Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Adjusted EPS grew 15% to $1.53, supported by robust 8% net revenue growth and solid underlying margin performance [4][11] - Gross revenue increased 12% year-over-year, and adjusted net revenue grew by more than 8% [10] - Consolidated backlog was up 21% year-over-year to a record $26.3 billion, with trailing 12-month book-to-bill rising to 1.4x [11][12] - Free cash flow for Q1 was $365 million, with a strong underlying performance despite a favorable cash timing item [15][16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Life sciences and advanced manufacturing net revenue grew 10% in Q1, driven by strong award activity in data centers and semiconductor sectors [12][13] - Critical infrastructure net revenue increased 8% over Q1 2025, with robust growth in transportation, particularly in rail and aviation [13] - Water and environmental net revenue growth increased sequentially to 4%, driven by high single-digit growth in water [13][14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - International business grew over 9%, with broad-based growth in Europe, the Middle East, and APAC [23] - The company is seeing a strong demand for integrated consulting and delivery approaches, particularly in critical infrastructure [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The acquisition of the remaining stake in PA Consulting is seen as a key accelerant in the strategy to redefine the asset life cycle [4][10] - The company aims to simplify its structure and produce predictable, high-quality earnings over the long term [10] - Focus on leveraging digital consulting, innovation, and AI advisory to enhance service offerings and drive growth [4][10] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the updated guidance, citing strong execution and secular growth tailwinds [20] - The company anticipates continued growth in the life sciences and advanced manufacturing sectors, particularly in the second half of the fiscal year [12][14] - Management noted that the government shutdown did not impact their performance, providing confidence in their revenue range [23][24] Other Important Information - The company announced a 12.5% increase in its quarterly dividend from $0.32 to $0.36 per share [16] - The net leverage ratio currently stands just below 0.8x on LTM adjusted EBITDA, well below the target range of 1.0x-1.5x [16] Q&A Session Summary Question: Outlook considering potential government shutdown - Management indicated that the backlog's burn profile and strong wins in life sciences and advanced manufacturing are key drivers for confidence in guidance [23][24] Question: Environmental services business performance - Management highlighted three factors driving improvement: government contracts, disaster relief work transitioning to state and local levels, and increased private sector demand [25][26][28][29] Question: Backlog growth and project complexity - Management confirmed that the risk profile remains unchanged and that they are utilizing the same risk management strategies as in previous years [78][79] Question: PA Consulting acquisition valuation - Management clarified the accounting and economic ownership differences and emphasized the expected accretive nature of the acquisition [81][84] Question: Project pipeline growth by end markets - Management reported strong pipeline growth across water and environmental, life sciences, and critical infrastructure sectors, with varying growth rates [90]

Jacobs Solutions (NYSE:J) Q1 2026 Earnings call February 03, 2026 04:30 PM ET Speaker9Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for standing by. My name is Krista, and I will be your conference operator today. At this time, I would like to welcome you to the Jacobs Solutions Fiscal First Quarter 2026 Earnings Conference Call and Webcast. All lines have been placed on mute to prevent any background noise. After the speaker's remarks, there will be a question-and-answer session. If you would like to ask a question at t ...

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the journey of a former tech engineer who faced job loss after 25 years in the industry, reflecting on the challenges and changes in the tech landscape, and offering guidance for young professionals entering the field [1][3][20]. Group 1: Career Journey and Challenges - The engineer, referred to as ADE, was laid off for the first time in his career, which prompted him to reflect on his 25 years in technology and the sacrifices made along the way [3][18]. - ADE's early career involved significant learning and growth, transitioning from a novice to a technical backbone within his company, driven by a desire to improve his skills [4][10]. - The 2008 financial crisis was a pivotal moment for ADE, leading him to understand the concept of "exchanging life for money" and prompting a shift in his financial habits [11][12]. Group 2: Work-Life Balance and Industry Realities - Despite a lucrative career with a six-figure salary and stock options, ADE experienced the toll of high demands in the tech industry, including long hours and constant learning to keep up with rapid technological changes [13][15]. - Personal tragedies, including the loss of a colleague and family health issues, led ADE to reassess the value of time and the importance of work-life balance [16][17]. - The tech industry is undergoing significant changes, with layoffs becoming common due to factors like AI advancements and outsourcing, impacting job security for many professionals [19][20]. Group 3: Guidance for Young Professionals - ADE emphasizes the importance of passion in choosing a career in technology, advising against pursuing it solely for financial gain or external expectations [21]. - Building personal influence and showcasing skills through practical experiences, such as internships and contributions to open-source projects, is crucial for standing out in a competitive job market [22][23]. - Flexibility and adaptability are essential, encouraging young professionals to explore various roles within the tech field and remain open to opportunities beyond traditional paths [25][26].