AGC Constructor

Workforce Woes in Focus

December 2022 -- Top News

Infographic: Workforce Shortage

December 2022 -- Top News

Inside AGC: Fighting the Suicide Epidemic in the Construction Industry

December 2022 -- Advocacy

Future Focus

December 2022 -- IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

Listen Today: ConstructorCast

December 2022 -- Business Tips

The ConstructorCast is AGC of America's monthly podcast covering all the news, views, and interviews relevant to your construction business. Below you will find our latest episodes – listen as contractors and industry experts discuss business opportunities and challenges facing today’s construction industry. Be sure to click the special editions tab to hear timely updates on notable happenings, and how AGC is involved and representing the interests of the construction industry (also watch this series on YouTube).

Sign Up for AGC's Newsletters

December 2022 -- Chapter News

AGC offers newsletters for member groups and on topics of interest to the construction industry, including AGC Chapter Weekly, a newsletter designed specifically for AGC chapters and chapter executives with a focus on recent news and upcoming events.

The AGC Annual Convention � Together Forward

December 2022 -- Industry Events

Register Today for the Largest Construction Show in North America

December 2022 -- Industry Events

** YOUR AGC CONVENTION REGISTRATION INCLUDES A CONEXPO-CON/AGG PASS! **

Held every three years in Las Vegas, CONEXPO-CON/AGG is North America’s largest construction trade show featuring the latest equipment advances and newest technology applications across the industry.

Running March 14-18, 2023, show hours are Tuesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

From the CEO: How Workforce Shortages are Impacting the Construction Industry, and What We are Doing to Help

December 2022 --

The Associated General Contractors of America and chapters are supporting the industry with a broad range of workforce development initiatives. This includes the national association’s Construction is Essential targeted digital recruiting campaign and its Culture of Care workplace retention program.

Spotlight Your Achievements! AGC Launches Awards Season with the Opening of Build America, AGC in the Community, Innovation, Diversity and Inclusion Awards

August 2022 -- Top News

Apply by Monday, October 24, 2022!

AGC of America is proud to announce the launch of the 2023 AGC Awards competitions! The Construction Risk Partners Build America Awards (including the Marvin M. Black Partnering Excellence category) and AGC in the Community competitions recognize the nation's most impressive construction projects ranging across the building, highway and transportation, utility infrastructure, and federal and heavy divisions; those contractors excelling in their partnering and collaborative endeavors; and the charitable contractors and chapters giving back to their communities.

The AGC Diversity & Inclusion Excellence Awards recognize contractors that are champions in advancing diversity and inclusion within their workforce, subcontractor-partners, supply chain, the association, and in the communities they serve. The AGC Diverse Business of the Year competition honors an outstanding diverse AGC member-firm that is committed to achieving business success, while also contributing to the association and communities in which they work.

In 2018, AGC of America celebrated 100 years of serving the construction industry. While we celebrated and recognized the past it is important that we continue to look to the future to address ongoing issues affecting the industry. In this spirit, AGC decided to make the Innovation Awards an annual award to incentivize and encourage free thinkers to provide pioneering solutions to industry challenges.

Apply by Monday, October 24, 2022 for full consideration. Learn more about AGC of America's awards programs at www.agc.org/awards.

AGC Education and Research Foundation Undergraduate and Graduate Scholarship is Now Open

August 2022 -- Top News

Deadline to apply is November 1, 2022

Each year the AGC Education and Research Foundation offers undergraduate and graduate level scholarships to students enrolled in ABET or ACCE accredited construction management or construction related engineering programs. The application opened July 1, 2022 and closes November 1, 2022. Over $10 million in scholarships have been awarded to more than 4,000 students attending colleges and universities across the country. Through endowments made by AGC members and supporters, as well as AGC Chapters, the Education and Research Foundation awards over 100 scholarships each year to students dedicated to pursuing a career in the construction industry. Students can click here to apply. If you have any questions please contact Paige Packard, Program Director, AGC Education and Research Foundation, paige.packard@agc.org.

No Sweat at OSHA/AGC Meeting

August 2022 -- Top News

OSHA’s top officials earnestly engage with AGC contractors to understand the real-world impacts of the agency’s heat hazards National Emphasis Program, including the 80-degree trigger, reduced worker hours to allow for acclimatization, and body temperature and heart rate monitoring.

On July 26, the top OSHA officials—including OSHA head Douglas Parker—met with AGC in conjunction with the association’s Construction Safety, Health & Environmental Conference [https://shec.agc.org/] in Washington, D.C. Robust conversations were held on the regulatory landscape facing construction contractors, including a future OSHA rulemaking on establishing a national heat standard. AGC contractors had the opportunity to impart real-world impacts of OSHA’s National Emphasis Program on Outdoor and Indoor Heat-Related Hazards, including the 80 degree trigger, reduced work days to allow acclimatization for new workers and those returning from vacation, and body temperature and heart rate monitoring.

Labor Mandates Tied to Federal Tax Incentives

August 2022 -- Advocacy

Inflation Reduction Act ties—for the first time—labor mandates as a condition for receiving tax incentives spurring private construction projects.

On August 7, the U.S. Senate passed along party lines the AGC-opposed Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 (IRA), which for the first time ties prevailing wage and registered apprenticeship requirements as a condition for receiving tax incentives spurring the construction of clean energy projects and energy efficient commercial buildings (179D). To help provide some insight on these new requirements and tax incentives, AGC of America put forth an initial analysis found here. The IRA is expected to pass the U.S. House of Representatives on August 12 with the president signing it into law shortly thereafter. AGC will provide more detailed analysis of this bill soon. For more information, contact Jim Young at jim.young@agc.org.

NEW! ConstructorCast Episode: Build America, Buy America: What You Need to Know

August 2022 -- IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

In this episode, AGC’s own Jimmy Christianson, Vice President of Government Relations, and Deniz Mustafa, Program Coordinator for the Building Division take a dive into what Buy America/n requirements are, why we have them, and what we may be able to expect from new Buy America Build America Act regulations that come with the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. As government agencies work through their individual processes and procedures, AGC would like to prepare members for imminent changes involving material procurement.

Help Wanted: Improved Efficiency in On-Site Planning

August 2022 -- Business Tips

When looking to save time and money on projects, several AGC member firms see several benefits in utilizing Touchplan. "Touchplan helps us plan work as well as track commitments: percent promised and complete," says Aaron Geiger, chief technology officer at Alberici, a member of multiple AGC chapters. Alberici is a North American construction company serving the civil, energy, institutional, commercial, heavy industrial, manufacturing, water/wastewater and automotive industries.
BY DEBRA WOOD

A Business Developers Guide to the C-Suite

August 2022 -- Business Tips

Be careful what you wish for; it just might happen. These behind-the-scenes meetings seem intriguing for loads of reasons, not the least of which include the intrigue and mystery that surrounds them. What do they talk about? Is there a secret plan for a merger, an acquisition? Are they talking about me, or you or the next big hire that will end up managing you? The answer is likely yes. As one dialed-in politician said: “If you aren’t at the table – you’re on the menu.” (attributed to both Ann Richards and Elizabeth Warren) Employees' professional fates are being decided behind those closed doors. Who will be hired, fired, or promoted? Who can execute, bring energy, energize others, and has an edge? Are you a good fit for the organization, mesh with their values, aspirations, and ways of being? It is important for you to ask these questions of yourself, to be proactive, to add value to the organization.
BY JACQUELINE A. FALLA, ELAINE CONSTRUCTION

Taking to the Sky to Deliver a 64,000 Pound Generator

August 2022 -- Member News

It was a surprising sight for anyone strolling in the vicinity of Boston’s Beacon Hill on a Saturday morning in mid-May: a specially-designed 72-foot helicopter touching down at the Frog Pond on Boston Common (drained at the time), and then lifting enormous pieces of machinery into the sky above the gold-plated Massachusetts State House dome.

AGC Events

August 2022 -- Industry Events

Hiring Our Heroes

August 2022 -- Industry Events

Hiring Our Heroes (HOH) connects the military community — service members, military spouses, and veterans — with American businesses to create economic opportunity and a strong and diversified workforce. For details on any event, please visit the Hiring Our Heroes Calendar.

Construction Input Costs Declined 1.3 Percent from June to July; Contractor Bid Prices Remain on The Rise

August 2022 -- Construction Economic News

Prices of concrete products and some building materials continue to rise, while diesel fuel, asphalt, lumber and some metals fall in month of July

The price of materials and services used in nonresidential construction fell 1.3 percent last month, while contractors’ bid prices rose 5.4 percent, according to an analysis by AGC of America of government data released recently. Association officials noted that, despite the monthly decline, materials prices remain high and the availability of certain key materials erratic.

Construction Firms Add 32,000 Jobs in July As Sector's Unemployment Rate Drops to 3.5 Percent and Number of Unfilled Positions Nears Record Level

August 2022 --

Association official says labor shortages are keeping the construction sector from adding even more jobs, urges new investments in construction workforce development and training programs

Construction firms added 32,000 jobs in July as the sector's unemployment rate fell to 3.5 percent and the number of unfilled construction positions approaches record levels, according to an analysis of federal employment data released recently by AGC of America. Association officials said the job gains were welcome news but would have been higher if firms could find more workers to hire.

AGC Needs Your Response to Annual Survey on Construction Labor Shortages

July 2022 -- Top News

Survey closes August 12

The construction industry has experienced some very significant and sudden changes during the past few months that have led to dramatic changes in demand for work, availability of key construction materials, and the need for new workers. In order to better understand the impact of these changes on member firms so AGC of America can best tailor advocacy efforts and services, the association is asking members to take a few minutes to complete a workforce survey prepared by AGC and Autodesk.

The more data the association has to describe the scope and consequences of current labor market conditions, the more able AGC will be to educate government officials about the industry’s needs; and the more educated those officials are, the more likely they are to enact measures to help meet those needs. So, please take the survey today!

Spotlight Your Achievements! AGC Launches Awards Season with the Opening of Build America, AGC in the Community, Innovation, Diversity and Inclusion Awards

July 2022 -- Top News

Apply by Monday, October 24, 2022!

Apply by Monday, October 24, 2022 for full consideration. Learn more about AGC of America's awards programs at www.agc.org/awards.

Sustainable Strategies

July 2022 -- Advocacy

AGC leads the way toward building a greener future

Understanding the industry’s role with climate change has become a top priority in construction. With the federal government imposing new climate change policies and exploring limitations on high-carbon building materials, commercial contractors are looking at their carbon footprint while contributing to building improvements into the nation’s infrastructure.

BY AUTUMN CAFIERO GIUSTI

NEW! ConstructorCast Episode: Assessing Design-Build Risk

July 2022 -- IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

Who’s on the hook for design defects in design-build projects? It may not always be who you think. In this episode, Dirk Haire, co-chair of Fox Rothschild’s Construction Law Practice Group, and David Hecker, group general counsel overseeing all claims, litigation, and investigations for Kiewit Corporation, share their wealth of knowledge on design-build risk. Find out when and why contractors do not always bear the risk of design errors or omissions on a design-build project. This episode explains design-builders’ liability standard and discusses certain types of overreach by owners that merit pushback from design-builders.

Digitizing the HR Department

July 2022 -- IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

Technology solutions streamline HR processes for construction companies

When you’ve got 165 employees, including 100 skilled craftsmen out in the field, handling human resources through paper processes is an inexact science. Between vacation requests, benefit enrollment forms, performance reviews, paystubs, training materials and more, the task of data entry never ends, and it’s easy for paperwork to get lost, creating more work for HR professionals and frustrating employees.

