investment in advanced manufacturing, digital infrastructure and public works continues to shape opportunities for engineering and construction firms. Jacobs has strengthened its position across multiple market sectors after receiving 18 first-place rankings in Engineering News-Record's comprehensive 2026 review of U.S. design firms.
Jacobs' highest rankings cover a broad range of markets that remain active for owners, developers and public agencies. The company placed first overall among U.S.-based design firms while also leading categories that include aerospace, airports, auto plants, data centers, healthcare, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, telecommunications, solar power and multiple water infrastructure segments.
The review also placed Jacobs among the top firms in bridges, transportation, highways, marine and port facilities, industrial process, wind power, rail and general building, demonstrating continued activity across both vertical construction and civil infrastructure.
Several of the company's top-ranked sectors are benefiting from sustained investment trends.
Data center work continues to expand alongside increasing demand for artificial intelligence computing infrastructure. Jacobs reported a substantial increase in its pipeline of data center opportunities extending into 2028.
In semiconductor manufacturing, Jacobs continues to support large-scale chip fabrication facilities across the United States, Europe and the Middle East. The company has participated in the design of numerous greenfield fabrication plants serving advanced technology manufacturing.
Airport infrastructure also remains a significant market, with Jacobs currently supporting projects at more than 150 airports worldwide. In the water sector, the company continues to deliver engineering, operations and maintenance services across drinking water, wastewater and desalination facilities, including major infrastructure programs in North America and the United Kingdom.
Engineering News-Record's annual design firm rankings are widely used as an indicator of market activity across the architecture, engineering and construction industry because they are based on design revenue generated by U.S.-based firms.
For construction owners, developers and contractors, Jacobs' broad presence across transportation, advanced manufacturing, healthcare, utilities and digital infrastructure reflects continued demand in sectors expected to remain active as public and private investment programs move forward.
Source: Jacobs.
