Q3 2023 Bowman Consulting Group Ltd Earnings Call
Speaker 1: Good morning. My name is Alyssa and I will be your conference operator today. At this time, I would like to welcome everyone to the Bowman Consulting Group third quarter 2023 conference call.
Good morning, My name is Elisa and I will be your conference operator today at this time I would like to welcome everyone to the Bowman consulting group third quarter 2023 conference call.
Speaker 1: All lines have been placed on mute to prevent any background noise.
All lines have been placed on mute to prevent any background noise.
Speaker 1: After the speaker's remarks, there will be a question and answer session.
After the Speakers' remarks, there will be a question and answer session.
Speaker 1: If you would like to ask a question during this time, simply press star followed by the number one on your telephone keypad.
If you would like to ask a question. During this time simply press star followed by the number one on your telephone keypad.
Speaker 1: If you would like to withdraw your question, press the star 2 key. Thank you.
If you would like to withdraw your question press the star two key things.
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Speaker 1: Please note that many of the comments made today are considered forward-looking statements under federal security laws.
Please note that many of the comments made today are considered forward looking statements under federal security laws.
Speaker 1: As described in the company's filings with the SEC, these statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties that could cause future results to differ from those expressed. And the company is not obligated to publicly update or revise these forward-looking statements.
As described in the company's filings with the SEC These statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties that could cause future results to differ from those expressed and the company is not obligated to publicly update or revise these forward looking statements.
Speaker 1: In addition, on today's call, the company will discuss certain non-GAAP financial information such as adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income, and net service billing.
In addition on today's call the company will discuss certain non-GAAP financial information such as adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income and that service billing.
Speaker 1: You can find this information together with the reconciliations to the most directly comparable GAAP information in the company's earnings press release and 8K filed with the SEC and on the company's investor website at investors.boeman.com.
You can find this information together with the reconciliations to the most directly comparable GAAP information in the company's earnings press release, and 8-K filed with the S. E C and on the company's Investor website at investors Dot Bowman dotcom.
Speaker 1: Management will deliver prepared remarks, after which they will be taking live questions from published research analysts.
Management will deliver prepared remarks, after which they will be taking live questions from published research analysts.
Speaker 1: Throughout the call, attendees on the webcast may post questions for management to answer on the call or in subsequent communications. But there will be no live Q&A from the webcast attendees.
The call attendees on the webcast may post questions for management to answer on the call or in subsequent communications, but there will be no live Q&A from the webcast attendees.
Speaker 1: Replays of the call will be available on the company's investor website. Mr. Bowman, you may begin...
Replays of the call will be available on the company's investor website Mr.
Mr. Bowman you may begin your prepared remarks.
Speaker 2: Thank you, Alyssa. Good morning. Thank you, everyone, for joining the Bowman Consulting third quarter 2023 earnings conference call. As usual, I'm joined here today by Bruce Leibovitz, our chief financial officer.
Thank you Lisa.
Hey, good morning. Thank you everyone for joining the BOMA consulting third quarter 2023 earnings conference call as usual I'm joined here today by Bruce <unk>, Our Chief Financial Officer.
Speaker 2: This past quarter is a solid indicator of what we are able to produce over the long term. Gross revenue approached $100 million and our adjusted EBITDA margin on net revenue exceeded 18%.
This past quarter is a solid indicator of what we were able to produce over the long term gross revenue approached $100 million and our adjusted EBITA margin on net revenue exceeded 18%.
Speaker 2: At the time of our IPO, just about 2 and 1 half years ago, our five years strategic growth objectives were to reach a $500 million gross revenue run rate and high teen adjusted EBITDA margin while maintaining a 10% to 15% net to gross spread. Our results this quarter and year to date clearly demonstrate we're on a trajectory to achieve those goals.
At the time of our IPO, just about two and a half years ago or five years strategic growth objectives were to reach a 500 million gross revenue run rate and high teen adjusted EBITDA margin, while maintaining a 10% to 15% net to gross spread.
Our results this quarter and year to date clearly demonstrate we are on track trajectory.
Trajectory to achieve those goals.
Speaker 2: While we did not close any acquisitions during the third quarter, we have closed two acquisitions here in the fourth quarter.
While we did not close any acquisitions during the third quarter, we have closed two acquisitions here in the fourth quarter.
Speaker 2: Accordingly, I'd like to take a moment to formally welcome all our new employees from Excellence Engineering and Dennis Corporation to their first earnings call, along with all other employees who recently joined the Bowman team.
Accordingly, I would like to take a moment to formally welcome all our new employees from excellent Engineering and Dennis Corporation to their first earnings call along with all other employees have recently enjoyed and joined the Boeing team.
Speaker 2: As we continue to grow, our enduring ability to attract, develop, and retain talent is a testament to the culture and values that we're all committed to embracing and advancing. We continue to make good progress on our revenue diversification initiatives as evidenced by the ongoing increase in the contribution of non-building infrastructure revenue, which reached 45% of our total revenue, up meaningfully from 30% in the year of our IPO.
As we continue to grow our enduring ability to attract develop and retain talent is a testament to the culture and values that we're all committed to embracing and advancing we continue to make good progress on our revenue diversification initiatives as evidenced by the ongoing increase in the contribution of non building into.
The structure revenue.
Which reached 45% of our total revenue up meaningfully from 30% in the year of our IPO.
Speaker 2: We continue to experience strong and what we believe to be sustainable, long-term demand for our services from both existing and new customers, including new to Bowman customers added through acquisition.
We continue to experience strong and what we believe to be sustainable long term demand for our services from both existing and new customers, including New department customers added through acquisitions.
Speaker 2: We're experiencing significant tailwinds related to the funding for transportation, energy, and reshoring initiatives which are propelling us forward.
We're experiencing significant tailwind related to the funding for transportation energy and re shoring initiatives, which are propelling us forward.
Speaker 2: We believe the recent Fed signals regarding monetary policy will further stimulate our industry in the near term.