BY NICK FORTUNA

Construction’s Three-Legged Stool: Why Quality Matters More than Cost and Time

July 2022 -- Business Tips

Despite the recent volatile market conditions, the construction industry remains competitive, and firms are consistently looking for that “it” factor to win more work. One of the most common analogies used in business development (BD) and the project pursuit process is the “three-legged stool”, denoting cost, time and quality. The analogy is intended to demonstrate that all three factors are weighted equally, but in this post-pandemic era when budgets and schedules fluctuate due to external factors such as a looming recession or continued supply chain issues, quality becomes the only factor that construction firms can actually control. Although quality can be a nebulous term, difficult to quantify, and certainly takes more time to establish, in the long-run, delivering quality service to clients stands to be the greatest contributor to a construction firm’s profitability.

BY JULIE WANZER, LEED AP, OWNER OF BUSINESS REWRITTEN

PND Engineers Mourns Loss of Co-Founder William Dennis Nottingham: 1937�2022

July 2022 -- Member News

William Dennis Nottingham, PE, a co-founder of PND Engineers, Inc. (PND), an AGC of Alaska member, died March 6, 2022. He was 84 years old. He was buried at Carter Cemetery in Carter, Montana, where he’d often donate his time and resources during retirement to maintain the cemetery’s upkeep. Born in 1937 in Fort Benton, Montana, Nottingham is one of the most influential engineers in Alaska history. He leaves behind a legacy that extends well beyond the 49th state. Enshrined in the Alaska Innovators Hall of Fame in 2015 by the Alaska Statewide Committee for Research as “The Bridge Builder,” Nottingham won the prestigious NOVA Award from the Construction Innovation Forum, Inc. in 1998 for PND’s OPEN CELL SHEET PILETM (OCSP) bulkhead technology. One of the most distinguished awards in the architecture, engineering, and construction industry, the NOVA Award annually recognizes innovations proven to provide significant advances with positive, important, and revolutionary effects on construction to improve quality and reduce cost.

It’s a Journey, not a Destination

July 2022 -- Member News

Developing a successful safety program requires both aptitude and attitude

Earlier this year, AGC of America held its prestigious WTW Construction Safety Excellence Awards (CSEA) at its annual convention in Grapevine, Texas. In addition to being awarded first place in the Construction Management Division for firms with more than 700,000 work hours, Choate Construction, an Atlanta-based commercial general contracting firm, took home the Grand Prize and was named the nation’s safest construction firm.

BY KATIE KUEHNER-HEBERT

AGC/VT Holds Vermont’s Largest Career Fair

July 2022 -- Chapter News

On Tuesday, April 26, the Associated General Contractors of Vermont (AGC/VT) hosted Vermont’s biggest hiring event at the Champlain Valley Expo, in Essex Jct. Within one week, Vermont employers extended more than 120 job offers, with more expected in the coming weeks.

BY RICHARD WOBBY

AGC of Massachusetts to Hold Second Annual Summer Externship Program

July 2022 -- Chapter News

The construction industry has been suffering a workforce shortage since 2008. But the Massachusetts chapter of AGC of America may have identified a solution. In August, the association will host its second annual weeklong summer externship program for guidance counselors and educators to show them the wide array of opportunity within the modern construction sector and to help them advocate for construction as a desirable career choice for their students. This year's program has already attracted nearly 80 applicants from across the region.

The externship program is part of AGC MA's plan to correct misconceptions about construction, which is seen by some as an unsafe and low-paying sector. In reality, the industry has well-established and effective safety protocols and offers a wide range of well-paying jobs that require expertise in everything from virtual technologies and engineering to sustainability and energy efficiency efforts, marketing, management, and more.

AGC Events

July 2022 -- Industry Events

Hiring Our Heroes

July 2022 -- Industry Events

Construction Input Costs Jump 1.1 Percent from May to June, Adding to Pressure on Contractors Despite Recent Decline in Some Materials Prices

July 2022 -- Construction Economic News

Recent increases drove up prices of diesel fuel, building, and paving materials, outweighing decreases in metals and lumber costs, while producers have implemented or announced further price hikes

The price of materials and services used in nonresidential construction jumped 1.1% last month, outpacing the rise in contractors’ bid prices, according to an analysis by AGC of America of government data released recently. Association officials warned that rising materials prices were having an adverse impact on a growing number of construction projects that have suddenly become more expensive.

The Importance of Work Zone Safety

July 2022 --

Construction workers are not the only ones at risk

As the world reopens and construction projects ramp up following two years of a worldwide pandemic, vehicular accidents in work zones are increasing. A recent study conducted by AGC of America and HCSS reveals that 64% of highway contractors experienced crashes into their work zones during the past year (an uptick from 60% in last year’s survey). In addition, an overwhelming majority, 97% percent, report that highway work zones are either as dangerous, or more dangerous, than they were a year ago.

BY LISA KOPOCHINSKI

Sixty-Four Percent of Firms Working on Highway Upgrades Experienced Cars Crashing into Their Work Zone During The Past Year, New Data Finds

June 2022 -- Top News

Annual survey by HCSS and AGC of America finds drivers and passengers are at greater risk of injury and death in work zone crashes, as officials urge drivers to be careful this summer

Sixty-four percent of highway contractors report that motor vehicles had crashed into their construction work zones during the past year, putting motorists and workers at risk, according to the results of a new highway work zone study conducted by AGC of America and HCSS. In response, officials urged drivers to slow down and remain alert while passing through work zones during the summer driving season.

Registration Now Open for the 2nd Annual National Construction Industry Workforce Summit

June 2022 -- Top News

Registration is now open to sign up to participate in AGC of America’s 2nd Annual National Construction Industry Workforce Summit. The summit will take place in Phoenix, Arizona on November 3 and 4. AGC is hoping to encourage contractors and chapter staff who are involved in workforce development to attend, as well as anyone involved in educating and preparing future construction workers. Attendees will share their workforce success stories and help craft new workforce solutions. They will attend brief, pitch-style, presentations from some of the nation’s most successful workforce development programs. And they will hear from inspirational keynote presenters. Learn more about the Workforce Summit and the agenda here. Register for the summit here. For more information, contact Brian Turmail at brian.turmail@agc.org or 703-459-0238.

Clarity on OSHA Heat Hazard Enforcement?

June 2022 -- Advocacy

On June 8, AGC sought clarification from OSHA on its enforcement of heat-related hazards under its National Emphasis Program (NEP). Due to the absence of specific guidance clarifying how compliance safety and health officers (CSHOs) will evaluate a contractor’s implementation of protocols to address heat exposure, fair and consistent enforcement will be significantly impacted across all regions. In addition, the NEP’s ambiguities may ultimately put workers at further risk of injury or illness.

Virtual Business Development

June 2022 -- Business Tips

Virtual business development seems to be a recently coined and common term in the A/E/C industries, as business development looks much different today than it did a couple of years ago. The opportunities to drop by prospects’ offices or meet them at a networking event are few and far between.

BY LINDSAY YOUNG, MBA, CPSM

CHIEF DIFFERENCE MAKER, nu marketing

4th Generation Family Member Named Heath Steel President

June 2022 -- Member News

Heath Steel, an AGC of Colorado Building Chapter Inc. member, has promoted Tony DeMario to president, making him the fourth generation of family members to lead a Heath construction company over the past 80 years. Heath Steel, which launched in 2009 in Fort Collins, Colorado, is the latest family-owned Heath construction company. It provides metal building supply and erection services to commercial, industrial, manufacturing, recreation and other industries across the Midwest and Rocky Mountains.

McCownGordon Construction Awarded AGC Kansas Safety Contractor Of The Year

June 2022 -- Member News

The Associated General Contractors of Kansas recently recognized McCownGordon with the Kansas Safety Contractor of the Year award. The purpose of the award is to recognize a construction company that excels at safety performance. The award winner was announced at the AGC State Convention in Wichita, Kansas on March 4, 2022.

Skiles Group Names Keyan Zandy Chief Executive Officer

June 2022 -- Member News

Skiles Group, an award-winning, national general contracting and Lean Construction management firm based in Richardson, Texas, recently announced that Keyan Zandy has been named chief executive officer, effective May 1. Current CEO, Clay Harrison, will remain with Skiles Group, a TEXO member, as chairman, and Dwayne Hodges will remain as president.

AGC Events

June 2022 -- Industry Events

Hiring Our Heroes

June 2022 -- Industry Events

Contractors’ Bid Prices Finally Match Runup In Materials Prices, But Continuing Cost Increases Will Maintain Pressure on Profit Margins

June 2022 -- Construction Economic News

Contractors’ bid prices for constructing new nonresidential buildings finally caught up with soaring costs for the materials and service they buy in May, according to an analysis by AGC of America of government data released recently. Association officials cautioned that contractors will have a hard time keeping pace with additional price spikes for many key construction materials.

“After enduring more than a year of runaway increases in the cost of items needed to build projects, contractors have finally raised their bid prices by an equivalent amount,” said Ken Simonson, the association’s chief economist. “But the runup in materials costs appears likely to continue to pressure contractors’ profit margins.”

NEW! ConstructorCast Episode: Winning the War on Talent

June 2022 --

Struggling to find enough workers? On this episode, three young construction professionals share their insights about how they made a decision on a full-time position and why their selected firms stood out. Guests include Trent Fair, recent graduate of Pittsburg State University, who landed a Superintendent role with Simpson Construction Services, Jack McGavran, also graduated from Pittsburg State who will be joining McCarthy Building Services as an Engineer, and Collette LeManske of Kansas State University, who will be taking on a Project Engineer role with Brinkmann Constructors. These three new additions to the industry provide some great information about what they were looking for in their internships and permanent roles.

Disaster Preparedness: What to Consider

May 2022 -- Top News

No matter the project location, a robust safety, storm and disaster readiness plan is a must

Whoever said that life, death and taxes are the three things in life that are certain forgot to include weather as the fourth. Just ask anyone in the construction industry, and they’ll tell you that Mother Nature has her own ideas. This is why disaster preparedness is more vital than ever especially if you live and work in an area prone to hurricanes, floods and flash floods.

BY LISA KOPOCHINSKI

May is Mental Health Month

May 2022 -- Top News

Mental Health & Suicide Prevention in Construction - How to Build Wellness Programs with Impact

The construction industry is raising awareness and encouraging open discussion about mental health and substance abuse to reduce suicide in the workforce. The COVID-19 pandemic has added stress, anxiety, and fear to contractors’ already high risk of suicide. We can all agree this is a scary subject and we need to address the public health crisis in our country. But how do we heal our workforce? Please use the following resources to help you spot warning signs, start the conversation, and provide support to those who need it – which can save lives. It takes construction professionals at all levels working together and with their risk partners to build a culture of caring and prevention. Click HERE for further information and to watch a session on this topic recorded as part of AGC’s 2021 Construction Risk Management Conference.

USDOT, with AGC’s Support, Proposes Slowed Transition into New Biden Buy America Requirements

May 2022 -- Advocacy

On April 28, the Department of Transportation (DOT) published a request for comment on proposing to issue a transitional waiver to comply with the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s new Buy America requirements. Here’s what to know.

