FREMONT, NE — With the start of construction season approaching, Holcim US is making a $20.5 million investment in its Midwest operations to make cement available for area residential, commercial, and industrial developments. The recently added 116-foot cement storage dome in Fremont, Nebraska, west of Omaha, will expand capacity for …

KANSAS CITY, MO — One hundred years ago, John Ernest Dunn started a company, JE Dunn Construction, based on the principles of hard work, integrity, and excellence. Dunn's principles have become the cornerstone of the century-old company and the eighth-largest general contractor in the U.S. In recognition of the …

KANSAS CITY, MO — Connecting with and supporting diverse businesses contributes to economic growth, innovation, and strengthened communities. This is why the Business Diversity Program at Burns & McDonnell annually recognizes four small and diverse businesses with an Empowering Diverse Partnerships Partner of the Year award for outstanding project performance …

KANSAS CITY, MO — The Turner Construction Company team at a large data center project in Kansas City has completed a heat pilot study — the first phase of an effort to better understand the effects of heat on the health of construction workers and in turn the construction industry. …

NORTH KANSAS CITY, MO — The Builders, a chapter of the Associated General Contractors (AGC), and Burns & McDonnell have teamed up to open the Career Development & Exploration Center (CDEC), an educational and training facility in North Kansas City, Missouri, dedicated to training the next generation of construction professionals …

MANHATTAN, KS — Burns & McDonnell has opened a Student Success Center at Kansas State University. Located at the Kansas State University Office Park in Manhattan, the space represents a significant step in nurturing the next generation of talent while supporting Burns & McDonnell's commitment to education and community development. …

Striving to perform more work, more accurately, Sporer Land Development quickly adopted new GPS-based technologies, resulting in it being able to compete with larger firms and deliver high-quality work.

“As a small, family-owned company that would embrace this technology, we could catch up with the larger construction companies that were …

TOPEKA, KS — Benesch acquires McAfee Henderson Solutions (MHS), a Kansas-based provider of civil engineering, surveying, and construction engineering services. MHS serves both public and private clients throughout Kansas and Missouri, offering expertise in all phases of land surveying, civil engineering, and construction engineering. MHS will join Benesch’s Kansas Division …

It’s been on the news time and time again — a window washer crew or a crew utilizing some form of suspension scaffold is trapped in mid-air stories above the ground. Their work platform has failed in some way, and the workers are dangling from their safety lifeline. With no …

TULSA, OK — Tulsa-based Manhattan Road & Bridge Co., Manhattan Construction Group’s heavy highway infrastructure subsidiary specializing in bridge construction, acquires the assets and select project contracts of Jensen Construction Co. (South Division). Jensen specializes in overwater bridge construction and is the oldest operating subsidiary of The Rasmussen …

DES MOINES, IA — Members of the American Society of Civil Engineers - Iowa Section released the 2023 Report Card for Iowa’s Infrastructure during an event held at the Iowa State Capitol. Overall, the 13 categories of Iowa’s infrastructure received a C grade, the same as the 2019 report card. …

OMAHA, NE — For the past 16 years, JE Dunn has successfully facilitated its Minority Contractor Development (MCD) program in Kansas City and other offices across the country. The company's program consists of eight comprehensive training modules intended to mentor small and emerging minority- and women-owned businesses (MWBE) in all …

KANSAS CITY, MO — Shive-Hattery announces the opening of its newest offices in Kansas City, Missouri, and Omaha, Nebraska.

The Kansas City office will focus on the commercial and industrial markets and support clients with education, government, and health care design needs. The expansion will strengthen and grow Shive-Hattery’s current …

IOWA CITY, IA — RDG Planning & Design opens a new office in Iowa City, Iowa. The Iowa City office will provide a range of planning and design services, with a focus on delivering creative, sustainable solutions to clients across RDG’s markets.

“We are thrilled to have opened this office …

A vital component of an effective environmental, health, and safety (EHS) program is the team of safety trainers who educate employees at every level in the company, from executives to team members in the field. Learn what you should expect from the best safety trainers. When selecting a safety trainer …

JEFFERSON CITY, MO — In recognition of National Engineers Week, the Missouri Center for Transportation Innovation (MCTI) is marking three years of innovative transportation research. MCTI is a partnership with the four University of Missouri campuses, the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT), the Federal Highway Administration, and more to …

Safety professionals come to their roles with different backgrounds and knowledge levels, so they might not always agree about the best approach for a particular situation. But one thing you will find agreement among all safety professionals is the common belief if they can get workers on the site to …

FORT MILL, SC — Sunbelt Rentals, an equipment rental company, has been recognized with three awards for its efforts to recruit and retain military veterans in North America and globally.

For the first time, Sunbelt Rentals has received the Honoring Investments in Recruiting and Employing American Military Veterans (HIRE …

DES MOINES, IA — In recognition of the recent Construction Inclusion Week, The Weitz Company team members nationwide participated in daily educational discussions centered on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within the construction industry. These discussions mark just one of many ways Weitz has brought diversity and inclusion to the …

LENEXA, KS — Henderson Companies, the parent company of Henderson Engineers and Henderson Building Solutions, is the latest signatory of the MEP 2040 Challenge, a commitment among firms that provide MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing) and other related design services to achieve net zero carbon on their projects …

KANSAS CITY, MO — Kansas City students were recently given the opportunity to learn about careers in construction, plus gain hands-on experience contributing to a Target store remodel at the “I Built This!” event sponsored by ConstructReach, KAI Build, and Target.

ConstructReach is a workforce development company and …

Tax increases and IRS funding commitments in the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 are intended to affect larger corporations and high-income individuals. However, middle market businesses and their owners who understand how they might be affected can position themselves to take advantage of new credits and incentives, avoid unpleasant income …

SAN FRANCISCO, CA — Safe Site Check In, a construction management software company for jobsite productivity, announces an integration with Procore Technologies, Inc., a global provider of construction management software. Safe Site Check In quickly and accurately integrates field data into the Procore Construction Platform to help boost …

WASHINGTON, D.C. — At an Equity in Infrastructure Project (EIP) event, the leaders of the departments of transportation of California, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Kansas, Louisiana, and Michigan signed the EIP Pledge, which is aimed at leveraging infrastructure spending to build wealth in underserved communities. The event was hosted …

LAWRENCE, KS — Every year, TreanorHL closes its offices for a day to give back to communities across the country. The company calls this the annual Day of Giving, in which all employees spend the day volunteering for local organizations. Since TreanorHL began this tradition, the company has collectively served …

OMAHA, NE — Each summer the KANEKO in Omaha, Nebraska, hosts a series of donation-based camps for young learners who are interested in exploring creativity and its intersection with art, education, science, design, technology, and philosophy. During each five-day camp, participants are led through a series of STEAM-based learning activities …

TOPEKA, KS — Governor Laura Kelly announces that her Administration has substantially reduced work-related injury costs by nearly $1 million at the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT).

In 2019, Transportation Secretary Julie Lorenz created a new Division of Safety. Since then, KDOT has seen a steady reduction in costs resulting …

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — Kirby-Smith Machinery, Inc. (KSM) recently launched KirbyUsed.com, a website dedicated to the heavy equipment distributor’s used equipment offerings. The site features friendly navigation, search functionality, and intuitive page design, creating an improved user experience for KSM’s used equipment customer base worldwide.

The homepage of KirbyUsed.com …

An active member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) since 1983, Karen J. Ohland has recently begun her term as the 141st President of the society. She is an ASME Fellow and the Associate Director for Finance and Operations at the Princeton University Art Museum.