We believe the recent fed signals regarding monetary policy will further stimulate our industry in the near term.
Speaker 2: According to recently published government announcements, around $200 billion of Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act Fund funded public transportation and infrastructure projects have been announced to date.
According to recently published government announcements around 200 billion of infrastructure investment and jobs Act fund.
Funded public transportation and infrastructure projects have been announced to date.
Speaker 2: This spending represents less than 20% of the more than $1.2 trillion of funding secured under the IIJA. We're clearly still in the early stages.
This spending represents less than 20% of the more than 1.2 trillion dollars.
Oh funding secured under the I R J a.
We're clearly still in the early stages of this spending.
Speaker 2: Another roughly $60 billion in grants, incentives, and initiatives for clean energy, clean water, and community resiliency projects have been announced under the Inflation Reduction Act.
Of the roughly $60 billion in grants incentives and initiatives for clean energy clean water and community resiliency projects have been announced under the inflation reduction Act.
Speaker 2: This likewise represents just a small percentage of the committed funding available into this program.
This likewise represents just a small percentage of the committed funding available under this program.
Speaker 2: As various deadlines for long-term IRA qualification approach, the rush to start projects and secure standing for benefits is underway.
As various deadlines for long term IRR qualification approached the rush to start projects and secure standing for benefits is underway.
With respect to manufacturing and other resource initiatives. The private sector's responded to funding by announcing over $600 million in new manufacturing infrastructure projects in the U S.
Speaker 2: With respect to manufacturing and other resorbing initiatives, the private sectors responded to funding by announcing over $600 million in new manufacturing infrastructure projects in the US, including over $200 million in clean energy, EVs, batteries, and storage, all sectors in which we arrived.
Including over $200 million in clean energy Evs batteries and storage all sectors in which we're active now.
Speaker 2: Now I'm going to turn the call over to Bruce to review our financial results, after which I'll take a few minutes to discuss our markets, our M&A pipeline, and our 2024 outlook. Bruce, terrific thanks, Gary. The third quarter was a breakout quarter for us in terms of demonstrating our capacity for revenue growth and operational efficiency.
I'm going to turn the call over to Bruce to review, our financial results after which I will take a few minutes to discuss our markets, our M&A pipeline and our 2024 outlook Bruce terrific. Thanks, Gary.
Third quarter was a breakout quarter for us in terms of demonstrating our capacity for revenue growth and operational efficiency.
Speaker 2: As we continue to grow, not every quarter will be a reflection of the last one or predictive of the next one. But the trends we're demonstrating are representative of what we believe we can achieve over time.
As we continue to grow not every quarter will be a reflection of the last one or predictive of the next one but the trends we are demonstrating our representative what we believe we can achieve over time.
Speaker 2: Gross revenue for the third quarter increased 33% to 94.4 million as compared to the third quarter of last year.
Gross revenue for the third quarter increased to 33% to $94 4 million as compared to the third quarter of last year.
Speaker 2: Year over year, organic growth of growth revenue for the quarter was 11%.
Year over year organic growth of gross revenue for the quarter was 11%.
Speaker 2: Net service billing, a non-GAF result for which we provide reconciliations in our press release and disclosures, increased 27% to 82.1 million in the third quarter compared to the third quarter of last year.
Net service billing, our non-GAAP results for which we provide reconciliations in our press release and disclosures increased 27% to $82 1 million in the third quarter compared to the third quarter of last year.
Speaker 2: Year-over-year organic growth of net service billing was just over 9% in the quarter.
Year over year organic growth in net service billing was just over 9% in the quarter.
During the third quarter building infrastructure represented 55% of our gross revenue with transportation at 21% and power and utilities representing 20%.
Speaker 2: During the third quarter, building infrastructure represented 55% of our gross revenue, with transportation at 21% and power and utilities representing 20%.
Speaker 2: Non-residential revenue represented nearly 66% of building infrastructure or 36% of gross revenue.
Non residential revenue represented nearly 66% of building infrastructure or 36% of gross revenue.
Speaker 2: Residential revenue represented just under 19% of gross revenue with what we would characterize as four-stale related residential, counting for just around 10% of gross revenue.
Residential revenue represented just under 19% of gross revenue with what we would characterize as for sale related residential accounting for just around 10% of gross revenue.
Speaker 2: In 2021, building infrastructure represents nearly 70% of gross revenue. While we are pleased with the progress we're making towards our long-term revenue diversification goals, there is more to be achieved.
In 2021 building infrastructure represented nearly 70% of gross revenue.
While we are pleased with the progress we're making towards our long term revenue diversification goals. There is more to be achieved.
Year to date gross revenue was up 36% to $253 3 million for the first nine months of last year.
Speaker 2: Year to date, gross revenue is up 36% to $253.3 million for the first nine months of last year.
Speaker 2: Your-to-date organic growth of gross revenue was just under 22%.
Year to date organic growth of gross revenue was just under 22%.
Speaker 2: Your to date, net service billing increased 32% to 223 million point five as compared to the first nine months of last year.
Year to date net service billing increased 32% to $223 million five as compared to the first nine months of last year.
Speaker 2: Your today's organic growth of net service billing is just under 20%.
Year to date organic growth of net service billing just under 20%.
Gross margin for the second quarter was 51, 6% on gross revenue, which was 70 basis points lower than gross margin in the third quarter last year.
Speaker 2: Gross margin for the second quarter was 51.6% on gross revenue, which was 70 basis points lower than gross margin in the third quarter last year.
Speaker 2: Year-to-date gross margin was 51%, which is 40 basis points below the first nine months of last year. We consider these to be normal fluctuations in gross margin based on mix of business and utilization, which impacts the allocation of fringe cost to COG.
Year to date gross margin was 51%, which is 40 basis points below the first nine months of last year, we can say that needs to be normal fluctuations in gross margin based on mix of business and utilization, which impacts the allocation of fringe cost to Cogs.
Speaker 2: Included in cost of goods sold for the quarter and a year are 2.1 million and 5.3 million of non cash dot compensation respectively.
Included in cost of goods sold for the quarter, and a year or $2 1 million and $5 3 million of noncash stock compensation respectively.
Speaker 2: Net of these non-cash costs, gross margin would have been 54 and 53% for the quarter and year-to-date respectively.
Net of these noncash costs gross margin would have been 54% and 53% for the quarter and year to date, respectively.
Speaker 2: While we continue to believe these margins are normal for our current business model, we're optimistic that evolutions in disruptive technologies for our industry will help expand these margins over time.
While we continue to believe these margins are normal for our current business model. We are optimistic that evolutions in disruptive technologies for our industry will help expand these margins over time.
Speaker 2: SG&A, which included $5 million of non-cash stock compensation for the quarter and $13 million year to date, was up 160 basis points as a percentage of net service billing in the third quarter compared to last year, but was down 120 basis points sequentially when compared to the second quarter of this year.
SG&A, which included $5 million of noncash stock compensation for the quarter and $13 million year to date.
Was up 160 basis points as a percentage of net service billing in the third quarter compared to last year, but was down 120 basis points sequentially when compared to the second quarter of this year.
Speaker 2: This sequential period reduction in SGNA as a percentage of net service billing is the predictable result of the combination of outsized labor investments made in the second quarter and increased revenue generated this quarter.
This sequential period reduction in SG&A as a percentage of net service billing is the predictable result of the combination of outsized labor investments made in the second quarter and increased revenue generated this quarter.
Speaker 2: For the third quarter, we reported a net income of 1.2 million, which brings year-to-date net income to 1.1 million, inclusive of a $1.8 million tax benefit in large part derived from R&D tax credits, and windfalls related to stock vesting values higher than grant date fair value.
For the third quarter, we reported a net income of $1 2 million, which brings year to date net income to $1 1 million inclusive of a $1 $8 million tax benefit in large part derived from R&D tax credits and windfalls related to stock vesting values higher than grant date fair value.
Speaker 2: Adjusted EBITDA was up 57% in the second quarter to 15.1 million as compared to third quarter last year.
Adjusted EBITDA was up 57% in the second quarter to $15 1 million as compared to third quarter last year.
Speaker 2: Adjusted EBIDA margin, net, increased 350 basis points to 18.3% in the quarter.
Adjusted EBITDA margin net increased 350 basis points to 18, 3% in the quarter.
Speaker 2: Year-to-date adjusted EBITDA is up 45% to 35.8 million, and adjusted EBITDA margin at is up 140 basis points to 16%.
Year to date, adjusted EBITDA is up 45% to $35 8 million and adjusted EBITDA margin that is up 140 basis points to 16%.
Speaker 2: As we grow, entry-year margins can be uneven based on the timing of expenses and revenue may.
As we grow intra year margins can be uneven based on the timing of expenses and revenue mix.
Speaker 2: As such, we recommend investors focus on margin developed over multiple periods as a directional indicator.
As such we recommend investors focus on margin developed over multiple periods as a directional indicator.
Speaker 2: Well, this quarter's margin is a positive display of our potential. I don't believe it is the new baseline, at least not yet.
This quarter's margin is a positive display of our potential I don't believe it is the new baseline at least not yet.
Speaker 2: Backlog at the end of the quarter was just under $300 million, and is made up of approximately 54% building infrastructure, 25% transportation, 19% power and utility, and 2% other emerging revenues.
Backlog at the end of the quarter was just under $300 million and it's made up of approximately 54% building infrastructure, 25% transportation, 19% power and utility and 2% other emerging revenue areas.
Speaker 2: We're pleased with our ability to generate backlog growth that continues to outpace revenue recognition.
We're pleased with our ability to generate backlog growth that continues to outpace revenue recognition.
Speaker 2: Backlog is worked that's contracted to be performed and has capped at 18 months in the case of long-term programmatic assignments.
Backlog is work that is contracted to be performed and is capped at 18 months in the case of long term programmatic assignments.
Speaker 2: We generally expect roughly 75% of our backlog to turn in any 12 month period. But that number varies based on the company.
We generally expect roughly 75% of our backlog to turn in any 12 month period.
But that number varies based on the composition of backlog.
Speaker 2: Cash flow from operations was 12.3 million through nine months, which represents a little over 10 million in the quarter.
Cash flow from operations was $12 3 million through nine months, which represents a little over $10 million in the quarter cash.
Speaker 2: Cash flow from operations before changes in working capital for the nine months was nearly 21.8 million. We're pleased with our progress on
Cash flow from operations before changes in working capital for the nine months was nearly $21 $8 million.
We're pleased with our progress on cash flow generation.
Speaker 2: Net debt at the end of the quarter was just under 53 million down from 63 61 million on June 30th.
Net debt at the end of the quarter was just under $53 million down from 63 $61 million on June 30.
Speaker 2: This net debt represents a leverage ratio of around 1.2 times trailing four quarters adjusted EBITDA.
This net debt represents a leverage ratio of around one two times trailing four quarters adjusted EBITDA.
Speaker 2: With over $14 million in cash on hand, and over $45 million of capacity under the line, we're pleased with the state of our balance sheet.
With over $14 million in cash on hand at over $45 million of capacity under the line. We're pleased with the state of our balance sheet.
Speaker 2: On the tax front, we continue to monitor guidance issued with respect to changes to research and development expense capitalization.
On the tax front, we continue to monitor guidance issued with respect to changes to research and development expense capitalization.
Speaker 2: Based on recent IRS guidance, we continue to proceed with a belief that the characteristics of our business practices afford us the ability to expense our R&D costs currently as opposed to capitalizing them. Because this is evolving tax law, we continue to maintain an uncertain tax position for it to as a UTP relating to the possibility that in the future our position will change.
Based on recent IRS guidance, we continue to proceed with a belief that the characteristics of our business practices afford us the ability to expense our R&D costs currently as opposed to capitalizing them.
