OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — Kirby-Smith Machinery, Inc. (KSM) recently acquired a 2024 Komatsu Breast Cancer Awareness-themed PC360LC-11 Excavator into its inventory. The excavator features pink awareness decals around the machine, including all Komatsu logos.

As a longtime supporter of Susan G. Komen, the heavy equipment distributor reached out to Alisa …

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — HNTB Corporation, an infrastructure solutions firm, was recently named Employer of the Year by the Oklahoma Chapter of WTS International.

“We are extremely proud to receive this recognition,” said Gretchen Ivy, P.E., Central States Office Leader and Vice President. “Creating pathways for women …

John Pinney describes Pinney Dozer Service LLC as a company that does “anything and everything dirt related.”

“From small commercial sites to large mining projects, we have the capabilities to handle it,” said Pinney, who is the President of the Skiatook, Oklahoma, business that he co-owns with his father, Tim. …

“If we touch a project, we own it” is the motto Chris Ward, Owner of NWA Fiber Communications, has built his business on. Over the last few years, his 50-plus person organization has owned many projects. But NWA Fiber Communications isn’t a typical utility contractor. The Harrison, Arkansas-based …

LITTLE ROCK, AR — Garver continues to invest in the AEC industry, communities, and individuals with sponsorship of the Women’s Foundation of Arkansas (WFA) Tjuana Byrd Summer Internship Program, a 10-week, paid summer internship opportunity for women of color who are enrolled in Arkansas colleges and pursuing degrees in STEM, …

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 …

LITTLE ROCK, AR — Terracon, an employee-owned engineering consulting firm, announces it has acquired Pollution Management Inc. (PMI), an engineering and environmental services firm with locations in Little Rock and Fayetteville, Arkansas.

Since its founding in 1988, PMI has provided a range of engineering, environmental, and field services to …

ROGERS, AR — ISG, an architecture, engineering, environmental, and planning firm, announces its expansion into Rogers, Arkansas. The company also welcomes Unit Architecture and the design firm's Owner and Principal, Ryan King, AIA.

ISG Chief Executive Officer Lynn Bruns, PE, shared his enthusiasm for the impact the …

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 …

TULSA, OK — Manhattan Construction Company (Manhattan) announces it has earned a National Pinnacle Award from Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC), presented at the 33rd annual Excellence in Construction Awards during ABC Convention 2023 in Orlando, Florida.

Manhattan won the Pinnacle Award for its forward-looking safety program. This is the …

JACKSON, MS — Neel-Schaffer, Inc., has finalized the acquisition of CE Group, Inc., a civil engineering firm based in Pascagoula, Mississippi. This acquisition will allow Neel-Schaffer to broaden its clientele and services on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, where it currently has offices in Biloxi, Gulfport, Hancock County, and …

LITTLE ROCK, AR — UES, a national engineering and consulting company, acquires Grubbs, Hoskyn, Barton & Wyatt, a geotechnical engineering and materials testing firm headquartered in Little Rock, Arkansas.

Founded in 1964, Grubbs, Hoskyn, Barton & Wyatt includes a professional and technical team based in the Little Rock …

LAFAYETTE, LA — LEMOINE, a Bernhard Capital Partners portfolio company and a full-service construction management and disaster recovery firm, announces that it has acquired Macro Companies, one of the largest emergency fuel and water suppliers in the world.

Operating for nearly 100 years, Macro Companies is a family-owned …

NORTH LITTLE ROCK, AR — Over 800 members turned out for a night at Simmons Bank Arena in North Little Rock, where Garver was honored by the North Little Rock Chamber of Commerce with the 2022 Chairman’s Award as the Large Business Partner of the Year.

