The U.S. data center construction market is experiencing explosive growth, driven by the rising demand for AI and cloud computing infrastructure. By April 2026, construction spending hit $49.5 billion, up from $13.6 billion in the same period of 2025. Selecting the right construction firm is critical, as delays in commissioning can result in losses of $14 million per month for a typical 60 MW facility.
Here’s a breakdown of the top-ranked firms excelling in this space:
Each firm has unique strengths, from technical expertise to regional reach. For hyperscale projects, Turner Construction and DPR Construction stand out, while Jacobs and AECOM excel in delivering on tight timelines with integrated models. With construction spending projected to exceed $50 billion by 2028, choosing the right partner is more important than ever.
Top Data Center Construction Firms 2026: Key Stats Compared
Turner Construction stands out as the leading contractor in the U.S. by revenue, particularly excelling in large-scale data center projects. The company has maintained this top position for six consecutive years as of 2026 [5]. With annual data center revenue estimated between $1.5 billion and $2 billion [1] and projections to surpass $20 billion by 2030 [12], Turner continues to set the bar in this competitive industry. Here's a closer look at their expertise in data center projects, delivery methods, technology, regional reach, and sustainability efforts.
Turner's Q1 2026 backlog reached an all-time high of $48.9 billion, marking a 34% increase compared to the previous year. Data centers accounted for approximately 37% of this total, with the company securing 10 projects valued at over $1 billion each in the first five months of 2026 [9][5]. Among these are two standout projects: a $10 billion, 4-million-square-foot Meta campus in Lebanon, Indiana, designed for 1 GW of AI computing capacity, and a $6 billion CoreWeave facility in Lancaster, Pennsylvania [5][10].
"The scale of the Lebanon Data Center reflects the growing demand for high-performance infrastructure. We look forward to... applying our integrated services and deep mission-critical experience to deliver this data centre safely, sustainably, and efficiently." - Ben Kaplan, Managing Director, Turner Construction [10]
Turner’s ability to deliver projects quickly is evident in the IAD-06 facility in Frederick, Maryland, which reached its structural topping out stage just five months after breaking ground in early 2026 [5]. The company’s integrated platform combines in-house supply chain management, modular manufacturing, and engineering teams to streamline construction timelines. Modular construction, in particular, has proven to reduce on-site build time by 20% to 30% compared to traditional methods [4]. This approach helps clients align their timelines with their operational needs while managing risks effectively.
Turner leverages cutting-edge digital tools to enhance efficiency and performance. For instance, the company partnered with OpenAI to integrate ChatGPT-based workflow enhancements, and it uses Clearstory for real-time management of change orders on job sites. These technological investments have delivered measurable results: in 2025, Turner’s revenue growth outpaced the increase in hours worked, underscoring the impact of AI and digital tools on productivity [11][12].
While Turner has traditionally been strong in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic, it is actively expanding into the Midwest and Pennsylvania to meet rising demand for data centers [1][5]. On the international front, Turner’s acquisition of Dornan Engineering in 2025 extended its expertise in mission-critical projects into Europe. This expansion is supported by its parent companies, ACS Group and HOCHTIEF, providing a solid foundation for its global operations [11][13].
Sustainability is a key focus for Turner, as reflected in the Meta Lebanon campus, which aims for LEED Gold certification. The project incorporates a closed-loop liquid cooling system to minimize water usage and commits to matching 100% of its energy consumption with renewable sources [10][14]. These measures not only reduce environmental impact but also enhance the reliability of mission-critical operations. Turner’s dedicated Energy Transition group and use of Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) and Lean Construction techniques further contribute to waste reduction and sustainable practices on-site.
DPR Construction stands out as the largest data center contractor in the U.S., both in terms of project count and installed capacity. Over the past decade, the company has delivered more than 1.5 GW of critical load across 250+ projects [15]. In 2024, mission-critical projects contributed to 31% of DPR's total revenue, which reached $9.7 billion, with data center projects alone accounting for $3.0 billion [6][15]. Impressively, the firm has maintained a 96% repeat customer rate over the last five years, showcasing its consistent performance and reliability [6].