Ohland has also …

AMES, IA — Dakota Supply Group (DSG) announces the acquisition of Brown Supply Company in an asset purchase. Founded in 1940, Brown Supply is a distributor of Waterworks products such as water/sewer pipes, fire hydrants, marking flags, equipment, and supplies with four locations across Iowa.

The current owner, Kevin Doud …

At the center of any construction alternative power discussion is diesel. Diesel remains the go-to power on jobsites. According to the Diesel Technology Forum, 98 percent of construction's energy use in the United States comes from diesel.

But with global initiatives underway to reduce carbon emissions to net zero by …

Construction workforce shortages are affecting nearly all construction firms, undermining the industry’s ability to complete projects on time and on schedule and threatening the success of new federal investments in infrastructure and manufacturing, according to the results of a workforce survey conducted by the Associated General Contractors of America and …

MILWAUKEE, WI — Drones — the aerial eye of the jobsite — have become a very versatile tool for earthmoving operations. Among the benefits: increasing efficiency, productivity, and accuracy on jobsites. In addition, drones help reduce unplanned costs and rework throughout a project by providing a steady stream of jobsite …

MILWAUKEE, WI — Preventive maintenance “is a very broad term,” said George MacIntyre, Product Manager at CONEXPO-CON/AGG exhibitor CASE Construction Equipment. “It can be as formal as the critical practice of performing regular service, as prescribed by the manufacturer of the machine, throughout the machine’s life. Or it …

Infrastructure is more than just asphalt, concrete, or steel. It’s the backbone of American life and continuing prosperity.

Roads and bridges connect us, dams and wastewater treatment plants protect us, and underground utilities serve our daily needs — all with little to no fanfare. Yet, Doug King understands infrastructure’s importance. …

KOHLER, WI — All Kohler diesel-fueled engines are approved to use HVO in the United States, in line with ASTM D975 standard. This confirmation comes just a few months after European compliance was announced. In February, in fact, Kohler had announced approval to use HVO for all its diesel engines …

MILWAUKEE, WI — How do you create an effective safety culture in the workplace when you have an employee base that is so diverse?

It’s an important question for equipment manufacturers to ask and answer, and the latter can’t really be accomplished without a better understanding of what “culture” refers …

No one in the construction industry needs to be made aware of rising diesel prices over the past year. They have felt the pain. Through the first week in July, the average price of diesel fuel was nearly 70 percent higher than the year prior. There is no single magic …

Leica Geosystems, part of Hexagon, announces the launch of the new safety awareness module in the cloud-based collaboration platform Leica ConX. The integration of Leica Geosystems’ safety awareness solutions with ConX increases safety on construction sites by collecting and visualising data that enhances awareness, speeds up hazard response, …

The largest federal climate investment in U.S. history was made on August 16, after President Joe Biden signed the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) into law. The act aims to fight climate change and address record inflation.

The IRA includes policies that will invest in U.S. energy production, reduce carbon emissions, …

The American Institute of Architects (AIA) recently made history when the delegates at the 2022 AIA Annual Meeting elected Kimberly Dowdell, AIA, NOMAC, NCARB, SEED, LEED AP BD+C as 2023 First Vice President/2024 President-elect. As the 100th AIA President, Dowdell will be the first Black woman and first Millennial President. …

When the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) was passed back in November 2021, it expanded Buy America, Build America Act (BABAA) coverage to include certain construction materials used on federal-aid highway and transit projects. This was intended to strengthen Made in America requirements by ensuring projects use American-made iron, …

With proposed infrastructure programs being discussed to offset the economic impacts of COVID-19, aggregate materials could see a spike in demand. This progression can lead to increased profits for mineral processing operations. However, maximizing efficiency to capitalize on this opportunity requires the right equipment. It is critical that operations evaluate …

KANSAS CITY, MO — The UP Companies (UPCO) and its divisions, Square UP Builders, Power UP Electrical, and Hustle UP Laborers, are celebrating another year in Kansas City by expanding to a larger office with a warehouse, adding a new division, and increasing its workforce to complete …

KANSAS CITY, MO — With the appointment of State Tractor & Equipment (STE) to support customers across Kansas and Missouri, Rokbak is forging ahead with its expansion in the North American articulated hauler market.

The rentals and equipment dealer will represent the manufacturer from its head office in Kansas City, …

OMAHA, NE — Governor Pete Ricketts, together with the Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT), recently held a press conference to announce the formation of the new State Operations Center (SOC), based in Omaha, Nebraska.

This spring, NDOT’s State Operations Center and the District 2 Operations Center merged to create one …

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The number of traffic fatalities in the U.S. surged by 19 percent from 2019 to 2021. Traffic fatalities began to increase dramatically in 2020 even as vehicle travel rates plummeted due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Traffic fatalities continued to increase in 2021 as vehicle travel returned to …

Most construction jobs run on tight timelines and margins, and to keep everything running on schedule and within budget, fleet managers use telematics to give visibility into their equipment’s location and operating condition any time of the day or night.

Telematics has been around for quite a while, however, it …

Skilled craft professionals continue to earn high wages, according to NCCER’s 2022 Construction Craft Salary Survey. More than 135 commercial, industrial and residential construction companies across the U.S., representing over 337,000 employees, participated in the survey. The individual craft areas reported provide average annual salaries, not including overtime, per …

The ever-growing labor shortage is a universal issue, affecting nearly every business sector that relies on the availability of a workforce. It’s an issue that was happening before the COVID-19 pandemic and has persisted.

According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, there are 11.3 million job openings in the U.S., …

The global upheaval of the last few years has undoubtedly rocked the construction industry – and stories of labor shortages driven by COVID-19 abound. Add to that an aging workforce further stressed by current conditions, combined with a lack of skilled replacements, and the current struggle makes sense.

But beneath …

While America’s transportation infrastructure continues to be one of the country’s greatest historical accomplishments, as well as the lifeblood of the American economy, the system itself continues to have serious challenges during the last two decades.

This is mainly due to the rise in traffic congestion which has ensnarled hundreds …

Most hazards you’ll find on a construction site are big and generally obvious. It might be the inherent danger of certain power tools, the possibility of an electric shock, or the potential for a fall. Because workers recognize these hazards, they can take steps to avoid or minimize them.

But …

Most people in the construction industry will say that on any given work site, there is always an amount of waste that could have been avoided. Whether it be poorly handled materials, re-work, weather damage, or working from out of date documents, there are plenty of ways that humans can …

KANSAS CITY, MO — More than 5,000 athletes laced up their running shoes to participate in the 13th annual Burns & McDonnell Rock the Parkway Half Marathon and 5K. Athletes raced along scenic Ward Parkway to support Children’s Mercy Kansas City, designated by Burns & McDonnell and KC Running Company …

KENNESAW, GA — Liquid asphalt must compete with other products that are refined from crude oil, and energy prices are currently soaring due to inflation. Imagine bidding today’s cash price and the cost of the hedge instead of guessing at some future price. The solution is a new app that …

Most companies understand that safety is an important part of today’s workplace, but they may not realize why ongoing safety programs are critical to their organization’s well-being.

Some companies view safety as a “check the box” kind of activity, believing that once they’ve addressed safety topics, they’ve done what they …

WASHINGTON, D.C. —  Associated Builders and Contractors and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention announce a collaborative partnership to address mental health and suicide prevention throughout the U.S. construction industry.