AGC's Education & Research Foundation Awards 120 Undergraduate and 12 Graduate Scholarships for 2022

May 2022 -- IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

2022 Undergraduate Award Winner Shaaki Shakirun from Washington State University

The AGC Education and Research Foundation offers undergraduate and graduate level scholarships to students enrolled in ABET or ACCE-accredited construction management or construction related engineering programs. Over $10 million in scholarships have been awarded to more than 4,000 students attending colleges and universities across the country. Congratulations to the 2022 AGC Education and Research Foundation Undergraduate and Graduate Scholarship recipients! The 2023 Undergraduate/Graduate application opens July 1, 2022.

AGC Announces the 2021 AGC Student Chapter Winners

May 2022 -- IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

Applications for the 2021 Outstanding Student Chapter Contest have been accepted and AGC of America received applications from exceptional Student Chapters across the country! This year, our Outstanding Student Chapter Awards were broken up into three categories for student chapters to be awarded for exemplary demonstration of the AGC of America tenants of Skill, Responsibility & Integrity.

Three applications in particular stood out from the others and AGC of America is happy to announce the winners:

1. Resilient/Emerging Student Chapter Award: AGC Student Chapter at University of Massachusetts Amherst.

2. Community Service Award: AGC Student Chapter at Kansas State University

3. Construction Management Skills Award: Boise State University AGC Student Chapter

Credit Where Credit is Due

May 2022 -- Business Tips

AGC advocates for extending the employee retention credit

Contractors that have struggled over the past two years due to the pandemic shutdowns and project delays because of supply chain shortages can seek relief with the federal Employee Retention Credit. This and other federal and state tax incentives can help contractors substantially, experts say.

BY KATIE KUEHNER-HEBERT

Boldt Launches Program to Focus on Mental Health

May 2022 -- Member News

Suicide is the leading cause of construction fatalities and suicide rates in the construction industry are four times the national average. According to studies by the Centers for Disease Control, suicide rates in the U.S. working population increased 34% from 2000-2016 and is the leading cause of violent death for men in the construction industry.

TDIndustries Provides Safety Helmets to Workforce During Construction Safety Week

May 2022 -- Member News

Hundreds at TD swap hard hats for helmets to bolster job site protection

TDIndustries, a member of multiple AGC chapters, is embracing innovative and modern head protection by providing safety helmets to the workforce. During Construction Safety Week, TD educated workers on head protection safety innovation and how upgrading from hard hats to safety helmets can reduce traumatic brain injury risks.

FTI�Receives Platinum Certification by Mental Health America

May 2022 -- Member News

Bell Seal Certification recognizes employers who strive to support employee mental health

Faith Technologies Incorporated (FTI), a member of multiple AGC chapters, has been awarded the 2022 Platinum Bell Seal for Workplace Mental Health by Mental Health America (MHA). The Bell Seal is a first-of-its-kind workplace mental health certification that recognizes employers who strive to create mentally healthy workplaces for their employees.

AGC Events

May 2022 -- Industry Events

Hiring Our Heroes

May 2022 -- Industry Events

Nonresidential Construction Input Prices Soar 21 Percent from April 2021 to Last Month; Association Urges Relief from Tariffs, Buy-America Rules

May 2022 -- Construction Economic News

Prices of materials and services used in new nonresidential construction leaped nearly 21 percent in April from year-ago levels, according to an analysis by AGC of America of government data released recently. The association urged the Biden administration to provide relief to hard-hit employers by ending tariffs on key construction materials and reconsidering its recently proposed Buy America regulations that will make it harder for firms to find and pay for key construction materials. “Nonresidential contractors have endured twelve months of 20-percent increases in the cost of items they need to build projects,” said Ken Simonson, the association’s chief economist. “While they have been able to pass some of those increased costs on to clients, most of those increases have come out of their own bottom line.”

Help AGC Improve Highway Work Zone Safety by Completing the 2022 Highway Work Zone Safety Survey by Friday, May 13

April 2022 -- Top News

AGC and survey partner HCSS will use results to urge motorists to be careful during the summer travel season

AGC of America and our survey partner, HCSS, are asking all highway and transportation members help us improve work zone safety by completing this brief survey. We want to collect information on the number, severity, impacts and potential solutions to highway work zone crashes. We will use the results of this survey for a media and public education campaign we will launch the week before Memorial Day to encourage motorists to be more careful in work zones.

Please take a few minutes to complete this important highway work zone safety survey by May 13: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/RN3PGJD. And of course, please do not hesitate to contact Brian Turmail at 703-459-0238 or brian.turmail@agc.org with any questions, comments or concerns about this survey and our plans to use it to promote highway work zone safety.

NEW! ConstructorCast Episode: Environmental Highlights and Headlines

April 2022 -- Top News

In this episode, we cover the steps the Biden Administration has taken related to construction and the environment. AGC’s Director of Environmental Services Melinda Tomaino walks you through the environmental highlights and headlines on WOTUS (waters of the United States), species-related issues, climate change policy developments and implications for projects, and environmental review and approvals. Find out how AGC is making timely decisions and setting priorities, the important role AGC plays in policymaking, and how you can get involved.

Detroit’s Sachse Construction Awarded for Performing Outstanding Charitable Work for the Academy of Warren Playground Project

April 2022 -- Top News

Construction industry’s charitable group, AGC Charities, names group as its AGC in the Community Award member winner for 2021 as a result

Detroit-based Sachse Construction was awarded for performing some of the construction industry’s best charitable work in 2021. The group received the AGC in the Community award for its donation of services to help build the Academy of Warren Playground project.

Michigan State University’s STEM Teaching and Learning Facility Named Best Construction Project of 2021

April 2022 -- Top News

Granger Construction Company wins the Build America Grand Award as well as top prize for the Best Construction Management Renovation Project Under $99 Million

Michigan State University’s STEM Teaching and Learning Facility was the most significant construction project of 2021, AGC of America announced recently. As a result, the project’s contractor, Granger Construction Company, received the association’s top prize, Construction Risk Partners Build America Grand Award, as well as the award for the best construction management renovation project under $99 million.

AGC Charities Inc., Hilti North America and Hill & Wilkinson Lead Dozens of Volunteers to Renovate Three South Dallas Homes

April 2022 -- Top News

AGC Charities Inc.’s Annual Operation Opening Doors project involved renovating three Cedar Crest Homes belonging to elderly, disabled residents in support of Rebuilding Together North Texas

On March 27, 2022, AGC Charities Inc. and Plano-based Hilti North America and Hill & Wilkinson teamed up to lead dozens of volunteers to make repairs to three South Dallas homes in partnership with Rebuilding Together North Texas. The volunteer workday at the three Cedar Crest homes is a part of the AGC Charities’ annual Operation Opening Doors project.

Choate Construction Company of Charlotte, North Carolina Named Nation’s Safest Construction Company

April 2022 -- Top News

Choate Construction Company wins WTW Construction Safety Excellence Awards’ grand prize as 46 other companies win awards for quality construction safety programs

Choate Construction Company was recognized for having the nation’s best construction safety and wellness plan in 2021 by AGC of America. The association, which oversees the WTW Construction Safety Excellence Awards, an annual ranking of construction safety programs, noted that 46 other companies were also selected as winners for the quality of their safety programs.

New Biden Administration Buy America Mandates Will Undermine Nation’s Ability to Build and Improve Infrastructure

April 2022 -- Advocacy

Construction official says new guidance will undermine new bipartisan infrastructure measure’s benefits, adds the kind of red tape that betrays Americans’ confidence in federal spending

The CEO of AGC of America, Stephen E. Sandherr, issued the following statement in reaction to the release today of new Buy America guidance from the Biden administration for projects being funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law:

“AGC of America supports sensible efforts to effectively incentivize the growth of America’s domestic manufacturing capacity. Instead, the Biden administration is doubling down on failed procurement policies with its new Buy America mandate. This is the kind of red tape initiative that undermines American’s confidence in the federal governments’ ability to effectively use their tax dollars.

NEW! ConstructorCast Episode: Preparing for Construction Safety Week 2022

April 2022 -- IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

Construction Safety Week started in 2014, when more than 40 national and global construction firms comprising the Construction Industry Safety Initiative (CISI) group and the Incident and Injury Free (IIF) Forum joined forces with a single aim: to inspire everyone in the industry to be leaders in safety. On this episode, Ken Aldridge of Aldridge Electric, and Mike Burke of Alberici Constructors, both serving as chairs on the Safety Week committee, share some history of the tradition, what this annual campaign means to them, and how you can participate. This year’s Safety Week will take place May 2-6, 2022. Visit the website to find all the resources you need.

The Art of Building People

April 2022 -- Business Tips

Why employee development is the key to everything

The future of our industry is in a state of flux. From an increased demand for talent to more focus on cost competitiveness, disruptions are afoot. While analyzing your business model and tightening operating procedures are important, it is even more important to focus on one critical asset: your people.
BY RICHARD WALKER, CEO, XL CONSTRUCTION
AN AGC OF CALIFORNIA MEMBER

AGC Events

April 2022 -- Industry Events

Hiring Our Heroes

April 2022 -- Industry Events

AGC’s Construction Inflation Alert � April 2022 Edition

April 2022 -- Construction Economic News

For more than two years, the U.S. construction industry has been buffeted by unprecedented increases in material costs, supply-chain bottlenecks, and a tight labor market. AGC’s Construction Inflation Alert is intended to help owners, public officials, and others understand what contractors are experiencing. It also outlines steps owners and contractors can take to adjust to the fast-changing market conditions.

The April 2022 edition—the 7th since early 2021—includes information on the impact of the war in Ukraine on recent increases in materials costs and supply delays.

Chapters and members are encouraged to forward the latest information about conditions, such as supplier newsletters and “Dear Valued Customer” letters, to Chief Economist Ken Simonson at ken.simonson@agc.org. AGC will continue to update the Alert as needed.

Take the Constructor Readership Survey Today

March 2022 -- Top News

All Constructor magazine readers and AGC of America members are invited to share their feedback on our communications program. As a valued reader and member, your participation in this survey will provide AGC of America with the insights they need to continue to produce a top-notch media program. The survey should take no longer than 15 minutes to complete. We invite your honesty and assure your answers will remain anonymous. Survey participants will have the option to enter a prize drawing to receive a FREE pair of Beats Solo3 Wireless Headphones. There will be one winner, notified via email. Thank you in advance for your time and we look forward to receiving your feedback.

Meet AGC's Incoming President Dan Fordice in the Latest Issue of Constructor Magazine

March 2022 -- Top News

The March/April 2022 issue of Constructor magazine is now available. Read how AGC's incoming president is ready to bring the industry forward in our cover story, "AGC President Dan Fordice: Ready to Bring the Industry Forward Together." Also in this issue, you'll find our annual construction outlook infographic, information on the upcoming Safety Week and a project spotlight on pedestrian walkways.

Questions to Ask Before Using Commercial Drones on Construction Sites

March 2022 -- IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

Commercial drones are changing the way we look at construction sites. On balance, the rewards outweigh the risks created by drones when photographing projects, scanning for quality or safety, and documenting progress or conditions.
BY TOBY CUSHING, HEAD OF CONSTRUCTION, THE HARTFORD
A MEMBER OF MULTIPLE AGC CHAPTERS

Key Steps to Help Achieve Construction Worksite Ladder Safety

March 2022 -- Business Tips

Ladders are necessary tools for construction projects that seem simple to use. Yet every year, far too many construction workers suffer injury or death because of falls from ladders. Reminding crews about basic ladder safety tips can help keep workers out of harm’s way.
BY FRANCISCO MARTINS, MARKETING SPECIALIST, UNITED RENTALS
AN AGC OF AMERICA CAPSTONE SUPPORTER

ROI Vs. ROV

March 2022 -- Business Tips

From a business standpoint when investing in construction technology, many businesses get stuck on the question “When will we see our return on investment?” It’s a fair point. However, the return on value is an important aspect when considering business purchases.
SUPPLIED BY BECK TECHNOLOGY
A TEXO MEMBER

Master Builders’ Association Names 2021 Safety Champion Award Winner

March 2022 -- Member News

The Master Builders’ Association of Western Pennsylvania, Inc. (MBA) recently announced its 2021 Safety Champion Award winner: Carl Tipton, superintendent, Rycon Construction, Inc. The award was presented at the MBA Building Excellence Awards Program on Thursday, February 24, 2022, at the Heinz Field PNC Champions Club.