Kosmos is evolving tax law, we continue to main and maintain an uncertain tax position virtu as a UTP relating to the possibility that in the future our position will change.
Speaker 2: The uncertain tax liability is reflected on our statement of cash flows before changes in working capital as deferred tax, as if it were spent. But it is later added back to cash from operations through a crude expenses since we're not actually expending the cash. This neutralizes its impact on
The uncertain tax liability is reflected on our statement of cash flows before changes in working capital as deferred tax as if as if it were spent.
It is later added back to cash from operations through accrued expenses since we're not actually extending the cash.
This neutralizes its impact on cash from operations.
Speaker 2: On our balance sheet, the UTP is included in other non-current liabilities, along with accruals for contingent consideration.
On our balance sheet. The UTP is included in other non current liabilities along with accruals for contingent consideration.
Speaker 2: On September 30 and as of today we have 14.6 million shares outstanding including all shares issued in connection with restricted stock awards.
On September 30, and as of today, we have $14 6 million shares outstanding including all shares issued in connection with restricted stock Awards.
Speaker 2: During the third quarter, based on what we believe was an undervaluation of our equity relative to the performance of the business, the multiples of our peer group and comparable transaction valuations, we established a limit order based buying program under our $10 million stock tax deposit.
During the third quarter based on what we believe was an undervaluation of our equity relative to the performance of the business the multiples of our peer group and comparable transaction valuations, we established a limit order based buying program under our $10 million stock repurchase authorization.
Speaker 2: During and subsequent to the quarter, we have purchased nearly 29,000 shares at an average price of 2594 per share. While these numbers are big, they should communicate our commitments a flexible deployment of capital to protect and advance shareholder value.
During and subsequent to the quarter, we have purchased nearly 29000 shares at an average price of $25 94 per share.
While these numbers aren't big they should communicate our commitment to a flexible deployment of capital to protect and advance shareholder value.
Speaker 2: This quarter, we introduced a new non-gap metric of adjusted EPS, for which we provide a reconciliation to gap EPS in our press relief.
This quarter, we introduced a new non-GAAP metric of adjusted EPS for which we provide a reconciliation to GAAP EPS in our press release.
Speaker 2: I want to reiterate that adjusted EPS should be evaluated as a non-GAT measure that may not be calculated consistently with others in our peer group, who likewise present as much...
I want to reiterate that adjusted EPS should be evaluated as a non-GAAP measure that may not be calculated consistently with others in our peer group, who likewise present this metric.
Speaker 2: Incountulating this metric, consistent with our peers, we add back costs associated with acquisitions, and pre-IPOs.compensation expense, along with other non-recurring non-core expense.
In calculating this metrics consistent with our peers, we add back costs associated with acquisitions and pre IPO stock compensation expense along with other nonrecurring noncore expenses.
Speaker 2: We do not add back non-cash stock compensation in the normal course.
We do not add back noncash stock compensation in the normal course.
Speaker 2: When computing a tax effect of these addbacks, we first recalculate our tax expense exclusive of any periodic windfall or shortfall tax impact of non-cash stock compensation besting, then apply an average marginal effective tax rate to other addbacks.
When computing the tax effect of these add backs, we first recalculate, our tax expense exclusive of any periodic windfall or shortfall tax impact of noncash stock compensation vesting, then apply an average marginal effective tax rate to other add backs.
Speaker 2: Well, it may not necessarily be the most advantageous to us way to present the tax benefit. We feel it is the most accurate and reflective approach.
It may not necessarily be the most advantageous to us way to present the tax benefit we feel it is the most accurate and reflective approach.
Speaker 2: We believe this is useful information for investors to use to evaluate us against our peers. And as such, we will continue to include it in our press releases going forward.
We believe this is useful information for investors to use to evaluate us against our peers and as such we will continue to included in our press releases going forward.
Speaker 2: As we near the end of the year, we're tightening our 2023 guidance and introducing our outlook for 2024 based on current backlog, a preliminary understanding of our clients intentions for next year and our forecast for business development.
As we near the end of the year, we're tightening our 2023 guidance and introducing our outlook for 2024 based on current backlog a preliminary understanding of our clients' intentions for next year and our forecast for business development for.
Speaker 2: For 2023, we're narrowing our forecast and net service billing to be in the range of 306 to 312 million, with a just an e-bidon, the range of 48 to 52 million. For 2024, we are initiating guidance of 345 to 360 million, with a just an e-bidon, a range of 56 to 62 million. As always, these do not contemplate future acquisitions.
For 2023, we're narrowing our forecasted net service billing to be in the range of $306 million to $312 million with adjusted EBITDA in the range of $48 million to $52 million.
For 2024, we are initiating guidance of 345 million to $360 million with adjusted EBITDA in a range of 56% to $62 million as always please do not contemplate future acquisitions with.
Speaker 2: With that, I'm going to turn the call back over to Gary for concluding remarks.
I'm going to turn the call back over to Gary for concluding remarks.
Speaker 2: Thank you, Bruce. I'm going to take a moment here to discuss our markets, our M&A pipeline and our strategic planning before turning the call back over to the operator for a question.
Thank you Bruce I'm going to take a moment here to discuss our markets.
Our M&A pipeline and our strategic planning before turning the call back over to the operator for our questions.
Speaker 3: Since we last reported our results, there hasn't been much change in terms of general profile demand for services in the market for infrastructure planning and engineering, which remains strong. What has evolved, however, is the breadth and scope of services we provide to meet that demand and the incremental wallet share and market share we can support.
Since we last reported our results there hasnt been much change in terms of the general profile of demand for services in the market for infrastructure planning and engineering, which remains strong.
Has evolved however is the breadth and scope of services, we provide to meet that demand and the incremental wallet share and market share we can support.
Speaker 3: Our penetration of the traffic and transportation market is growing as we take on new clients, larger assignments and expanding scopes of service covering roads, bridges and highways, railroad infrastructure, bus and light rail and aviation.
