NEW YORK, Feb 5 – Skanska USA, the American division of the Swedish construction giant, has announced the formation of Skanska Advanced Technology (SAT), a new specialized unit dedicated to high-tech and semiconductor manufacturing. This strategic move is in response to the growing demand for advanced manufacturing facilities across the U.S.

SAT, comprising over 180 professionals, will collaborate closely with Skanska’s regional operating units to provide tailored solutions across the company’s footprint. The new unit already has active projects in Oregon, Arizona, and California, according to Skanska’s Feb. 5 news release.

The establishment of SAT aligns with Skanska’s broader efforts to expand its presence in the rapidly evolving technology-driven construction sector. With $23 billion worth of advanced technology projects either completed or underway, the company is well-positioned to leverage its expertise in the semiconductor and high-tech manufacturing markets.

‍Strengthening Leadership and Expertise

The new unit will operate under Skanska’s USA Building business division and will be led by Executive Vice President and General Manager Katie Coulson. Coulson, a 25-year veteran at Skanska, previously served as senior vice president and account manager, where she managed a long-standing relationship with the company’s largest high-tech manufacturing client.

“Establishing SAT is an important strategic move for our business, and Katie is the ideal leader for our SAT team,” said Clay Haden, president & CEO of Skanska USA Building. “Under her leadership, we are well positioned to better serve our key customers and seize emerging opportunities in the high-tech/chips manufacturing sector.”

Industry Trends and Competitive Landscape

Skanska’s move comes as the construction industry witnesses an unprecedented surge in demand for semiconductor manufacturing and data centers. The contractor is not alone in recognizing this shift. Other industry leaders are also expanding their focus on advanced manufacturing to capitalize on the anticipated boom in the sector.

Edmonton-based PCL, which has its U.S. headquarters in Denver, recently launched a new division specializing in semiconductor, battery, electronics, and life science construction. The firm cited growing demand and initiatives such as Stargate, a massive AI infrastructure investment plan that could see up to $500 billion funneled into high-tech facilities.

Experts predict that this sector will continue to expand rapidly in the coming years.

“[Data center construction] has emerged as one of the fastest-growing construction markets,” said Brian Kassalen, principal and construction industry leader at Baker Tilly, a Chicago-based advisory, tax, and assurance firm. “Even before the announcement of Project Stargate, data center construction was a top construction market with significant growth forecasted in 2025 and beyond.”

A Vision for the Future

Skanska’s commitment to high-tech manufacturing aligns with broader industry trends driven by increased investments in semiconductor production, AI infrastructure, and data centers. With recent federal incentives such as the CHIPS Act aiming to boost domestic semiconductor production, construction firms are racing to support the growing ecosystem of tech manufacturing.

By establishing SAT, Skanska is positioning itself at the forefront of this transformation. The company aims to streamline project delivery, optimize efficiency, and support the development of cutting-edge manufacturing facilities that will drive the future of technology. To learn more, visit https://www.usa.skanska.com/.

Originally reported by Matthew Thibault in Construction Dive.