McCownGordon Construction Awarded AGC Kansas Safety Contractor of the Year

March 2022 -- Member News

AGC 2022 Annual Convention

March 2022 -- Industry Events

Don’t miss this Texas-sized event

Experience the AGC Annual Convention, providing contractors of all sizes and markets the opportunity to gain business-critical insights into the issues most affecting their operations. AGC brings together experts from across the industry to share their knowledge and help prepare contractors to meet the challenges of today (and tomorrow). Alongside the incredible keynote speakers, the AGC Annual Convention will feature more than 15 education breakout sessions covering a variety of key industry topics.

Held in conjunction with this event, the AGC Equipment, Technology & Construction Solutions Expo provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity for your whole team to meet with more than 100 leading industry suppliers showcasing the latest tools, solutions and equipment to power your construction business.

AGC Events

March 2022 -- Industry Events

Hiring Our Heroes

March 2022 -- Industry Events

NEW! ConstructorCast Episode: Material Price Escalation, Delays, and COVID-19

March 2022 -- Construction Economic News

Construction firms are coping with a seemingly unending series of supply-chain disruptions that are compounding problems caused by record materials cost increases and pandemic-induced challenges to operations. It has never been more important for project participants to be prepared with strategies to mitigate the risk of material price escalation and delays due to material shortages -- in order to preserve the feasibility and profitability of the project. On this episode, Greg Sweeso of Tarlton Corporation, Jack Mumma of Michigan State University, and Ronald Ciotti of Hinckley, Allen & Snyder LLP share risk mitigation strategies available during the bidding, procurement, and contracting phases of the project.

Materials Prices for Nonresidential Construction Soar 21 Percent from February 2021 to February 2022; Association Warns of More Cost Increases

March 2022 --

Prices of construction materials used in new nonresidential construction jumped more than 21 percent from February 2021 to February 2022, according to an analysis by AGC of America of government data released recently. The association noted that more recent price announcements made after the February data was collected suggest contractors are experiencing even worse cost pressures this spring.

Come Early to Dallas and Volunteer to Help Some of the Area’s Neediest Residents

March 2022 --

AGC Charities Inc. and Hilti are organizing a volunteer day to help Rebuilding Together on Sunday, March 27th

AGC Charities and Hilti are working with a national group called Rebuilding Together, which renovates homes for the disabled, aging and/or veteran communities, to organize a volunteer day on Sunday, March 27th. Member firm Hill & Wilkinson has volunteered to serve as the lead contractor on the project. To learn more about the project, watch the video here.

Volunteers will be renovating homes in the Cedar Crest neighborhood whose disabled owners are no longer able to maintain. AGC Charities will arrange bus transportation to and from the Annual Convention hotel (the Gaylord in Grapevine) and provide lunch and refreshments for all volunteers. The volunteer day continues an AGC Charities tradition of hosting an Operation Opening Doors volunteer project in the cities that host the AGC Annual Convention. Anyone registering for the convention can sign up for the project online at the same time.

For more information, or to sign up directly with AGC Charities for the project, contact Brian Turmail at brian.turmail@agc.org or (703) 459-0238.

AGC Releases New Spanish-Language PSA’s Urging Construction Workers to Get Vaccinated

March 2022 --

AGC of America is releasing a series of new coronavirus public service ads that feature Spanish-speaking construction workers urging their colleagues to get vaccinated for COVID. Each of the workers featured in the ads was unvaccinated and had a near-death experience with the coronavirus. They want their colleagues to avoid making the same mistake and in the videos urge other workers to get their shot. You can find the ads here https://youtu.be/aQzVUGw9d2g. The ads all direct viewers to AGC of America’s Coronavirus Vaccine toolkit (https://www.agc.org/covid-19-vaccine-toolkit) which now includes a feature to translate all the site’s content into Spanish.

For more information about the new public service ads, contact Brian Turmail at brian.turmail@agc.org or 703-459-0238.

Come Early to Dallas and Volunteer to Help Some of the Area’s Neediest Residents

February 2022 -- Top News

AGC Charities Inc. and Hilti are organizing a volunteer day to help Rebuilding Together on Sunday, March 27th

For more information, or to sign up directly with AGC Charities for the project, contact Brian Turmail at brian.turmail@agc.org or (703) 459-0238.

AGC Releases Updated Construction Inflation Alert

February 2022 -- Top News

AGC of America released the February edition of its Construction Inflation Alert. This document is intended to inform project owners, government officials, and the public about the extreme cost increases and supply-chains disruptions affecting construction. The current version of the Alert can be accessed by visiting AGC Construction Inflation Alert | Associated General Contractors of America.

For more information or questions, contact Ken Simonson at ken.simonson@agc.org or (202) 329-9671.

Senate Democrats’ Proposal to Suspend the Federal Gas Tax Will Not Lower Prices but Will Make It Harder to Fix Roads and Bridges

February 2022 -- Advocacy

The chief executive officer of AGC of America, Stephen E. Sandherr, issued the following statement in response to the introduction of a bill by several Democratic Senators to suspend the federal gas tax for the remainder of 2022 in response to rising fuel prices:

Call for Presentations Open for AGC’s 2022 Construction Safety, Health & Environmental Conference

February 2022 -- IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

AGC of America is now accepting session proposals for AGC’s 2022 Construction Safety, Health & Environmental Conference. This notice is a call for presentations for a limited number of speaking opportunities.

We are looking for experienced presenters to deliver dynamic and engaging presentations related to safety and health, and the environment. AGC wants to deliver content that will stimulate and provoke discussion. We invite you to share your knowledge and help us shape the 2022 experience.

For more information on speaker expectations, important deadlines, and how to submit your proposal, please refer to our conference guidelines. Proposals are due by close of business on Monday, February 28, 2022.

AGC Releases 22 Workforce Tips for 2022: Key Recommendations from the Inaugural National Construction Industry Workforce Summit

February 2022 -- IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

AGC releases full report from its first-ever workforce summit which includes a lengthy catalog of steps firms, educators and AGC of America chapters are taking to address workforce shortages. It also includes 22 new recommendations summit participants crafted, to help overcome the recruiting, training and retention challenges behind construction workforce shortages.

Field-to-Office Communication

February 2022 -- Business Tips

Good communication between the field and office is essential to keeping a project on time and on budget. Keep everyone abreast of what each operation or department is doing, and whether any issues or miscommunication have arisen to avoid delays or errors that can cost thousands of dollars or more in construction rework, eating up your bottom-line profits.
BY TOM WEBB, VP OF STRATEGIC INITIATIVES & CUSTOMER RELATIONS, HCSS, AN AGC OF AMERICA CAPSTONE SUPPORTER

Construction Superintendent 2.0

February 2022 -- Business Tips

Blending old and new skill sets to make the next – and best – generation of construction field leaders

There’s only one thing society can count on to remain the same: Everything will change. The construction industry is quickly evolving — technologies develop, delivery methods transform and the pace with which we are expected to work is rapidly increasing. The skill set superintendents needed to be successful a decade ago is very different today. The modernization of the superintendent’s role now demands new competencies, like collaboration, patience, respect, flexibility and accountability. These soft skills are a newer addition to this line of work, but there’s no doubt that they play an essential role and are an important ingredient to a team’s successes.
BY KEYAN ZANDY, CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
SKILES GROUP, A TEXO MEMBER

How Technology Protects Frontline Workers and Creates Community for Construction

February 2022 -- Business Tips

AGC member uses mobile communications to modernize operations and keep workers safe and engaged on the job

While the trial-and-error of managing a workforce during the COVID-19 pandemic was a big eye-opener for employers everywhere, one thing became strikingly clear: keeping frontline workers safe, productive and informed means keeping them digitally connected, global pandemic or not. Especially as hiring shortages and new virus variants threaten the slow tread of global economic recovery, maintaining a strong connection has become increasingly critical for these workforces. The construction industry is no exception.
BY CRISTIAN GROSSMANN, CEO OF BEEKEEPER

AGC Holds Webinar in Preparation for Construction Safety Week

February 2022 -- Industry Events

Register today for Connected. Supported. Safe: An Industry United in Safety | February 24, 2022 | 2 p.m.

Safety is a bond that unites us. It’s our connection to each other, and to something bigger than ourselves. When we’re connected and supported, we are better able to help ourselves, and our teams stay present and focused on the job. The more we stay connected and committed, the more we can show up fully to support one another. And the more we feel supported, the safer choices we make, and the better work we deliver, leading to safer selves, safer teams, and safer jobsites.

In this webinar, Ken Aldridge, chairman of the Board for Aldridge, and Mike Burke, chief operating officer for Alberici, will discuss how we remain connected, supported, and safe as one united industry.

AGC 2022 Annual Convention

February 2022 -- Industry Events

Don’t miss this Texas-sized event

AGC Events

February 2022 -- Industry Events

Hiring Our Heroes

February 2022 -- Industry Events

Materials Prices Soar 20% Between January 2021 and January 2022; Contractors’ Bid Prices Accelerate but Continue to Lag Cost Increases

February 2022 -- Construction Economic News

Prices of construction materials jumped more than 20% from January 2021 to January 2022, according to an analysis by AGC of America of government data released recently. The association posted a new edition of its Construction Inflation Alert, a report to inform project owners, officials, and others about the challenges volatile materials costs, supply chain disruptions, and labor shortages posed for construction firms.

“Unfortunately, there has been no letup early this year in the extreme cost runup that contractors endured in 2021,” said Ken Simonson, the association’s chief economist. “They are apparently passing on more of those costs but will have a continuing challenge in getting timely deliveries and finding enough workers.”

Construction Firms Foresee Growing Demand for Most Types of Projects, as 74 Percent of Firms Plan to Hire in 2022 Despite Supply Chain and Labor Challenges

January 2022 -- Top News

New industry outlook shows contractors expect a boost from the bipartisan infrastructure bill and broad-based private-sector demand, except for retail and office construction, if they can find workers and materials

Construction contractors expect increasing demand for numerous types of projects in 2022 despite ongoing supply chain and labor challenges, as most firms plan to add workers this year, according to survey results released recently by AGC of America and Sage. The findings are detailed in Expecting Growth While Coping with the Lingering Impacts of the Pandemic: The 2022 Construction Hiring & Business Outlook.

AGC & Procore Connect to Provide Education Assistance to HBCUs

January 2022 -- Top News

In this episode of ConstructorCast, a panel discusses the partnership between AGC and Procore Technologies, and their efforts to raise money for the benefit of African American and disadvantaged students studying construction at Historically Black Colleges & Universities. The scholarship program has already connected with seven HBCUs, and raised over $400,000 including a $250,000 contribution from Procore. B. Scott Holloway, president and CEO of member and donor company Josam Company, joins in on the discussion, and encourages other members to donate to the effort.

