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American Constructors Raises Over $100K for Boys & Girls Clubs of the Austin Area

AUSTIN, TX — American Constructors and its sponsors raised over $100,000 for Boys & Girls Clubs of the Austin Area (BGCAA) at the company’s 12th Annual Charity Clay Shoot. This marks one of the largest donations from the Cedar Park-based construction company’s signature fundraiser to date, which has been a …

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Rosendin Amps Up Workforce With 700 New Jobs in Central Texas

DALLAS, TX — Electrical contractor Rosendin is launching a hiring campaign in Central Texas to recruit 700 craft trade workers to build the region’s digital and energy infrastructure. The over 100-year-old company is hiring skilled electricians, general laborers, and support staff to build three data centers and a renewable energy …

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Trailblazing Women at HOLT Group Help Overcome Industry’s Labor Shortage

Amid the ongoing labor shortage affecting all construction companies, HOLT Group, headquartered in San Antonio, Texas, is recharging the industry’s workforce with female talent.

“We’re seeing an exciting and promising shift in our industry, as Generation Z is beginning to view the skilled trades as the viable career option …

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Grand Canyon University and Rosendin Bring Pre-Apprenticeship to Texas

AUSTIN, TX — Grand Canyon University (GCU) and Rosendin have teamed up again to expand their Pre-Apprenticeship for Electricians Pathway into Austin, Texas. As more businesses move to Texas, Rosendin, the country’s largest employee-owned electrical contractor, identified Austin as an area with a growing construction industry and a need for …

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Bechtel Opens Rio Grande Valley Recruitment Center for Craft Professionals

BROWNSVILLE, TX — Bechtel celebrates the official opening of the new Bechtel Craft Professional Recruitment Center in Brownsville, Texas. The center provides a location for members of the Brownsville and surrounding communities to connect with recruiters, learn more about employment opportunities with Bechtel at the Rio Grande LNG (RGLNG) project, …

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Clark Construction Announces Graduates from Houston Small Business Training Program for Diverse-Owned Firms

HOUSTON, TX — 38 Houston-area small and diverse business leaders are positioned to take their firms to new heights following their successful completion of Clark Construction's Strategic Partnership Program.

Established in 2006, the Strategic Partnership Program (SPP) delivers executive MBA-style classes to small minority-, women-, and veteran-owned firms in …

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Texas Construction Industry Booms Alongside Workforce

As the construction sector in Texas experiences a surge in job creation, it has enjoyed a labor landscape uniquely accommodating to its growth. In many other parts of the country, labor has become a scarce commodity, but that hasn’t been an issue for the Lone Star State. The Texas labor …

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A Century of Service and Purpose: Waukesha-Pearce Industries Celebrates the Legacy of the Pearce Family

As Waukesha Pearce Industries (WPI) celebrates 100 years of serving customers in energy and construction, it is an opportunity to reflect on what it takes to survive and thrive in such demanding markets. To be clear, this is not a story about WPI’s past. This story is about the core …

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Nimble Crane Shines Light on Autism Awareness Month with Crane Wrap

ODESSA, TX — April is Autism Awareness Month, and Nimble Crane is preparing to launch a newly adorned Grove GMK5150L All-Terrain Crane with a vibrant wrap designed to draw attention to the cause. The initiative reflects Nimble Crane’s commitment to addressing important issues for both oilfield members and the broader …

JE Dunn Construction Marks Centennial Year with Community Efforts and Employee Appreciation

DALLAS, TX — JE Dunn Construction is celebrating its 100th anniversary nationwide throughout 2024. Local employees will engage in a year-long campaign that recognizes its legacy and demonstrates gratitude for its employees, local and national clients, and partners while looking forward to its commitments for the next 100 years.

The …

Hyundai Construction Equipment
Your local Hyundai Construction Equipment USA dealer
Nueces Power Equipment
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Sundt Awards $25,000 to Central Texas Nonprofits, $18,000 to El Paso Area Nonprofits

AUSTIN, TX — The Sundt Foundation awarded $25,000 to five local charitable organizations in Central Texas and $18,000 to three El Paso nonprofit organizations.

“These grants were made possible through the generosity of our employee-owners,” said Chad Yount, Central Texas Regional Board Member. “We’re thrilled to be able to …

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Built from the Ground Up: JH Contracting Owner and Staff Grow Full-Service Earthmoving Firm with Support from Kirby-Smith Machinery

Jordan Holy, Owner/President of JH Contracting LLC, could have gone one of two directions after graduating from Sam Houston State University with degrees in criminal justice and construction management. He chose the latter, combining the knowledge he gained in college with the years of in-field, hands-on experience he …

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2024 Texas Construction Industry Forecast

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is expected to become very active contracting projects statewide, in both urban and rural areas. Thanks to funding from the 2023 Texas State House Bill 1, the 2024 Unified Transportation Program (UTP), and the Federal Highway Administration, TxDOT will have the ability to increase …

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TxDOT Transportation Improvements Helped Texas Commuters Save $3B in 2022

AUSTIN, TX — Commuters across Texas reaped time and cost savings valued at more than $3 billion in 2022, thanks to transportation improvements and pandemic-related trends that made their drives quicker than just a few years ago, according to a new report from the Texas A&M Transportation Institute (TTI).

The …

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McCarthy's New Solar Projects in Texas Provide 100 New Registered Apprenticeships

PEARSALL, TX — McCarthy Building Companies Inc. recently began construction of new large-scale solar projects located in the Southwestern United States and are targeting Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) compliance. The projects, which are in varying stages of construction, are creating new solar construction jobs, which will include equipment operators and …

NPK Construction Eq Inc
Your local NPK Construction Equipment Inc dealer
Kirby Smith Machinery
WPI
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Texas Leads the World in Carbon-Sequestered Asphalt for Public Roads

SAN ANTONIO, TX — Texas has taken a significant leap forward in sustainable road construction, with San Antonio pioneering the world's first deployment of carbon-sequestered asphalt on public roads. This project, a collaboration between Modern Hydrogen, Austin-based Road Recyclers, and Bexar County’s Department of Public Works, is …

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Capitalizing on Single-Family Home Assets: Key Trends to Watch

The single-family housing market continues to evolve as corporate investors and families look to find their footing amid the shifting landscape. While speculation swirls around the future of commercial real estate, much less has been said about the residential market. Given the significant headwinds affecting housing, will the macroeconomic variables …

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Blackstar Energy Services Continues Growth in West Texas with Innovative Fueling Solutions

With increased forecasts for oil production and prices in the Permian Basin – and a continuing focus on energy independence with so much volatility in foreign markets – the ability to effectively service oil and gas operations to maintain optimal uptime is big business.