The goals of the partnership are to improve the mental health of construction workers through effective suicide prevention education, intervention, …

Many of the most famous structures of ancient times were constructed from a material we often think of us as modern. The workers who built them needed a material that could be shaped into blocks and other forms more easily than carving from stone. Finally, someone concocted a mixture of …

Companies develop safety programs for reasons that may seem obvious: they want to prevent injuries of all kinds, so workers don’t suffer the physical effects and both workers and companies don’t endure negative financial or operational impacts. In addition, safety programs can also minimize the potential for damage to facilities …

OMAHA, NE — Allied Oil & Supply, Inc announces it has recently entered into an agreement with driverDOC to be a preferred provider for supply chain technology to track freight and centralize documents.

“As one of the largest distributors of oil and lubricants in the Midwest, Allied has a long …

The Construction Safety Specialists, Inc. (CSSI) Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) Certified Operator Training is designed as part of a comprehensive training program that includes classroom (theory) and practical (hands-on) training and evaluation and is one of the most detailed and accurate equipment operator trainings available. The CSSI course utilizes …

The future is looking bright for the construction industry, with project pipelines full and the promise of infrastructure spending infusing the industry with confidence and optimism. But as we face another year of supply chain issues and crippling workforce shortages, it’s possible that our industry’s biggest challenge could be too …

EVANSVILLE, IN — Heritage Petroleum and Allied Oil & Supply announce a merger of their two-family businesses broadening not only their geographic coverage, but their company-wide capabilities.

“I am thrilled to connect with the vast customers, sales team, and the operational excellence Allied provides with a broader customer base offering …

KANSAS CITY, MO — With the search for clean energy solutions a major focus of STEM education programs, Black & Veatch has teamed with local Kansas City-based organizations to fund and complete a new solar canopy installation at Operation Breakthrough’s new Ignition Lab. The Ignition Lab will help inspire the …

Stress has been a part of human lives from the beginning. In the past year, we’ve seen additional attention placed on stress and its effects thanks to the coronavirus pandemic and highly publicized statements from top athletes and celebrities. Because stress can have a profound effect on the well-being of …

WASHINGTON, DC — As vehicle travel returns to pre-pandemic levels and federal transportation funding from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) begins to reach states, it will be critical that states make additional investments to improve the efficiency and condition of the nation’s freight network to minimize supply chain …

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — SMH Group US announces that it is adding Kirby-Smith Machinery, Inc. to its dealer network for Atlas material handlers.

"We are excited to add such a major dealer to the network," said Tom Hickson, General Manager of SMH Group.

Kirby-Smith Machinery, Inc. was established in …

OMAHA, NE — Negotiations are nearly complete for Olsson, a nationally recognized engineering firm, to acquire Wittstruck & Associates.

Wittstruck is a design firm focused on providing crossing and wayside signal design services for the rail market. Founded in 1989, Wittstruck is located in Omaha's Rockbrook Village, and …

Most utility companies have stepped up their safety efforts in recent years, and the decline in safety events and minor injuries provides positive proof that safety programs are an effective way to protect workers.

However, there’s a disturbing trend underlying this success: despite all the progress in worksite safety, the …

A nation’s buildings stand as a visual representation of its history. In New England, that history is written in stone and red-brick facades overlooking century-old neighborhoods. Recent trends are bringing people and businesses back to these urban centers, forcing developers and city managers to find ways to reimagine spaces to …

BIM (building information modeling) is an intelligent 3-D model-based process that gives architecture and construction professionals the insight and tools to more efficiently plan, design, construct, and manage projects.

Forgoing the traditionally siloed architecture, engineering and construction disciplines using BIM can develop more integrated workflows to improve collaboration through the …

DES MOINES, IA — The Annual AGC of Iowa BBQ and Fall Days event, held in Des Moines, Iowa, was back to its full two-day schedule this year.

After a day of informative meetings held by the Executive Committee, the Education & Workforce Development Committee, the PAC Committee, and the …

KANSAS CITY, MO — Athletes returned to race along historic Ward Parkway in the 12th annual Burns & McDonnell Rock the Parkway Half Marathon and 5K. Burns & McDonnell and KC Running Company designated Children’s Mercy Kansas City as the race’s beneficiary for the fourth consecutive year.

“This race is …

For over a decade, the team at Rays Electrical Services in Elgin, Illinois has worked diligently to earn the reputation of being a quality residential and commercial electrician for the greater Chicago area. Since Ray Sakolari opened the company in 2008, he’s made a commitment to employees, customers, and family …

Heavy equipment theft of everything from forklifts, skid steers, and trucks to bulldozers, backhoes, excavators, and wheel loaders can be a serious issue for business owners, whether at the rental yard or jobsite. Stealing batteries, catalytic converters, and entire vehicles can be a relatively low-risk, high-reward opportunity for thieves unless …

A few years ago, I worked with a warehouse stocker named John who had injured his back and was looking to get back to full duty. His job was important to him because he had a family to support, which included taking care of an adult son with special needs. …

NORFOLK, NE — Olsson, an engineering and design firm, announces that the firm has opened a new office in Norfolk, Nebraska, to better serve its clients throughout the area.

“Olsson is extremely excited to be opening an office in Norfolk,” said Jeff Palik, Olsson’s greater Nebraska Office Leader. …

Construction professionals have a golden retrofitting opportunity as commercial facilities expand their precautions against viruses: an effective new type of “germicidal” LED fixture that can be quickly and easily installed in existing structures. This specialized, enclosed LED fixture draws in air and irradiates it with ultraviolet light (UV), significantly improving …

Few things bring construction projects to a sudden halt quite like the surprise discovery of a gas pipe, electrical line, sewer tile, or water pipe. While digging a trench, the backhoe crew makes an unfortunate discovery. If they’re lucky, they spot the problem before any damage is done, or are …

COLUMBIA, MO — Nabholz Construction Corporation recently announced the opening of an office in Columbia, Missouri. This new location will allow the firm to better serve clients throughout central Missouri, including work for the University of Missouri, MU Healthcare, Fulton Public Schools, and Columbia Regional Airport, where Nabholz is building …

In the aggregate industry, efficient screening is critical to achieve not only high production but also accurately sized product for particular applications and projects. However, two of the most common production bottlenecks – screen blinding and plugging – must be minimized to run an effective, profitable operation.

Blinding occurs when …

As California concludes another hot, dry summer, the state faced another historic wildfire season. Not only are residents subject to unhealthy levels of smoke and significant property destruction as a result of the wildfires, but they must also face damage to public infrastructure caused by the fires or other related …

Heavy equipment dealers’ profitability depends on efficiently renting out their assets and keeping it in good working order for the long term, whether that involves tractor trailers, semi-trailers, or moving trailers; buses or RVs; backhoes, bulldozers, cranes, excavators, scrapers, graders, dump trucks, or all-terrain forklifts.

To maximize profitability, dealers need …

There’s no doubt that self-driving cars, or autonomous vehicles (AVs), are much safer than the average person-manned vehicle. In fact, more than 90 percent of serious crashes are due to human error, which means autonomous vehicles have the potential to significantly reduce the number of collisions and save lives.

However, …

When David Gordon joined the Independent Equipment Dealers Association (IEDA) as Executive Director in December 2020, he focused on one main goal.

“As we continue to grow our membership, we have to continue providing year-round value,” he said. “Our mission is to help our members be more profitable and successful …

The adoption of technology in the construction industry in 2020 hit a record high, outpacing even the most aggressive forecasts and there are no signs of this momentum slowing. In fact, the annual Global BIM Industry Report has projected the global building information modeling (BIM) market will grow from $4.5 …

Landscapers and dedicated green industry professionals know that the key to success lies in their machines. Whether operating a ride-on trencher or walk-behind machine, it’s the performance parts – the chain, teeth and sprockets (CTS) – that often determine the productivity of an operation. In other words, when faced with …

Finding a level surface with plenty of room to load a trailer on today’s congested jobsite is challenging. Towing and recovery operators have it even worse – struggling to move dead equipment, often singlehandedly, while also contending with traffic, poor visibility and soft shoulders. Operators in the towing and recovery, …

When companies try to predict costs for projects, they tend to concentrate on visible items such as materials. All too often, less tangible items – such as worker safety – become an afterthought and may not be budgeted adequately.