Our penetration of the traffic and transportation market is growing as we take on new clients larger assignments and expanding scopes to service covering roads bridges and highways railroad infrastructure, Boston light rail and aviation.
Speaker 3: I'm particularly encouraged by recent wins our East Coast Transportation Group that continues to expand our assignments through App Florida and Rhode Island.
Particularly encouraged by recent wins, our East Coast Transportation group that continues to expand our assignments throughout Florida, and Rhode Island.
We expect to continue to add several new departments of transportation to our client roster over the next 12 months.
Speaker 3: Respect to continue to add several new departments of transportation to our client roster over the next 12 minutes.
And the power and utility market, we continue to grow our footprint and service offerings through acquisitions and strategic hiring.
Speaker 3: In the power and utility market, we continue to grow our footprint and service offerings through acquisitions and strategic hiring.
Speaker 3: Our electric undergrounding practice continues to be a growing market for us as we expand our client base from Florida and the Mid-Atlantic to Southern California and several markets in between.
Our electric under grounding practice continues to be a growing market for us as we expand our client base.
From Florida, and the mid Atlantic to Southern California, and several markets in between.
Speaker 3: We recently announced expansion into Nevada as we grow our engagement with our largest gas utility client for whom we are working on a series of multi-year programs for pipeline replacement, new construction and high pressure gas station design.
We recently announced expansion into Nevada, as we grow our engagement with our largest gas utility client for whom we are working on a series of multiyear programs for pipeline replacement, new construction and high pressure gas station design.
Speaker 3: We are actively engaged in efforts to build our gas pipeline revenue to write both Nevada and California.
We are actively engaged in efforts to build our gas pipeline revenue drive, both Nevada and California.
With the excellent engineering team now onboard in Tulsa, where it is.
Speaker 3: With the Excellence Engineering Team now on board in Tulsa, we're experiencing increasing demand in our energy services practice for upstream and mid-stream pipeline projects, through at the Central and Midwest Region.
<unk>, increasing demand in our energy services practice for upstream and midstream pipeline projects through.
The central and Midwest regions on.
Speaker 3: On the renewable front, battery storage facilities and commercial solar are among our faster-growing revenue generators, with EV-related infrastructure close behind.
On the renewables front battery storage facilities in commercial solar are among our fastest growing revenue generators with EV related infrastructure close behind.
Speaker 3: We continue to experience growth in our building infrastructure group, with much of that coming from non-residential assignments.
We continue to experience growth in our building infrastructure group with much of that coming from nonresidential assignments.
Speaker 3: Data centers, quick serve restaurants, municipal facilities, and other non-urban commercial clients are keeping us very busy.
Data centers quick serve restaurants municipal facilities and other non urban commercial clients are keeping us very busy.
Speaker 3: On residential front, home builders, multi-family developers and build for rent owners appear optimistic about the mid and long-term demand profiles in their markets.
On the residential front homebuilders multifamily developers and build for rent owners appear optimistic about the mid and long term demand profiles in your markets.
As evidenced by comments made on recent homebuilder earnings calls.
Speaker 3: As evidenced by comments made on recent home builder earnings calls, there appears to be renewed commitment to investing in the creation of Finnish Law and Inventory to meet stronger secular demand for years to come.
There appears to be renewed commitment to investing in the creation of finished lot inventory to meet stronger secular demand for years to come.
Within emerging markets, we've had several big wins in mining with top tier mine operators in Arizona, including a large solvent extraction process design award and multiple serving assignments.
Speaker 3: With an emerging market, we've had several big wins in mining with top-tier mine operators in Arizona, including a large solvent extraction process design award and multiple serving assignments.
Speaker 3: In the water and wastewater market we have been experiencing an uptick in design and engineering contracts for new sewage systems, elevated water storage tanks and transport lines.
In the water and wastewater market, we had been experiencing an uptick in design and engineering contracts for new storage systems elevated water storage tanks and transport lines.
Speaker 3: We recently completed a pilot program for an innovative rest area wastewater reclamation system with application for thousands of rest areas in the nation.
We recently completed a pilot program for an innovative <unk> wastewater reclamation system with application for thousands of rest areas nationally.
Speaker 3: While Geospatial is technically a service line for us, I want to talk about the impact it is having in our industry, our vision for its future at Bowman and Investments we are making at advanced surveying, mapping and high resolution imaging technology.
While geospatial is technically a service line for us I want to talk about the impact it is having on our industry our vision for its future at Beaumont and investments, we are making in advanced surveying mapping and high resolution imaging technologies.
Speaker 3: Several of our acquisitions have been focused on developing a comprehensive end-to-end and geospatial capability within Bob.
Several of our acquisitions have been focused on developing a comprehensive end to end geospatial capability within Bowman.
Speaker 3: As of today, our broadly defined geospatial group generates about 30% of our revenue across all markets.
As of today, our broadly defined geospatial group generates about 30% of our revenue across all markets.
Speaker 3: We currently operate at both ground level and low altitude utilizing traditional survey equipment and advanced geomatics technology.
Currently operated both ground level and low altitude utilizing traditional survey equipment and advanced <unk> technologies.
Speaker 3: including UAVs, UAS, and LiDAR to develop both two and three-dimensional visualizations for our clients in a manner they can utilize with their vendors and customers.
Including Uavs, UAS and Lidar to develop both two and three dimensional visualization for our clients in a manner. They can utilize with their vendors and customers.
Speaker 3: These skills create tremendous opportunity for us as the technologies advance and as our customers recognize the value proposition associated with virtual modeling, digital interaction, high resolution imaging.
These skills create tremendous opportunity for us as the technologies advance and as our customers recognize the value proposition associated with virtual modeling.
Digital interaction and high resolution imaging.
Speaker 3: Recent investments in mobile mapping technologies, for example, have enabled us to secure new assignments with interstate highway operators based on the requirements associated with the speed of travel in these settings.
Recent investments in mobile mapping technologies for example have enabled us to secure new assignments with Interstate highway operators based on the requirements associated with the speed of travel in these settings.
Speaker 3: Our balance sheet positions us to continue to grow this service aggressively, both through technology investment.
Our balance sheet positions us to continue to grow this serve as aggressively both through technology investment.
And acquisitions.
Speaker 3: Our industry is evolving at a rapid pace with respect to the introduction of technologies that help us satisfy demand and deliver better solutions in an efficient and timelier manner.
Our industry is evolving at a rapid pace with respect to the introduction of technologies that help us satisfy demand and deliver better solutions in an efficient and timely manner.
Speaker 3: I am committed to that belt woman being among the technological elites in the industry.
I am committed and being among the technological elites in the industry.
Speaker 3: We're investing in digital delivery of services and our early adopters of new technologies, which provide disruptive approaches to accelerating growth and enhancing margins over.
We're investing in digital delivery of services and are early adopters of new technologies, which provide disruptive approaches to accelerating growth and enhancing margins overtime.
Speaker 3: We're actively engaging with solutions related to AI capabilities, GIS systems, high resolution imaging equipment, mapping and modeling software, digital twin technologies, generative design and more. This commitment to digital technologies will, I believe, create a beneficial differentiation for moment in the short and longer.
We're actively engaging with solutions related to AI capabilities Gis systems high resolution imaging equipment mapping and modeling software digital twin technologies generative design and more this commitment to digital technologies will I believe create a beneficial differentiation for Beaumont and the show.
And long term.
Since going public we've focused our M&A program on a theme of adjacency, whereby we identify and France transact with businesses that complement our evolving core suite of services.
Speaker 3: So it's going public, we've focused our M&A program on a theme of adjacency whereby we identify and transact with businesses that complement our evolving course suite of services, geographies, client needs and skill sets.
Graffiti client needs and skill sets.
Speaker 3: I am pleased report that our pipeline remains full of adjacency focused opportunities within our target size and profile.
I am pleased to report that our pipeline remains full of adjacency focused opportunities within our target size and profile.
Speaker 3: We expect to continue to be active acquires during the remainder of this year and into 2024.
We expect to continue to be active acquirers during the remainder of this year and into 2024.
Speaker 3: I will conclude by reiterating that we maintain a positive outlook toward the remainder of this year and next year as we progress toward achieving our long-term strategic goals.
I will conclude by reiterating that we maintain a positive outlook towards the remainder of this year and next year as we progress toward achieving our long term strategic goals.
Speaker 3: Thank you for participating in today's call and thank you to all our employees for everything you do for Bowman, our clients, our shareholders and our community.
Thank you for participating in today's call and thank you to all our employees for everything you do for Bowman, our clients, our shareholders and our communities.
Speaker 3: Operator, I'll now turn the call back to you for questions and answers.
Operator, I'll now turn the call back to you for questions and answers.
Okay.
Speaker 1: At this time, I would like to remind everyone in order to ask a question, press star, then the number one on your telephone keypad. We'll pause for a moment to compile.
At this time I would like to remind everyone in order to ask a question Press Star then the number one on your telephone keypad.
We'll pause for a moment to compile the Q&A roster.
Your first question comes from the line of Aaron's buy hollow with Craig Hallum. Your.
Speaker 4: Your first question comes from the line of Aaron Spihala with Craig Hallum. Your line is open. Yeah, good morning, Gary and Bruce. Thanks for.
Your line is open.
Yes, good morning, Gary and Bruce Thanks for taking the questions.
Good morning, and welcome.
Good morning, Thank you.
Speaker 5: Morning, thank you. First for me, good to see the continued diversification of the business. Can you touch on transportation and power and utilities? Just some of the drivers that you're seeing there. And if you're starting to see some of the infrastructure dollars coming out and how you're expecting this to unfold as you move forward.
First for me on <unk>.
Good to see the continued diversification of the business.
Can you touch on transportation and power and utilities, just some of the some of the drivers that youre seeing there and if youre starting to see some of the.
Infrastructure dollars coming out and how you are expecting this to unfold.
Forward.
But clearly they're both they're both driven.
Speaker 3: Clearly, they're both driven in the currently by HAA, IRA, and similar programs. You know, I...
Currently by IHS.
IRI and similar programs.
No.
Speaker 3: I know that underlying there's a secular driver of just the need to improve these facilities. So there's a strong drivers for this program.
I know the underlying there's a secular driver.
The need to improve these facilities. So there is a strong drivers for those programs.
Speaker 3: We're still in the early innings, as I mentioned, on the call of the IIJA funding. So we are starting to see some of that flow, but the outlook in the next year and ensuing years is going to be much stronger.
We're still in the early innings as I mentioned on the call of the <unk> funding. So we are starting to see some of that flow.
But the outlook in the next year in ensuing years, there's going to be much stronger.
Speaker 5: understood things and then you know, maybe second, can you talk about the extent that you're seeing, you know, higher rates and kind of macro impacting some of the bidding, I mean, good to see the backlog expansion, but just can you talk about that a little bit please.
Understood. Thanks, and then maybe second can you talk about the extent that you are seeing higher rates and kind of macro impacting some of the bidding I mean, good to see the backlog expansion, but just can you talk about that a little bit. Please.
Higher interest rates, you mean I assume.
Speaker 5: Yeah, just just kind of interest rates and just some of the broader, you know, kind of macro uncertainty and impact your scene there.
Yes, just just kind of interest rates and just some of the broader kind of macro uncertainty.
<unk> you're seeing there.
We are.
Speaker 3: We're seeing very little impact that we feel is driven by interest rates, certainly in the residential market. That has slowed down. We are seeing, I think, green shoots of coming back to life as people redo their cat tables and so forth for some of the build-to-rent projects.
Seeing very little impact that we feel is driven by interest rates certainly.
In the residential market.
That has slowed down we are seeing I'll say green shoots of that coming back to life as people.
Redo their cap tables, and so forth for some of the build to rent projects.