Since its founding in 1990, DPR has completed 2,716 mission-critical projects, including 202 design-build engagements [6]. One of its current high-profile projects is the Crusoe AI data center campus in Abilene, Texas, which is recognized as the world's largest data center construction site. This massive facility is designed to host 400,000 Nvidia chips across 10 buildings, with a planned capacity of 1.2 GW [8][17]. On an average day at this site, DPR oversees $10 million worth of work [8]. Additionally, in December 2024, DPR joined a joint venture for a $10 billion Meta AI data center project in Louisiana [15].
"DPR exemplifies what we look for in a contractor, with a long history of high performance even on the most technically challenging projects." - Daniel Kingman, Senior Director of Construction, Digital Realty [6]
With a robust portfolio and a commitment to advanced methods, DPR consistently delivers on complex projects.
DPR employs self-perform craft crews to take on major scopes of work directly, reducing reliance on subcontractors. This approach improves quality control, enhances safety, and helps mitigate labor shortages. Additionally, DPR adopts an "industrialized construction" strategy, which includes prefabricating modular electrical rooms offsite for plug-and-play installation. For example, at a confidential 350,000-sq.-ft., 40 MW facility in San Antonio in January 2025, DPR and Evergreen Innovation Group (EIG) prefabricated 25 modular electrical room skids, each delivering 2 MW. This method saved nearly 15,000 onsite worker hours and cut costs by approximately $1.8 million [16].
"By getting these critical components prefabricated and assembled offsite, it allows us to start some of our preliminary testing sooner and address any issues quicker than if we waited until all the work was done in the field." - Trevor Lundgren, DPR Construction [16]
This delivery model, combined with advanced technology, ensures efficient and streamlined operations.
DPR integrates cutting-edge tools like Bentley's SYNCHRO 4D platform, which animates construction sequences in 3D. This provides field supervisors with daily visual execution plans and helps identify potential conflicts early [8]. All project models are stored within the Bentley iTwin platform, a live digital repository that ensures everyone - from field engineers to executives - works with the same real-time data, eliminating the need for manual file transfers [8]. For a project as large as the Abilene campus, this digital infrastructure is essential for coordinating the extensive amount of activity happening simultaneously.
"These mega projects are essentially a sequence of sprints within a marathon. The expectation is to deliver quick wins while sustaining performance over the long haul." - Hannu Lindberg, Construction Technology Leader, DPR Construction [8]
DPR's regional teams bring local expertise to major data center markets while benefiting from the resources of a national builder. The company has active projects in key markets such as Texas, Virginia, Arizona, and California [6][7]. To further strengthen its operations, DPR recently opened a new Silicon Valley headquarters, which includes a 45,542-sq.-ft. Prefabrication Assembly Facility. This facility connects craft and administrative teams under one roof, speeding up coordination and improving efficiency [18].
Sustainability is embedded into DPR’s project design and delivery processes. Using Virtual Design and Construction (VDC), the company models energy and water consumption before construction begins [19]. Two notable examples include the Meta Mesa campus in Arizona (a five-building, 2.5-million-sq.-ft. campus on 396 acres) and the Meta Henrico campus in Virginia. Both are designed to achieve LEED Gold certification and match 100% of their energy consumption with renewable sources [7].
Named #1 Top Data Center Construction Firm by Engineering News-Record (ENR) in 2025, HITT Contracting has become a standout in the data center construction industry [25]. Since entering the mission-critical sector in 2007, the company has delivered over 20 million square feet of data center space and commissioned more than 2 GW of critical power across 26 states [21]. With projected 2023 revenues reaching $5.6 billion and a team of over 1,600 employees, HITT operates on a scale that sets it apart [21].