There are two primary ways in which safety affects the bottom …

INDIANOLA, IA — Michels Power, Inc. is supporting the future of the electrical power industry and the people working in it by contributing to the Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee’s (JATC) new Missouri Valley Line Constructors Apprenticeship and Training facility in Indianola, Iowa.

The facility is a regional hub for substation …

Electrical safety awareness isn’t just for electricians. Believe it or not, non-electrical workers actually run the largest exposure to electrical hazards. Without the electrical training that licensed electrical professionals receive, one careless mistake can turn into a big accident – or worse.

By paying attention to the small details, you …

The pandemic has driven general contractors (GCs) to diligently record who is at their job sites and headquarters. This primarily includes workers, subcontractors, developers, realtors, and property managers. With so many different people coming onto a job site and staying anywhere from 30 minutes to several weeks or months, it …

Vacuum excavators are one of the fastest growing machine segments in the underground construction industry. Originally popularized by their role in daylighting existing utilities on directional drilling jobs, these machines are now being used for irrigation installation, landscaping, and even nursery tasks.

One reason for this growth is that vacuum …

For contractors responsible for sewer, storm and sanitary line cleaning, hose nozzles are an essential tool that directs pressurized water to clear out obstructions such as silt, sludge, grease, mineral buildup, and tree roots as part of required maintenance or to prepare pipes for re-lining. In this way, the nozzle …

In the construction industry, the quality of cast-in-place concrete foundations, superstructure, slabs, stairs, and architectural features, along with the speed of project completion, can largely depend on getting moisture measurement right – and the same is true with the masonry mortar used to build brick, block, or stone walls.

Water …

It’s become a fact of life: When you need to work for extended periods of time in high, hard-to-reach places, you turn to mobile elevated work platforms, or MEWPs (also known as aerial work platforms). Over the years, two of the most popular MEWPs – scissor lifts and boom lifts …

Hitachi continues to provide customers with efficient, reliable and durable equipment featuring advanced technology – the newest being factory-integrated Solution Linkage 2D and 3D Grade Control.

“We gave a sneak peek of Hitachi’s grade control technology at CONEXPO-CON/AGG last year,” said Justin Steger, Solutions Marketing Manager, Site Development and …

BUFFALO GROVE, IL — US LBM, a distributor of specialty building materials, has completed its previously announced acquisition of American Construction Source (ACS) from Angeles Equity Partners, LLC and Clearlake Capital Group, L.P.

‪‪‪‪‪‪With the addition of more than 70 locations in Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Minnesota, Missouri, Nevada, …

ST. LOUIS, MO — Universal Engineering Sciences (UES), an engineering and consulting company specializing in geotechnical engineering, construction materials testing, building code compliance, threshold inspections, and environmental consulting, has acquired Geotechnology, Inc., a provider of consulting services in applied earth and environmental sciences; exploration; geotechnical engineering; underground consulting services; …

Being equipped with the precise tools to conduct the unique equipment maintenance your customers demand is crucial for minimizing work stoppages and maximizing productivity. The proper system also provides your team with more than just what they need to perform equipment maintenance on the jobsite; it also helps keep them …

LINCOLN, NE — The University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) team that developed the Olsson Building Use Efficiency Platform won the Platinum Project Award at the Design Studio 2021 Showcase. The project was one of 20 sponsored by companies such as Kiewit, Hudl, TD Ameritrade, and Mutual of Omaha.

The Olsson-sponsored …

Water is an essential component of any construction or roadbuilding project. From dust control to site prep and compaction, thousands of gallons of water are required every day. How it is hauled and applied can significantly impact overall productivity and safety. Though water tanks appear basic, certain factors can have …

When it comes to loading containers or truck bodies onto a truck chassis, regions around the world have traditionally opted for different equipment. The North American waste and recycling market usually favors the cable hoist, while the hooklift has been more prominent internationally.

One trend that all customers are impacted …

The work truck industry includes some of the largest motor vehicle businesses in the world supplying truck chassis (incomplete vehicles) that will be completed by upfitters, using specialized bodies and equipment. These companies are all part of the complex process of producing work trucks, which starts with vocational fleets ordering …

For fleet owners looking to standardize their operation, selecting a trailer manufacturer might feel more like picking a favorite sports team than a strategic move to maximize hauling equipment investments. To some extent, it is. Teams with dedicated fans play smart and deliver results year after year. Similarly, original equipment …

As debates about global warming get more intense and energy prices climb, there is growing interest in the advantages of geothermal energy. Such energy involves using heat generated by the Earth itself to condition spaces and generate electricity. While geothermal energy has not caught on in a big way in …

LINCOLN, NE — Olsson, an engineering and design firm, was named one of Lincoln’s Best Places to Work, a program that identifies the city’s businesses that have created positive work environments for their employees. Olsson was selected as the top place to work in the extra-large company category (more …

Heavy equipment dealers, rental companies, and service centers with underground waste disposal systems – floor drains or sinks in service bays that connect to a septic system or dry well (i.e.- catch basins) – are regulated by the EPA.

During normal vehicle repair and maintenance, fluids such as engine oil, …

It is obvious that knowing the condition of underground sewer and water infrastructure is necessary to properly maintain essential services, and today’s CCTV (closed circuit television) inspection systems visually identify structural and maintenance issues like cracks, broken or collapsed pipe, infiltration, grease, and roots, as well as other issues.

Mainline …

Britt Hedlund knows progress can be a slow process, especially when it comes to attracting and developing the skilled workforce of tomorrow in small, rural communities like Harper County, Kansas.

However, through her work as coordinator of the Harper County Transition to Career Program and its partnership with local AEM …

WASHINGTON, D.C. — As the U.S. Interstate Highway System reaches 65 years old, it is congested, carries significant levels of travel — particularly by large trucks — and lacks adequate funding to make needed repairs and improvements. America’s most critical transportation link will need to be rebuilt and expanded to …

Nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, the City of Maryville, a suburb of Knoxville, Tennessee, is going through a growth spurt. With a population of nearly 30,000 people and climbing, the town has experienced a big spike in utility development within the last two to three years. …

Demolition, like every industry, is constantly evolving. To keep ahead of the curve, contractors seek out the machines and methods that increase productivity while decreasing the physical toll on workers.

Concrete sawing is viable option for fast, effective removal. However, savvy contractors are finding that adding remote-control demolition robots to …

Let’s face it, road widening, aggregate placement, backfilling, and other road construction tasks have always been messy, backbreaking operations. Busy road construction seasons, limited budgets, and a number of other elements have constrained equipment innovation for decades. This has left road crews in the dust, relying heavily on traditional methods …

A construction site can be a bad back waiting to happen.

Whether it’s a brick mason, concrete finisher, roofer, or any other necessary occupation for a job site, workers are at risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) because of the nature of the job – the awkward postures, repetitive lifting, …

There’s been considerable excitement and energy around machine control and autonomous operations in the construction space in recent years. And rightfully so – big machines that can grade a site to centimeter tolerances on the first go without operator assistance is worthy of celebration.

