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# AECOM's Strategic Shift: Early Decision-Making in Data Center Construction
- URL: https://www.industrialbriefs.com/aecom-strategic-shift-data-center/
- Published: 2026-09-15T01:00:27.000Z
- Updated: 2026-09-15T01:00:26.000Z
- Description: AECOM's president highlights the importance of early decision-making in data center construction, emphasizing the need for strategic advisory and integration of various infrastructure elements.
- Author: IndustrialBriefs
- Tags: construction, engineering, government

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Data centers are at the forefront of a construction revolution, with decisions made long before the first shovel touches the ground proving crucial to success. Lara Poloni, president of AECOM, underscores the importance of early-stage planning in data center projects, a sector experiencing rapid growth and complexity. As data centers become intricate infrastructure ecosystems, the calls for specialized expertise and pre-emptive strategy are more pressing than ever.

**What Happened**  
In a recent discussion, Lara Poloni highlighted the critical nature of early decision-making in data center construction. She emphasized that the industry is seeing a trend where pivotal project decisions are made in the initial stages of development. This shift is driven by the need to address site-specific challenges such as reliable power and water access, comprehensive permitting processes, and community engagement well before construction begins. Poloni noted that this foresight is not merely beneficial but necessary, as data centers evolve into complex ecosystems demanding integration of various infrastructure elements.

Poloni also pointed out the interconnected nature of growth opportunities across key markets like transportation, water, environment, energy, and facilities. This interconnectedness is particularly evident in data center growth, which spurs investment in auxiliary sectors such as power generation and environmental services. The ability to anticipate challenges and manage project complexity is increasingly becoming the differentiator in successful project execution.

**What This Means for Your Business**  
For businesses in the architecture, engineering, construction, and manufacturing (AECM) sectors, this trend signifies a shift towards strategic advisory and early-stage planning. Companies should focus on integrating environmental planning, permitting, utility coordination, engineering, and program management from the outset. This holistic approach ensures that site selection, infrastructure requirements, and delivery strategies are made with a comprehensive understanding of the project's needs.

The implications for contracts and procurement are significant. Firms must adapt to a landscape where procurement processes demand earlier engagement with stakeholders and a more comprehensive understanding of site-specific challenges. Compliance requirements, such as those related to environmental and zoning regulations, become critical at these early stages, influencing project timelines and costs.

Additionally, the focus on talent development and technological innovation is paramount. AECOM's investment in these areas reflects a broader industry trend towards enhancing workforce capabilities and leveraging technology to handle increasingly complex projects. This investment not only addresses workforce constraints but also positions firms to capitalize on high-value opportunities.

**What US Operators Should Watch**  
US operators should closely monitor federal procurement windows and regulation timelines that could impact data center projects. Staying informed about changes in permitting processes and environmental compliance requirements will be crucial for maintaining competitive advantage.

Furthermore, the integration of strategic advisory and technical expertise in early project stages presents an opportunity for firms to differentiate themselves. As the demand for data center capacity continues to surge, firms that can navigate these complexities efficiently will be better positioned to secure contracts and deliver projects successfully.

*Source:* [*Construction Dive*](https://www.constructiondive.com/news/Aecom-data-center-lara-poloni-president/830157/?ref=industrialbriefs.com)*.* [*Read the original story ->*](https://www.constructiondive.com/news/Aecom-data-center-lara-poloni-president/830157/?ref=industrialbriefs.com)