Insights for what's next

Explore practical perspectives that turn complex challenges and emerging trends into real-world outcomes.

475 items
A nighttime cityscape featuring tall, illuminated buildings, overlaid with abstract digital circuit patterns to symbolizing technology and connectedness
Thought Leadership

Realizing digital ambitions for the built environment

By: Kurt Moroney Digital technology is transforming how we design, operate and experience buildings and infrastructure. Advanced technologies and vast data insights are unlocking new opportunities for greater efficiency, sustainability and resilience, as well as personalized, interconnected and immersive services and experiences. Digital enablement is no longer “nice to have” but rather a critical component that enhances community connectivity, increases asset value and delivers revenue returns on major infrastructure investments. As investors and developers set more ambitious digital goals, urban planners and designers must seamlessly integrate a growing range of technologies into building, precinct and city-wide plans and designs, alongside other critical systems. This requires an expansive skillset that bridges up-front strategy, urban planning, engineering design and technology procurement and deployment. Growing digital ambition creates new challenges Today’s buildings and infrastructure projects are far more than physical structures. Traditional operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT) systems are converging with technologies such as sensors, Internet of Things, Artificial Intelligence, digital twins and other “smart” enhancements to drive asset performance. Emerging technologies, such as interactive surfaces and holography, atmospheric technologies, gaming technologies, robotics and blockchain, are also changing how we interact with and experience built spaces. Buildings and infrastructure are now intricate ecosystems with digital layered into the overall building design to enhance, customize and personalize the end-user experience. This is especially true in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia where giga projects are redefining the scale of ambition for digital enablement in the built environment. Most developers outsource this work to

reflection
Thought Leadership

Digital twins: Why the real challenge is change, not technology

As organizations look to digital transformation to unlock efficiencies, reduce costs, optimize asset operations and enhance business performance, many are discovering the biggest hurdle isn’t the technology — it’s the people. Nowhere is this more evident than in the implementation of digital twins, which are often misunderstood as purely technical upgrades rather than the far-reaching organizational change projects they truly are. A digital twin is a dynamic, virtual replica of a physical asset, system or process. It uses historic and real-time data to simulate, monitor and optimize performance. In the building and infrastructure sector, digital twins hold the key to unlocking greater value across the asset lifecycle. While the technology is impressive, its success hinges on how well an organization can adapt its culture, workflows and mindset to maximize the benefit. The global digital twin market is growing rapidly and is expected to reach $149.81 billion USD by 2030, with the transport, infrastructure, healthcare and energy and power sectors leading the way. According to McKinsey, 70% of technology leaders in major corporations are actively investing in digital twin initiatives. Yet, many struggle to realize their full potential because implementing a digital twin is not just a technology rollout. It represents a fundamental shift in how an asset is designed, operated and maintained, how teams collaborate, and how strategic decisions are made. For example, operational teams must learn to trust data and predictive analytics over gut instinct. Maintenance crews need to adapt to condition-based servicing rather than scheduled routines. Executives must

Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Landscape at night
Thought Leadership

Shaping saudi arabia’s future cities through bold ambition

Saudi Arabia’s transformation is redefining how cities are planned, funded and delivered. Abdulelah Alsheikh reflects on lessons learned from giga projects, the role of governance and systems, and how ambition itself has become a national capability shaping Vision 2030. From projects to systems One of the biggest lessons I’ve carried into my role at Jacobs is that urban transformation isn’t only about delivering physical projects. True transformation happens when institutions are strengthened, governance models are refined and systems are built to last. Infrastructure can be constructed in years but institutions endure for generations. That’s why my focus with clients is not only on assets delivered but also on capabilities embedded — ensuring the systems behind those assets are resilient enough to support ambition well beyond Vision 2030. The defining shift Looking back over the past decade, the Kingdom’s defining achievement is not a single metro line, airport or giga project — though these are remarkable in scale and speed. The real shift has been philosophical. Urban development has moved from being reactive to growth to becoming a proactive tool for competitiveness, quality of life and global positioning. That mindset shift — treating urbanism as a strategic lever rather than a byproduct — is perhaps the most valuable infrastructure Saudi Arabia has built. Opportunities and challenges at scale As we accelerate toward Vision 2030, the opportunity before us is unique: to leapfrog legacy models. Most global cities retrofit sustainability, mobility and cultural identity into systems already in place. Saudi Arabia can

City network technology in Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Thought Leadership

From hype to impact: How the middle east can turn artificial intelligence ambition into real-world value

The Middle East is emerging as one of the world’s most dynamic regions for digital transformation — from smart cities powered by artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced transport systems, to digital twins, integrated data platforms and model-based delivery. But as ambition grows, so too does the need for trusted, explainable and value-driven digital delivery. Governments and clients across the region are asking a vital question: How do we translate digital enthusiasm into tangible benefits for projects, citizens and economies? This question was central to a recent industry panel discussion held as part of the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) UAE’s ongoing Beyond Engineering: Digital Transformation in the Middle East series. The session was moderated by Jacobs and brought together senior leaders from across the engineering, design and construction community to share insights on how engineering rigor, trusted data and professional oversight can turn digital ambition into meaningful outcomes. Here, we share three key insights from the discussion and explore how Jacobs is helping clients deliver safe, ethical and value-based digital transformation across the region. Explainability-by-design: Building trust into AI solutions As AI and advanced analytics enter the mainstream, clients are increasingly focused on building trust into their digital strategies from the outset. Panelists emphasized that without professional oversight, AI-driven models risk becoming “eager graduates” — powerful yet inexperienced “black boxes” that undermine transparency and accountability. To address this, engineering-led delivery should embed explainability-by-design: model-card level documentation of models, expert validation checkpoints, integrated ethical assessments and comprehensive audits across building information

Australia high speed rail corridor
Thought Leadership

The ABC of Australia’s high-speed rail

High‑speed rail is more than a transport project — it reshapes nations, unlocks new housing and industry, and drives low‑carbon mobility for generations. The question for Australia is no longer whether it needs faster, higher-capacity intercity rail, but whether it can define, design and deliver it with confidence. Jacobs draws on experience from major rail and tunneling programs worldwide to inform the pathway forward. From the approvals that build public confidence, to the complex tunneling that pushes engineering boundaries and disciplined project governance that keeps mega‑programs on track — Jacobs brings global insight and local certainty to every stage of high‑speed rail development. Because when nations move faster, communities thrive. When complexity is greatest, certainty matters most. A for approvals — defining the vision and securing buy-in High-speed rail projects fail when approvals precede clarity High-speed rail programs rarely falter because engineering solutions are unavailable — they struggle when scheme definition is unstable at the point of approval. Governments are often asked to commit substantial resources before objectives, benefits and affordable costs are fully aligned. International experience on major programs shows that when benefits, staging and requirements are not clearly defined upfront, cost pressure and political risk quickly follow. Approvals should build confidence by locking in purpose, pathway and end-state early. Avoid commitment to “headlines” like maximum speed or shortest journey time and focus on economic drivers like capacity, connectivity, housing, employment and regeneration. B for boring — tackling tunneling challenges head-on In constrained corridors, tunnel design determines performance, cost

Colin Parker
Todd Kremmin
Q&A

Changing the world: How Todd Kremmin accepted the challenge

"Challenge accepted" is a call to action. It's a commitment to growth, innovation, and excellence. It's about pushing boundaries, embracing new ideas and not shying away from obstacles. Our people accept the challenge every single day – and we're showcasing a few of their stories. Today we connected with Todd Kremmin, a data scientist based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to discuss how he and his colleagues are advancing digital transformation through innovative artificial intelligence (AI) solutions.

Q&A

Why I wear the "J" with Mohammed Al Abdullah

Our culture is what makes working at Jacobs special. There are three integral places where our shared attitudes and behaviors show up – the company's values and practices, your team and network, and your experience day to day. Riyadh, Saudi Arabia-based Mohammed Al Abdullah, strategic consultant and office lead, shares what he loves about Jacobs. How long have you been at Jacobs? I've been with Jacobs for over two years now. Why do you wear the "J?" Each letter in the name "Jacobs" holds a powerful meaning to me: "J" stands for "joy." We bring joy and satisfaction to our clients through innovative solutions. "A" stands for "ambition," reaching new heights and providing exceptional services. "C" stands for "caring" and "compassion," demonstrating empathy and understanding our clients' unique needs. "O" stands for "optimism." We maintain a positive outlook on tackling complex challenges. "B" stands for "bravery," embracing new technologies and ideas with courage. And "S" stands for "strength," creating reliable and robust solutions. All these things are the reasons I wear the "J" each day. What does our culture mean to you? For me, our culture is about the people, our purpose and the progress we're making. It's about bringing your whole self to work in a dynamic environment and contributing to world-class projects. It's about challenging today to reinvent tomorrow. It's about fostering continuous improvement and growth — while embracing our company values and caring for one another as human beings. How do you practice our Culture of Caring

