Despite ongoing challenges such as labor shortages, supply chain disruptions, and inflation, JE Dunn continues to lead the charge in three rapidly expanding markets: Industrial & Manufacturing, Mission Critical (data centers), and Advanced Industries (semiconductors). According to the latest Census data, manufacturing construction spending remained robust in 2024 while data center construction surged to record levels, nearly tripling since 2021, per Dodge Construction Network¹.

With high-growth sectors like semiconductors and data centers poised for continued expansion, our Advanced Facilities Group (AFG) is central to JE Dunn’s strategy, solidifying its role as a top-tier provider of cutting-edge facilities for industry leaders. Ranking among the top 10 in ENR, JE Dunn ranks No. 3 in semiconductors, No. 4in electronic assembly, No. 7 in data centers, and No. 8 overall in manufacturing. Through AFG, JE Dunn delivers large-scale, complex projects with a collaborative, innovative approach that meets the rising demand for adaptable, state-of-the-art spaces in critical industries.

Industrial & Manufacturing  

Construction spending in the industrial and manufacturing sector is expected to reach $246 billion in 2025, following a 21% increase in 2024². This growth is fueled by government initiatives, reshoring efforts, and substantial investments from non-U.S. manufacturers building facilities in the U.S. to address shifting trade policies. The CHIPS and Science Act and a $1.2 trillion infrastructure package are contributing to this surge³.

JE Dunn is well-positioned to support industries like battery technology, chemicals, food & beverage, and alternative energy solutions, with major manufacturing investments spanning the Sunbelt and Midwest regions. The AFG approach emphasizes adaptability, innovation, and automation to streamline processes and deliver flexible, scalable facilities.

Mission Critical (data centers) 

The Mission Critical industry is seeing significant investment, driven by demand for artificial intelligence (AI) computing power and the growth of data centers. However, utilities are struggling to meet the rising power demands of these projects, causing delays and, in some cases, leading municipalities to temporarily halt projects. A shortage of electricians further impacts timelines. In 2024, under-construction data center capacity surged by 69%, reaching 3,871.8 MW⁴.

Utilities have paused future power commitments due to overwhelming demand and are introducing gate checks, like refundable upfront deposits, to confirm commitment from developers and support municipalities with feasibility studies. Developers are also required to begin construction within a specified timeframe, or projects will be moved to the back of the queue. Municipalities are providing better visibility into power plant turn-ups and turn-downs, aiding long-term forecasting of power needs.

AFG’s proactive approach helps clients navigate these challenges by leveraging early collaboration with trade partners and identifying workforce capacity to ensure projects stay on track. Additionally, we focus on understanding temporary and permanent power solutions and how to help mitigate utility-driven delays, helping data centers come online on time and within budget.

Advanced Industries (semiconductor)  

The U.S. semiconductor industry, once a global leader, has seen its market share decline over the past three decades due to foreign subsidies and incentives. In response, the U.S. passed the CHIPS Act, which is expected to inject $39 billion in incentives and create over 118,000 jobs, boosting the U.S. semiconductor production capacity by 203%⁵. This shift is critical for both economic and national security, especially in light of the growing demand for semiconductors in artificial intelligence, 5G, and electric vehicles (EVs).

JE Dunn’s role in this transformation is to provide complex construction services required for megaprojects, as well as to help clients upgrade and expand existing facilities efficiently. By understanding the unique needs of the semiconductor sector, such as precision construction and cleanroom standards, JE Dunn helps manufacturers meet the rising demand for advanced technologies like AI and the increasing dependence on semiconductors in everyday life. Our ability to manage these sophisticated projects helps companies navigate the pressures of rising material costs and labor shortages, while ensuring a fast-track timeline for bringing new capacity online.

The CHIPS Act is beginning to drive investment in new facilities, with megaprojects dominating the space. The retooling and upscaling of existing fabs are expected to increase as demand for advanced technologies grows. JE Dunn is positioned to support the ongoing infrastructure boom with expertise in complex construction and facility upgrades.

How JE Dunn serves these markets 

JE is driving growth in these advanced manufacturing markets by ensuring quality, safety, and timely delivery. Our approach includes strong trade partner relationships, skilled labor, and a national presence to meet the increasing demands of these sectors.

With smaller owner staffs and long lead times becoming more common, JE Dunn provides comprehensive supply chain management — from equipment procurement to installation. To support seamless integration and minimize project risk, we offer the following innovative solutions:

• Integrated design services: Efficient design and construction integration. 

• Off-site manufacturing/prefabrication: Reduces on-site labor and speeds timelines. 

• Direct and long lead procurement: Secures materials early to mitigate supply chain risks. 

• In-house engineering services: Expertise in mechanical, electrical, and structural engineering. 

• Heavy equipment solutions: Comprehensive equipment supply chain management, including transportation, storage, installation, and connections. 

Our 100,000+ square feet of manufacturing space and team of over 35 engineers, technicians, and drafters also enable us to handle large-scale off-site manufacturing to support our projects. We specialize in the fabrication of unique components for industrial, mission critical, and semiconductor projects, providing custom solutions for complex applications.

Our advanced project control tools like EVM Scheduling, Risk Registers, and Cash Flow Analysis help accurately predict cost and schedule outcomes. These tools help manage potential risks and ensure projects stay on track.

By increasing self-performing trade capabilities across all three sectors, JE Dunn enhances control over safety, quality, and schedule, avoiding delays caused by external factors.

JE Dunn’s leadership in Industrial & Manufacturing, Mission Critical, and Advanced Industries is driven by a client-first approach and a deep understanding of the unique challenges these sectors face. Leveraging expertise, skilled trades, and early collaboration, JE Dunn continues to navigate challenges and deliver high-quality, timely results. With a broad national footprint and a talented workforce, JE Dunn remains well positioned to meet the growing demand in these high-growth markets.