Blackstar Energy Services – based in …

Bosworth Steel Erectors Reaches 1 Million Manhours Without Incident

DALLAS, TX — Bosworth Steel Erectors, a steel construction and modification company, celebrates reaching 1 million manhours without a lost time incident. Approximately 250 ironworkers completed 1 million manhours in two years without a single lost time incident. Bosworth has been working together with the ironworkers to ensure that …

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Austin-Gilbane Celebrates 1 Million Safe Manhours

HOUSTON, TX — Over 300 people attended an event celebrating 1 million manhours without a lost time injury on the Mickey Leland International Terminal project at the George Bush Intercontinental Airport. Employees from Austin-Gilbane Joint Venture, Houston Airports, Fentress Architects, and all subcontractors shared a meal before participating …

Gradall Co
Your local Gradall Industries dealer
ASCO Equipment
WPI
Kirby Smith Machinery
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Fifty Houston Area Entrepreneurs Build Business Capacity Through Clark Construction’s Small Business Development Program

HOUSTON, TX — Clark Construction Group has expanded its Strategic Partnership Program (SPP) to the Greater Houston area. Originally launched in 2006, the eight-month program delivers executive development for small and diverse construction industry business leaders across the country. A diverse mix of more than 50 Houston area small business …

Driving to Keep Roads Safer for All

Getting a driver’s license is something most teens can’t wait for and means freedom, independence, and excitement. But getting behind the wheel of a vehicle and driving is a huge responsibility that involves not only paying attention to what you are doing, but also what everyone else is doing on …

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Best Block Donates Materials to TSTC’s Building Construction Technology Program

HARLINGEN, TX — At Texas State Technical College, students can train with industry-standard equipment and materials to prepare for competition at the SkillsUSA Texas Postsecondary Leadership and Skills Conference and, ultimately, the SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference. Recently Best Block, a Quikrete company, donated three concrete masonry units …

Black & Veatch Expands Construction Presence in Texas with New Office, Recruitment Plans

HOUSTON, TX — Black & Veatch announces the opening of a new recruitment office in Deer Park, Texas (Houston). The office will serve to accelerate the company’s goal to add more than 800 new craft positions in Texas within the next nine months.

Black & Veatch’s increased footprint in the …

Main Lane Industries Merges with NBG Constructors, Inc. to Expand Bridge and Storm Water Expertise

HOUSTON, TX — mc2 civil inc’s subsidiary Main Lane Industries Ltd., a Houston-based civil construction and maintenance company, merges with NBG Constructors, Inc., a specialty bridge and stormwater contractor headquartered in Houston, Texas.

NBG Constructors includes a team of more than 120 employees. NBG clients served include …

Volvo CE
Your local Volvo Construction Equipment dealer
ASCO Equipment
Romco Equipment Co
Sierra Machinery
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Page Formalizes Presence in San Antonio with Office, Managing Director

SAN ANTONIO, TX — Page Southerland Page, Inc. (Page), a multidisciplinary architectural and engineering firm, is formalizing its long-standing presence in San Antonio, Texas. With a history of working on significant projects in San Antonio and the surrounding region, Page is establishing a presence to serve its clients and the …

Sundt Foundation Awards $13,000 to El Paso Nonprofits

EL PASO, TX — The Sundt Foundation recently awarded $13,000 in grants to three El Paso-area charities.

“Our Sundt Foundation members in El Paso are committed to supporting adults and families in need in our community,” said Joseph Riccillo, Sundt Foundation Vice President and El Paso Regional Board Member. …

MBCO Engineering + Surveying Unveils Refreshed Brand Identity

HOUSTON, TX — MBCO Engineering + Surveying (MBCO) reveals a refreshed brand that solidifies its identity and showcases the company's growth and momentum. As a woman-owned engineering and surveying firm in the Texas gulf coast region, MBCO has made it their mission to break barriers, take risks, and create success …

Solving the Suspension Scaffold Rescue Challenge

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

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Collin College Holds Dedication Ceremony for New McCarthy Construction Safety Lab

ALLEN, TX — Collin College recently held a dedication ceremony for its new construction safety lab, sponsored by McCarthy Building Companies, Inc. McCarthy is announcing its five-year sponsorship of the safety lab at Collin College’s Technical Campus in Allen, Texas. The safety lab will offer hands-on educational opportunities to students …

Stewart-Amos
Your local Stewart-Amos dealer
Closner Equipment Co Inc
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H+M Industrial EPC Celebrates 35 Years as an EPC Provider for the Energy and Chemicals Industries

PASADENA, TX — H+M Industrial EPC, a provider of engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) services for the industrial sector, is celebrating its 35th anniversary. Since its founding in 1988, H+M Industrial EPC has been a partner for companies across the energy and chemicals industries, including oil and gas, petrochemical, …

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Staying Closer to Home, Focusing on Roadwork Pays Off for Baker & Company Construction LLC

Baker & Company Construction LLC is currently in the midst of the largest state contract the firm has ever done. Throughout 2023 it will widen shoulders and install structures and culverts as part of the safety improvements on an approximately 7-mile stretch of FM 859 in Van Zandt County, Texas. …

Kinley Construction Named a 2023 National Top Workplace

ARLINGTON, TX — Kinley Construction, a six-generation, family-owned firm established in 1895, was named a 2023 Top Workplace in the U.S. in this year's Construction Category. Top Workplaces recognized Kinley Construction's positive and progressive work culture and its pivotal role in elevating the company's contribution to the construction industry …

TDIndustries Raises $32K for TEXO Foundation at Bent Iron Golf Tournament

DALLAS, TX — TDIndustries recently hosted the annual Bent Iron Golf Tournament of North Texas. This event raises funds to support educational programs that develop talent within the construction industry and the skilled trades. In 2022, the sold-out event raised $32,000 for the TEXO Foundation, a 510(c)(3) dedicated to building …

Westwood Acquires Texas-Based Peloton Land Solutions

FORT WORTH, TX — Westwood Professional Services, Inc. (Westwood), a national multi-discipline engineering firm, announces its acquisition of Texas-based Peloton Land Solutions (Peloton).

The Peloton acquisition supports Westwood's long-term strategy to expand its existing markets and services. Peloton has approximately 200 team members between five offices in Fort Worth, Texas; …

Case  - CE
Your local Case Construction Equipment Inc dealer
ASCO Equipment
Nueces Power Equipment
Dunaway's Growth Continues with the Acquisition of BEC Engineers and Consultants

HOUSTON, TX — The Houston-based civil and structural engineering firm, BEC Engineers and Consultants, has been acquired by Dunaway. Through the acquisition, Dunaway has officially opened its Houston office. The firm has tapped Principal and Chief Revenue Officer Ross Eubanks, PE, SE to lead the office, and Development …

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RDO Equipment Co. Celebrates Grand Opening of New Buda Store

RDO Equipment Co. opened their newest Texas facility at 17301 N. IH 35 in Buda with a ribbon cutting and open house celebration on June 1. RDO Equipment Co. is an authorized full-line John Deere Construction dealer providing equipment sales, rentals, parts, and service. RDOE is also a dealer for …

UES Expands Geotechnical Expertise with Acquisition of Riner Engineering

HOUSTON, TX — UES, a national engineering and consulting company, acquires Riner Engineering, a geotechnical engineering and construction materials testing and inspection firm headquartered in Houston, Texas.

