In response to the rapid expansion of the advanced technology sector, a leading Chicago-based design-build firm has unveiled a specialized division aimed at capturing the burgeoning market for data centers and large-scale computing projects. This new venture, named Clayco Compute, aims to provide comprehensive services tailored specifically for this niche market. The company anticipates significant growth in this sector, with projections indicating an annual increase of 10% to 20% in the hyperscale data center market through 2030. With substantial investments expected in the coming years, Clayco is positioning itself as a key player in this evolving industry.
Specialized Services for a Dynamic Market
Amidst the golden hues of autumn, Clayco, a prominent design-build firm based in Chicago, announced the establishment of Clayco Compute, its newest business unit dedicated exclusively to constructing data centers and related large-scale projects. This strategic move comes as the demand for advanced data centers and quantum computing facilities continues to surge. According to Colliers, the hyperscale data center market is forecasted to grow by 10% to 20% annually until 2030, while Blackstone predicts U.S. private investments in the sector will reach $1 trillion over the next five years.
Clayco Compute will offer end-to-end services that cater to the unique needs of these projects, including land acquisition, utility management, design, engineering, equipment procurement, and modular solutions. The unit will be led by Ryan McGuire, a seasoned professional with two decades of experience in the industry. To support this initiative, Clayco has already hired 30 new employees in January 2025 and plans to add 30 more each month throughout the year.
The company's recent financial performance underscores its commitment to this sector. In 2024, Clayco generated $3.6 billion in revenue from data center projects, representing more than half of its total earnings. This figure is more than double the $1.5 billion it earned from the sector in 2023. By 2026, Clayco Compute is projected to achieve revenues exceeding $4.5 billion.
An example of the dynamic nature of this industry is evident in Microsoft's decision to pause construction on a $3.3-billion data center in Mount Pleasant, Wisconsin, to incorporate potential design revisions due to technological advancements. Such flexibility is crucial in a field where new tools and information are constantly emerging, requiring organizations to adapt swiftly.
Clayco is also involved in the initial phase of constructing a multi-billion dollar, 440-acre quantum computing campus on Chicago’s southeast side, further solidifying its role in shaping the future of advanced technology infrastructure.
From a journalist's perspective, Clayco's launch of Clayco Compute reflects a strategic foresight into the rapidly evolving tech landscape. The company's ability to pivot and specialize in areas of high demand demonstrates a forward-thinking approach that could set a precedent for other firms in the construction industry. As technology continues to advance, the need for specialized expertise in building and managing data centers will only grow, making Clayco's timely entry into this market both prudent and visionary.