Q&A

Building skills and bridges: Stephanie Elovaris’ Jacobsgo! experience

Stephanie Elovaris shares her experience as part of our 2025 JacobsGo! cohort – living and working in Leeds, U.K. Why did you decide to apply for the program? The JacobsGo! program is a great way for early career professionals to grow their careers while living and working in a new location. I wanted to develop my skills overseas and learn in a different environment. Professionally, I was particularly interested in the opportunity to learn new technical skills that I could apply back home. What were you most excited about? I was excited to work with new people from across the company and contribute to a project in the U.K. I wanted to see how transportation projects are delivered in another country and compare them to what we do in Australia. Working with different design standards and software early in my career has helped me to broaden my design skills. Outside of work, I was eager to travel around the U.K. and Europe and take advantage of being on the other side of the globe. What kind of work did you do in your JacobsGo! role? I worked on the design of a light rail project, including both 2D and 3D design optioneering. The project was in the concept design phase, which is different from my experience in Australia. I had the chance to learn a new software, Civil3D, to undertake modelling that assists with option development. I also helped prepare documentation and presentations of these designs for the project, which

Q&A

Exploring new horizons: Wiktor Wojter's Jacobsgo! experience

At Jacobs, we provide meaningful opportunities to support the growth and development of our people — both personally and professionally. One of these opportunities is JacobsGo!, our global secondment program that facilitates inter-regional and international six-month assignments for employees across the company. In 2025, Electrical Engineer Wiktor Wojter participated in the Jacobs GO! program, traveling from his home office in Warsaw, Poland, to Greenville, South Carolina, U.S., to work as an electrical engineer in industrial facilities for six months. We connected with Wiktor about his experience: Why did you decide to apply for the program? It was a unique opportunity for me to foster international business relationships and enhance my skills through a secondment to another office. As a young electrical design engineer from Poland, I knew that an international assignment would help me better understand the methodologies and working culture of engineers from other regions with whom I collaborate. The distinct nature of the projects compared to those I had previously worked on was also very appealing. What were you most excited about? The chance to meet new colleagues and tackle fresh design challenges. I also have a passion for travel and photography, so I was thrilled by the prospect of exploring the U.S. during my free time and gaining new experiences while living in a different environment for six months. What kind of work did you do in your JacobsGO! role? During my assignment, I worked closely with the electrical team on projects to modernize paper mill facilities

Spiral mirrored structure reflecting greenery and decorative elements inside
Q&A

Do digital twins live up to the hype?

Digital twins are having a moment. Whether your goal is to minimize the risk of cost and schedule blow outs on a project, engage more effectively with communities and interest groups across the design process or reduce operations and maintenance costs to achieve greater profitability over the long term, a digital twin is often promoted as the answer. They certainly hold great promise, but should we be buying into the hype? We sat down with Jacobs Global Principal – Digital Twins Garrett Owens to find out... Firstly, what is a digital twin? Fundamentally, a digital twin is a digital or virtual replica of a physical asset or system. It is developed for the purpose of intelligently connecting complex information to offer insights into the physical system in a risk-free environment. A digital twin communicates and visualizes these insights to owners and operators to better-inform decisions about how the asset or system is operated and maintained. Better decisions support positive interventions and thereby produce valuable outcomes. Do they live up to the hype? Digital twins are currently one of the hot button technology trends in the industry. However, we must avoid the hype associated with specific technologies and instead focus on the benefits that digital twins bring to the industry. The benefits for organizations are numerous, ranging from reducing costs to increasing throughput and production capacity. Digital twins are an active agent in value creation and their applications are constantly expanding. Digital twins have been developed and applied in everything from

Q&A

Growing globally: Olivia Millard’s Jacobsgo! experience

Olivia Millard, a Melbourne, Australia-based process engineer, shares her experience as part of our 2025 JacobsGo! cohort – living and working in Portland, Oregon, U.S. Why did you decide to apply for the program? Throughout my life, I’ve found that immersing myself in different places, contexts and cultures through long-term travel has been a launchpad for my personal and professional growth. JacobsGo! presented such a unique opportunity that I couldn’t pass it up! I am very grateful to be a part of the program. What were you most excited about? Going into this experience, I was excited to learn from technical specialists in Oregon and develop my design skills. On the personal side, I looked forward to exploring the Pacific Northwest outdoors – trail running, skiing, hiking and camping.  What kind of work did you do in your JacobsGo! role? Like my role at home, my workload spanned a range of diverse projects. They involved concept level designs of treatment plants to support capital planning, detailed design of treatment systems, quality control management and development of an interactive facility map dashboard as part of program management efforts.  One project that was a key focus during my time in the region was early works for a water treatment plant. The project centers on the design of fish intake screens and raw water pump replacements which will help the city maintain reliable operations through upcoming major upgrades at the plant.  What was the best part of your JacobsGo! experience? There were so

  • Future Foundations

    Co-creating the world to come

    From developing climate resilience and transitioning to a low-carbon future, to modernizing and transforming infrastructure, governments and businesses face critical challenges. How they respond will define our future.

    As our clients navigate these challenges, we help them think differently – working together to pioneer tomorrow's infrastructure solutions and build the foundations for a prosperous, secure future. 

    Visit Future Foundations
    Future-Foundations