Founded in Little Rock …

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 …

BATON ROUGE, LA — Performance Contractors was recently named National Contractor of the Year by Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC). Awarded at the 33rd annual Excellence in Construction Awards gala, this honor recognizes a single entity as an outstanding leader, innovator, and executor of projects in the industry.
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Performance …

RICHARDSON, TX — Halff announces a refresh of its brand. An employee-owned engineering and architecture firm started by Dr. Albert H. Halff in Dallas in 1950, Halff has grown to 1,400 employees in 28 offices in Arkansas, Florida, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas. Halff also has seven Florida locations: Chipley, Crestview, …

JACKSON, MS — Mississippi Transportation Commissioners recognizes the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) as a winner of the 2022 Digital States Survey Award in the Transportation category. The national award was given by the Center for Digital Government (CDG), which recognizes states that implement exceptional use of technology to improve …

LITTLE ROCK, AR — Garver was recently named Employer of the Year at the inaugural WTS Arkansas Chapter Gala. With nominations made by WTS Arkansas members, the award recognizes outstanding contributions and support of the advancement of women and minorities in the transportation field.

Garver is involved in WTS, an …

JACKSON, MS — Neel-Schaffer, Inc., announces the acquisition of Calvert-Spradling Engineers, Inc., a civil engineering firm based in West Point, Mississippi. The acquisition will allow the firms to advance client offerings and provide deeper resources in the Golden Triangle area of northeast Mississippi and throughout the Neel-Schaffer footprint. …

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — Larson Design Group (LDG), a national architecture, engineering, and professional consulting firm, announces that ZRHD — an engineering consulting firm in Oklahoma City with expertise in the design of mechanical and electrical systems for federal, commercial, institutional, and industrial clients nationwide — will join the company. …

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 …

BATON ROUGE, LA — Global integrated design company Stantec announces the team from Bradley-Blewster & Associates has joined the firm’s Buildings practice.

Founded in 1980, Bradley-Blewster & Associates offer health care planning and design services for hospitals, medical office buildings, clinics, ambulatory surgery centers, imaging centers, and residential care facilities. …

RIDGELAND, MS — Garver was recently named Employer of the Year by the Mississippi chapter of WTS, an international organization dedicated to the advancement of women in the transportation industry. With nominations made by WTS members, the award recognizes outstanding contributions and support of the advancement of women and …

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 …

NASHVILLE, TN — The Tennessee Section of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) releases the 2022 Report Card for Tennessee's Infrastructure, with 13 categories of infrastructure receiving an overall grade of a C, the same grade given by the section in its 2016 report. That means Tennessee’s infrastructure is …

JACKSON, MS — Central Transportation Commissioner Willie Simmons in collaboration with the Mississippi Department of Transportation’s (MDOT) Civil Rights Division and Systems Consultant Associates, Inc. hosted a networking dialogue for local business leaders and transportation officials.

The meeting aimed to ensure Mississippi’s Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBE) have the knowledge, …

NEW ORLEANS, LA — SOCOTEC Consulting, Inc., a provider of TIC (Testing, Inspection, and Certification), consulting, and advisory services with a strategic focus on building and infrastructure sectors, announces that it has completed the acquisition of Trinity | ERD, an architecture and engineering company specializing in building envelope …

BATON ROUGE, LA — Performance Contractors was recently presented with the Award of Excellence at the 15th annual Craft Workforce Development Awards Banquet hosted by the Greater Baton Rouge Industry Association (GBRIA).
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The Craft Workforce Development Awards are part of GBRIA’s initiative to help improve skills and promote best …

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — Garver was recently named Employer of the Year by the Oklahoma chapter of Women's Transportation Seminar (WTS), an international organization dedicated to the advancement of women in the transportation industry. With nominations made by WTS members, the award recognizes outstanding contributions and support of the advancement …

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 …

ATOKA, OK — LiuGong North America welcomes APEX Equipment Inc. to its expanding dealer network. Based in Atoka, Oklahoma, the dealership covers a territory that spans from Oklahoma to Southern Arkansas and Northeast Texas. The APEX Equipment leadership team of Ryan Mitchell (President), Bryan Debban (Executive Vice President), and Rick …

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 …

SHERIDAN, AR — LiuGong North America welcomes Crouse Equipment as a new construction equipment dealer. The Sheridan, Arkansas-based dealer is centrally located within the state.