But what about the tools and …

Skid steer and compact track loaders are pivotal machines on any jobsite, offering compact convenience and robust power to operators of all skill levels. With the ability to tackle a variety of jobs and applications, adding the versatility of an attachment can make all the difference in the capabilities of …

Hitachi Construction Machinery recently announced two new programs aimed to help customers increase productivity and cost-savings. Dedicated to providing customers with efficient, reliable, and durable machines, Hitachi Construction continues to provide the latest technology and product offerings to help customers get the most out of their Hitachi machines.

As we transition into the warmer months, demand for a variety of landscape, hardscape, tree care, utility installation, and overall construction-grade tasks begin to rise. While stand-on skid steers have been used primarily as loaders in the past, they are becoming more popular in a wider array of jobs in …

Spring is just around the corner and that means land clearing contractors will be out in full force. While many jobs can be fulfilled using a standard compact track loader (CTL) with a simple bucket, overgrown areas with thick brush and trees require heavier-duty forestry attachments. And powering these attachments …

For many highway and heavy contractors, it’s not only the machines used on-site that drive project productivity – it’s also the attachments.

From buckets, hammers, and cutters to rippers, brooms, and grabbers, these heavy equipment accessories are designed to enhance the use of big (and little) iron while driving productivity …

With its customization and flexibility, General Equipment & Supplies makes setting up portable aggregate processing plants easier with the correct machinery for local materials and climates.

“We provide plug and play, and we feel we do it better than anyone,” says Don Kern, Vice President of Aggregate Sales for …

Telehandlers are a popular choice for a wide range of material handling applications on job sites due to the variety of attachments they can be equipped with. The versatility of these machines allows operators the ability to perform a variety of job site tasks. Unlike forklifts, which rely on a …

Change has always been a constant in the construction and demolition industry. Contractors, workers and project managers pushing for safer, more productive solutions have transformed the modern jobsite from a buzzing hive that relied predominantly on manual labor to a streamlined operation dominated by hard-hitting machines.

In today’s competitive market, …

Demolition and recycling equipment is evolving and is going to change quickly in the next five to 10 years. Manufacturers are leading this effort with input from their customers.

Advances are happening in wireless technology, microchips, machine learning, artificial intelligence, automation, cameras, sensors, touch screens, and batteries. These technologies are …

Like the air we breathe, sound is an important, yet often overlooked, part of our daily lives. And, just as air quality and its effects on health have become an important part of the safety conversation, the negative effects of sound exposure on employees and the public are a growing …

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA — HR Green, Inc., an engineering, technical consulting, and management firm, announces that it is Great Place to Work-Certified. Certification is a significant achievement based on validated employee feedback gathered with Great Place to Work’s data-driven For All methodology. Having surveyed more than 100 million employees …

Communications towers have long been a part of the landscape, but if you think you’re seeing many more of them, you’re not mistaken. The rapidly increasing demand for wireless communication and private communication networks has triggered a significant increase in the construction of towers.

The growing presence of towers means …

GREAT BEND, KS — SAM Companies, a provider of geospatial and construction services in North America, announces that it completed the acquisition of R&S Digital Services, Inc. (R&S), a Geographic Information System (GIS) consulting firm located in Great Bend, Kansas.

Established in 1986, R&S was the first fully-digital mapping …

KANSAS CITY, KS — 2021 is off to a solid start for MW Builders' employee owners as the company embarks on a new chapter of the organization. This year marks MW Builders' 50th anniversary.

In 1932, Claude Sanders, the pioneer of MW Builders' parent company, ventured through unchartered …

LINCOLN, NE — The Pennsylvania State University earned first place honors at the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Architectural Engineering Institute (AEI) International Student Design Competition (ISDC), winning in the construction, electrical systems, and structural systems categories. University of Nebraska-Lincoln won in the building integration systems and mechanical systems …

The demolition process involves an unimaginable breadth of products and services to meet the needs of clients and communities. From structural demolition and dismantlement to industrial recovery and C&D recycling, from specialized rigging and landfilling to insurance services and equipment manufacturing, from general contracting and architectural salvage to facilities decontamination, …

Even though preventive maintenance can be the single most crucial factor in keeping an equipment fleet operating in peak condition, while lowering a machine’s total cost of ownership, it is easy to have an “if it isn’t broke, don’t fix it” mentality. Especially in lean years, maximizing each piece of …

Today, the owners of a growing number of non-standard building designs like museums, arenas, stadiums and structures with atria or large open spaces are turning to performance-based design for substantial cost savings and enhanced safety while maintaining architectural concerns.

As an International Code Council (ICC) accepted alternative, performance-based design allows …

Compact track loaders are an increasingly vital part of contractors’ businesses. The sheer versatility of these machines allows them to thrive in a variety of working conditions, and – thanks in part to growing attachment diversity – CTLs can be used for more applications than ever. A strategic purchase of …

Compact track loaders are an increasingly vital part of contractors’ businesses. The sheer versatility of these machines allows them to thrive in a variety of working conditions, and – thanks in part to growing attachment diversity – CTLs can be used for more applications than ever. A strategic purchase of …

Renting heavy machinery has become increasingly popular in the construction and mining industries with many companies now opting to rent instead of purchase equipment. In fact, market analysts predict that the heavy equipment rental industry is set to grow by 11 percent over the next three years as construction companies …

Renting heavy machinery has become increasingly popular in the construction and mining industries with many companies now opting to rent instead of purchase equipment. In fact, market analysts predict that the heavy equipment rental industry is set to grow by 11 percent over the next three years as construction companies …

For decades, road and bridge repair contractors have relied on the power and precision of hydrodemolition robots to increase efficiency for concrete removal and surface preparation applications. Traditional methods of bridge deck repair took hours of manual labor using handheld water jetting equipment or handheld pneumatic tools. By switching to …

Despite COVID-19’s tumultuous toll on urban living, there will come a day when normalcy returns to large metropolitan areas. Human beings are resilient; they will continue to work, learn, live, and play following economic downturns and unprecedented times that temporarily rid cities of normal activity. Downtowns have a future, and …

Whether it’s on the front lines of a battlefield, a supply chain or a construction site, culture is a fundamental aspect of human existence. Culture keeps us bonded to groups of people – whether it’s within the context of our families, our communities or even our workplaces – and allows …

ANKENY, IA — At the 2021 Master Builders of Iowa (MBI) Winter Conference, Baker Group was the recipient of the Leadership in Workforce Recruitment Award. This award recognizes the outstanding efforts of companies who are actively engaging in solving the industry’s labor shortage.

Baker Group recognizes that there is a …

While there’s a big difference between investigating a workplace incident and finding someone to blame for it, companies frequently confuse the two concepts. When something goes wrong, they work hard to identify those at fault, and that’s where the investigation ends.

Most workplace incidents are not that clear-cut. An individual …

LINCOLN, NE — After committing $20 million to the expansion of the College of Engineering in 2019, Kiewit Corp. is making another significant investment toward the college’s efforts to educate the next generation of engineering, construction, and computing industry leaders.

