Willdan Increases 2025 Net Revenue and EPS Projections Amid Rising Demand for Data Centers
Management Insights: Willdan Group reported a 26% year-over-year increase in net revenue for Q3 2025, with organic growth at 20%. CEO Michael Bieber noted strong demand from utilities, commercial customers, and government sectors, particularly in data center electrification.
Financial Performance: The company raised its full-year 2025 financial targets, expecting net revenue between $360 million and $365 million, with adjusted EBITDA projected at $77 million to $78 million. Q3 adjusted EBITDA reached a record $23.1 million, reflecting a 53% increase from the previous year.
Contract Wins and Growth Outlook: Willdan secured significant contracts, including a $97 million project in Alameda County, contributing to a strong backlog and anticipated growth from the APG acquisition, which is expected to drive over 50% growth in 2026.
Analyst Sentiment and Risk Management: Analysts expressed positive sentiment regarding Willdan's growth and operational execution, while management emphasized proactive risk management and a disciplined approach to project selection amidst rapid growth.
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- Stake Reduction Details: According to a May 7, 2026 SEC filing, Bard Associates sold 73,167 shares of Willdan Group in Q1, with an estimated trade value of $7.74 million, indicating a $7.59 million decrease in the fund's position value due to both the sale and price fluctuations, highlighting market volatility's impact on its portfolio.
- Holding Proportion Change: Following the reduction, Bard Associates' stake in Willdan Group now represents less than 0.004% of its reportable U.S. equity AUM, suggesting that the investment is no longer a significant asset, which may influence future investment decisions.
- Willdan Performance Metrics: Willdan reported an 8.3% increase in net revenue to $92.4 million in Q1, with adjusted EBITDA rising 25% to $18.1 million and net income surging 82% to $8.5 million, prompting management to raise its 2026 outlook to an adjusted EBITDA projection between $100 million and $105 million.
- Market Reaction Analysis: Despite Willdan's stock price rallying 85% over the past year, Bard's stake reduction appears to be a profit-taking move rather than a loss of confidence in the company's fundamentals, reflecting a cautious investor sentiment ahead of strong earnings releases that could influence short-term market dynamics.
- Share Reduction Details: Bard Associates sold 73,167 shares of Willdan Group in Q1, with an estimated transaction value of $7.74 million, representing 1.94% of its reportable U.S. equity assets.
- Position Value Decline: This trade resulted in a $7.59 million decrease in Bard's quarter-end position value in Willdan, reflecting the combined effects of trading and price changes.
- Company Performance Growth: Willdan reported an 8.3% increase in net revenue to $92.4 million in Q1, with adjusted EBITDA rising 25% to $18.1 million and net income surging 82% to $8.5 million, prompting management to raise its 2026 outlook.
- Market Demand Analysis: Willdan is benefiting from strong demand tied to grid modernization and energy efficiency upgrades, and despite an 85% stock rally over the past year, some investors opted to lock in gains, indicating confidence in its future performance.
- Acquisition Impact: Willdan Group completed the acquisition of Burton Energy Group this week, with Burton generating approximately $103 million in contract revenue, $15 million in net revenue, and $7 million in EBITDA in 2025, which is expected to enhance Willdan's margins and EPS, further driving the company's expansion into the commercial sector.
- Strong Financial Performance: In Q1 2026, Willdan achieved a record adjusted EBITDA of $18.1 million, representing 19.6% of net revenue and a 44% increase compared to the previous year, demonstrating effective management in expense control and tax benefits.
- Raised Revenue Outlook: Based on a strong start, Willdan raised its 2026 net revenue guidance to between $410 million and $425 million, with adjusted EBITDA expected to be between $100 million and $105 million, reflecting the contribution from Burton and ongoing contract wins.
- Commercial Revenue Growth: Commercial revenue is projected to account for 25% of total revenue in 2026, a significant increase from 7% in 2024, showcasing Willdan's strategic transformation and expansion capabilities in the commercial market, thereby enhancing the company's growth potential.
- Strategic Expansion: On May 4, Willdan acquired 100% of Burton Energy Group, integrating Burton's energy management capabilities into Willdan, which is expected to significantly enhance its market position in the commercial sector.
- Financial Performance: Burton reported approximately $103 million in contract revenue and $15 million in net revenue for 2025, demonstrating strong performance in energy management, and is anticipated to positively impact Willdan's adjusted earnings per share in 2026.
- Enhanced Client Base: This acquisition expands Willdan's client base to include several Fortune 500 companies, further solidifying its influence in the Southeast and Midwest markets while enhancing client service capabilities.
- Cultural Alignment: The founder of Burton noted that Willdan's alignment in culture and values will foster collaborative growth, driving innovation and improved customer service.
- Acquisition Announcement: Willdan Group, Inc. has acquired 100% of Burton Energy Group.
- Strategic Move: This acquisition is part of Willdan's strategy to enhance its energy services and expand its market presence.











