Construction activity across Rhode Island is contributing to significant business growth for Shawmut Design and Construction, which has been named the state’s No. 1 fastest-growing company in the 2026 Providence Business News program. The recognition reflects a 110% increase in Shawmut’s Rhode Island revenue between 2023 and 2025.
The company’s expansion has been driven by a broader project portfolio spanning public education, residential and industrial construction while continuing its established work in private higher education.
Shawmut has increased its presence in Rhode Island’s public K-12 construction market through the Rhode Island Department of Education’s school construction program. The company currently has 16 active or recently completed RIDE projects across seven school districts.
Its Rhode Island portfolio also includes advanced manufacturing and industrial facilities, select luxury residential projects and higher education work. The broader market mix is allowing project teams to pursue more complex construction opportunities across different sectors.
A major example is the new $326 million high school in Pawtucket, where Shawmut recently participated in the project groundbreaking.
More than 80% of Shawmut’s work comes from repeat clients, according to the company, highlighting the role of recurring relationships in its regional growth strategy.
Shawmut’s education work extends beyond construction delivery. Project teams engage students, educators, nearby residents and community organizations through jobsite tours, classroom visits, educational programs and project milestone events.
The outreach also connects school construction with workforce development. With construction employers facing continued demand for skilled workers, Shawmut is using its K-12 relationships to introduce students to career opportunities in construction, architecture, engineering and the skilled trades.
The company plans to continue expanding across Rhode Island and New England by strengthening existing client relationships, entering markets with sustained demand and investing in personnel and leadership capabilities.
Shawmut’s growth reflects the expanding role of public school construction and diversified building activity in Rhode Island. Its 16 RIDE projects, combined with work across residential, higher education and industrial markets, give the contractor a broader regional portfolio while creating additional opportunities for workforce engagement and construction career development.
Source: Shawmut.