Supreme Court Freezes OSHA COVID-19 Vaccination-or Testing ETS

January 2022 -- Top News

AGC to continue with litigation on the merits of the ETS

On January 13, the Supreme Court reinstated the nationwide stay on implementation and enforcement of the OSHA COVID-19 vaccination-or-testing emergency temporary standard (ETS). As a result of this decision, OSHA will have to suspend its ETS compliance efforts, many of which took effect on January 10. The case will now go back to the lower courts for litigation on the merits of the ETS. There, AGC of America will remain engaged via its Construction Advocacy Fund-backed lawsuit challenging the ETS. To support the Fund and other pro-construction industry efforts, click here.

In an effort to assist AGC members with increasing the vaccination rates among their workforce and with understanding the ETS requirements, the association created a COVID-19 vaccine tool kit webpage that contains a construction-oriented summary of the ETS detailing employers’ compliance options and obligations as well as additional resources. This toolkit also includes a series of vaccine Public Service Ads AGC of America created specifically targeting construction workers.

Call for Presentations Open for AGC’s 2022 Construction Safety, Health & Environmental Conference

January 2022 -- Top News

AGC Provides Feedback as FHWA Outlines Implementation of Bipartisan Infrastructure Law

January 2022 -- Advocacy

Encourages prioritization of review and permitting reform regs, discourages limits on state flexibility

On January 6, AGC provided feedback to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) on its initial guidance on implementation of the recently passed Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). AGC strongly encouraged the agency to expediently implement environmental review and permitting reforms contained in the bill without creating new regulatory hurdles in the process. Additionally, AGC encouraged the agency to seek adequate industry input and allow for an extended transition period to new Buy America requirements on construction materials. AGC cautioned the agency that language contained in their guidance document on limiting new highway capacity for single occupancy vehicles defies congressional intent. AGC will continue to monitor FHWA’s implementation of this historic legislation and ensure the policies contained in the bill are implemented clearly and as intended.

For more information, contact Alex Etchen at alex.etchen@agc.org or Cory Gattie at cory.gattie@agc.org.

January/February 2022 Issue of Constructor Now Available

January 2022 -- IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

The January/February 2022 issue of Constructor magazine is now available!

Read about the challenges and achievements of constructing wind farms in our cover story, "Tall Tales of Wind Farm Construction." Other highlights include:

• New Year, Same Virus
• How the Infrastructure Bill Was Won
• Hell & High Water
• Mobile Collaboration on Jobsites Saves Time and Money

Click here to start reading this issue now! Thank you to our advertisers, whose support helps make this publication possible.

Crisis Management in Construction

January 2022 -- IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

It’s no secret that all businesses should have a plan in case of emergency. For construction companies, it’s extremely important because the business can be shut down due to disasters or unexpected event
BY TOBIAS CUSHING, HEAD OF CONSTRUCTION, THE HARTFORD
A MEMBER OF MULTIPLE AGC CHAPTERS

Networking is a Naughty Word in Construction

January 2022 -- Business Tips

Networking is a naughty word in construction — most people cringe at the idea. Let’s approach networking from a different point of view that’s not cringeworthy then. Let’s think about it as making friends, learning about someone or someone’s company, or just finding common ground.
BY LINDSAY YOUNG, NU MARKETING
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT BEST PRACTICES SERIES

Palmisano LLC Rebrands Itself as Impetus

January 2022 -- Member News

While Palmisano, LLC, a Louisiana AGC Inc. member, was established with a desire to challenge the status quo and build a better world, the company started in a manner similar to the vast majority of construction companies named after their respective founders. On the quest to break new ground, Palmisano has decided to rebrand as Impetus.

Brinkmann Constructors Hires Samantha Cook as Chief Financial Officer

January 2022 -- Member News

Brinkmann Constructors, an AGC of Missouri and AGC of Virginia member, has hired Samantha Cook as chief financial officer. Samantha has more than 15 years of experience in the construction industry managing financial services. Samantha will be responsible for aligning Brinkmann’s accounting, finance and technology with plans for future growth as well as setting overall financial strategy for the organization.

AGC 2022 Annual Convention

January 2022 -- Industry Events

Don’t miss this Texas-sized event

AGC Events

January 2022 -- Industry Events

Hiring Our Heroes

January 2022 -- Industry Events

Construction Officials Say Biden Administration’s Plan to Double Tariffs on Canadian Lumber, Leave Other Ones in Place will Undermine Efforts to Address the Rapid Inflation in Key Materials Costs

January 2022 -- Construction Economic News

Prices of construction materials jumped nearly 20 percent in 2021 despite moderating in December, according to an analysis by AGC of America of government data released recently. Association officials said contractors rate materials costs as a top concern for 2022, according to a survey predicting the industry’s outlook for the industry the association released yesterday.

“Costs may not rise as steeply in 2022 as they did last year but they are likely to remain volatile, with unpredictable prices and delivery dates for key materials,” said Ken Simonson, the association’s chief economist. “That volatility can be as hard to cope with as steadily rising prices and lead times.”

AGC and Two Chapters File Suit to Block the Biden Administration’s Vaccine Mandate for Federal Contractors�

December 2021 -- Top News

Temporary restraining order, noting federal contractors are already being harmed by the mandate

AGC of America and two of its chapters, the Dallas-based TEXO chapter of the association, and the statewide AGC of Texas chapter, filed suit this week in federal court to block the Biden administration’s effort to impose a COVID-19 vaccine mandate on federal contractors and subcontractors. The groups noted that many of their members that regularly construct federal projects and are already being harmed, as key employees leave for other jobs in the industry to avoid the strict federal mandate.

AGC Releases New Series of COVID-19 Vaccine PSAs to Encourage Construction Workers to Get Their Shot

December 2021 -- Top News

AGC of America is releasing a new series of COVID-19 vaccine PSAs designed to encourage construction professionals to get their shot. The series will feature testimonials from workers who did not get their shot, contracted COVID and nearly died. They are now urging their co-workers to get their shots. Other videos feature construction mentors talking about the value of the vaccine. You can view the current videos here. The videos urge people to visit AGC of America’s vaccine toolkit to learn more.

Update on AGC’s Lawsuit Challenging the OSHA Vaccination/Testing Mandate�

December 2021 -- Advocacy

All 34 lawsuits—including AGC’s, supported by the Construction Advocacy Fund —challenging OSHA’s Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) on COVID-19 are now consolidated in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit. The federal government has filed a motion in that court to dissolve the current stay of any enforcement of that standard, including its vaccination/testing mandate, and on December 10, the parties will complete their briefing of that motion. Since November 6, that stay has precluded OSHA from implementing or enforcing the ETS, including requirements that OSHA had scheduled to take effect on December 6. AGC of America expects the court to grant or deny the government’s motion within a matter of days. While significant, the court’s decision will not end the litigation. Its decision on the stay will not be a final decision on the merits of the ETS. That will come later. 

The Sixth Circuit is considered one of the more conservative courts. Republicans nominated 11 of its members and Democrats nominated only 5. If the Sixth Circuit nevertheless dissolves the stay, OSHA will have the authority to immediately begin implementing and enforcing the ETS. At that point, one or more of the petitioners is, however, likely to go to the Supreme Court, seeking an emergency order to reinstate the stay.

What Puts the Fab in Prefab?�

December 2021 -- IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

How BIM and prefabrication can save time and money

Although prefabrication has existed for centuries, building information modeling (BIM) and virtual design and construction (VDC) have given the construction method a boost, saving contractors time and money.
BY DEBRA WOOD

The Bridge Between Safety, Privacy and Jobsite Efficiency�

December 2021 -- IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

Internet of Things technology, often referred to as IoT, has gained a lot of popularity over the last few years. And while IoT has been around for quite some time, its use in the construction industry is just starting to take shape.
BY RAYMOND VOLPATT, PRESIDENT OF VOLPATT CONSTRUCTION
A MASTER BUILDERS’ ASSOCIATION OF WESTERN PENNSYLVANIA MEMBER

Aviation Construction Reaching New Heights�

December 2021 -- IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

COVID-19 has presented unique challenges to the aviation industry. From 2019 to 2020, the industry saw a 60 percent reduction in passengers worldwide, according to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), representing a $371 billion loss of gross passenger operating revenues. The pandemic has also brought many construction projects and improvement plans at airports to a standstill. 
BY IRAJ GHAEMI, VICE PRESIDENT OF NATIONAL TRANSPORTATION, SUFFOLK
A MEMBER OF MULTIPLE AGC CHAPTERS 

Redefining Success in the A/E/C Industry�

December 2021 -- Business Tips

To say the last two years has been challenging for everyone in both our professional and personal lives, is quite possibly the understatement of the past 20 months. The construction industry has certainly faced a myriad of challenges, economic fallouts and other setbacks over the years, but none as far-reaching as COVID and its continued impact on all of our lives. As we reassess and begin 2022 with at least some sense of hope, the “challenge” now posed to the construction industry is to redefine our notion of success – more specifically, how we measure and celebrate successes both externally with our clients and partners, as well as internally with our employees.
BY JULIE WANZER, LEED AP, OWNER OF BUSINESS REWRITTEN
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT BEST PRACTICES SERIES

Future Proof�

December 2021 -- Business Tips

Molded polystyrene geofoam helps solve construction challenges as airports expand

Ask any construction professional about their work and most will say they enjoy that every day is a little different. Even after more than 37 years of hands-on experience, Matt Outsen still feels that way. Outsen specializes in complex concrete structural frames for buildings and infrastructure. For the last 12 years, he has been a superintendent with Ralph L. Wadsworth Construction Company (RLW) of Draper, Utah, an AGC of Utah member, where complex, high-stakes projects are the norm. 
BY SEAN O’KEEFE 

YWCA Central Massachusetts Wraps Historic $24-Million Renovation�

December 2021 -- Member News

The YWCA Central Massachusetts recently announced the official completion of its comprehensive renovation of YWCA Central Massachusetts’ Salem Square location, after over a year of work throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Built originally in 1961, the YWCA required complete MEP infrastructure replacements, accessibility upgrades, interior modernization work and exterior façade improvements. The renovation, completed by Consigli, a member of multiple AGC chapters, also provided several enhancements to the Early Education and Care facility, the creation of new classrooms and the integration of STEM programming and portable resources.

Boldt Crews Crown Shrine with 42-ft Diameter Dome�

December 2021 -- Member News

Lift marks milestone in building shrine dedicated to future saint

When you lift a 32-ton cathedral dome, it all comes down to trigonometry. That was the final check Marvin Rivers made before teams from The Boldt Company, a member of multiple AGC chapters, lifted the giant dome in place on the Blessed Stanley Rother Shrine.

AGC Events

December 2021 -- Industry Events

Hiring Our Heroes

December 2021 -- Industry Events

Widespread Steep Increases�in Materials Costs�in November Outrun Prices�for Construction Projects, Adding�to Squeeze�on Contractors’ Margins�

December 2021 -- Construction Economic News

Prices of numerous construction materials soared again in November, outpacing the rate at which contractors raised their bid prices, according to an analysis by AGC of America of government data released recently. Association officials said the current steps being taken to address supply chain problems and rising prices have been insufficient and urged public officials to redouble their efforts.

“Prices for nearly every type of construction material are rising at runaway rates,” said Ken Simonson, the association’s chief economist. “These costs are compounding the difficulties contractors are experiencing from long lead times for production, gridlocked supply chains, and record numbers of job openings.”