Key leaders of the international construction and design engineering firm, …

There’s an old adage that says, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” It’s applicable to many situations, but especially so when it comes to workplace safety. Safety professionals have long recognized the value of prevention, and the well-known Heinrich model clearly illustrates that value. For every …

There was an estimated 600 million tons of construction and demolition (C&D) waste generated in the United States in 2018 alone, which is more than double the amount of Municipal Solid Waste (i.e. normal garbage). Concrete accounted for the largest portion of this C&D waste (67.5 percent), followed by asphalt …

What’s better for clearing snow, a skid steer or a compact track loader? The common perception is that a wheeled machine would fare better, and it’s often true with many track loaders. It’s why many compact track loaders are parked for the winter while their wheeled counterparts keep working. However, …

Traditionally, vacuum excavators have been used by contractors for daylighting buried utilities, minimizing disruption to the impacted area, and leaving behind a negligible mess. Today, the benefits of soft digging – the process of using a combination of suction and high-pressure water and air to remove dirt and other materials …

When it comes to bridge design and construction, concrete is the material of choice. It’s easy to make, affordable, and can withstand a tremendous amount of compressive stress. However, concrete is not naturally flexible. It’s weak in tension, which can cause deflection on bridges and lead to cracks, which opens …

It has been almost a year since COVID-19 was declared a pandemic, and unfortunately, we don’t have an answer as to when life will go back to normal, or even what the “new normal” will look like. Disruptions in the hard-hit construction industry – such as supply chain shortages and …

OVERLAND PARK, KS — As enterprises work to meet environmental objectives from regulators, shareholders, and consumers, Black & Veatch announces the launch of a dedicated environmental business unit to support those objectives.

Black & Veatch’s centralization of its environmental services offerings comes as the world gets more complicated and companies, …

Safety sounds like a simple concept, but when it comes to workplace safety, that isn’t always the case. As our professionals interact with companies and workers in many industries, they frequently hear things that may sound plausible, but that really aren’t true. We’ve collected several of the most common here. …

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Transportation recently launched a new demonstration program to establish several Regional Infrastructure Accelerators (Accelerators), which will expedite delivery of transportation infrastructure projects through finance and delivery methods. The department’s Build America Bureau (the Bureau) issued a Notice of Funding Opportunity to solicit applications …

Despite chronic difficulties sustained by contractors and others with securing human capital in January 2020, the nation added 214,000 net new jobs. It followed that up with an even more blistering 251,000 jobs in February.

For 113 consecutive months, the nation had added jobs – an unprecedented winning streak in …

McCarthy Building Companies, Inc. announces a new partnership with Adaptive Construction Solutions, Inc. (ACS) to recruit and train veterans for careers in the construction trades, addressing a national workforce shortage. Together, the two organizations will identify and enroll veterans with military occupational specialties in an apprenticeship program that can lead …

The longest U.S. economic expansion since the end of the Second World War came to an abrupt end earlier this year as the COVID-19 pandemic essentially shut down the economy. Following an unprecedented plunge in Q2-2020 – real GDP nosedived at an annualized rate of 31.4 percent – economic activity …

The 2020 elections appear to have delivered simultaneous rebukes to both President Trump and the liberal agenda. While he performed better than most polls predicted, as of writing, the President’s ongoing efforts to contest the election appear to have little chance of success. Yet enough down ballot elections broke Republicans’ …

DENVER, CO — Process innovation specialist to the AEC industry, MG AEC Technology Partners (MG), invites the industry to The Power of Where, an online symposium illuminating the intersection of BIM and GIS technologies. Sponsored by Autodesk and GIS industry leader, Esri, the January 26, 2021 virtual conference will …

Transportation construction activity is forecast to decline 5.5 percent in 2021, as transportation authorities, state, city, county, and local governments face unprecedented revenue shortfalls, budget pressures and lower demand for travel and freight services, the American Road & Transportation Builders Association (ARTBA) model shows. The 2021 market will reflect the …

Workers in all sorts of industries use, or may become exposed to, various types of hazardous chemicals and other substances on a regular basis. Sometimes those hazards are part of a production process, while in other instances it may be something used to clean a worksite.

That’s why OSHA requires …

After a difficult 2020, many of us are looking for things to turn around with the new year. Significant progress on a vaccine and the possibility of new funding for infrastructure projects has many in the construction industry optimistic that 2021 will put the U.S. economy back on track. We’ve …

For aggregate producers, efficient and accurate sizing of material during processing is essential to profitability. One renowned screening expert has termed plant screening stations as the "cash box" of the operation. Square opening, woven wire screen is still the media of choice in most aggregate operations. However, carryover of prime …

Like many cities with a long history, the skyline of San Diego, California, has changed significantly over the centuries. Even in the modern era, demolition and construction continue to transform California’s second-largest city. However, with growing populations and congested urban environments, demolition contractors are forced to find safer ways to …

For construction firms with significant fleet vehicle and equipment assets needing to be protected from theft or vandalism, fully integrating the latest capabilities of physical security and access control systems can drive down costs significantly.

This “virtual” approach combines video surveillance, access control, and information technology (IT) integration to replace …

If there is any one thing to be said about 2020, it’s that uncertainty ruled the day in many ways and in many aspects of life. The construction industry was no exception, as contractors in all segments juggled the unknowns of an election year, a global pandemic, and everything else …

No one can argue that 2020 and the coronavirus pandemic have created major stressors in our personal and professional lives and have caused many of us to experience greater levels of stress, anxiety, depression, and fear. Even before COVID-19, one in five Americans suffered from a mental health condition and …

It happens on nearly every jobsite and nearly every day. A worker performs a task without using the proper safety procedures and a safety professional walks up to correct him. The mood becomes tense, the worker’s resentment is obvious, and the safety pro becomes defensive in return.

The safety professional …

Construction managers, general contractors, and building owners are certainly familiar with safety netting systems and the reasons to install them, which include protecting workers and debris from falling from structures, as well as façade and ceiling containment. They also believe these passive systems create and maintain a safe work environment. …

The construction worker offers much for which to be celebrated. They transform blank canvasses of earth to create spaces for work, education, or play and build structures to cross bodies of water that connect communities. Bottom line, the construction worker helps to build a country’s future.

Driving this ability is …

When it comes to horizontal directional drilling (HDD), simple training is not enough – it needs to be the right training. Because HDD is an art and a science, the right training, education, and experience is a critical combination in knowing the right balance between the two.

As HDD expands …

Tires are witness to everything that goes on in a truck and are filled with information that can tell you a great deal about your fleet.
There are many reasons tires are removed from service outside of normal wear – ranging from driver- related behavior, to running the wrong type …

More and more, concrete repair contractors are turning to robotic hydrodemolition, and the reasons why are simple. The method provides faster, safer, and more efficient removal than traditional means. Recent technological advances have also made hydrodemolition machines more versatile, compact, and durable than ever before. But, one important question still …

The construction industry has proven to be one of the most difficult industries to revolutionize. Many aspects of constructing a building have not changed for centuries. It is becoming increasingly difficult to build in downtown urban settings where sites are tight, streets are crowded, and skilled labor is difficult to …

Humanitarian, hero, and three-time heavyweight champion of the world, Mohammed Ali once said, “Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth.” Revered for his accomplishments in the ring and beloved the world over for his sharp wit and big heart outside of it, Ali’s …

AUSTIN, TX — Leaders from the Construction Industry Institute (CII), the Construction Users Roundtable (CURT), and the Engineering and Construction Contracting Association (ECC) are exploring the establishment of a unified, industry alliance to capture benefits of increased content collaboration, better sharing of research, and benchmarking learnings to improve application, diversifying …

DES MOINES, IA — Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Annual Associated General Contractors (AGC) of Iowa BBQ and Fall Days event was shortened to just a single day, but that and the rainy weather did not stop association members and staff from getting together. The day offered all those …

Near the Kansas City International Airport lies a well-traveled stretch of road that connects NE Cookingham Drive to I-435. A 20-mile jaunt separates the airport from downtown Kansas City, and while some drivers might make their way via the direct I-29 route, others choose the I-435 route that might take …

