Jacmel Partners announced its portfolio company, Arora Engineers, has acquired J.A. Watts, LLC (JWI), adding program and construction management capabilities that broaden Arora’s aviation and infrastructure solutions offering across the full project lifecycle.
JWI, founded in 1999 and based in Chicago with offices across North America, provides infrastructure construction, project, and program management services for public and private owners. Its capabilities span project controls, aviation security, airline planning and design, fuel systems, engineering, technology infrastructure, and broader transportation and transit work. The firm’s sector focus aligns closely with Arora’s concentration in aviation, transportation, and other infrastructure markets.
The transaction pairs Arora’s planning, design, digital, and enterprise infrastructure solutions with JWI’s on-the-ground program and construction management, positioning the combined platform to deliver integrated services from early planning and design through construction execution and ongoing asset and facilities management. Arora said it will continue expanding its global presence, supporting U.S. and international clients from teams based across Singapore, India, the Middle East, Europe, and North America.
Manik Arora, President and CEO of Arora Engineers, said JWI’s track record in complex infrastructure projects complements and expands Arora’s capabilities and supports the company’s “Rethinking Infrastructure®” strategy. Jacmel Partners Co-Founder and Co-Managing Partner Nick Jean-Baptiste said the addition of JWI should enhance Arora’s client offerings and accelerate growth. Julie Watts, President of JWI, said the partnership aligns the companies’ missions and enables a broader, more integrated approach to project delivery while maintaining JWI’s values and commitment to employees and clients.
Financing for the acquisition was arranged by Brightwood Capital Inc. AEC Advisors provided industry benchmarking and strategic consulting to Jacmel Partners, while Willkie Farr & Gallagher served as legal counsel to Jacmel Partners and Arora. Stout Capital acted as exclusive financial advisor to JWI, and Huck Bouma P.C. served as legal counsel to JWI.
KEY QUOTES:
“We are thrilled to welcome JWI to the Arora family. With their extensive experience and impeccable track record in complex infrastructure projects, JWI perfectly complements and expands our existing capabilities and team. This acquisition aligns with our mission of Rethinking Infrastructure® and further enhances our position as a global leader in infrastructure solutions for the built environment. Together with JWI, we are poised to deliver unparalleled solutions to our clients globally.”
Manik Arora, President & CEO, Arora Engineers
“We’re excited to welcome the respected, accomplished, and experienced JWI team to Arora, and look forward to collectively guiding their next phase of growth. We continue to have deep conviction in Arora’s vision for rethinking infrastructure and believe that the addition of JWI will allow Arora to meaningfully enhance its offerings for clients and accelerate its growth trajectory.”
Nick Jean-Baptiste, Co-Founder and Co-Managing Partner, Jacmel Partners
“Joining the Arora family sets JWI on a promising new path while upholding our core values. What stood out to us about this partnership is how closely our missions align, along with our shared commitment to our employees and clients. Together, we can now offer a broader range of services and a more integrated approach to project delivery. We’re excited for this next chapter and for everything our teams will achieve together.”
Julie Watts, President, JWI