AGC and Sage Begin Surveying Members for Annual Outlook

November 2021 -- Top News

Help us generate a comprehensive outlook for 2022 by taking the survey today

Each year around this time, AGC asks you – our members – to predict what next year will be like for your business. AGC has partnered with Sage to prepare questions that focus on expectations for market performance, hiring, labor market conditions, etc. Please take a moment to complete the survey here. AGC of America will use the survey results to help make the case with elected and appointed officials in support of key member priorities. The more people who complete the survey, the more effective the results will be in supporting our work on your behalf.

Construction Industry Challenges OSHA’s New COVID-19 Vaccination Mandate, Noting That Measure Exceeds Agency’s Authority

November 2021 -- Top News

Yesterday, AGC of America, the American Road & Transportation Builders Association (ARTBA) and the Signatory Wall & Ceiling Contractors Alliance (SWACCA) filed a petition for review of OSHA’s new COVID-19 vaccination mandate. The groups explain that the new rule will put many construction companies at grave risk of losing a substantial number of their workers to smaller companies, instead of leading to more people getting vaccinated in the sector.

AGC Releases New Series of COVID-19 Vaccine PSAs to Encourage Construction Workers to Get Their Shot

November 2021 -- Top News

AGC-Backed Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill Becomes Law

November 2021 -- Top News

Members send nearly 100,000 messages to Congress to make it happen

On Monday, November 15, President Biden signed the AGC-backed Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill, also known as the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), into law. This bill will become law after a determined effort by AGC and its members—sending nearly 100,000 messages to Congress—to push it over the top. As a reminder, AGC put together this summary and also this myth v. fact document. Additionally, a breakdown of what’s in the bill for each construction market can be found here: Highway Contractors; Utility Contractors; Direct Federal Contractors; Building Contractors; and Other Markets (Transit, Rail, Waterways, Airports).

Update on Federal Contractor Vaccine Mandate

November 2021 -- Advocacy

On November 4, the White House announced that the deadline for direct federal contractors to have their employees fully vaccinated under the federal contractor vaccine mandate will be same as the new OSHA ETS: January 4, 2022. Previously, the deadline for direct federal contractors was December 8, 2021. It is important to note that federal contractors will still see the contract clause mandating vaccination in federal solicitations, new contracts, etc., as none of the other dates relevant to federal contractors have changed. As of Nov. 4, the Safer Federal Workforce Task Force website has been updated to reflect the extended deadline.

OSHA Vaccination/Testing Mandate Update

November 2021 -- Advocacy

AGC prepares for litigation; provides ETS summary & compliance webinars

On November 5, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) officially published its long anticipated COVID-19 vaccination and testing emergency temporary standard (ETS). AGC and other construction industry allies are preparing to see OSHA in court to defend the industry’s interests. In the meantime, to help AGC members digest this 490-page ETS, the association compiled a construction industry-oriented summary found HERE. In addition, AGC held a webinar series covering the practical, contractual and outside solutions AGC members may want to consider. For more information, please contact Kevin Cannon at kevin.cannon@agc.org or Nazia Shah at nazia.shah@agc.org.

Apply Today for the 2022 Construction Safety Excellence Awards

November 2021 -- IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

Deadline of December 15 is fast approaching

The purpose of the CSEA is to recognize those construction companies who excel at safety performance. The CSEA closely examines each candidate's commitment to safety and occupational health management and risk control. Unlike other safety award programs that limit the criteria to frequency rates, the CSEA selection process is considerably more comprehensive.

Meet Millie

November 2021 -- IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

The November/December 2021 issue of Constructor magazine is now available! Meet Millie the Labrador Retriever in our cover story and read about her contributions to construction workplace safety. In addition, this issue includes the much-anticipated Future Focus section, featuring:

• Tech Talk 2021
• What Puts the Fab in Prefab?
• The Paperless Journey

Recruiting and Retaining Military Veterans in the Construction Industry

November 2021 -- IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

Reentering civilian life after serving in the military can be extremely difficult for veterans, especially when it comes to finding meaningful, long-term employment. The goal is to align the knowledge, skills and abilities (KSAs) developed during military service to work in the most significant way.
BY SHANE MCKENZIE, DIRECTOR – VETERANS PROGRAM AND
SEAN PERSEO, AMBASSADOR – OUTREACH PROGRAMS
SUNBELT RENTALS, A MEMBER OF MULTIPLE AGC CHAPTERS

Reconnecting Nature

November 2021 -- IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

Construction projects designed for the protection of all creatures great and small

In collisions between motor vehicles and wild animals, the animal almost always loses. That doesn’t mean the cars win though. Collisions with large animals can damage cars and injure or kill the people inside them. It’s particularly bad in the case of large, high-traffic roads where an animal must dodge high-speed vehicles across multiple lanes. Wildlife continue to try to cross the road, however, because of biological imperatives: to feed or to mate. The animals can’t solve the problem we imposed on them.
BY STEVEN MILLER

Winning New Work Today

November 2021 -- Business Tips

Article first appeared in the SMPS December 2020 issue of Marketer

As we trudge through the pandemic and its economic uncertainty, one thing is clear: we must continue to win work. While there seems to be no shortage of RFPs, our ability to build relationships with the clients behind the RFPs and to truly do the early work of discovery is heavily weighted towards the established relationships we built pre-pandemic. The old rule that 80-percent of our work comes from existing clients and 20-percent is from new is in question.
BY FRANK LIPPERT, FSMPS, CPSM
A BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT BEST PRACTICES SERIES ARTICLE

TDIndustries' Welder Kaylin Leas Nominated for Tradeswoman of the Year

November 2021 -- Member News

The Empowering Women in Industry initiative has nominated Kaylin Leas, a TDIndustries, Inc. (TD) partner, for Tradeswoman of the Year. Empowering Women in Industry is an online community with the mission to connect, educate and empower women to not only inspire the next generation of leaders, but provide a community for those currently leading.

JE Dunn’s 11th Annual Hammer Down 5K Raises $90,000 for Two Local Atlanta Charities

November 2021 -- Member News

Race proceeds help local nonprofits “stay the course”

Two metro Atlanta charities — For the Hope Partnership, Inc., formerly the Feeding the Homeless Project (FTHP), and the Orange Duffel Bag Initiative (ODBI) — were the ultimate winners in JE Dunn Construction’s 11th annual Hammer Down 5K.

AGC Events

November 2021 -- Industry Events

Hiring Our Heroes

November 2021 -- Industry Events

Continued Increases in Construction Materials Prices Starting to Drive Up Price of Construction Projects

November 2021 -- Construction Economic News

Construction officials call on Biden administration and Congress to take steps to address supply chain problems that are affecting many construction projects, undermining industry’s recovery

Rising construction materials prices appear to be starting to drive up the price of construction projects, according to an analysis by AGC of America of government data released recently. Association officials noted that despite a big jump in what contractors charge for projects, the rise in materials prices is still much higher.

AGC & Procore Launch New HBCU Scholarship Program to Support Future Industry Leaders

October 2021 -- Top News

Procore’s $250,000 challenge gift will help fund scholarships for black and minority students at HBCUs

AGC and Procore announced during September’s Annual Convention the launch of a new scholarship program to assist African-American and minority students studying construction fields at historically black colleges and universities, or HBCUs. The new scholarship is being made possible thanks to a $250,000 challenge gift from Procore that the association will now fundraise to meet and, hopefully, exceed. The scholarship program will be administered by the AGC Education & Research Foundation and is part of a broader effort by AGC to make the industry more diverse and inclusive.

Visit here to learn more about the scholarships and make your contribution today.

Deadline to Complete an Application for the 2022 Construction Risk Partners Build America and AGC in the Community Awards is Fast Approaching!

October 2021 -- Top News

Apply by Wednesday, October 20, 2021!

Deadline to complete an application for the 2022 Construction Risk Partners Build America and the AGC in the Community Awards is fast approaching! The Construction Risk Partners Build America Awards (including the Marvin M. Black Partnering Excellence category) and AGC in the Community competitions recognize the nation's most impressive construction projects ranging across the building, highway and transportation, utility infrastructure, and federal and heavy divisions; those contractors excelling in their partnering and collaborative endeavors; and the charitable contractors and chapters giving back to their communities.

Apply by Wednesday, October 20, 2021 for full consideration. Learn more about AGC of America's awards programs at www.agc.org/awards. For questions, please reach out to Nahee Rosso at nahee.rosso@agc.org.

Construction Inclusion Week is October 18-22

October 2021 -- Top News

AGC of America, in partnership with the Time for Change Consortium, is proud to support the inaugural Construction Inclusion Week, beginning Monday, October 18, in an effort to advance diversity and inclusion in construction. The goal of Construction Inclusion Week is to foster conversations that create alignment around diversity and inclusion.

Each day of Construction Inclusion Week there is a theme to enhance the conversation around diversity and inclusion in construction. To support these daily themes, there is a host of resources that you can use to engage your staff, trade contractors, subcontractors, and partners. There is also a guide to help you plan activities. We also encourage you to make a public commitment to diversity and inclusion by signing AGC’s Culture of CARE pledge.

Please let us know if you will be participating in Construction Inclusion Week by completing this form.

For more information or if you have any questions, please contact AGC of America's Director of Diversity & Inclusion, Brynn Huneke, at brynn.huneke@agc.org or 703-837-5376.

No New News on OSHA Testing Mandate

October 2021 -- Advocacy

AGC continues to wait for ETS; Reviews legal options

AGC continues to wait for more information from OSHA on an emergency temporary standard (ETS) expected to require employers with 100 or more employees to ensure their workers are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or tested for infection on least a weekly basis. There is little clarity as to exactly when agency will formally issue this ETS testing mandate or when it will take effect. AGC has also retained outside legal counsel—and is asking some of the brightest legal minds within the industry—to help it review its legal options. Previously, AGC conveyed its serious reservations about such an ETS. The association and its members have encouraged voluntary COVID-19 vaccination for their employees since the vaccines became available.

Vaccine Requirements for Federal Contractors

October 2021 -- Advocacy

Updates and AGC survey

The Safer Federal Workforce Task Force has provided further guidance on vaccination requirements for all federal contractors and subcontractors. Additionally, the FAR Council has issued guidance for federal agencies to implement these requirements in the coming days, which includes a contract clause requiring full compliance with all guidance and FAQs published by the task force. Federal agencies have moved rapidly to issue class deviations to immediately implement, including the Department of Defense and the General Services Administration. AGC has retained outside legal counsel to help review legal options.