The AEC industry has been experimenting with the use of virtual reality (VR) for well over 20 years, and the medium has successfully provided value and Return on Investment (ROI). However, for many projects, the form factor, technical requirements and user friction for delivering walkthroughs has prevented the medium from …

Strong, compact, high capacity. These were the qualities that Nebraska Crane was searching for when looking to add a new crane to its fleet. After doing some research, one crane stood out to the Kearney, Nebraska-based rental company: the Grove GRT9165. The GRT9165 is Grove’s longest-reaching and highest-capacity rough-terrain crane, …

When we think winter maintenance, we start thinking about cooling systems and antifreeze, fuel systems and fuel storage, engine oil, Hydraulic oil and systems, batteries and all the fluids, components and systems that suffer the ravages of cold and freezing temperatures. If its equipment, it needs winter maintenance. If operates …

One of the most time-consuming tasks while auger boring is pulling augers to check line and grade and adjust steering constantly,” said Walter Keyes, a 25-years auger boring veteran and Team Leader/Superintendent with S.J. Louis Companies. “Typically, on large-diameter sewer jobs, crews will pull augers every 20 feet, …

As we look ahead and try to make predictions about the future of construction, some aspects are murky. No one would have predicted the situation we found ourselves in during 2020, with a global pandemic bringing the economy to its knees, delaying construction projects nationwide, and changing the way we …

Mining and quarrying are deep-rooted businesses. The oldest known mine is located in Southern Africa and was active, quite appropriately, during the Stone Age – an astounding 43,000 years ago. Possibly even more incredible are the ancient mines that are still producing.

Fast forward to today, where we find an …

It’s a small number that carries a huge impact for a contractor’s business. It affects their ability to stay competitive and maintain profitability, and it gives owners and construction managers powerful insights into the contractor’s business philosophy. It says so much that owners and CMs use it to decide whether …

KANSAS CITY, MO — JE Dunn was honored for having one of the nation’s best construction safety and health plans in 2020 by the Associated General Contractors of America. The association, which oversees the Willis Towers Watson Construction Safety Excellence Awards, an annual ranking of construction safety programs, noted …

At 64 years old, an age at which many Americans are approaching Medicare eligibility and reduced workloads, the Interstate Highway System is deteriorating, its traffic load of cars and trucks continues to increase, and the system lacks an adequate long-term care plan.

The Interstate Highway System remains the workhorse of …

INDEPENDENCE, MO — LiuGong’s appointment of IS Equipment Sales and Service, LLC, just eight months ago has already turned into a success story based on rock-solid equipment and local service.

The company was founded by Paul Licausi, President of LS Commercial Real Estate, Inc., an industrial …

Traditionally, moisture tests require laborious effort and are slow to return results from the laboratory.  The risk of damage increases during transit of the materials potentially altering or destroying the entire sample, making this option much less practical for construction sites.  Industry innovators have developed a simplified approach with testing …

When Robert “Bob” Lanham, Jr., P.E., started his tenure as 2020 President of the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC), he set three main goals: expand member engagement, increase federal investment in construction, and reduce and reform federal regulations on construction and development.

Then the COVID-19 pandemic hit. …

Heavy-haul trailers trek thousands of miles during their service lives and encounter many challenges – from rocks and ruts to bumps and jolts, no trailer gets out unscathed. To get the most from trailers, here are some tips to prevent costly damage and keep your trailers in top shape.

Austin, TX — SAM Companies, a provider of geospatial and construction services in North America, announces that it has completed the acquisition of Midland GIS Solutions (Midland). Headquartered in Maryville, Missouri, Midland is the largest full-service GIS firm in the Midwest, providing comprehensive GIS and GPS services to municipalities, …

SCHAUMBURG, IL — As the AED Foundation (AEDF) continues to address the industry's skills gap through its Vision 2024 plan, the soon-to-launch Construction Career Aptitude Test aims to help address the workforce shortage starting at the high school level. More specifically, the Construction Career Aptitude Test is designed for students …

The Construction Industry Institute (CII) and the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) recently held a webinar called “Roundtable on Perspectives and Best Practices in Owner-Contractor Collaboration During COVID-19” to provide updates on a variety of industry topics concerning the virus. The panel for the webinar featured two CII owners, …

Given the excitement with SpaceX and NASA’s recent historic manned launch, many people are looking to the stars. To many, space means rockets and satellites. However, every major component of these missions are built, designed, tested, launched, and controlled in one or more ground-based facilities. And every one of those …

MINNEAPOLIS, MN — Braun Intertec and a group of experienced employee-owners recently welcomed this year’s co-ops to the team. This year, Braun Intertec had more than 50 co-ops join them in Texas, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, North Dakota, and Wisconsin.

ST. JOSEPH, MO — Brokk, a manufacturer of remote-controlled demolition machines, offers on-demand, personalized training options for Brokk customers. The offerings allow contractors to provide crews with in-depth operational or mechanical training from a Brokk technician on-site or through Brokk’s Demonstration and Service Center in St. Joseph, Missouri. The …

The history of the construction excavator goes back quite some time. The very first excavator is said to have been built in 1882 by Sir W. G. Armstrong & Company in England, where it was used in the construction of Port of Hull docks. Unlike today's excavators that use hydraulic …

Infrastructure repair is a hot topic today, and rightfully so. From potholes to deteriorating bridges, keeping up with repairs – and finding the money to do so – is a constant struggle. In an effort to complete jobs faster and win more bids, contractors are always looking for ways to …

All project businesses essentially operate the same way. Whether you are in the construction, engineering or architecture industry, the overarching commonality is that your company delivers goods and services to your customers through projects, making your company a project business.

Only by recognizing your company as a project business are …

Accelerator for America recently hosted a webinar with some of the country’s most determined mayors to discuss the organization’s New Partnership on Infrastructure (NPI) initiative.

Founded by CEO Rick Jacobs, Accelerator for America is an organization led by an advisory council of mayors and other local leaders from across …

As restrictions are being lifted across most states in the country and with warm weather upon us, it is important for truck drivers to consider proper management of Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) used in most diesel-powered trucks.

DEF is made from a mixture of technically pure urea and purified water …

It’s a common situation: Your equipment isn’t working as effectively as it was the day it came off the manufacturing line. With most tools and machines, regular maintenance and replacement of worn-out parts can be the key to restoring it back to maximum power. Earth drills are no exception. Knowing …

Once again, the U.S. economy has hit a crossroads. Even before the current COVID-19 outbreak, the predictions for the coming year were mixed at best.

On the one side, the Association of Equipment Managers (AEM) said that “Steady and solid growth is likely to continue for the construction sector. As …

HAILEY, ID — The POWER Foundation, a nonprofit arm of Hailey, Idaho-based engineering and consulting services firm POWER Engineers, recently pledged to send $150,000 directly to schools to help alleviate challenges with distance learning and connectivity.

“The added pressures of the COVID-19 pandemic have really illuminated the challenges …

INDIANOLA, IA — Cemen Tech, a volumetric concrete mixer manufacturer, has been announced as the 2020 Prometheus Award Winner for Manufacturing Technology Company of the Year. Finalists in this category included Pella Corporation, Sukup Manufacturing Co., Vermeer, and Wells Enterprises.

The Prometheus Awards celebrate leaders …

KANSAS CITY, MO — Kansas City Asphalt Paving Pros recently celebrated its third anniversary, which commemorates three promising years in business. This is a big milestone for the Kansas City, Missouri-based asphalt and concrete paving business, which has provided asphalt services to residents of Kansas City since June 2017.