Speaker 6: So it's, but overall, as far as the, the impending recession or adverse effects of interest rates, we're seeing that as being a very little adverse effect on our business.
So, but overall as far as.
And pending recession.
Or adverse effects of interest rates, we are seeing that as being a very little adverse effect on our business.
Alright, thanks for taking the questions I'll turn it over.
Thanks, Sharon and good to have you on board.
Speaker 4: Your next question comes from the line of Alex Regal with B Riley. Your line is open. Board of Guarantee.
Your next question comes from the line of Alex Rygiel with B Riley your.
Your line is open.
Okay.
Good morning, Gary and Bruce very nice quarter.
Good morning, Alex Thank you and thanks, Alan Good morning man as well.
Couple of quick questions here first Bruce maybe could you break down the commercial slice of the pie a little bit greater.
Speaker 7: Couple of questions here. First, Bruce, maybe could you break down the commercial slice of the pie, a little bit reader to try to understand commercial office buildings, data centers, that kind of thing?
Im just trying to understand commercial office buildings.
Data centers that kind of thing.
Speaker 2: Yeah, you know, I just really don't don't get too granular about
Yes, so we really don't get too granular about.
Speaker 2: the composition of commercial, I would say that the biggest.
The composition of commercial.
Say that the biggest.
Speaker 2: participant in that market is data centers today Followed by what we think of sort of convenience commercial which probably talked to sort of a combination of Small store convenience store gas station quick serve restaurant and the category followed then by what I think of as probably big box
Participant in that market as data centers.
Today.
Followed by what we think is sort of convenience commercial which probably talked to as sort of a combination of.
Small store convenience store gas station.
Serve restaurant.
In the category.
<unk>, then by or to think of it as.
Probably big box.
Structures, and then that could be a large commercial like a large warehouse store or an industrial facility last in that list would be.
Speaker 3: And then that could be a large warehouse store or an industrial facility. Last in that list would be a-
Commercial office and we've talked about there is sort of in that in the three concentric circle model.
Speaker 2: And we talk about there's sort of in the three concentric circle model of downtown urban, we're not very active at all. The second circle of suburban mostly transit oriented, we're fairly active in that. And it is a healthy part of the commercial market. And then that X urban, the third ring, we would say is probably more active as redevelopment of commercial or reuse.
Downtown urban were not very active at all.
The second circle of suburban mostly transit oriented we're fairly active in that and it is a.
Healthy part of the commercial market and then that ex urban the third ring, we would say, it's probably more active as redevelopment of commercial or reuse.
Speaker 2: sort of a facility that's in its second or third generation of life being converted from old warehouse or flex to data center or converted to residential. So that's about the makeup of that market.
A facility that's in its second or third generation of life.
Being converted from old warehouse.
Those are flex to datacenter or converted to residential.
So thats about the makeup of that market.
Very helpful and then when do we talk about gross margins.
Speaker 7: Can you talk about, you know, obviously it's hard for us to tell as you make acquisitions whether or not you're these acquisitions are a creative or delutive to margins, but maybe from a macro standpoint, you could talk about sort of the headwinds or the tailwinds to gross margins on a go-forward base.
Can you talk about obviously, it's hard for us to tell as you make acquisitions, whether or not youre.
These acquisitions are accretive or dilutive to margins, but maybe from a macro standpoint, you could talk about sort of the headwinds or the tailwind to gross margins on a go forward basis.
Yes.
Speaker 2: Yeah, I'll start with the strategy of our acquisition.
Start with the strategy of our acquisitions has been high frequency lower dollar and lower risk profile and as such they.
Speaker 2: has been high frequency lower dollar and lower risk profile. And it's such.
Speaker 2: In the very short run, you know, no one of them is really driving margin.
In the very short run no one of them is really driving margin because sizes. So disparate between you know the incoming and the existing so.
Speaker 2: because size is so disparate between, you know, the incoming and the existing. So we think that they are all over time accretive to margin by virtue of their existence in our portfolio, the scale that, you know, that they create. But I wouldn't suggest at this point that any one of them has such a, and has such a disparate profile in margin that it's gonna drive growth.
We think that they are all over time accretive to margin by virtue of their existence in our portfolio the scale that that they create but I wouldnt suggest at this point that any one of them is such a.
As such a disparate profile in margin.
It's going to drive growth.
Speaker 2: And so gross margin over time for us are with a consistent set of product offering.
And so gross margin over time for us sort of with a consistent set of product offerings.
Speaker 2: will stay in this, we think, sort of low 50% range. It does depend a little bit on utilization from period to period because we allocate fringe along with direct costs. So they said there's higher utilization. We get a little more fringe going into Gross Marge. But at some point, we think that that technologies can be introduced that will either periodically or long term.
We'll stay in this we think sort of low 50% range.
It does depend a little bit on utilization from period to period, because we allocate fringe along with direct costs. So they said there is higher utilization, we get a little more fringe going into gross margin.
At some point, we think that.
That technologies can be introduced that.
We'll either periodically or long term positively impact gross margin.
Speaker 2: positively impact gross margin.
Did I answer the question.
Make sure I got it and then just one last question coming back to.
Speaker 7: I got it. Sure did and then just one last question coming back to kind of multi-family and single-family residential construction. There seems to be maybe a little bit of concern that multi-family residential might start to slow down going into 2024. What are your views on that?
Multifamily and single family residential construction.
There seems to be maybe a little bit of concern that multifamily residential might start to slow down going into 2024, what are your views on that.
Speaker 3: We are seeing some slowdown. Multi-family is a fairly small part of our overall portfolio. A large part over the past couple of years has been the build direct, which some...
We are seeing some slowdown multifamily is a.
Fairly small part of our overall portfolio.
A large part over the past couple of years has been the.
Build to rent, which some could maybe characterize this horizontal multifamily.
Speaker 3: characterizes horizontal multi-family and we are really starting to see and and frankly it's more anecdotal maybe the the spirits that we're hearing from our clients but we feel very optimistic that that market is getting ready to see back up.
And we are.