To further this discussion, AGC needs members who perform direct federal work to:

• Fill out this survey to provide the association with critical information on this subject

Five Ways Companies Can Improve Their Hauling Logistics

October 2021 -- IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

Getting the logistics of material hauling “right” isn’t easy. For decades, contractors have worked with material producers, fleets and brokers to keep our country’s infrastructure projects running — while dealing with significant challenges. To stay ahead of the competition, every construction company needs to be asking themselves how they can incorporate best practices into their day-to-day operations. There are five key strategic areas to focus on.
BY BART RONAN
CEO, TRUX, AN AGC OF CALIFORNIA MEMBER

How to Take Steps to Combat Construction’s Suicide Epidemic in Your Own Organization

October 2021 -- IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

Mental health has been in the spotlight over the last year, with stay-at-home orders and school closures keeping many Americans at home more than the usual. But even before that, a mental health epidemic was already raging across America. Suicide has increased 40% in the last two decades. It’s the second leading cause of death among young adults aged 15 to 34.
BY JOHN WALLEN
VICE PRESIDENT AND WISCONSIN CONSTRUCTION PRACTICE LEADER
HUB INTERNATIONAL, A MEMBER OF MULTIPLE AGC CHAPTERS

Digital Marketing Strategies that Build Your Online Presence and Boost Business

October 2021 -- Business Tips

The pandemic has impacted the construction industry in major ways, with many project delays happening as people were forced to social distance and isolate. As many as 60% of contractors reported at least one project postponed or cancelled in September of last year, according to AGC of America’s 2020 Workforce Survey. Having reached the milestone of one year of the pandemic, business is beginning to pick back up again, and construction companies are looking to get back in the swing of things with new leads and projects. Incorporating a digital marketing strategy that places your company in front of your target audiences and gets you ranked higher on Google will be an important initiative to make.
BY STEVEN CLAYTON
CEO, NETBLAZE

Partners in Safety

October 2021 -- Member News

Dallas construction firm teams up with healthcare company to deliver worksite mobile medical services

As with nearly every profession, there are dangers and hazards with construction. Injuries due to falls and other accidents can happen, not to mention the problems that come with heat stress and overexertion. Health crises like these often result in construction workers having to take time off from the job to seek medical care or to recuperate.
BY GAIL ALLYN SHORT

AGC Events

October 2021 -- Industry Events

Hiring Our Heroes

October 2021 -- Industry Events

Nonresidential Construction Sector Posts First Job Gain Since March But Has Yet to Hit Pre-Pandemic Levels Amid Supply Chain Disruptions & Delays

October 2021 -- Construction Economic News

The construction industry gained 22,000 jobs between August and September as nonresidential construction firms added employees for the first time in six months, according to an analysis by AGC of America of government data released recently. Association officials said nonresidential construction has been affected by the widespread supply chain problems, which are causing owners already uncertain about future demand for commercial space to delay or even cancel some projects.

AGC Releases New COVID-19 Vaccine Toolkit

September 2021 -- Top News

Click HERE to find a new AGC COVID-19 Vaccine Toolkit that members can share with their staff, trade contractors, subcontractors, and partners. AGC has gathered information on COVID-19 vaccines, their safety and their effectiveness that members can use in their education efforts; created an industry-specific public service message urging the industry to get vaccinated; and provided resources to assist with employer vaccine policies. As we learn more about the COVID-19 vaccine and vaccine-related policies, including mandates, AGC will update the web page. Click HERE for more information.

OSHA to Issue COVID Vaccine and Testing ETS for All Employers with 100+ Workers

September 2021 -- Top News

Task force to provide further guidance on September 24 as Occupational Safety Health Administration (OSHA) works on a vaccine mandate Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS)

The Administration released general details of President Biden's COVID-19 Action Plan and two Executive Orders that will require all federal employees and federal contractors and subcontractors to be vaccinated against COVID-19. The Executive Order impacting federal contractors requires the Safer Federal Workforce Task Force provide further guidance and a draft contract clause by September 24th. The Federal Acquisition Regulation will be amended to include these requirements in a contract clause in federal solicitations and contracts. Direct federal contracts can expect this new contract clause to appear in all covered federal contracts, extensions, and renewals by October 15th. The E.O. requires all direct federal contractor and subcontractors to be vaccinated, without the option of submitting a weekly test.

Another key aspect of President Biden’s COVID-19 Action Plan is a requirement that OSHA publish a rule that will require all employers with 100 or more employees to ensure their workforce is fully vaccinated or require any workers who remain unvaccinated to produce a negative test result on at least a weekly basis before coming to work. OSHA will issue an Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) to implement this requirement. In addition to the vaccine and/or testing mandate, the ETS will require employers with more than 100 employees to provide paid time off for the time it takes for workers to get vaccinated or to recover if they are under the weather post-vaccination.

AGC of America has gathered resources to assist its members facing COVID-19 vaccine requirements; vaccine safety and the effectiveness that members can use in their educational efforts; and provided resources to assist with employer vaccine policies. Click HERE to find the AGC COVID-19 Vaccine Toolkit. There are a lot of questions that have yet to be answered. AGC will be reaching out to OSHA, FAR Council, and other federal agencies, and will update AGC members as we learn more. For more information, contact jordan.howard@agc.org or (703) 837-5368.

September/October Issue of Constructor Magazine Now Online

September 2021 -- Top News

The September/October 2021 issue of Constructor magazine is now available! In this issue, we're talking workforce development best practices Our features include

• Construction is Essential
• Forecasts Turn More Optimistic but Risks Remain
• Coaching Up the Next Generation

Click here to start reading this issue now!

New Billboard Calls Out Conor Lamb for Voting to Keep His Constituents Stuck in Highway Traffic, Gives Drivers Access to Details About the Vote

September 2021 -- Advocacy

A new billboard on I-376 highlights the Congressman’s vote earlier this year for a House transportation bill that severely limits states’ ability to add new highway capacity

AGC of America is installing a new billboard in the Pittsburgh area to call out Congressman Conor Lamb for voting to keep his constituents stuck in highway traffic. The billboard, which is located along one of the most congested commuter corridors in the Congressman’s district, includes a link for commuters to learn more about the Congressman’s vote.

Increasing Jobsite Efficiency and Collaboration with Mobility

September 2021 -- IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

Before 2020, construction was the second least digitized industry in the world, second only to agriculture. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the industry’s adoption of new technologies to maintain and improve jobsite efficiency. A key factor behind this shift? Mobility.
BY KYLE YENCER, VICE PRESIDENT OF SERVICES AND CONNECTED WORKFORCE, MICROAGE

Best Practices for Deterring Crime at Construction Sites

September 2021 -- IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

Up to $1 billion in equipment, materials and appliances are stolen from construction sites every single year, and less than 25% is recovered, according to the National Equipment Register.
BY TOM WEBB, VICE PRESIDENT OF STRATEGY/R&D, HCSS
A MEMBER OF MULTIPLE AGC CHAPTERS

Building for the Future

September 2021 -- IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

Technology investment for changing times

Last year, businesses across industries grappled with new challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. Seemingly overnight, construction companies were forced to adapt to an unpredictable reality, navigating state and local ordinances for stay-at-home orders and interpreting government classifications for what were considered essential businesses. These challenges pushed contractors to look for solutions outside of their normal toolbox, with many companies engaging in digital transformation.
BY NICK GRANDY, CONSTRUCTION AND REAL ESTATE SENIOR ANALYST
RSM US LLP, A MEMBER OF MULTIPLE AGC CHAPTERS

AGC President Bob Lanham Elected to National Academy of Construction

September 2021 -- Member News

Bob Lanham, president of Williams Brothers Construction in Houston, Texas and AGC of America president, has been elected to the National Academy of Construction (NAC) as a member of its class of 2021. He will be formally inducted October 21 during the NAC annual meeting.

Registration Now Open for the Inaugural AGC Workforce Summit

September 2021 -- Industry Events

Event will take place on October 13, 2021, in St. Louis, Missouri

Registration is open for AGC of America’s inaugural National Construction Industry Workforce Summit. The summit, which is taking place on October 13 in St. Louis, Missouri, is designed to bring together leaders in the construction and workforce development community to focus on establishing solutions to chronic worker shortages. During this day-long summit, construction and workforce development professionals will learn about successful programs that are helping recruit, develop and retain high-quality construction professionals. The goals of the summit are to identify a more consistent approach that industry should take to improve the workforce pipeline, leverage existing strategies proven successful, and make connections that provide support and resources to attendees to continue addressing workforce development issues long after the summit ends. Contact Brian Turmail at brian.turmail@agc.org or (703) 459-0238 for more information.

AGC Events

September 2021 -- Industry Events

Hiring Our Heroes

September 2021 -- Industry Events

Prices for Key Construction Materials Continue to Increase in August While Contractors Struggle to Get Those Products Delivered on Time

September 2021 -- Construction Economic News

The prices contractors pay for construction materials continued to increase in August while many firms report struggles to get those materials delivered on time, according to an analysis by AGC of America of government data released recently. Association officials urged Washington officials to take steps to help address the challenges impacting the entire supply chain and driving the price escalations.

Eighty-Nine Percent of Contractors Are Having a Hard Time Finding Craft Workers, While 88 Percent of Firms Are Experiencing Project Delays and 93 Percent Are Affected by Rising Materials Prices

September 2021 -- Construction Economic News

Construction firms are struggling to find enough qualified workers to hire even as they continue to be impacted by pandemic-induced project delays and supply chain disruptions, according to the results of a workforce survey conducted by the Associated General Contractors of America and Autodesk. The survey results underscore how the coronavirus pandemic has created constraints on the demand for work even as it limits the number of workers available to hire.

AGC Launches New Initiative to Address Climate Change by Pushing for Construction of Less Carbon-Intensive Projects�

August 2021 -- Top News

Association details measures needed to lead to a more environmentally friendly built environment, also outlines steps firms can take to operate more efficiently

Construction officials outlined a series of steps public officials and the construction industry should take to address the impacts of the built environment on climate change. The new initiative from AGC of America is designed to lessen the carbon footprint of the built environment while also making the process of building projects even more efficient.

Keynote Speakers Announced for AGC 2021 Convention

August 2021 -- Top News

September 21-23, Orlando, FL

The path toward a successful future in the construction industry is forged by today’s leaders. To help you prepare for the industry of tomorrow, we’ve invited LT. Gen. H.R. McMaster, USA (Ret.), and Col. DeDe Halfhill, USAF (Ret.) as this year's AGC Annual Convention keynote speakers. Register today to find out how two accomplished military leaders blazed a trail for their teams and learn how their methods can be applied to the world of construction. For more details visit http://convention.agc.org.

Registration Now Open for the Inaugural AGC Workforce Summit

August 2021 -- Top News

Event will take place on October 13, 2021, in St. Louis, Missouri

AGC Education and Research Foundation Undergraduate and Graduate Scholarship is Now Open

August 2021 -- Top News

Each year the AGC Education and Research Foundation offers undergraduate and graduate level scholarships to students enrolled in ABET or ACCE accredited construction management or construction related engineering programs. The application opened July 1, 2021 and closes November 1, 2021.

Senate Passes AGC-endorsed $1.2 Trillion Infrastructure Package�

August 2021 -- Advocacy

On Aug. 10, the Senate passed, 69-30, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, a historic, $1.2 trillion infrastructure package investing in all components of the nation’s physical infrastructure. AGC endorsed this legislation because it reauthorizes the nation’s federal-aid highway and transit programs for five years at record funding levels, includes significant environmental permitting streamlining provisions, and provides a host of other investments for a wide array construction projects without raising taxes on construction firms and without including any new, significant workforce mandates, like the PRO Act or government-mandated project labor agreements. A full AGC analysis of the bill can be found here. Additionally, a breakdown of what’s in the bill for each construction market can be found here:Highway Contractors; Utility Contractors; Direct Federal Contractors; Building Contractors; and Other Markets (Transit, Rail, Waterways, Airports).

New AGC Podcast Episode - How Advances in Artificial Intelligence Are Benefiting Construction � Part 2�

August 2021 -- IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

In part two of this series, we explore how artificial intelligence (AI) can streamline critical construction project workflows by automating time-consuming and repetitive processes like building a submittal log and tracking changes to specs over the course of a project. Bryan Rumple of Mortenson and Sameer Merchant of Autodesk Construction Solutions discuss document management challenges and how AI technology can improve productivity and reduce project risk.