Kansas …

LINCOLN, NE — The University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s (UNL) Jeffrey S. Raikes School of Computer Science and Management defines their two-semester Design Studio project as “insanely smart students working in teams to build insanely great software products.” Supported by industry partners, Raikes School students use agile engineering, lean business development, and …

Creative thinking and the willingness to take a new approach is often what sets innovators apart from their peers. These qualities are also the fuel that propels industry forward. Construction is one of the oldest industries, but thanks to continuous advancements in technology, techniques and materials, today’s structures have come …

KANSAS CITY, MO — For the third consecutive year, Burns & McDonnell has been named one of the Best Workplaces in Consulting and Professional Services by Great Place to Work. The 100 percent employee-owned design and construction firm earned the No. 14 spot on the list.

The annual ranking …

The economy in Garden City, Kansas, is strong with the recent opening of a Dairy Farmers of America plant. Approximately 4 million pounds of milk from regional farmers make its way to the dairy plant each day, which has led to expansion for many other companies throughout the area. To …

The hardest part of a project for most contractors is the bid. Balancing customer specs with overhead costs to produce a number both sides are comfortable with takes skill and a deep understanding of an operation’s capabilities. Partnering with industry-leading OEMs to provide efficiency-optimizing equipment can give contractors an edge …

Let’s face facts, the construction industry does not do well when it comes to completing projects on time and within budget. Approximately 98 percent of megaprojects suffer cost overruns of more than 30 percent and 77 percent are at least 40 percent late, according to a McKinsey & Company report. …

There is no doubt that technology has increased project management efficiency and safety in the construction industry. Case in point: construction worker illnesses and injuries went from 10.9 incidents (in 1972) to 2.8 incidents (in 2017) per 100 people, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. But, there are …

Construction was recently listed in the top 10 most dangerous jobs in America by CNBC. So when it comes to day-to-day operations, what can construction managers do to ensure workers receive the information they need to produce quality work and stay safe on the job? One company, MindForge, is …

KANSAS CITY, MO — The U.S. Best Managed Companies program recently announced its inaugural class of honorees. The US Best Managed Companies program recognizes private companies with a revenue of at least $250 million for demonstrating achievement and excellence. The program reviews four key criteria in its management skills and …

MIAMI, FL — The Diabetes Research Institute Foundation (DRIF) announces a donation of $3 million from North America’s Building Trades Unions (NABTU), to support specific and urgent research on the use of umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells to treat COVID-19-related inflammation. The gift will accelerate needed clinical trials.

On April …

HOUSTON, TX — As organizations and community members face significant challenges during the coronavirus pandemic, Burns & McDonnell is providing additional resources and services to communities, clients, and employee-owners throughout the U.S.

To bolster the support of those on the front lines providing critical resources to those who need it …

GLASTONBURY, CT — The S/L/A/M Collaborative (SLAM), a national architectural firm, announces the strategic acquisition of five CBRE | Heery architectural design practices focused on healthcare, sports facilities, and justice, which will be known as Heery Design, a SLAM Studio.

CBRE, which acquired Heery in 2017, will retain full …

DES MOINES, IA — The 98th Annual State Convention for the Associated General Contractors of Iowa (AGC of Iowa) was recently held in Des Moines, Iowa. In his message to the members, 2019 AGC of Iowa President Sonny Hall of the Absolute Group welcomed everyone attending and discussed the theme …

DES MOINES, IA — The Associated General Contractors of Iowa (AGC of Iowa) announces the winners of the AGC of Iowa Recognition of Safety Excellence Awards (ROSE), awarded to contractors who demonstrate a cultural commitment to safety and sponsored by Arthur J. Gallagher Risk Management Services, Inc. This year’s award …

KANSAS CITY, MO — Kansas City International Airport’s New Terminal Project has brought to life a new partnership that has not only had a positive impact on the project, but on the firms involved, as well.

Through Kansas City, Missouri’s, mentor-protégé program, Kissick Construction Company, a 25-year-old heavy civil …

ROLLA, MO — PARIC recently sponsored the 2020 Missouri Future City competition. This annual event promotes Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) education. The premise of the competition is middle school students working in teams to design a city, focused on solving a pressing issue. This year, the title of …

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA — An annual tradition that Construction Materials Inc. President Dick Galligan, all of his employees, friends and customers look forward to is the Holiday Open House Luncheon at their Cedar Rapids, Iowa headquarters.

For the past 34 years, CMI has been serving a lunch of beef, …

MILWAUKEE, WI — Five nonprofit organizations developing the future of the manufacturing and trades workforces were awarded $10,000 each at the Association of Equipment Manufacturers’ (AEM) 2019 Annual Conference as part of their Next Gen Grant Program. The winning organizations — from Missouri, South Carolina, Wisconsin, Kentucky and Kansas …

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Construction input prices remained unchanged on a monthly basis in October but are down 2.2 percent year-over-year, according to an Associated Builders and Contractors analysis of U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Producer Price Index data. Nonresidential construction input prices fell 0.1 percent for the month and are …

TOPEKA, KS — With nearly 100 applications in the first round, the new Cost Share Program from the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) is off to a strong start. In total, KDOT received 92 applications with more than $92 million in local investment. In return, the applications requested nearly $242 …

ARLINGTON, VA — Eighty percent of construction firms report they are having a hard time filling hourly craft positions that represent the bulk of the construction workforce, according to the results of an industry-wide survey released by Autodesk and the Associated General Contractors of America. Association officials said the …

MOLINE, IL — Among professional construction contractors who rented equipment in the past year, a majority expects to increase reliance on rental in the year ahead, according to a comprehensive survey of contractors released by the American Rental Association (ARA).

The “Rental Customer Needs Study,” conducted by RSG, an independent …

KANSAS CITY, MO — HNTB Corporation is marking the 105th anniversary of its Kansas City office opening. The firm’s heritage in Kansas City dates back to its founding in 1914. That year, John Harrington, Ernest Howard and Louis Ash formed the civil engineering partnership Harrington, Howard & Ash in Kansas …

VICTOR, NY — The Independent Equipment Dealers Association (IEDA) is a self-regulating organization dedicated to advancing the goals of independent used equipment dealers and related businesses worldwide. The IEDA's website is a vital part of its mission to help equipment dealers build more profitable relationships, and to provide its members …

ARLINGTON, VA — Construction employment increased by 4,000 jobs in May and by 215,000, or 3 percent, over the past 12 months, while the number of unemployed jobseekers with construction experience fell to a record low, according to an analysis of new government data by the Associated General Contractors of …

INDIANAPOLIS, IN — Somerset CPAs and Advisors will be launching their 2019 Construction Industry Financial Performance and Salary & Benefits Survey. This industry-specific survey provides information about the financial standing of the national construction community, outlining salaries and benefits by position, balance sheets, statements of operations and other information as …

OVERLAND PARK, KS — Black & Veatch recently hosted its 23rd Charity Golf Tournament in support of Children’s Mercy. Proceeds from the tournament and company giving totaling $350,000 were donated to the children’s hospital. The annual golf event and company donations have now surpassed $4.1 million since its inception.

The …

IDA GROVE, IA — Over 600 concrete paving students travelled to Ida Grove, Iowa, for the 2019 school year at GOMACO University to learn more about GOMACO equipment, G+ controls, 3D machine guidance systems and concrete mix design. GOMACO University provides students with both classroom and hands-on, in the shop …

KANSAS CITY, MO — Burns & McDonnell, a 100 percent employee-owned engineering, architecture and construction firm, recently joined forces with more than 80 construction firms across the U.S. and Canada to recognize Safety Week. This weeklong spotlight on construction and workplace safety highlights best practices, tools and resources across …