We're really starting to see it.
Frankly, it's more anecdotal.
Maybe the spirits that we're hearing from our clients.
But we feel very optimistic that that market is getting ready to heat back up.
Speaker 2: And the elements of the residential market are generally counter-sickled to each other. The housing demand remains the distribution of it may change. So at some points, people don't want to buy a house. They want to rent until they decide to buy a house. And so we're sort of agnostic to which component of residential is working at any given time, because the overall market is what we're serving.
And the elements of the residential market are generally counter cyclical to each other that housing demand.
<unk> the distribution of it may change and so at some point people don't want to buy a house they want to rent till they decided to buy a house and so we're sort of agnostic to which component of residential is is working at any given time.
Because the overall market is what we're serving.
Very helpful. Thank you very much.
Thanks, Alex Alex.
Speaker 1: Your next question comes from the line of Oliver Cornuth with the A. Davidson.
Your next question comes from the line of Oliver <unk> with D. A Davidson.
Your line is open.
Speaker 5: Hey guys, thanks so much for having my call. I'm on for Brent this morning. Can you hear me? So, good morning. Good morning.
Hey, guys. Thanks, so much for having my call him on for Brent. This morning can you hear me.
Good morning.
Yeah.
Speaker 5: Yeah, I was wondering, you guys had real strong cast generation in 3Q. Do we think that that's going to continue in 4Q?
Yes, I was wondering if you guys had real strong cash generation in <unk> do we think that that's going to continue in <unk>.
Speaker 2: We think that we're on a good path for positive cash generation. Whether it continues at the exact pace.
We think that we're on a good path.
For positive cash generation, whether it continues at the exact pace.
Speaker 2: Fourth quarter is always a little bit tougher of a quarter for us.
Fourth quarter is always a little bit tougher over quarter for us just the calendar can can interrupt a business that is human driven.
Speaker 2: The calendar can interrupt a business that is human driven and with holidays. So I think it will still continue to be strong in the forest or there will be exactly, and where the third is exactly predictive of fourth might be a little lighter, but I don't think it's meaningful.
And with holidays. So I think it will still continue to be strong in the fourth quarter, there will be exactly where the third is exactly predictive of fourth might be a little lighter, but but I don't think it's it's meaningfully different.
Speaker 5: Awesome. What organic growth rate is embedded in the guidance for 2024? Which areas do you anticipate seeing some contraction in 2024, if any?
Awesome.
What are the unit growth rate is embedded in the guidance for 2024, and which areas do you anticipate seeing some some contraction in 'twenty four if any.
Speaker 3: It's 10 to 12% is currently in, you know, in part in that of
At 10% to 12% is currently.
And third in that.
And that guidance.
Speaker 3: areas of contraction. We're really not programming areas of contraction per se. We feel like the interest rate sensitive areas of our business say the residential has, we've sort of seen the contraction on the rebound on there. So we haven't programmed necessarily strong rebound, but no contraction.
Areas of contraction.
We're really not programming areas of contraction per se.
We feel like the interest rate sensitive.
Areas of our business. The residential has we've sort of seen the contraction on the rebound there. So we haven't program necessarily strong rebound, but no contraction, yes, I think it's important to characterize the way we look forward as you ask organic.
Speaker 2: Yeah, I think it's important to characterize the way we look forward. As you ask organic, at some point we sort of take the mix of everything that's in the stew and grow it year over year. And so we don't really necessarily break it out. Like what's a quisitive? What's there's no new acquisition, obviously. And we sort of say, okay, the basic business we have, based on when we bought it and how it annualizes and what we think it can grow at.
At some point, we sort of take the mix of everything thats in the stew and grow it year over year and so we don't really break it out.
Whats acquisitive, what's theres no new acquisitions, obviously, and we sort of say, okay. The ASIC business, we have based on when we bought it at how it annualized is and what we think it can grow as well.
Speaker 5: OK, and you guys indicated earlier, I guess there's no.
Okay, and you guys indicated earlier I guess Theres no.
Speaker 5: planned for some huge pending M&A that would that would then kind of separate the overall growth from the organic numbers pretty significant.
Planned for some huge pending M&A that would that would then kind of separate the overall growth from the organic number it's pretty significantly.
Well I think we should say that you know there is always upcoming acquisition in our pipeline. So we don't include any acquisitions that haven't closed.
Speaker 6: Well, I think we should say that, you know, there is always upcoming acquisition in our pipeline. So we don't include any acquisitions that haven't closed in the guidance at the time that we issue the guidance. I would not suggest that there won't be meaningful acquisition in the future that will impact the guidance when it occurs, but it is not contemplated and included in it today. Sure. Okay. Obviously. Big took care of you.
In the guidance at the time that we issued the guidance I would not suggest that there won't be meaningful acquisition in the future that will impact the guidance when it occurs but it is not contemplated and included in it today.
Sure.
Awesome. Thanks, so much for your time, guys I'll jump back into queue.
Thanks, a lot.
Speaker 1: There are no further questions at this time. Mr. Bowman, I turn the call back over to you.
There are no further questions at this time, Mr. Baumann, I turn the call back over to you.
Speaker 3: Thank you, Alyssa. We'll just wrap up by thanking everybody at Bowman for hard work, dedication, and which turned in a good quarter, looking forward to the same coming up in this quarter and next year. Thanks all of our owners for the faith you show in us. And looking forward to seeing everybody at upcoming conferences and...
Thank you Elisa.
Wrap up by thanking everybody at Bowman for.
Hard work dedication and.
Which turned in a good quarter looking forward to the same coming up in this quarter and next year. Thanks.
So all of our owners for the faith you show in us.
And looking forward to seeing everybody at upcoming conferences and.
Speaker 3: We're about that time of year. Everybody have a good holiday till we tell for you again.
We're about at that time of year [laughter], everybody have a good holiday until we talk to you again.
Speaker 1: This concludes today's conference call. You may now disconnect.
This concludes today's conference call you may now disconnect.