The numbers behind the boom
Data center spending has been the standout of 2026: up more than 73% from a year earlier as of August, according to Census data reported by Construction Dive. ABC's September survey found members with data center work carrying about three more months of backlog than those without.
That work is concentrated: according to ABC, 39% of contractors with more than $100 million in revenue have data center contracts, compared with about one in ten smaller firms.
Why it matters if you don't build them
When large contractors and their best crews commit to multi-year data center programs, they bid less of everything else. Offices, schools, healthcare, restaurants, retail and multifamily still need builders, and commercial and institutional backlog recovered in September to its highest level in more than a year.
How to win the work that's left
- Bid more projects. Win rates are a numbers game, and estimating capacity is usually the limit.
- Watch for materials and trades that data centers compete for, such as electrical gear and skilled electricians, and price them carefully.
- Respond quickly to invitations to bid. Owners notice who turns numbers around.
- Keep estimates organized by CSI division so you can level sub quotes fast on bid day.