AECOM, SMU partner on AI infrastructure research

Key Takeaways

• AECOM and Southern Methodist University (SMU) have partnered to advance artificial intelligence (AI) research in infrastructure engineering
• The partnership includes a doctoral fellowship program to develop advanced engineering and AI expertise
• The program aims to strengthen the connection between academic research and real-world application
• A joint advisory board will guide the partnership to ensure alignment between research priorities and industry demands

Introduction to the Partnership

AECOM, a global leader in infrastructure solutions, has announced a strategic partnership with Southern Methodist University (SMU) to advance AI-driven research in infrastructure engineering. This collaboration brings together AECOM's deep domain expertise and global experience with SMU's academic leadership and research excellence.

The Doctoral Fellowship Program

The partnership centers around a doctoral fellowship program within SMU's Lyle School of Engineering, designed to develop advanced engineering and AI expertise in areas critical to the future of infrastructure delivery. The program will support PhD and Doctor of Engineering candidates whose research focuses on applying AI to complex infrastructure challenges. Fellows will work closely with SMU faculty and AECOM technical leaders on complex, high-value engineering challenges with real commercial application.

Comparison of Partnership Benefits

Partnership Governance

The partnership will be guided by a joint advisory board comprising representatives from both AECOM and SMU. This board will help ensure alignment between research priorities, academic rigor, and evolving industry demands. The program preserves SMU's academic independence and commitment to publishable research, enabling knowledge generated through the collaboration to contribute broadly to the advancement of science, engineering, and society.

Conclusion and Announcement

The partnership between AECOM and SMU was formally announced at the Industry Innovation Summit 2026, hosted by the SMU Lyle Center for Digital and Human-Augmented Manufacturing. The announcement was led by key representatives from both organizations, including Lara Poloni and Janne Aas Jakobsen from AECOM, and Dr. Nader Jalili, Dr. Amin Salehi-Khojin, and Dr. Usama El Shamy from SMU.

Bottom Line

The partnership between AECOM and SMU has the potential to drive significant advancements in AI-driven infrastructure research and workforce development. By combining AECOM's industry expertise with SMU's academic leadership, this collaboration can help address complex infrastructure challenges and contribute to the development of innovative solutions that benefit society as a whole. With a strong governance structure in place, this partnership is poised to make a lasting impact on the future of infrastructure engineering.