AECOM began as part of Ashland Oil & Refining Company's construction division in the 1960s. The company became independent through a 1985 management buyout and later rebranded as AECOM. Today, it operates as a multinational infrastructure firm providing technical services across transportation, buildings, water, and energy sectors. Their service portfolio includes architecture, engineering, construction management, and environmental consulting. AECOM serves both public and private clients through global operations spanning multiple continents.