HITT shines by taking on both smaller projects and large-scale builds that other firms might avoid. Senior Vice President John Kane explains:
"A lot of the large, national contractors don't want to perform projects under $10 million, and a lot of smaller firms can't take on projects over $10 million." - John Kane, Senior Vice President, HITT Contracting [20]
The company bridges this gap by handling projects ranging from $200,000 service calls to builds exceeding $200 million [20]. Its in-house MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing) team directly manages mission-critical systems, ensuring seamless construction and commissioning without relying on external experts. HITT also excels in live environment integration, handling upgrades like generators, water systems, and life safety infrastructure in operational data centers without disrupting their functionality [24]. This expertise supports their ability to deliver projects quickly and effectively.
HITT's approach to construction project delivery emphasizes speed and flexibility. The firm uses strategies like double shifts and off-site prefabrication to meet tight deadlines. For example, Building L in Ashburn, Virginia, a 1.1-million-square-foot facility with 16 data halls and 96 MW of capacity, was completed a month ahead of its 26-month schedule thanks to double-shift construction [22]. Similarly, a confidential 252,000-square-foot design-build project in Sterling, Virginia, was delivered in just 32 weeks, with integrated systems testing (IST) finished a day early [23]. These methods demonstrate HITT's ability to stay ahead of demanding schedules while maintaining quality.
To meet the industry's growing need for precision and efficiency, HITT incorporates advanced technology into its projects. The company has even established a center for innovation and smart building at Virginia Tech to explore trends in building automation and energy efficiency [20]. On the construction side, HITT accelerates progress by starting procurement before designs are finalized, ensuring the project stays on track.
"Often, the design process lags, making it crucial for project teams to have a clear understanding of the project's goals. This understanding is key to developing a robust, forward-thinking procurement plan." - HITT Contracting [21]
By securing long-lead materials early, HITT keeps even the most complex projects moving forward without delays.
HITT's collaboration with QTS Data Centers has resulted in over 7 million square feet of completed projects across 26 states, serving enterprise, colocation, and hyperscale clients. In 2023 alone, the company managed an average of 1,500 workers on-site daily across multiple locations [21]. On the sustainability front, HITT prioritizes LEED Gold certification for major builds, as seen with Building L in Ashburn, which also incorporated reclaimed water for landscaping [22]. The firm's corporate responsibility program, "Be the Good," underscores its commitment to reducing environmental impact and supporting the communities where it operates [25].
AECOM has delivered over 11 GW of data center capacity across 45 countries in the past 25 years, showcasing its extensive global presence. In fiscal year 2024, the company reported $16.1 billion in revenue, with its high-tech segment in the U.S. being one of its fastest-growing sectors [27][28]. By Q2 2026, AECOM’s backlog reached $26.2 billion, reflecting an 8% growth fueled by increasing demand [28].
AECOM stands out by serving as a single point of accountability throughout the entire project lifecycle. From site selection and master planning to engineering, construction management, and commissioning, the company handles every stage [26]. Unlike traditional contractors who focus on physical structures, AECOM acts as a system integrator, managing the complete technology production environment. Its expertise spans areas like terrestrial fiber, subsea cables, and advanced water systems for fabs and cleanrooms [26]. This comprehensive approach ensures seamless execution across all project phases.
AECOM approaches hyperscale data center delivery as a continuous program, leveraging repeatable designs to achieve cost savings and faster timelines. For large-scale AI campuses, the company employs a phased scalability approach, where initial capacity is activated while planning for future expansion within the same footprint [27].
AECOM CEO Troy Rudd highlighted the role of proprietary AI tools in securing major contracts worth nearly $1 billion in early 2026:
"Our proprietary AI solution was a central element of the project proposal and our competitive edge... this contract includes specific mechanisms that allow us to capture value as we deploy AI to deliver greater value to our clients." - Troy Rudd, CEO, AECOM [28]
One notable example is the Nostrum Evergreen project in Badajoz, Spain. Appointed in December 2025, AECOM is overseeing design and construction management for a 500 MW AI gigafactory with an investment exceeding €1.9 billion. Phase 1, delivering 150 MW of capacity, is set to begin in 2026, with Phase 2 adding 300 MW by early 2029 [27]. This programmatic strategy integrates AECOM’s advanced technological systems seamlessly.