Founded in 2006, Riner Engineering includes an experienced team of more than 170 engineers, project managers, technicians, and support staff based …

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Halff Expands Footprint to Lubbock

LUBBOCK, TX — Halff, an employee-owned, multidiscipline professional engineering and architecture firm in Texas for more than 70 years, has opened an office in Lubbock.

David Smith, a 2003 civil engineering graduate from Texas Tech University, will serve as the Lubbock Operations Manager. Smith has spent his 20-year …

SAM Companies Acquires GeoSolutions, LLC, Expanding Client Solutions in the Houston Metropolitan Area

AUSTIN, TX — SAM Companies (SAM), a provider of professional geospatial and inspection solutions across the utility, transportation, and broader infrastructure industries, announces that it has acquired GeoSolutions, LLC, a professional geomatics solutions company.

Headquartered in The Woodlands, Texas, in the Houston metropolitan area, GeoSolutions has strong relationships with …

Broce Broom
Your local Broce Broom dealer
Nueces Power Equipment
Collin College Launches First Construction Safety Program in the United States

DALLAS, TX — Collin College Technical Campus in Allen, Texas, officially launched a construction safety program — a first of its kind in the country. The program is designed to prepare students to enter the workforce as entry-level construction safety officers by providing a wide variety of construction safety and …

TDIndustries Wins National Construction Safety Awards from ABC and AGC

DALLAS,TX — TDIndustries announces that it earned two national safety awards, a National Safety Merit Award in the Specialty Trade Contractor category from Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC), and a third place Construction Safety Excellence Award, in the Construction Management Division of Over 4 Million Work Hours from Associated General …

F S Group Architects Celebrates 25 Years of Design

HOUSTON, TX — F S Group Architects is celebrating their 25th anniversary in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry. Since 1998, the firm has been providing services for complex projects across aviation, public works, space/science, and design-build.

"Our team has a passion for designing practical and cost-effective facilities that …

Musculoskeletal Injuries are Insidious, Expensive, and Preventable

When considering workplace injuries, it’s human nature to think about the “big” hazards on a worksite, such as accidents involving equipment, falls from elevated locations, or serious injuries caused by faulty or improperly used tools. Few people automatically think about a less-obvious cause of injury, even though it accounts for …

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Hellas Leads Industry Sustainability Efforts with Commitment to Integrate ESG Practices

AUSTIN, TX — Hellas is setting new sustainability standards in the sports industry with the implementation of their Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) program. This program uses the United Nation's 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to quantify company efforts already in place, and outlines strategies to further incorporate SDGs into …

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Sundt Foundation Awards Grants to North Texas Nonprofits

DALLAS, TX — The Sundt Foundation recently awarded $16,500 in grants to North Texas nonprofits.

“These grants are important to the growth and development of our local nonprofits,” said Barbara Terry, the Sundt Foundation’s North Texas region Board Member. "Our employee-owners are happy to support these organizations in their …

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Manhattan Construction Company Honored as Top Safety Leader by Associated Builders and Contractors

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

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

Spire Consulting Group, LLC of Austin, Texas, Named Diverse Business of the Year by National Construction Association

AUSTIN, TX — Austin’s Spire Consulting Group was named as the 2023 Diverse Business of the Year award winner by the Associated General Contractors of America.

“The intent of these awards is to identify the construction and related businesses that are leading the way in making our industry more …

TDIndustries’ Executive Vice President Matt Terry Named Associated Builders and Contractors 2023 Young Professional of the Year

DALLAS, TX — TDIndustries, premier facilities service and mechanical construction firm, announced today that Matt Terry, executive vice president of Construction and Special Projects, received the Associated Builders and Contractor’s (ABC) 2023 Young Professional of the Year Award. Terry was honored at the ABC Convention 2023 in …

POWER Engineers Opens New Tyler Location

FORT WORTH, TX — POWER Engineers, a global engineering and environmental consulting firm, has opened a permanent office in Tyler, Texas, to better serve the needs of its smaller utility clients.

“Our electric cooperative clients in East Texas display their dedication to their membership with the high level of …

Wirtgen America Inc
Your local Wirtgen America dealer
Kirby Smith Machinery
Nueces Power Equipment
KBR Wins Dual NASA Prime Contractor of the Year Awards

HOUSTON, TX — KBR has been awarded NASA's Large Business Prime Contractor of the Year for 2022 at two agency centers: NASA Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) and NASA Ames Research Center (ARC).

Announced yearly, these accolades are a part of NASA's Small Business Industry Awards, which honors its contractors' …

McDermott Awarded FEED Contract from Shell

HOUSTON, TX — McDermott has been awarded a front-end engineering design (FEED) contract from Shell Trinidad and Tobago Limited for the Manatee gas development project as part of a competitive FEED process. Under the contract scope, McDermott will provide comprehensive FEED services for a wellhead platform, export pipeline system, shore …

PVAMU Makes History as First HBCU to Lead $40M National University Transportation Center

PRAIRIE VIEW, TX — Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU) was selected to lead a historic national-tier $40 million University Transportation Center (UTC) — making PVAMU the first Historically Black College and University (HBCU) to create and lead the National Center for Infrastructure Transformation (NCIT). The United States Department of Transportation …

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UTA’s Use of Plastic Road Material a First for Texas

ARLINGTON, TX — A University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) Civil Engineering Professor is using both recycled and unrecycled plastic waste products to fill in surface cracks and reduce rutting in roads — the first use of what is called “plastic road” material in Texas.

Sahadat Hossain, UTA Civil Engineering …

What Can You Expect From the Best Safety Trainers?

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

SITECH
Your local Trimble Construction Division dealer
SITECH SE Texas
SITECH Tejas
CEC Opens New Office in Corpus Christi, Expanding the Current Operations of its Houston Office

CORPUS CHRISTI, TX — CEC is already performing work in Corpus Christi due to the existing client relationships of a group of team members who recently joined CEC. This group, which currently works in the company's Environmental and Water Resources practices, will contribute to its new Corpus Christi team.

Senior …

Halff Unveils Brand Refresh

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

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Vector Structural Engineering Opens New Office in Texas

ARLINGTON, TX — Vector Structural Engineering announces that it is opening a new office in Arlington, Texas, to expand its presence in Texas and to help employees achieve their career goals. Scott Van Hoose will lead the charge in this new location, and he was largely responsible for its opening. …

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Intelligent Equipment Helps Digby Construction LLC See Increased Growth and Productivity in West Texas

Billy Digby has always loved equipment and playing in the dirt. He views construction as an art form.

“It’s the concept of taking nothing and making it into something,” stated Digby. “It’s in my veins, and I couldn’t really see myself doing anything else. I spent about 10 years as …

KP ENGINEERING ACQUIRED BY THE SHAW GROUP

HOUSTON, TX — KP Engineering (KPE), a company that designs and executes customized EPC solutions for the refining, syngas, hydrogen, and renewable fuels industries, announces the completed acquisition of its assets by The Shaw Group (Shaw), a company that focuses on global pipe and module fabrication. Going forward the company's …

Takeuchi Mfg Ltd
Your local Takeuchi Mfg Ltd dealer
Kirby Smith Machinery
Nueces Power Equipment
Asset Management Program Helps Water and Wastewater Systems Prepare for the Future

SAN ANTONIO, TX — Water and wastewater systems are made up of many assets that work together to provide drinking water and wastewater disposal in communities every day. Assets, or equipment, like pipes, tanks, pumps, wells, and other components require maintenance and upgrades over time. To maintain these assets in …

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UTA Project Aims to Better Manage Roadway Traffic Flow

ARLINGTON, TX — A civil engineering researcher at The University of Texas at Arlington is leading a project that will aim to improve smart traffic signal management through traffic signal simulation techniques and big data.

Pengfei (Taylor) Li, Assistant Professor in the Department of Civil Engineering, is leading the $292,010 …

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Atlanta State Park Employees Win State Adopt-A-Highway Award

ATLANTA, TX — An Adopt-A-Highway group in Cass County has been named 2022’s Group of the Year. The group, Atlanta State Park Employees, was recognized for showing remarkable dedication to the program.

“This group has been on a mission since they formed in 2006,” said Texas Department of Transportation Atlanta …

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More than 30 City Electric Supply Branches Donate Over 1,000 Toys to Children in Need this Holiday Season

DALLAS, TX — More than 30 City Electric Supply (CES) branches committed to hosting their first-ever toy drive in 2021. They successfully donated hundreds of toys and picked the mission right back up in 2022 for the second annual toy drive. This year, the results were even greater. Thirty-three CES …

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McCarthy Moves Dallas Headquarters to New Office

DALLAS, TX — McCarthy Building Companies, Inc. has moved their Dallas office to a new location in Richardson. The new office, located in the CityLine mixed-use development, will also serve as headquarters for McCarthy’s parent company, Genuine McCarthy Enterprises, and its associated subsidiaries.

McCarthy has been building in Dallas …

Kleemann
Your local Wirtgen America dealer
Kirby Smith Machinery
Nueces Power Equipment
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Alterman Completes its Second Annual 8 Weeks of Giving Campaign

LIVE OAK, TX — Alterman's second annual 8 Weeks of Giving campaign kicked off with a donation from the company's foundation to the Wilson County No Kill Animal Shelter in Floresville. The campaign provided one check per week to a special charity, organization, or cause that Alterman’s employee owners …

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Sundt Foundation Donates $17,500 to Central Texas Charities

SAN ANTONIO, TX — The Sundt Foundation awarded $17,500 to six Central Texas nonprofits during its latest giving round. Successful Connections, Inc., Colt Catalina Foundation, Kinetic Kids, Inc., Retreat Home for Children, St. Jude’s Ranch for Children - Texas Region, and Volunteer Legal Services of Central Texas will all use …

Pacific Mobile Structures Acquires Sustainable Modular Management

FRISCO, TX — Pacific Mobile Structures (PMSI) acquires Sustainable Modular Management (SMM) a fellow family-owned modular building company based in Frisco, Texas. The announcement comes after Garth Haakenson, President and CEO of Pacific Mobile Structures, and Nick Mackie, President and CEO of SMM began discussing the benefits of …

Transforming Everyday Workers Into Jobsite Safety Leaders

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

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TxDOT Atlanta District Receives Two Safety Awards

ATLANTA, TX — The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) announces the Atlanta District is the recipient of two safety awards including the 2022 Texas Bluebonnet Safety Award and the Outstanding Safety Achievement Award.

Atlanta District Engineer Rebecca Wells was presented the Outstanding Safety Achievement Award by TxDOT Executive Director Marc …

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HOK Establishes New Office in Austin, Texas

AUSTIN, TX — HOK is increasing its presence in Texas by opening a new office in Austin. Led by longtime Austinites Vanessa Rabe, AIA, RID, LEED AP, and George Blume, AIA, IIDA, NCARB, the office will support current clients such as the Texas Facilities Commission with the new …

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McCarthy Forms New Southern Region Civil Business Unit

DALLAS, TX — McCarthy Building Companies, Inc. announces the formation of a civil business unit for the company’s Southern Region. Jeromy Shaw, Senior Vice President of Operations, leads the Civil Business Unit, focusing on clients in transportation, rail, aviation, renewables, water, and commercial markets.

“Texas, and the region, continues …

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Mario Sinacola & Sons Excavating, Inc. Wins Trimble Award for Most Impressive HR Achievement

Mario Sinacola & Sons Excavating, Inc. recently received the 2022 Trimble Viewpoint Construction Award for Most Impressive Human Resource Achievement by hiring and onboarding 1,000 new employees in under two years. Trimble’s annual awards honor the technological achievements of North American contractors as exhibited through the growth and improvements of …

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2023 Texas Construction Industry Forecast

As another 1,000 people call Texas home every day, those in charge of the state’s infrastructure face a unique dilemma.

“We have a need for updating our aging infrastructure and also a need to build for growth,” said Brooke Paup, Chairwoman of the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB). “We’re …

Texas Comptroller Hegar Announces Transfer of $7.3B to State Highway and Rainy Day Funds

AUSTIN, TX — Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar announces he has completed the transfer of about $7.3 billion into the State Highway Fund (SHF) and the Economic Stabilization Fund (ESF; commonly known as the Rainy Day Fund). Each fund received nearly $3.64 billion, or 50 percent of the total transfer.

“Texas’ …

McCarthy Awarded Texas Workforce Commission Skills Development Fund Grant

DALLAS, TX — McCarthy’s Southern Region has been awarded a Skills Development Fund (SDF) grant from the Texas Workforce Commission. The SDF is an upskilling program offering grants to provide site-specific, customized training opportunities for Texas businesses and their employees to increase skill levels and wages of the Texas …

Sunbelt Rentals Sets the Gold Standard for Recruiting, Employing, and Retaining Veterans

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

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

Fort Worth Gains Seat on Transportation Body

FORT WORTH, TX — Fort Worth will gain a seat on the Regional Transportation Council, pushing membership on the transportation policy-making body to 45.

Fort Worth will now have four seats on the RTC, second in representation to Dallas’ six seats. The additional seat is a result of population …

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American Constructors Celebrates 40 Years in Business

AUSTIN, TX — Cedar-Park based general contractor American Constructors celebrated the company’s 40th year in business. Colleagues, clients, and friends of the firm joined in the celebration at Haute Spot, which included remarks from CEO Marty Burger and COO Joe Charlton.

Founded in 1982 by Bill Heine, American …

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VLK Awarded Best Original Design at CANstruction Competition for Second Consecutive Year

FORT WORTH, TX — A team from VLK Architects joined with professionals from the architecture, engineering, and construction industry at North East Mall to participate in the annual CANstruction competition. This year’s theme was Be the Force to End Hunger and VLK’s design, inspired by the Star Wars saga, was …

Hitachi CE
Your local Hitachi dealer
ASCO Equipment
Bane Machinery
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Digby Construction: Creating Art with Precision

Billy Digby has always loved equipment and playing in the dirt. He views construction as an art form.

“It’s the concept of taking nothing and making it into something,” stated Digby. “It’s in my veins, and I couldn’t really see myself doing anything else. I spent about 10 years as …

New Cable Barrier Saving Lives

AUSTIN, TX — A recent review of four Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) districts shows the success of more than 130 miles of new cable barriers.

The cable barriers were installed in Lufkin, Pharr, Waco, and Fort Worth using part of the $600 million of Road To Zero funds allocated …

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TxDOT Steps Up Focus on Rural Transportation Needs

AUSTIN, TX — According to the Texas Transportation Commission, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has dedicated billions to statewide connectivity projects to upgrade interstates and other major rural highways over the next 10 years.

“TxDOT is planning to invest an historic level of approximately $14 billion in our …

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Ritchie Bros. Sells Over $71M of Equipment in Fort Worth Equipment Auction

FORT WORTH, TX — Ritchie Bros. sold close to 5,000 equipment items and trucks over three days for over $71 million in gross transaction value, which is up 25 percent from the same auction last year. The unreserved online auction attracted more than 10,800 online bidders from 63 countries.

"We …

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Ritchie Bros. Takes Closer Look at Oil & Gas Support Equipment Sales in September Market Trends Report

FORT WORTH, TX — With its September Market Trends Report, Ritchie Bros. takes a deep dive into sales of oil & gas support equipment over the past 20 months (January 2021 – August 2022), including detailed charts breaking down volume, median asset age, and pricing for boom, vacuum, and bed …

Finn
Your local Finn Corporation dealer
Romco Equipment Co
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Industrial Engineering Firm, Vista Projects, Opens First US Office in Houston

HOUSTON, TX — Vista Projects, a North American industrial engineering firm, selects Texas for its first U.S. location.

"After nearly four decades in business — and over 1,000 projects — we're thrilled to offer our industrial engineering services to more Texans," said Tyler Elchuk, Director, Business Development, Vista …

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Taxes and the Inflation Reduction Act: What Middle Market Businesses Should Know

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

LiuGong North America Adds APEX Equipment to Dealer Network

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

Companies Bring Transportation Solutions to North Texas Through New Program

AUSTIN, TX — The Regional Transportation Council’s (RTC) Certification of Emerging and Reliable Transportation Technology (CERTT) allows for technology providers to implement innovative solutions for transportation issues in the Dallas-Fort Worth region while simultaneously working toward obtaining any federal or state certification needed.

The RTC recently initiated the process …

Southwest Material Handling, Inc. Acquires ProCon JCB

COMMERCE CITY, CO — Southwest Material Handling, Inc. has recently acquired ProCon JCB. Southwest JCB and ProCon JCB will operate as Southwest JCB under the parent company Southwest Material Handling, Inc. Kirt Little, CEO/President of Southwest Material Handling, Inc., announces that Southwest JCB will now operate branches in …

Atlas Copco Compressors Inc
Your local Atlas Copco CMT USA dealer
Romco Equipment Co
AGC Houston Honors Houston's Top Commercial Contractors with APEX Awards

HOUSTON, TEXAS — Houston’s commercial construction industry recently celebrated the most outstanding projects built by Associated General Contractors (AGC) Houston members at the Saturday Night Fever Awards for Project Excellence (APEX) Gala at the Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa. The biennial event recognizes member companies for their excellence in construction, …

Safe Site Check In and Procore Automate the Daily Log to Improve Labor Productivity and Safety

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

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Beyond Digital Transformation – Becoming a Fully Digital Organization

For several years, companies of all sizes have been pursuing digital transformation and integrating innovation into several key focus areas of the business. While the goals for digital transformation are different for each company, it’s time for companies to establish a more ambitious goal – to become a digital organization. …

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Sundt Foundation Donates to Charities in Central Texas and El Paso

SAN ANTONIO, TX — The Sundt Foundation recently awarded grants to five nonprofits in Central Texas and two nonprofits in El Paso during its current giving round.

Central Texas Charities
The Sundt Foundation awarded a total of $15,000 to Boys and Girls Club of San Antonio, the Kristine Meza Foundation, …
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Compact Construction Equipment, LLC Adds New Location in Wichita Falls

WICHITA FALLS, TX — Compact Construction Equipment, LLC, the authorized Bobcat equipment dealer in south, central, and west Texas opened the doors of their 14th authorized dealership operating as Bobcat of Wichita Falls in Wichita Falls, Texas.

Located on the southwest side of the city, the new location offers …

Cementech
Your local Cementech dealer
Romco Equipment Co
New Report Calls for Modernizing and Expanding Key Texas Highways Connecting Rural and Urban Areas

AUSTIN, TX — Increasing traffic levels, a lack of connectivity between urban and rural areas, and a lack of adequate safety features are among the challenges faced on Texas’ rural transportation system, according to a new report from TRIP, a national transportation research nonprofit based in Washington, D.C. The TRIP …

RTC Approves Update to Mobility 2045

FT. WORTH, TX — The Regional Transportation Council recently approved an update of Mobility 2045, the North Central Texas Council of Governments’ current long-range Metropolitan Transportation Plan, which guides the spending of federal and state transportation funds based on regional goals.

The $148.3-billion Mobility 2045: 2022 Update makes recommendations for …

Ritchie Bros. Sells Over $54M of Equipment in Houston Auction

HOUSTON, TX — In its fourth Houston auction of the year, Ritchie Bros. sold more than 4,980 equipment items for 675 consignors, generating more than $54 million in gross transaction value.

"Another strong Houston auction with a ton of customers visiting the site ahead of the event to inspect and …

Saulsbury Industries Expands, Opening an Engineering and Operations Hub in Houston, Texas

ODESSA, TX — Saulsbury Industries, a full-service engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) company, recently opened an engineering and operations hub in Houston, Texas.

This location will support multiple Saulsbury business lines, including oil and gas, tanks/terminals, hydrocarbon processing, refining, renewables, and chemicals. Saulsbury, with over 55 years of experience, …

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OSHA Aims to Create National Heat Injury and Illness Standard

Hot news (pun intended) these days is OSHA’s intent to issue a national standard laying out employer obligations to protect employees against heat injury and illness. This responds to the Bureau of Labor Statistics reporting of 344 work-related deaths in U.S. due to environmental heat exposure between 2011 and 2019. …

Komatsu Dealer Program
Your local Komatsu America Corp dealer
Kirby Smith Machinery
WPI
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Kirby-Smith Machinery Launches New Website Dedicated to Used Equipment

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

The homepage of KirbyUsed.com …

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Protecting Your Business Against Evolving the Risks of Ransomware

Ransomware is now the most common cybersecurity threat among U.S. businesses, affecting organizations of all sizes. Ransomware attacks have grown during the COVID-19 pandemic, as cybercriminals take advantage of the more vulnerable landscape that has resulted from a drastic shift to widespread remote work strategies.

We are now seeing more …

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Ohland Begins Her Term as ASME President, Aims to Promote More Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

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

Ohland has also …

The Future is Now: Examining Construction’s Power Alternatives

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

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

Managing More than 80,000 Miles of Roads, TxDOT Implements a Digital Delivery Initiative for New Bridge Projects

AUSTIN, TX — Bentley Systems, Incorporated, an infrastructure engineering software company, wishes to recognize the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). With more than 80,000 centerline miles of highway and more than 14,000 employees statewide, TxDOT manages the largest highway system in the United States. TxDOT continues to lead the …

ASV
Your local ASV dealer
CLM Equipment Co
Rosendin Hosts Construction Camp for 35 Austin Girls

AUSTIN, TX — Rosendin, the nation’s largest employee-owned electrical contracting company with offices in Texas, hosted a free week-long construction camp for 35 middle school girls in Austin. Camp NAWIC is a joint campaign with the Austin Chapter of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC), started in …

Skyline Selected to Provide Managed Network Services for the Texas Department of Transportation Traffic Network

AUSTIN, TX — Skyline Technology Solutions (Skyline) announces that the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has selected Skyline for a long-term, six- to nine-year partnership for delivering both managed network and transformational technology services for the TxDOT Traffic Network.

Under this contract, Skyline will be responsible for operating, supporting, and …

H&E Opens New West San Antonio Branch

BATON ROUGE, LA — H&E Equipment Services Inc. (H&E) announces the opening of its West San Antonio rental branch, its third facility in the metropolitan area and the 21st in the state of Texas.

The branch includes a fully fenced yard area, offices, and a separate repair shop and is …

Construction Workforce Shortages Risk Undermining Infrastructure Projects As Most Contractors Struggle To Fill Open Positions

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

Manhard Consulting Acquires Dallas/Fort Worth-Area Surveying Firm

DALLAS-FORT WORTH, TX — National civil engineering and surveying firm Manhard Consulting acquires a DFW-area surveying firm, Realsearch of Texas, LLC, welcoming its staff of eight to the Manhard family and the firm’s Fort Worth office.

“Incorporating the Realsearch team into our organization allows us to offer all our …

Vogele
Your local Wirtgen America dealer
Kirby Smith Machinery
Nueces Power Equipment
Ritchie Bros. Sells Over 4,200 Items for More Than $59M in Three-Day Fort Worth Auction

FORT WORTH, TX — Ritchie Bros.' latest Fort Worth, Texas, auction brought together 11,500-plus bidders from 58 countries to compete for over 4,200 items, generating more than $59 million in gross transaction value.

Approximately 90 percent of the equipment in the auction was sold to U.S. buyers, including 42 …

Drones are Benefitting Earthmoving Operations

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

Preventative Maintenance Tips for Backhoes

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

Texas First Rentals, a Division of HOLT, Purchases Class A Equipment Rentals in Fredericksburg, Texas

SAN ANTONIO, TX — Texas First Rentals, a division of HOLT, announces that it has acquired Class A Equipment Rentals, a construction equipment rental company, located in Fredericksburg, Texas.

Texas First Rentals is a construction equipment rental company, offering rental solutions through its full line of aerial …

Construction Materials Industry Faces Opportunities and Challenges

AUSTIN, TX — The Texas Aggregates & Concrete Association (TACA) recently welcomed more than 520 attendees to its 68th Annual Meeting at the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa. Highlights included presentations by the National Stone, Sand, & Gravel Association (NSSGA) and FMI Capital Advisors, helping …

Sennebogen LLC
Your local Sennebogen LLC dealer
ASCO Equipment
WPI
Mbroh Engineering Announces Expanded Transportation Services, Leadership Team Addition

DALLAS, TX — Mbroh Engineering has expanded the firm’s leadership team and transportation service offering. New leadership team member Ashok Varma, PE, joins the firm’s Dallas office as Senior Consultant, bringing civil engineering capabilities available to clients throughout Texas.

Varma utilizes his technical knowledge and project management expertise to …

Primoris Services Corporation to Expand Utility Business Through Acquisition of PLH Group, Inc.

DALLAS, TX — Primoris Services Corporation announces that it has entered into a definitive merger agreement to acquire PLH Group, Inc. in an all-cash transaction valued at $470 million.

Primoris provides critical infrastructure services to the utility, renewables, and other related energy markets. The company’s strategic focus on utility markets …

Universal Engineering Sciences Strengthens Footprint in Texas by Acquiring Rock Engineering & Testing Laboratory

DALLAS, TX — Universal Engineering Sciences (UES), a national engineering and consulting company specializing in geotechnical engineering, construction materials testing, building code compliance, threshold inspections, and environmental consulting, acquires Rock Engineering & Testing Laboratory, LLC (RETL), a geotechnical engineering, geotechnical drilling, and construction materials engineering testing firm based in Texas. …

Ritchie Bros. Sells 13,000 Items for Over $114M in Houston and Edmonton June Auctions

HOUSTON, TX — Ritchie Bros. conducted 24 online auctions across the globe, selling more than 34,000 equipment items over six days. The two largest of these events took place in Alberta and Texas, where Ritchie Bros. sold a combined $114 million of equipment online for approximately 1,800 consignors.

The Houston, …

SmithGroup Expands Presence in Texas by Opening Houston Office

HOUSTON, TX — SmithGroup has opened an office in Houston, its 17th location worldwide. This new office strengthens the company’s network of talent and expertise in Texas, deepening the firm’s long-standing commitment to the state. The Houston location also expands upon SmithGroup’s successful relationships with colleges and universities across Texas …

Yanmar
Your local Yanmar dealer
CLM Equipment Co
WPI
Caterpillar to Relocate Global Headquarters to Dallas-Fort Worth Area

IRVING, TX — Caterpillar Inc. (CAT) announces it will move its global headquarters to the company's existing office in Irving, Texas, from its current location in Deerfield, Illinois.

"We believe it's in the best strategic interest of the company to make this move, which supports Caterpillar's strategy for profitable growth …

Kohler Engines Approves Usage of HVO in the USA

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

Safety Culture in the Workplace: How Generational Differences Present Challenges, Opportunities

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

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

Rio South Texas: At the Heart of the North American Supply Chain

MISSION, TX — North America represents roughly 25 percent of the global consumer market, and the Interstate 69 corridor, which bisects the United States north to south and connects it with Canada and Mexico, is one of its main supply chain arteries. Many of North America's largest industrial hubs are …

Taking Flight: Rio South Texas' Air Logistics

MISSION, TX — COSTEP understands that moving products and people from Point A to Point B is essential for trade. Goods need to move from the production facilities to customers quickly, and out-of-area executives need to fly in and out with ease. Located at the heart of the North American …

Hamm
Your local Wirtgen America dealer
Kirby Smith Machinery
Nueces Power Equipment
Tips for Minimizing the Impact of Rising Fuel Prices

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

Leica Geosystems Launches New Safety Awareness Module in Leica ConX Cloud Solution

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

Sage Oil Vac Builds Legacy on Innovation and Quality

Sage Oil Vac is a true American success story rooted in innovation and the determination to find a better way. In the early 90s, Gary Sage was a farmer looking for a better way to change oil in his irrigation equipment without spilling oil on himself or the ground. This …

Supply Chain Impacts

War, inflation, pandemic, and staffing shortages – just a few of the events causing fragility in our supply chains. Texas contractors are asked to absorb these shocks all while maintaining project budgets and schedules. As with most problems on construction projects, answers are complex, but may be found in the …

Biden Signs Inflation Reduction Act into Law, $5B in Funding to Drive Low-Carbon Procurement in Buildings and Construction

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

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

American Institute of Architects Elects 100th President, Dowdell to Become First Black Woman President in AIA History

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

More than 40 Industry Organizations Support Extending Buy America, Build America Act Waiver

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

Choosing Screen Media to Improve Production and Solve Screening Problems

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

Nonresidential Construction Pushes Ahead Despite Challenges

The construction ecosystem has not been immune to risks facing the global economy. The evolution of the COVID-19 pandemic, a continued dearth of skilled labor, and fallout from a volatile geopolitical landscape, including fragile supply chains and rising material costs, have all presented challenges. Even so, the industry has still …

White Construction Company Event Raises $73,000 for Children

AUSTIN, TX — Central Texas children will benefit from White Construction Company’s We Care Classic (WCC) Charity Golf Tournament. The tournament was held at the Avery Ranch Golf Club in Austin, Texas.

The event was a culmination of efforts spearheaded by WCC with 25 partners and friends. Since 2006, …

Austin-Based Aggregate Dealer, Crushing Tigers, Secures $20M in Financing

AUSTIN, TX — Crushing Tigers, a southern U.S. authorized distributor of aggregate machinery and equipment, announces securing bank financing from a Denver-based bank and growth capital from Congruent Investment Partners, LLC (Congruent). Central Texas' most active middle market investment bank, Westlake Securities, served as the exclusive financial advisor.

Crushing …

Method Architecture Acquires GSC Architects

AUSTIN, TX — With offices in Austin, Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio, Method Architecture (Method) acquires GSC Architects (GSC) to strengthen its Austin and San Antonio presence. Both firms are committed to delivering quality architectural services with a focus on sustainability and ego-free, client-centric design solutions. Together, the firm now …

MYCON General Contractors, Inc. Celebrates 35 Years of Excellence in Commercial Construction

DALLAS, TX — Dallas-Based MYCON General Contractors, Inc. (MYCON) recently celebrated the 35th anniversary of its commitment to excellence in the commercial construction industry. Founded in 1987 by Charles R. Myers, MYCON flourished into a general contractor with 200 employees, two offices with plans for expansion, and projects spread …

RDO Equipment Co. in Texas Awarded Topcon Distribution Contract

DALLAS, TX — RDO Equipment Co. has been awarded a Topcon distribution contract and will be a direct dealer of Topcon products in all seven stores Texas. In becoming a Topcon direct dealer, RDO is now able to offer customers a fully integrated, single resource for the purchase and service …

Ritchie Bros. Sells $60M of Equipment and Trucks in Fort Worth Auction

FORT WORTH, TX — Ritchie Bros. recently conducted its second Fort Worth, Texas, auction of the year, selling over $60 million of equipment and trucks for 700-plus consignors. The three-day online auction saw gross transaction value grow approximately 9 percent year over year.

More than 11,100 bidders from over 60 …

Astec
Your local Astec dealer
Closner Equipment Co Inc
Hobas Pipe USA, Inc. Expands Product Offerings and Capacity to Meet Growing Demand

HOUSTON, TX — Hobas Pipe USA, Inc. (Hobas), a North American manufacturer of corrosion-resistant fiberglass pipe products for water and wastewater related infrastructure, announces an increase in the company's product offerings and capacity to meet the growing demand in the municipal potable water market due to the passage of the …

H+M Industrial EPC Named Best in Class at 35th Annual Houston Safety Excellence Awards

PASADENA, TX — H+M Industrial EPC, headquartered in Pasadena, Texas, was awarded Best in Class for the category General Contractor Small at the 35th Annual Houston Safety Excellence Awards.

The Houston Business Roundtable and the Health and Safety Council recognize companies in the Greater Houston Area for outstanding safety …

Facilitating a Safety Culture on Utility Projects

Safety isn’t a discrete activity or afterthought on utility construction sites. Instead, it’s an attitude and philosophy that must become an integral part of all operations. By encouraging all contractors and their workers to embrace the utility’s commitment to safety, it’s possible to facilitate the development of an even stronger …

US Traffic Fatalities Surged 19 Percent from 2019 to 2021

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

The Illusion of Inventory and Price Controls

Systemic disruptions of supply chains over the past two years because of the pandemic and, more recently, the Russian invasion of Ukraine have renewed calls for political authorities to do something about soaring prices.

With inflation hitting 8.5 percent in March and risks of another oil and energy price shock …

Liebherr Construction Eq
Your local Liebherr Construction Eq dealer
Nueces Power Equipment
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Telematics Expert Gives Industry Outlook

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

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

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Construction Salaries are on the Rise According to NCCER 2022 Construction Craft Salary Survey

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

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Labor Shortage is a Universal Issue in the Construction Industry

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

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

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Three Things to Know Before Raising Your Prices

It has been a year since inflation in the United States started to become a dominant economic issue. Now, with rising prices proving to be stickier than expected, business leaders have been facing a challenge – how to set prices in a highly inflationary environment.

In many industries that are …

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TAS Concrete Construction Taps Dual-Purpose Instrument to Improve Key Facet of Quality Control Effort

In a construction world in which tolerances are getting tighter and deadlines are continually compressing, verification as a part of risk management is becoming standard operating procedure. Those who accept that notion will thrive; those who don’t, risk, at the very least, a serious hit to their bottom line. Houston, …

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Is Poor PR Driving Construction's Labor Shortage?

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

But beneath …

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How the US Will Deploy Intelligent Transit Networks That Enable Connected Vehicles

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

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

Hill International Awarded Five-Year Contract to Support TxDOT’s Statewide Alternative Delivery Program

HOUSTON, TX — Hill International announces it was awarded a five-year contract from the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) to provide Program Management Consultant (PMC) services to support TxDOT’s Alternative Delivery Division (ALD) with management of the department’s Alternative Delivery Program (ADP) goals for design & construction and operations & …

Understanding and Protecting Against Mold on Jobsites

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

But …

Poor Project Data and Miscommunication Responsible for 52 Percent of All Rework

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

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HKS Partnership with Cristo Rey Dallas Prep Exposes High Schoolers to More Career Choices

DALLAS, TX — HKS was honored with the 2022 Bill Miller Corporate Leadership Award from Cristo Rey Dallas College Prep. The recognition is given to companies who partner and support the students of Cristo Rey Dallas.

