AIA/Deltek Architecture Billings Index (ABI)

While June’s AIA/Deltek Architecture Billings Index (ABI) still shows a dip in revenue, the real story is what’s ahead.

Project inquiries just hit their highest level since last fall. Clients are talking again. Interest is growing. Conversations are starting to turn into RFPs.

This cycle is familiar and very predictable. Inquiries rise first, then contracts, then backlogs surge. Then what?

A rush to hire.

The Midwest may still be in contraction (45.7 ABI score), but firms across the region are seeing signs of re-engagement, particularly in institutional and commercial sectors. Multifamily is down, but can quickly bounce back when funding and timing align.

The recruiting services provided by AEC Resources helps Twin Cities architecture firms prepare for the next hiring surge driven by rising inquiries and future backlog growth. AEC Resources’ recruiting and staffing services help architecture and engineering firms anticipate hiring needs, identify hard-to-find talent early, and secure top professionals before the market tightens. By aligning workforce planning with ABI trends and regional market signals, we help firms hire proactively (not reactively) so they’re fully staffed and ready when projects move forward!