June 19 or “Freedom Day” was not just another day in June. It’s a recognition of progress. Progress from when word of emancipation from Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger delivered a message that reached the enslaved people of Galveston, Texas on June 19,1865.

 

My cell phone rang last week. For a change, it was not a telemarketer or spam. I recognized the number and immediately picked up. At the other end was a former team member who I have stayed in touch with over the years. Actually, we last worked together in 2012. Clearly, that was not the end of our business relationship. Over the years we have talked about career goals, professional licensing, and workplace challenges. I am happy to report that she has been professionally successful and recently got her PE license. So, what was the call about? She had read an article I wrote and wanted to give me some feedback. Falling back into old roles, I asked her about her current situation, future plans, and how I could be helpful. Essentially, without stating it out loud, she considers me a mentor and I could not be prouder.

 A San Francisco-based startup has made robots on the jobsite a reality in the form of a drywall taping and finishing machine that combines a 17-foot-high scissor lift with a robotic arm. The robot from Canvas is operated by humans to apply tape, spray mud and sand for a Level 5+ finish on walls while cutting a seven day job to just two.

A fire station in South Carolina and a naval maintenance facility in Virginia are among the projects that will receive redirected funds.

The New York legislature passed a bill last week designed to encourage the use of low-carbon concrete and cement, a major step aimed at tackling the climate impact of the construction industry. The bill has not yet reached Gov. Andrew Cuomo's desk.