As a LiuGong construction equipment dealer, Crouse will sell both excavators and wheel loaders. Crouse Equipment President Dean Crouse has conducted due diligence over several …

THIBODAUX, LA — Deere & Company, the global corporation that manufactures the John Deere brand of agricultural, construction, and forestry equipment, is investing $29.8 million to expand operations at its Thibodaux facility. The company will create 70 new direct jobs with an average annual salary of $47,472, and will …

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 …

LAWTON, OK — At Garver, employees believe that introducing young learners to the world of STEM is vital to the future of our communities. In helping to build a STEM pipeline, Garver is setting its communities up for success. That is why Garver partnered with I AM STEM to …

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 …

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 …

MEMPHIS, TN — The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) and the University of Memphis (UofM) have partnered to establish the Tennessee Delta Alliance, a new organization supporting the communities of Lake, Dyer, Lauderdale, Tipton, and Shelby Counties. The organization will be housed in the university’s Center for Regional Economic Enrichment …

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 …

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — The results are in and Oklahoma’s state bridges continue to shine in a national ranking for good bridge conditions. Bridge reconstruction projects and repairs made in 2021 helped move Oklahoma up to No. 5 in the nation for the first time.

Oklahoma moved ahead of Texas …

BATON ROUGE, LA — APTIM recently received 48 safety awards from the National Safety Council (NSC). The awards honor APTIM’s company-wide commitment to safety and recognize its work on coastal restoration and resiliency in Louisiana, as well as program and construction management for the U.S. military.

“At APTIM, safety is …

JACKSON, MS — Neel-Schaffer, Inc., recently welcomed about 150 visitors during an Open House celebration to showcase the firm’s move to the Highland Bluff North building in northeast Jackson, Mississippi. Neel-Schaffer was founded in Jackson in 1983 by Hibbett Neel and Gorman Schaffer and remains committed to serving the …

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 …

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — The traffic situation on I-35 in the Oklahoma City metro area and in Southern Oklahoma is expected to become unmanageable in the coming years without bold and immediate action, members of the Oklahoma Transportation Commission learned at their recent meeting.  

Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) Chief …

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 …

FAYETTEVILLE, AR — Since its formation on July 1, 1980, the Arkansas Academy of Civil Engineering (Academy) has provided support for students and faculty in the University of Arkansas Civil Engineering (CVEG) department. In the intervening four decades, the Academy members have contributed nearly $1.1 million for student scholarships and …

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 …

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 …

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — Highlights of the Oklahoma Transportation Commission’s recent meeting include unveiling of a spring work zone safety awareness campaign by the Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) and Oklahoma Turnpike Authority (OTA), an update on federal transportation funding following recent congressional action, and consideration of programming items …

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — The AED Foundation (AEDF) announces the accreditation of the Western Equipment Dealers Association (WEDA) Technician program at Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology (OSUIT). This program is one of AEDF’s flagship colleges and serves a wide region throughout the Southeast.

“We are pleased that OSU Institute …

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, …

NEW ORLEANS, LA — Bernhard and Tulane University recently announced a 30-year Energy-as-a-Service partnership that includes large-scale and immediate improvements to campus infrastructure and the construction of a 1-megawatt solar generation facility that will produce 10 percent of the university’s total electricity needs at its uptown campus. The upfront improvements …

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 …

JEFFERSON PARISH, LA — Acrow, an international bridge engineering and supply company, recently supplied a modular steel bridge to provide passage between the communities of Lafitte and Barataria in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana. Acrow’s bridge is serving as a temporary replacement for the Kerner Swing Bridge, which was destroyed by …

AUSTIN, TX — Global engineering and design firm Stantec has signed an agreement to acquire Cox|McLain Environmental Consulting, Inc. (CMEC), a 70-person, full-service environmental consulting firm that provides comprehensive environmental and cultural resource compliance services. The terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

The acquisition is a continuation of Stantec’s …

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 …

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — Highlights of the Oklahoma Transportation Commission’s recent meeting include the status of the recently approved federal infrastructure bill, approval of speed limit revisions on I-35 south of Moore, digital message sign installation on the entire I-35 corridor, and I-44 bridge rehabilitation near Sheridan Road in …

The difference between a successful tree-care company and an unsuccessful one is often determined by their ability to offer customers fast, affordable, and quality service.
Jeremy Folsom, Owner of Folsom Tree Service in Benton, Arkansas, found a way to deliver these three elements and today, his business one of …

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 …

NEW ORLEANS, LA — Palmisano, LLC has decided to rebrand as Impetus.

“We realize that the construction industry needs to evolve in order to continue its legacy of hard work and partnership," said Founder Wesley Palmisano. "For our new identity, we searched for a name that embodies our ethos; …

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 …

BATON ROUGE, LA — The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development announces that the state is slated to receive nearly $6 billion from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) after the United States House of Representatives passed the bipartisan bill, which was passed by the U.S. Senate this past …

IRVING, TX — As part of the controlled roll out of the recent global distribution agreement, Fecon LLC announces the addition of Vermeer Texas-Louisiana. With 13 dealership locations throughout Texas and Louisiana, the company provides a line of mulching equipment that incorporates Vermeer and Fecon mulching technology.

Vermeer Texas-Louisiana …

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 …

ATMORE, AL — Rolin Construction was named as the 2021 Diverse Business of the Year award winner by the Associated General Contractors of America, association officials recently announced. The association also awarded Diversity and Inclusion Excellence Awards, sponsored by Willis Towers Watson, to Austin Commercial, Gilbane Building Company …

LIBERTYVILLE, IL — A transportation construction company from Louisiana was recognized for its outstanding employee safety program during the American Road & Transportation Builders Association’s (ARTBA) Annual Convention, held in Pinehurst, North Carolina. Barriere Construction Co. from Metairie, Louisiana, won in the 500,000 to 1 million personnel hours category. …

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 …

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. …

TULSA, OK — Manhattan Construction Company announces that it has been named an Accredited Quality Contractor (AQC) by Associated Builders and Contractors, the 18th year it has earned the credential for its commitment to corporate responsibility. Only 229 of the nation’s merit shop construction contractors earned the credential in …

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 …

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 …

TULSA, OK — The Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM), Tulsa Rig Iron, and Vacuworx hosted United States Congressman Kevin Hern for two I Make America events in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The events highlighted the importance of American equipment manufacturing and celebrated the men and women who work to build a …

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 …

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; …

TULSA, OK — The Crosby Group, a manufacturer of rigging, lifting, and material handling hardware, announces its Rigging for the Troops program for the third quarter of 2021. The Crosby Group will donate a portion of its U.S. sales to the Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation, up to $25,000. …

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 …

GONZALES, LA — McKim & Creed, an engineering and surveying firm, announces that it has acquired GSA Consulting Engineers, Inc., an engineering firm in Gonzales, Louisiana. McKim & Creed has offices in Houston, Dallas, and Austin.

GSA provides planning, engineering, and permitting services for water and wastewater facilities, …

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 …

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — While the Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) has been able to make significant improvements to state-maintained roads and bridges, additional progress may be stalled due to a lack of reliable funding. Increased investment in transportation improvements at the local, state, and federal levels could improve road …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

TULSA, OK — Olsson’s system for annually inspecting hundreds of bridges on the Oklahoma Turnpike takes precise scheduling, attention to detail, and professional dedication. Most days, it runs like a Rolex. But when an emergency strikes, the schedule goes out the window while Olsson's dedication kicks into an even …

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 …

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 …

NORMAN, OK — Garver and Cabbiness Engineering have each created reputations as trusted firms that consistently deliver solutions to pressing infrastructure challenges. That remains the case, only now they will do so together as Garver announces the acquisition of the Norman, Oklahoma-based firm.

The partnership will combine the Cabbiness staff …

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 …

JACKSON, MS — Burns Cooley Dennis, Inc. (BCD), has agreed to acquire the business of SoilTech Consultants, Inc., an affiliate firm of Neel-Schaffer, Inc.

BCD is a geotechnical and materials consulting firm headquartered in Mississippi, with corporate and CMET campuses in the Jackson area and branch locations in Hattiesburg …

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 …

BETHANY, OK — Oklahoma-based Manhattan Road & Bridge Company, a member of the Manhattan Construction Group family of companies, donated $15,000 to The Children’s Center Rehabilitation Hospital, becoming one of the first corporate Christmas Heroes of 2020. The donated funds will be allocated to the areas of greatest patient …

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 …

LITTLE ROCK, AR — Garver knows the importance of investing in the communities where its employees and clients live and work through charitable contributions and philanthropic activities. That is why GarverGives, the firm’s corporate giving arm, supported more than 320 organizations, contributed more than $323,000 in funding, and devoted more …

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — Highlights of the Oklahoma Transportation Commission’s recent meeting include a briefing on the Oklahoma Department of Transportation’s (ODOT) recent ice storm response, an update on federal funding that expires in mid-December, highlighting of the state’s first public transit plan, presentation of an award 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 …

JACKSONVILLE, AR — Staying true to its name for over 50 years, Improved Construction Methods, Inc. (ICM) continues to offer improvements in high-tech construction.

Bruce McFadden was just 32 years old when he formed the company back in 1970. Despite his age, he already had a wealth of professional experience …

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 …

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 …

HOUSTON, TX — LJA Engineering has once again been recognized as a Best Firm To Work For in 2020 by the Zweig Group. The Best Firms To Work For awards honor the best architecture, engineering, planning, environmental, and construction firms (AEC) to work for in North America.

"With recruitment …

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 …

RICHARDSON, TX — Halff Associates, Inc. (Halff), an engineering/architecture consulting firm, announces the acquisition of the Tavares, Florida-based firm BESH, Inc. BESH will do business as BESH Halff.

BESH is a multidiscipline civil engineering firm under the leadership of Principals Duane Booth, Robert Ern Jr., and Charles …

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 …

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 …

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — Oklahoma highway bridge conditions are making the grade by moving from among the worst in the nation to the head of the class, achieving Top 10 status for the first time by ranking ninth, according to the latest data from the Federal Highway Administration.

The …

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.

BATON ROUGE, LA — The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) announces that it is the recipient of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials’ (AASHTO) annual Sweet Sixteen Award. This award is presented to state transportation departments who showcase the efficiency of a high value …

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 …

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 …

FAYETTEVILLE, AR — BGE Inc. announces the relocation of its office in Fayetteville, Arkansas. The new address is noted below:

One Steele Plaza
3739 N. Steele Boulevard
Suite 340
Fayetteville, AR 72703

BGE originally opened its doors in Arkansas in 2015 and has continued to expand its services in the …

HARVEY, LA — The U.S. Small Business Administration has named APC Construction, LLC the 2020 Small Business Prime Contractor of the Year for SBA Region VI, which includes Louisiana, Texas, Arkansas, New Mexico, and Oklahoma. The SBA Prime Contractor of the Year Award honors small businesses that have provided the …

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 …

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 …

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 …

TULSA, OK — Tulsa-based Manhattan Construction Company announces it has received a National Safety Excellence Award from Associated Builders and Contractors, which will be presented at the 30th annual Excellence in Construction Award during ABC Convention 2020 in Nashville, Tennessee, on August 18.

“Safety is woven into every aspect …

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 …

NEW ORLEANS, LA — The City of New Orleans and its partner, the Finance Authority of New Orleans (FANO), were recently awarded technical assistance from the Mississippi River Cities and Towns Initiative (MRCTI) to analyze the feasibility of Environmental Impact Bonds (EIB) that will support green infrastructure.

"This funding will …

BATON ROUGE, LA — MMR offered oral cancer screenings and tobacco cessation counseling to their employees at the Baton Rouge headquarters through the partnership with Mary Bird Perkins – Our Lady of the Lake Cancer Center’s Prevention on the Go – Workplace Program.

“The mental and physical health of my …

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 …

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 …

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 …

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — Safety and teamwork in highway work zones are critical to seeing that each worker makes it home at the end of the day. The men and women of the Oklahoma Department of Transportation work in all conditions and put their lives on the line to help …

JACKSON, MS — Neel-Schaffer, Inc., announces the formation of the Complete Communities Group, a firm-wide collaboration aimed at bringing expert engineers and planners from different specialties in the firm under one umbrella to develop multi-disciplinary solutions to complex community problems.

“We are excited to launch our Complete Communities Group,” …

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — Highway work zones are designed to keep everyone safe from the first orange cone you see all the way to the last. With hundreds of highway work zones expected to be underway across Oklahoma by the start of the summer driving season, the Oklahoma Department of …