Double Duty�

August 2021 -- IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

A new day, a new technological feat: digital twin. What does it mean and how can it impact your construction project? The new technology is certainly taking off across industries: the global digital twin market size in 2020 was valued at $3.1 billion and is expected to grow 58% (company annual growth rate) to $48.2 billion by 2026, according to ResearchAndMarkets.com.
BY KATIE KUEHNER-HEBERT

Technology: Keeping Your Business Open and Your Teams Safer�

August 2021 -- Business Tips

After more than a year of navigating the new COVID-19 pandemic reality, businesses are negotiating new workplace safety requirements.
BY NATHAN DUNN, CEO, BLUECATS

Five Questions Leaders Should Ask to Build � And Maintain � A Strong Safety Culture�

August 2021 -- Business Tips

Making sure employees go home the way they came to work is the industry’s chief objective at the jobsite each workday. In addition, safer work environments not only mean more satisfied employees, but also lower health insurance premiums, better bond/insurance rates, and increased job opportunities due to heightened trust from clients and trade partners. 
BY ERIC PYLE, EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, BUILDING OPERATIONS, BELL CONSTRUCTION, AN AGC OF TENNESSEE MEMBER 

Cushing Expands Offerings to Include 3D Laser Scanning

August 2021 -- Member News

Cushing, a Chicagoland AGC member, recently announced the addition of 3D laser scanning to their construction and project management services. The investment further cements their commitment to the architecture, engineering, construction, and real estate communities in Illinois. The family-owned firm has served Chicago for over 90 years.

Jacobsen Appoints New Project Executive to Team

August 2021 -- Member News

Leading general contractor Jacobsen Construction Company (Jacobsen), an AGC of Utah member, recently named Chris Field to its executive project leadership as part of the company’s efforts to accommodate strong growth in the construction industry’s emerging economic recovery.

AGC Events

August 2021 -- Industry Events

Hiring Our Heroes

August 2021 -- Industry Events

Steep Rise�in Producer Prices�for Construction Materials�and Services Continues�in July As Contractors Struggle�with Supply Challenges�

August 2021 -- Construction Economic News

Extreme price increases continued in July for a wide range of goods and services used in construction, according to an analysis by AGC of America of government data released recently. Association officials urged President Biden to immediately end tariffs and quotas on steel, aluminum, lumber and other essential construction items to help stave off inflationary pressure in the construction industry.

AGC Construction Inflation Alert � Recent Release�

August 2021 -- Construction Economic News

In early August, AGC released the latest AGC Construction Inflation Alert. Every week brings new reports of materials costs hitting record highs, while lead times lengthen or become ever more uncertain. This downloadable PDF helps chapters and members explain to owners, government officials, and others, what is happening and what all parties can do to minimize the damage.

AGC Needs Your Help to Measure the Scope of Construction Labor Shortages by Taking a Quick Survey

July 2021 -- Top News

The survey will close on August 13

The construction industry has experienced some very significant and sudden changes during the past few months that have led to dramatic changes in demand for work and the need for new workers. We need to understand exactly how those changes are impacting the industry’s current workforce needs to be better able to advocate for measures to help the industry’s labor needs in both the short- and long-term. That is why we are asking you to take a few minutes to complete the following workforce survey that we and our partners at Autodesk have prepared. The more people understand the scope, and consequences, of current labor market conditions, the more likely they are to enact measures to help meet the industry’s needs. The more members who take the survey, the better able we all will be to describe labor market conditions where you operate.

Registration Now Open for the Inaugural AGC Workforce Summit

July 2021 -- Top News

Event will take place on October 13, 2021, in St. Louis, Missouri

Registration has now opened for AGC of America’s inaugural National Construction Industry Workforce Summit. The summit, which is taking place on October 13 in St. Louis, Missouri, is designed to bring together leaders in the construction and workforce development community to focus on establishing solutions to chronic worker shortages. During this day-long summit, construction and workforce development professionals will learn about successful programs that are helping recruit, develop and retain high-quality construction professionals. The goals of the summit are to identify a more consistent approach that industry should take to improve the workforce pipeline, leverage existing strategies proven successful, and make connections that provide support and resources to attendees to continue addressing workforce development issues long after the summit ends. Contact Brian Turmail at brian.turmail@agc.org or (703) 459-0238 for more information.

Full Agenda for 2021 AGC Convention Now Live

July 2021 -- Top News

September 21-23, Orlando, FL

AGC is excited to announce that the full agenda for the 2021 AGC Annual Convention is now available.

From risk management strategies to safety innovations on the jobsite to emerging cyber risks in construction, you'll find this year’s convention agenda packed with experts from across the industry delivering topics to help every level of your organization build better.

Register now and save $250 off registration fees when registering online by July 30. Take advantage of the lower rate before the price increases!

For more details visit http://convention.agc.org.

AGC Education and Research Foundation Undergraduate and Graduate Scholarship is Now Open

July 2021 -- Top News

Immigration Bill Introduced to Address Workforce Challenges in Construction

July 2021 -- Advocacy

Despite the ongoing recovery from the pandemic, the construction industry is expected to experience low unemployment with little expectation that the current domestic workforce can alone meet future employment demand. Compounding the workforce challenges in the industry, currently the nation’s system provides the high-tech sector, agricultural businesses, and seasonal employers with options for legal, work authorized immigrants however it does not for the construction Industry. On June 30, the AGC-backed Workforce for an Expanding Economy Act was recently introduced in the House and would allow contractors to hire year-round construction guest workers, who otherwise have no legal immigration avenue; provide industries, like construction, access to new temporary workers while protecting American jobs; and, alleviate incentives for individuals to illegally enter the country.

House Passes $715 Billion Highway, Transit & Water Infrastructure Bill

July 2021 -- Advocacy

On July 1, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 3684, the INVEST in America Act, a $715 billion federal investment in America’s roads, bridges, transit, passenger rail, and drinking and wastewater infrastructure. AGC lobbied against several of the policies included in the bill. However, its passage in the House is a first step towards enacting record levels of federal investment in infrastructure. It continues to remain unclear how this legislation will intersect with larger infrastructure package negotiations between the White House and a bipartisan group of senators. The AGC summary of the INVEST in America Act can be viewed here. AGC will continue to push for policy improvements to the bill. For more information, contact Alex Etchen at alex.etchen@agc.org.

July/August 2021 Constructor Now Available

July 2021 -- IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

The July/August 2021 issue of Constructor magazine is now available! In this issue, we're talking about AGC's upcoming Annual Convention, the association's first major in-person event since the pandemic started. Will We See You in Orlando?

Other highlights include:

• AGC Houston Takes the Lead in Getting Workers Vaccinated
• Double Duty: Digital Twinning Technology Streamlines Communication

• Addressing Mental Health in the Construction Industry with a Respectful Workplace Culture

What Wildfire Season Means for Contractors Across the Country

July 2021 -- Business Tips

Prevent loss on your jobsite by planning ahead - before the heat is on

Even under ideal conditions, construction sites present a clear risk to health and safety. While job-related injuries receive the most attention, environmental conditions also present a significant risk to the safety and success of projects everywhere.
BY CRAIG SIMONSON, NORTHWEST REGIONAL EXECUTIVE FOR SENTRY INSURANCE, AND BRENT OLSON, VICE PRESIDENT ANCHOR INSURANCE & SURETY, AN OREGON-COLUMBIA CHAPTER AGC MEMBER

3 Tips to Help Prepare Construction Sites for Hurricanes

July 2021 -- Business Tips

In August 2020, Hurricane Laura made landfall, traveling through the Gulf Coast and matched the strongest hurricane to hit Louisiana. This resulted in significant damage to homes and buildings and left nearly a million people without power.
BY ERIN ROTZ, HEAD OF BUSINESS, THE HARTFORD
A MEMBER OF MULTIPLE AGC CHAPTERS

Central Civil Construction Announces New President

July 2021 -- Member News

Family-owned and operated, Central Civil Construction, a South Florida Chapter-AGC member, recently announced its new president, Robert “Bob” T. Murphy, PE, CGC. This marks the first time that a nonfamily member will be in a C-suite position. Richard Baer will now be Chairman and Bob Baer will be CEO. Murphy will report directly to both.

Brinkmann Constructors to Expand with Richmond, Va., Location

July 2021 -- Member News

Brinkmann Constructors, an AGC of Missouri member, will be opening a new office in the Richmond, Va., area to allow the company to better serve the east coast.

Adolfson & Peterson Construction Board of Directors Elects New Chairman

July 2021 -- Member News

Adolfson & Peterson Construction (AP), a member of multiple AGC chapters, recently announced the election of Brantley Barrow as chairman of its Board of Directors. Barrow has worked in the construction industry for most of his career and has served on AP’s board for the past three years.

Skanska Hires New VP of Development for Commercial Development in Los Angeles

July 2021 -- Member News

Skanska, a member of multiple AGC chapters, has hired Megan Moloughney as vice president of development to support its commercial development operations across Los Angeles. Moloughney will report to Clare De Briere, executive vice president for Skanska USA Commercial Development’s Los Angeles market.

Free to Members: 2021 Construction Safety, Health & Environmental Virtual Conference

July 2021 -- Industry Events

Join us from wherever you are July 20-22, 2021, for the 2021 Construction Safety, Health & Environmental Conference, and rely on the same high-quality content you expect from an AGC in-person conference. Check out our agenda for more details on sessions, speakers, and networking opportunities. We look forward to seeing you in person for the 2022 Construction Safety, Health & Environmental Conference, taking place July 26-28 in Washington, D.C.

The Future of Information Technology Is Waiting

July 2021 -- Industry Events

Join us in Chicago, August 10-12, for AGC's IT Conference for Construction Professionals

This is your chance to break away from your screen and network in-person with other industry peers. AGC's IT Conference for Construction Professionals is the perfect opportunity to learn about the latest technologies and engage with other construction industry professionals. This conference will be held in Chicago on August 10-12 and features a keynote address by Mitch Holthus.

We know that it’s hard work being an IT professional within the construction industry. That’s why we want you to join us at our upcoming conference so you can get back on track with your career goals while meeting new people who share your passion for building great things!

Hiring Our Heroes

July 2021 -- Industry Events

AGC Events

July 2021 -- Industry Events

Producer Prices for Construction Materials and Services Soar 26 Percent over 12 Months as Contractors Cope with Supply Hitches, Weak Demand

July 2021 -- Construction Economic News

Unprecedented price increases for a wide range of goods and services used in construction pushed up contractors’ costs by a devastating 26.3 percent from June 2020 to June 2021, according to an analysis by AGC of America of government data released recently. Association officials cautioned that rising materials prices are making it difficult for many construction firms to benefit from the re-opening of the economy, undermining the sector’s ability to add new, high-paying jobs.

AGC Charities to Host a Volunteer Day During AGC's Annual Convention to Benefit "Give Kids the World Village"

June 2021 -- Top News

On Monday, September 20, AGC Charities is holding a volunteer day at Give Kids the World Village to make improvements to the facility including replacing a protective fence and upgrading bathrooms at one of the Village’s pools. Watch this video here to learn more about the project. With your help, we can make this year’s AGC Charities Operation Opening Doors project a success and ensure these special kids get an experience that is truly spectacular.

Registration Open for the 2021 AGC Annual Convention

June 2021 -- Top News

September 21-23, 2021
Orlando, FL

The AGC Annual Convention provides contractors of all sizes the opportunity to gain business-critical insights into the issues most affecting their operations. From risk management to safety on the jobsite to the latest in project management solutions, AGC brings together experts from across the industry to share their knowledge and help prepare contractors to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow.