Core Insights - Jacobs Solutions Inc. reported strong financial results for Q1 2026, with gross revenue of $3.3 billion, reflecting a year-over-year growth of 12.3%, and adjusted net revenue of $2.3 billion, up 8.2% year-over-year [1][8] - The company achieved a backlog growth of 21% year-over-year, with a trailing twelve months (TTM) book-to-bill ratio of 1.4x, indicating robust demand for its services [1][8] - Jacobs announced a strategic repurchase of $252 million in shares and a 12.5% increase in its quarterly dividend, demonstrating a commitment to returning capital to shareholders [1][3] Financial Performance - Jacobs' Q1 2026 GAAP net earnings were $125 million, a significant turnaround from a net loss of $17.1 million in Q1 2025 [8][9] - Adjusted EBITDA for the quarter was $302.6 million, representing a 7.3% increase year-over-year [8] - The company reported an adjusted EPS of $1.53, up 15.0% from $1.33 in Q1 2025 [8][9] Financial Outlook - Jacobs raised its fiscal 2026 guidance, projecting adjusted net revenue growth of 6.5% to 10.0%, up from a previous forecast of 6.0% to 10.0% [4] - The adjusted EBITDA margin is expected to remain between 14.4% and 14.7%, while adjusted EPS guidance was increased to a range of $6.95 to $7.30 [4] Strategic Initiatives - The company is advancing its asset lifecycle strategy through the acquisition of the remaining stake in PA Consulting, which is expected to enhance its service offerings [1][3] - Jacobs continues to capitalize on strong demand in sectors such as Life Sciences, Data Centers, and Transportation, contributing to its revenue growth [3]

Core Insights - Jacobs Solutions, Inc. is set to report its first-quarter fiscal 2026 results on February 3, with expectations of continued growth in earnings and revenues [1][4] Financial Performance - In the last reported quarter, Jacobs' adjusted earnings and revenues exceeded the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 4.8% and 0.6%, respectively, with year-over-year increases of 27.7% in earnings and 6.6% in revenues [1][2] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the upcoming quarter's earnings per share is $1.52, reflecting a 14.3% year-over-year increase from $1.33, while revenues are estimated at $3.18 billion, an 8.5% increase from $2.93 billion in the prior year [3] Growth Drivers - Jacobs' fiscal first-quarter performance is expected to show steady year-over-year growth, driven by strong demand in sectors such as water, life sciences, data centers, transportation, and energy-related infrastructure [4][9] - The Infrastructure & Advanced Facilities segment, which accounted for 89.5% of total revenues in fiscal 2025, is anticipated to benefit from ongoing strength in Water & Environmental, Life Sciences, Advanced Manufacturing, and Critical Infrastructure [6][10] - The PA Consulting segment, making up 10.5% of total revenues, is expected to contribute steadily, supported by public-sector and private-sector advisory work [9] Market Conditions - The company anticipates net revenue growth of 5.5% to 7.5% and a low to mid-15% margin, indicating typical seasonal patterns for the fiscal first quarter [5] - Demand for Critical Infrastructure is expected to remain broad-based, driven by transportation programs and energy-related investments, which continue to support revenue visibility [8] Operational Efficiency - Jacobs' bottom line is likely to have improved year-over-year due to a favorable mix, increased use of global delivery centers, and evolving commercial models that enhance profitability [11]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Fiscal year 2025 marked an inflection point for the company, driven by organizational focus and strategic alignment, resulting in strong results against a dynamic economic background [25][26] - The company reported a commitment to disciplined fiscal management, which has been a cornerstone of its performance [26] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company now operates with a focus on delivering services and comprehensive solutions in water and environmental, life sciences and advanced manufacturing, and critical infrastructure sectors, which represent long-term opportunities [26][28] - Collaboration with PA Consulting continues to drive growth and enhance the company's position as a leading provider of end-to-end lifecycle solutions [27] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is positioned to address pressing global challenges shaped by climate urgency, urbanization, geopolitical complexity, and AI-driven digital acceleration [25][26] - The end markets are characterized by a demand for multidisciplinary solutions, including clean water systems and advanced pharmaceuticals [26] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company launched a bold client-focus strategy in 2025 to position itself at the forefront of global challenges [25] - There is a clear ambition to grow in geographies and sectors aligned with strategic opportunities, focusing on scaling AI capabilities and optimizing the relationship with PA Consulting [29] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management emphasized the importance of resilience and opportunity through science-based, digitally-enabled solutions co-created with clients [25] - The company aims to deliver bold, future-focused solutions to complex challenges, moving forward with clarity and conviction [29] Other Important Information - The company announced its intention to acquire the remaining shares of PA Consulting, expected to conclude in Q2 of fiscal year 2026, subject to regulatory conditions [28] Q&A Session Summary Question: Were there any online questions received? - No online questions have been received during the meeting [31]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Fiscal year 2025 marked an inflection point for the company, driven by organizational focus and strategic alignment, resulting in strong results against a dynamic economic background [25][26] - The company reported a commitment to disciplined fiscal management, which has been a cornerstone of its performance [26] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company now operates with a focus on delivering services and comprehensive solutions in the water and environmental, life sciences and advanced manufacturing, and critical infrastructure sectors, which represent long-term opportunities [26][28] - Collaboration with PA Consulting has been highlighted as a driver of growth, embedding the company earlier in the client's journey and enhancing its role in strategic advisory and innovation [27] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is positioned to address pressing global challenges such as climate urgency, urbanization, and geopolitical complexity, which are shaping client needs [25][26] - The company aims to scale its AI capabilities and optimize its relationship with PA Consulting to deliver future-focused solutions [29] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company launched a bold client-focused strategy in 2025 to position itself at the forefront of global challenges [25] - There is a clear ambition to grow in geographies and sectors aligned with strategic opportunities, focusing on AI capabilities and innovative solutions [29] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management emphasized the importance of resilience and opportunity through science-based, digitally-enabled solutions, co-created with clients [25] - The company is moving forward with clarity, capability, and conviction, aiming to address the world's most complex challenges [29] Other Important Information - The company announced its intention to acquire the remaining shares of PA Consulting, expected to conclude in Q2 of fiscal year 2026, subject to regulatory conditions [28] - Initiatives to strengthen talent development and employee experience were launched, including a hybrid work model and Jacobs University for skill building [29] Q&A Session Summary Question: Were there any online questions received? - No online questions have been received during the meeting [31]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Fiscal year 2025 marked an inflection point for Jacobs, driven by organizational focus and strategic alignment, resulting in strong performance against a dynamic economic backdrop [23][24] - The company reported a commitment to disciplined fiscal management, which underpinned its strong results [24] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Jacobs operates with a focus on delivering services and comprehensive solutions in water and environmental, life sciences and advanced manufacturing, and critical infrastructure sectors, which represent long-term opportunities [24] - The collaboration with PA Consulting continues to drive growth and enhance Jacobs' position as a leading provider of end-to-end lifecycle solutions [24][25] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is positioned to address long-term market demands, including clean water systems, advanced pharmaceuticals, resilient transportation, and secure energy [24] - Jacobs has formalized its enterprise-wide approach to AI, which is central to scaling delivery and enhancing client value [25] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Jacobs launched a bold client-focused strategy in 2025 to tackle the world's pressing challenges, emphasizing integrated solutions and deep domain expertise [23][24] - The company aims to grow in geographies and sectors aligned with strategic opportunities, focusing on scaling AI capabilities and optimizing its relationship with PA Consulting [27] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management highlighted the dynamic global environment shaped by climate urgency, urbanization, geopolitical complexity, and AI-driven digital acceleration as key factors influencing their strategy [23] - The ambition for fiscal 2026 is clear, with a focus on strong execution and disciplined focus to deliver future-focused solutions [27] Other Important Information - Jacobs University was launched as a global learning hub for skill building and leadership development, alongside the introduction of the Talent Work Marketplace for employee growth opportunities [26] - The company announced its intention to acquire the remaining shares of PA Consulting, expected to conclude in Q2 of fiscal year 2026, subject to regulatory conditions [25] Q&A Session Summary Question: Were there any online questions received? - No online questions have been received during the meeting [30]

Core Insights - The U.S. infrastructure and public-sector spending environment is driving steady demand for engineering and technical consulting services, particularly benefiting companies like Willdan Group, Inc. and Jacobs Solutions Inc. due to policy-backed investment trends [2][3] Willdan Group, Inc. Insights - Willdan is focused on energy, utility, and municipal consulting, with a strong performance in energy transition and infrastructure modernization, supported by rising electricity load from data centers and grid upgrades [5][6] - The Energy segment, which is the majority of Willdan's revenues, saw contract revenues increase by 20% year over year to $508 million, and net revenues rose by 27% to $275 million during the first nine months of 2025 [6][10] - The company anticipates continued support from electricity load growth and infrastructure investment, positioning itself well for sustained growth as demand trends extend into 2026 [8] Jacobs Solutions Inc. Insights - Jacobs operates on a broader scale with diversified exposure across transportation, water, energy, and advanced facilities, benefiting from a record backlog of $23.1 billion, reflecting a 5.6% year-over-year increase [11][12] - The company has a trailing 12-month book-to-bill ratio of 1.1x, indicating strong booking activity, while gross profit in backlog increased by 13% year over year [12] - Jacobs faces challenges in parts of its environmental business due to softer U.S. demand and regulatory uncertainties, which may lead to variability in quarterly performance [13] Stock Performance & Valuation - Willdan's share price performance has outpaced Jacobs over the past six months, although Willdan is currently trading at a premium on a forward 12-month price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio basis [17][18] - Willdan's earnings estimates for 2026 remain unchanged at $4.53 per share, indicating expected earnings growth of 9.6% year over year, while Jacobs' estimates are at $7.01 per share, reflecting a 14.5% growth [20][22] Final Comparison - Both companies benefit from U.S. infrastructure spending, but Willdan is more focused on energy-related activities, while Jacobs has broader diversification but faces more variability in project timing and funding [22][23] - Willdan's steadier demand drivers and favorable near-term outlook make it a more compelling investment compared to Jacobs, which has a Zacks Rank of 4 (Sell) [23]