AECOM’s engineering teams specialize in advanced cooling and power solutions, including direct-to-chip liquid cooling, immersion cooling, and rear-door heat exchangers (RDHx). They also use computational fluid dynamics (CFD) thermal modeling to validate designs before construction [26]. On the power front, AECOM is exploring new strategies like nuclear fusion through partnerships with Type One Energy and the Tennessee Valley Authority to address the growing need for reliable energy [28]. These efforts align with the company’s focus on innovation and operational efficiency.
With operations in 45 countries, AECOM also prioritizes sustainability in its projects. Its data center designs feature systems like zero-liquid discharge, closed-loop cooling, greywater reuse, and on-site renewable energy [26]. Lara Poloni, President of AECOM, emphasized the company’s leadership in energy solutions:
"Power demand continues to increase. We work across the entire power generation stack, and we have taken a leading position in emerging areas as well." - Lara Poloni, President, AECOM [28]
Skanska USA has established itself as a leader in mission-critical data center construction, where even a moment of downtime is unacceptable. The company has delivered millions of square feet globally, with recent high-value contracts worth $263 million (December 2025), $228 million (January 2026), and $191 million (March 2026) for undisclosed U.S. clients [32][33][34]. These projects highlight the company’s ability to retain clients and adapt to evolving demands. As AI-driven facilities reshape infrastructure needs, Skanska has shifted its focus from education and healthcare projects to data centers, aligning with growing demand and changes in federal funding [29].
A key factor in Skanska’s success is its Advanced Technology Group (ATG), a specialized team focused on data center projects [29]. Todd Lofgren, Executive Vice President and General Manager at Skanska USA Building, emphasized the group’s role:
"We now have our Skanska Advanced Technology Group, with subject‐matter experts in data centers, positioned to come into Pennsylvania to help do those projects." [29]
The ATG has a proven track record of keeping facilities operational during upgrades. For instance, at IBM's Southbury data center, Skanska handled 1,000,000 square feet of infrastructure improvements and added 150,000 square feet of Tier III+ raised floor space - all while ensuring uninterrupted operations [30]. This expertise enables Skanska to deliver projects efficiently and proactively.
Skanska operates as a general contractor, directly managing mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) trades to maintain control over budgets and timelines [29]. Collaboration with owners and designers early in the process allows the company to create facilities tailored to immediate needs but designed to scale for future growth [30].
"Our strength is delivering right‐sized data centers to meet your immediate and future demands." - Skanska USA [30]
A standout example is the Aligned Data Centers project, where Skanska transformed three existing buildings into a single 550,000-square-foot facility. This was the first consumption-based data center designed to provide real estate infrastructure and power on demand [30].
Skanska integrates advanced technology into its construction processes to streamline operations. Prefabrication and modular construction are key strategies the company uses to address labor shortages and reduce project timelines [29]. Tools like AutoCAD and Bentley Systems software enable efficient coordination of fieldwork via mobile devices and laptops [29]. For clients with specialized needs, such as financial trading platforms, Skanska has implemented proprietary cabling and communication systems to ensure high reliability [30].
