7 Steps for Adapting to Rapid Change Under the Trump Administration

The ink has barely dried on President Donald Trump’s latest executive orders, yet firms across industries are already scrambling to adjust. Immigration hotlines are springing up, “war rooms” are buzzing with strategy sessions, and supply chain teams are bracing for potential ripple effects. The Wall Street Journal recently highlighted how large corporations such as JPMorgan Chase and 3M are reacting swiftly to these changes, setting up dedicated teams and trackers to make sense of the rapidly evolving landscape. But this isn’t just a playbook for the Fortune 500. AE firms face many of the same challenges—and opportunities—and need to act just as decisively to navigate the shifting terrain.

In an environment where policy shifts can feel like they’re coming at lightning speed, the key to thriving is preparation, adaptability, and a clear focus on where your firm adds the most value. Whether it’s the potential for tariffs, immigration adjustments, or shifts in energy and infrastructure spending, AE firms must take a proactive approach to navigate the changing landscape.

Here’s how you can ensure your firm is ready to face these challenges head-on:

Step 1: Establish Your Own Situation Room

Success begins with clarity, and that means assembling a small, focused team to track developments that matter most to your firm. The “situation room” concept isn’t about panic—it’s about preparedness. Assign leaders from different areas of your business—finance, operations, and business development— to monitor how policy changes might impact your firm’s projects, clients, and bottom line.

For example, if tariff changes increase the cost of imported materials, how will that impact your project budgets? If immigration policies shift, what will it mean for your talent pipeline? Proactively identifying these risks is the first step toward mitigating them.

Think about it: Your situation room isn’t just about identifying threats; it’s also about spotting opportunities. Federal infrastructure spending, for instance, could bring significant opportunities for firms with expertise in transportation, water, and energy projects.

Step 2: Build Relationships in the Right Places

With infrastructure likely to be a major focus of the Trump administration, relationships with government agencies, private developers, and industry associations are more critical than ever. This isn’t the time to wait for opportunities to come to you—it’s the time to position your firm as a go-to resource for navigating new regulatory and funding landscapes…Read more

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