Core Viewpoint - Jacobs has been selected as the design-build contractor for a $200 million upgrade project at the San José–Santa Clara Regional Wastewater Facility, aimed at modernizing biosolids treatment infrastructure and enhancing renewable energy production [1][2]. Group 1: Project Details - The project will replace aged mesophilic digesters, reducing the amount of solids for offsite disposal and improving biogas conversion for the facility's cogeneration system [2][3]. - A new Fats, Oils & Grease (FOG) receiving station will be established to convert high-strength waste into clean energy, thereby reducing natural gas usage and greenhouse gas emissions [2][3]. - The innovative design approach may include the Microbial Hydrolysis Process (MHP), which is expected to increase biogas output by up to 36% and decrease biosolids production by as much as 74 wet tons per day [3]. Group 2: Strategic Importance - The upgrades are essential for supporting San José's growth in housing and jobs, ensuring reliable wastewater infrastructure to protect public health and economic vitality [3][5]. - Jacobs has over 25 years of experience in water design-build projects, having completed more than 150 projects, including significant modernizations at major wastewater facilities [5]. Group 3: Company Overview - Jacobs generates approximately $12 billion in annual revenue and employs nearly 43,000 people, providing comprehensive services across various sectors including water, energy, and environmental management [6].

Core Viewpoint - Jacobs has been selected by Sizewell C to provide professional services for the development of a new low-carbon nuclear power station in Suffolk, which is expected to play a significant role in the UK's clean energy future [1][2][3]. Group 1: Project Overview - The Sizewell C project aims to deliver a twin-reactor nuclear plant that will produce reliable, low-carbon electricity for approximately six million homes and contribute to the UK's net zero targets [2][6]. - The project is expected to generate around 3.2 gigawatts of electricity and save nine million tonnes of carbon dioxide from entering the atmosphere annually [3][6]. - Sizewell C will support tens of thousands of jobs across the UK, create 1,500 apprenticeships, and deliver billions of pounds in local, regional, and national supply chain opportunities [3][6]. Group 2: Jacobs' Role - Under the five-year framework, Jacobs will provide strategic leadership, program integration, and design and engineering support to meet the project's highly regulated technical and delivery requirements [2][3]. - Jacobs has over 60 years of experience in the global nuclear industry, contributing to major programs such as Hinkley Point C and Sellafield [4]. Group 3: Economic Impact - The project is expected to deliver 70% of its construction value to British suppliers, reinforcing the importance of local economic contributions [6]. - The establishment of structures, systems, and governance by Jacobs is aimed at ensuring the safe, efficient, and integrated delivery of this nationally important program [3].

Core Insights - Jacobs Solutions Inc. (J) is enhancing its backlog momentum and expanding its operational footprint through new contracts with the City of Suffolk, VA, focusing on water and wastewater infrastructure upgrades [1][2]. Group 1: Contract Details and Impact - The contracts with Suffolk involve engineering and program management services aimed at modernizing the city's water infrastructure, ensuring regulatory compliance, and supporting long-term growth and sustainability [2][3]. - The projects will deliver critical upgrades, including improvements to sewage overflow management and increased surface water treatment capacity, which are essential due to rising water demand and groundwater use limitations [3][4]. Group 2: Backlog and Financial Performance - Jacobs' consolidated backlog reached a record $23.1 billion at the end of Q4 FY25, marking a 5.6% year-over-year increase, with a book-to-bill ratio of 1.1x, indicating strong booking activity and a positive growth outlook [6][7]. - The company has seen a 13% year-over-year increase in gross profit in backlog, reinforcing its favorable near- and long-term growth prospects [6]. Group 3: Market Position and Future Outlook - Jacobs maintains a strong position in the water and environmental services market, which is one of the fastest-growing segments of its portfolio, supported by favorable secular tailwinds [5][6]. - The company's long-standing partnership with Suffolk enhances operational synergies and margin potential, allowing for targeted solutions aligned with the city's infrastructure needs [4][5].

Group 1 - L1 Capital International Fund focuses on investing in high-quality companies with favorable cashflow-based valuations, emphasizing the importance of valuation analysis for AI-focused investments [1] - The fund achieved a return of 2.2% in Q4 2025, net of fees, compared to a benchmark return of 2.5% [1] - For the year 2025, the fund's return was 9.8% net of fees, while the benchmark index returned 12.4% [1] Group 2 - Jacobs Solutions Inc. is highlighted as a leading provider of infrastructure and advanced facilities, with a market capitalization of $16.506 billion [2] - The stock of Jacobs Solutions Inc. closed at $139.00 per share on January 14, 2026, with a one-month return of 4.76% and a 52-week gain of 1.52% [2] - The company is viewed as a net beneficiary in the engineering services industry amidst AI disruptions, with management actively investing in AI [3] - A competitor's misleading statements regarding AI's impact on the industry led to unjustified share price weakness, prompting an increase in L1 Capital's position in Jacobs Solutions [3] - Jacobs Solutions acquired minority interests in subsidiary PA Consulting, with the acquisition price being modestly below expectations, positively impacting the base case valuation [3]