In addition to its technical expertise, Skanska’s broad geographic reach and commitment to sustainability set it apart. The company’s active projects span regions such as Virginia, Arizona, Georgia, Utah, Texas, and the Pacific Northwest [29][31]. Below is a snapshot of Skanska’s ongoing data center projects:
| Project Location | Contract Value | Size (Approx.) | Expected Completion |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona | $241M | 245,000 sq. ft. | Q3 2026 |
| Virginia | $105M | 245,000 sq. ft. | Q1 2027 |
| Georgia | $75M | 244,090 sq. ft. | Q1 2028 |
| USA (Confidential) | $228M | N/A | 2027 |
| USA (Confidential) | $191M | N/A | Q3 2027 |
Sustainability is another key focus for Skanska. The company has committed to cutting Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions by 50% by 2030 [31]. This involves prioritizing low-carbon materials, energy-efficient designs, and electrification across its projects. CEO Anders Danielsson highlighted this approach:
"Our efforts to reduce emissions extend across our entire operation and drive much of the innovation we see all around the company, as well as presenting a great business opportunity." - Anders Danielsson, CEO, Skanska [31]
Jacobs uses an EPCM (Engineering, Procurement, Construction Management) model to manage site selection, engineering, procurement, and commissioning. This approach ensures tighter control over both schedules and budgets, making it a reliable choice for demanding data center timelines. With over three decades of experience in mission-critical project delivery, Jacobs has handled over 5,000 MW of data center capacity globally and operates in more than 40 countries [35].
Jacobs specializes in high-density AI and HPC (High-Performance Computing) workloads. One standout project is the Hut 8 River Bend campus in Louisiana, a facility with a massive 245 MW IT capacity and a $7 billion, 15-year lease. The first halls of this project are scheduled for commissioning in Q1 2027 [37][38].
"Jacobs brings the experience and rigor required to deliver complex infrastructure on schedule and to the highest standards of quality and safety." - Asher Genoot, CEO, Hut 8 [37]
This expertise is further reinforced by Jacobs' advanced delivery methods.
Jacobs employs modular replication and standardized designs across multiple locations, treating large-scale developments as continuous programs. This ensures predictable outcomes and faster delivery. For example, in May 2026, Jacobs secured an exclusive EPCM contract for the Hut 8 Beacon Point campus in Nueces County, Texas. This facility, designed for a total capacity of 1 GW, saw its first phase redesigned mid-project from 224 MW to 352 MW to accommodate NVIDIA's high-density GPU architecture [36][39].
Jacobs leverages cutting-edge technology like its proprietary Data Center Digital Twin, created in collaboration with NVIDIA's Omniverse Blueprint. This tool simulates critical assets, reducing risks and accelerating revenue generation. Dana Tilley explains:
"Digital twins are essential as AI data centers scale from hundreds of megawatts to gigawatts... improving grid resilience and balancing power, cooling and site constraints earlier in the process." - Dana Tilley, Senior Vice President, Advanced Facilities and Market Lead AI Data Centers, Jacobs [35]
To handle GPU heat effectively, Jacobs also uses advanced cooling methods, including direct-to-chip and immersion cooling, which outperform traditional air-cooled systems at scale.
Operating in over 40 countries, Jacobs is actively involved in data center projects across the U.S. (Louisiana, Texas) and Europe. The SINES DC Campus in Portugal highlights Jacobs' commitment to sustainability. Developed for Start Campus, this $9.4 billion project is designed for 1.2 GW of capacity, runs entirely on renewable energy, and uses a seawater cooling system repurposed from an old coal plant [40].
| Metric | SINES DC Campus Performance |
|---|---|
| Total Planned Capacity | 1.2 GW |
| Renewable Energy Usage | 100% |
| Design PUE | 1.1 |
| Design WUE | 0 (zero freshwater used) |
| Cooling Method | Seawater (open-loop) + Freshwater (closed-loop) |
Jacobs' consistent performance has earned it the No. 1 ranking in Data Centers from Engineering News-Record (ENR) for five consecutive years, underscoring its expertise and reliability [40].
When choosing the right firm, understanding their strengths and limitations is crucial. This comparison breaks down the key advantages and challenges of each firm, helping you make informed decisions and avoid costly delays.
