Leading Water Engineering and Construction Firms: Profiling Company Strategies and Trends

Engineering and construction firms are vital in shaping decisions across the municipal and industrial water & wastewater sectors. Their influence extends from consulting services and technology recommendations to construction and facility operations, positioning them as key decision-makers in the water sector. In some respects, they serve as gatekeepers to critical infrastructure and technology choices.

These firms continuously adapt to market forces to remain competitive, including economic disruptions, technological advancements, climate change, and evolving policy landscapes. Business strategies increasingly revolve around restructuring—establishing, repositioning, or divesting units to align with growth opportunities such as energy transition, digital transformation, and the increasing demand for industrial water.

In this shifting landscape, firms are deploying a range of strategies, including mergers and acquisitions (M&A), partnerships, geographic expansion, and service innovation (e.g., digital solutions, alternative delivery models). Investment and deal-making activities reflect a broader push to enhance capabilities, enter high-growth markets, and diversify revenue streams.

This Insight Report provides an in-depth analysis of 35 global engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) firms, covering revenues by business unit and geography, comparative rankings, and strategic positioning. Bluefield’s analysis highlights the critical factors shaping these firms’ competitive strategies and long-term positioning in the water and wastewater industry.