Here’s a quick summary of each firm's standout qualities and areas to consider:
| Firm | Key Strengths | Limitations |
|---|---|---|
| Turner Construction | The largest U.S. contractor, boasting a massive $48.9 billion Q1 2026 backlog [5]. | - |
| DPR Construction | An impressive 96% repeat customer rate in mission-critical projects [6]; managing a 1.2 GW AI infrastructure project in Abilene [8]. | - |
| AECOM | Extensive expertise in program management and infrastructure, with strong public-sector and utility-adjacent experience [1]. | - |
| Skanska USA | Applies global best practices from its European parent, with a strong presence in high-growth markets like Texas and the Southeast [1]. | - |
| Jacobs | Offers an integrated design-build-commissioning approach, providing a single point of accountability [1]. | - |
The construction industry faces some universal challenges that no firm can escape. For instance, grid interconnection timelines now stretch beyond four years in many regions, and lead times for medium voltage switchgear exceed 12 months [2]. These delays highlight the importance of early coordination with utilities and efficient procurement strategies.
Despite these challenges, some firms stand out for their ability to adapt and excel. DPR Construction and Jacobs are prime examples, leveraging continuous engineering models and cutting-edge digital tools to manage the complexities of mission-critical projects effectively. Their innovative approaches help them navigate industry constraints and deliver results with precision.
This analysis highlights how crucial it is to match construction expertise with the shifting demands of data center development. The data center construction market is projected to reach $35 billion by 2026 and could exceed $50 billion by 2028 [1]. With AI expected to power half of all new data center workloads by 2030, including those at the largest AI data centers [3], selecting the right construction partner has never been more important. The best partner will align seamlessly with your project’s unique needs.
For hyperscale megaprojects exceeding $1 billion, Turner Construction stands out. The company has secured 10 such projects, including a massive $10 billion Meta facility in Lebanon, Indiana [5]. Meanwhile, DPR Construction is a leader in fast-paced AI-driven infrastructure projects, thanks to its technical expertise and strong client retention [8]. These distinctions naturally lead to the importance of regional market presence.
Geographic reach is becoming a major factor as development shifts from congested areas like Northern Virginia to power-abundant markets in the Midwest and Texas [1]. Companies with established operations and supply chain connections in these regions will have a competitive advantage. Exploring evolving data center construction delivery models can provide valuable insights into adapting to these regional trends.
Reflecting on the industry's progress, Peter Davoren, Chairman and CEO of Turner Construction, stated:
"Our first quarter results demonstrate both the impact of our work and the strength of our culture. We are delivering increasingly complex projects, bringing an expanded range of services and capabilities to each assignment." [5]
For owners prioritizing commissioning certainty, especially as commissioning talent is harder to find, Jacobs and AECOM offer integrated EPCM models. These models provide a single point of accountability from design to energization, which is essential for projects with tight 18-month delivery timelines [1]. Ultimately, the key to success lies in selecting a firm that combines technical expertise, regional presence, and project-specific capabilities to meet the demands of today’s fast-changing landscape.
To find the right firm for your project, start by evaluating their experience with your specific requirements. Look for expertise in areas like power interconnection, equipment procurement, and labor availability.
If you're working on a hyperscale build, you'll want a firm that has handled similar large-scale megawatt capacities and understands the complexities of commissioning processes. For colocation fit-outs, focus on firms that are well-versed in working within operational environments, as this requires a different set of skills.
Another key factor is their approach to project controls. Make sure they provide transparent systems that connect the schedule, costs, and procurement processes. This will help identify risks early and keep your project on track.
The design-build model is often seen as the most effective way to minimize commissioning risks. By combining design and construction under a single entity, it creates a clear line of accountability. This approach eliminates common issues like coordination problems and communication breakdowns. On the other hand, while the EPCM model provides more flexibility, it shifts the burden of coordination onto the owner, which can lead to greater risks. With design-build, teams collaborate early on to align on performance goals and technical requirements, helping to avoid expensive delays and integration challenges during commissioning.
Utility interconnection and ordering long-lead items should kick off during the site selection and feasibility phase - long before construction begins. Why? Because interconnection studies can stretch on for years, and essential equipment like transformers or switchgear often takes 12–18 months or more to arrive.
To avoid costly delays, it's crucial to engage with utility providers and vendors right away. Confirm available capacity and place orders early, as these steps are often the biggest culprits behind project schedule setbacks.