Although COVID-19 has forced the Corporate Work-Study Program to go remote for the time …

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New App Forecasts Future Liquid Asphalt Prices Lowering Financial Risk for Asphalt Producers and Highway Contractors

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

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Infrastructure Bill Creates Huge Opportunity for Construction: How Contractors Can Prepare to Work With the Government Now

The national infrastructure bill translates into plenty of expected opportunities for contractors to win bids on government contracts. This is true even for contractors who have only worked commercial jobs.

“One thing is for sure, this infrastructure bill is going to create huge opportunities for companies in the construction ecosystem …

Record Pricing Continues in Texas with Ritchie Bros.' $79M Fort Worth Auction

FORT WORTH, TX — Ritchie Bros.' record pricing continued in Texas with the company's first Fort Worth auction of the year generating more than $79 million in gross transaction value. The three-day online auction attracted over 14,700 bidders from 68 countries to compete for more than 4,600 items from …

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How Construction Firms Can Manage a Fractured Supply Chain

Two years into the pandemic, the construction industry is still grappling with the fallout of the economic shock as builders scramble to secure raw materials and the workers to keep their projects on track.

The whipsaw change over the past two years has fragmented the construction supply chain, leading to …

Simpson Strong-Tie Partners with the University of Texas at Arlington to Test and Supply New Pavement Reinforcement Technologies

ARLINGTON, TX — Simpson Strong-Tie, a company focusing on engineered structural connectors and building solutions, announces the development and launch of a category of pavement reinforcement technologies designed to improve the sustainability, longevity, and resiliency of asphalt-paved road surfaces in North America.

In partnership with the University of Texas …

Why Ongoing Safety Programs are Critical

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

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

KYRO Spun Off from Think Power Solutions to Address Proven Technology Platform Need to Manage Infrastructure Projects

PLANO, TX — Think Power Solutions, an infrastructure management solutions provider, announces the spin-off of KYRO. KYRO is a software solution that provides collaboration, data gathering, and analytics specifically designed to support field service employees and workflows in mission critical infrastructure industries such as utilities, telecom, and construction. KYRO's …

ABC and AFSP Announce Partnership to Address Mental Health and Suicide Prevention in the Construction Industry

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

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

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Is Crisis Communications the New Normal?

When is a crisis not considered a crisis? The ongoing and evolving COVID-19 pandemic has put organization and corporate leaders in a constant state of crisis management. Just when we think we’ve rounded a corner and things are getting “back to normal” at work, a new variant emerges and we’re …

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Strong Internal Controls Can Help Minimize Losses

Imagine a multimillion dollar construction project that was so large it had its own accounting department. This system appeared to work until the 18-month project was complete and the owners found that a number of line items had gone over budget. This prompted an internal investigation to understand where things …

City Electric Supply Opened 22 Branches Across the U.S. in 2021

DALLAS, TX — The year of 2021 brought several achievements for electrical wholesale distributor, City Electric Supply (CES). The company opened 22 branches across the United States. From bringing back in-person events, to providing jobs for a record number of employees, the company celebrated numerous milestones.

"The past year has …

Safer Practices for Working Around Concrete

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

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Billd Announces Joint Initiative with Autodesk Construction Cloud to Significantly Improve Cash Flow for Trade Contractors

AUSTIN, TX — Billd, a provider of material financing for commercial trade contractors, announces a new integration with Autodesk Construction Cloud, a portfolio of software and services that combines advanced technology, a builders network, and predictive insights for construction professionals. A customized Billd Partner Card is now available within …

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Innovative Transportation Study Honored by Texas APA

AUSTIN, TX — The APA-Texas Chapter has chosen the Bergstrom Spur Corridor Study as a recipient of the 2021 Transportation Planning Achievement Award - Silver. Freese and Nichols works on pedestrian and bike infrastructure all over the state. The company is currently designing or implementing 7 percent of all Transportation …

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Biden’s $1.2T Infrastructure Package and the Construction Industry

Last fall, President Biden signed a $1.2 trillion infrastructure package – the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act – providing historic funding levels to improve public works, including roads, bridges, highways, internet access and the power grid, as well as to mitigate the effects of climate change. The bill does not …

Stantec Signs Agreement to Acquire Texas-Based Cox|McLain Environmental Consulting, Inc.

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

The acquisition is a continuation of Stantec’s …

Proven Ways to Increase Worker Awareness of Safety Issues

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

$58M Fort Worth Auction Showcases Strong Used Equipment and Truck Pricing at Ritchie Bros.

FORT WORTH, TX — Ritchie Bros. continues to attract record demand in Texas, with over 12,400 bidders registered for its latest more than $58-million used equipment and truck auction in Fort Worth.

Approximately 93 percent of the items in the online auction was purchased by U.S. buyers, including 39 percent …

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Houston Chronicle Names LAN as a 2021 Top Workplace

HOUSTON, TX — Planning, engineering, and program management firm Lockwood, Andrews & Newnam, Inc. (LAN) has been named a top workplace in Houston Chronicle’s 2021 Top Workplaces. LAN was ranked 43rd among midsize companies (150-499 employees) in the Houston metro region. More than 240 companies participated in this year’s contest …

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VLK Architects, Bridgeland High School CANstruction Houston Team Takes Home Three Awards

HOUSTON, TX — VLK Architects employees participated as the Professional Mentor to Bridgeland High School students of Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District for the 25th Annual CANstruction Houston Competition and Exhibition. The VLK Architects and Bridgeland High School CANstruction Houston team received three awards: the People’s Choice, Most Cans, and Best …

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Milford Companies Sells Pipeline Construction Division to Bull Creek Pipeline Services

MIDLAND, TX — Milford Companies announces that it has entered into a definitive agreement to sell its pipeline construction division to Bull Creek Pipeline Services. This strategic move allows Milford to concentrate on retail sales, distribution, rental, manufacturing of pipeline products, and technical services. The financial terms of the …

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Eight Rosendin Apprentices in Austin Region Secure NAWIC Scholarships

PFLUGERVILLE, TX — Eight Rosendin apprentices from the company’s Pflugerville office were honored with scholarships from the National Association of Women in Construction - Austin Chapter (NAWIC Austin) to help them pursue a career in construction. Five Rosendin electrical apprentices won $1,250 NAWIC Austin Trade Program Scholarships, two others received …

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2022 Texas Construction Industry Forecast

Labor and material shortages. Supply chain disruptions. Economic turbulence. COVID-19 rules and restrictions. Vaccine mandates. Many challenges impacting the built environment in recent years have rolled over into 2022. Industry experts are optimistic that a reopened economy and increased federal infrastructure investments will propel recovery and growth in nonresidential construction …

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Force Majeure and Risk Management in a Pandemic

Even though the calendar tells us we’ve started a new year, the world remains deeply affected by the COVID-19 pandemic which has ebbed and flowed in impact for nearly two years. The construction industry has seen numerous impacts from the pandemic – ranging from exemptions from stay-at-home orders, jobsite health …

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How the Construction Industry Can Work Toward a Net-Zero Future

The construction industry has been resilient through the pandemic even as it confronts shortages of workers and raw materials, and rising inflation. But these challenges will pale in comparison to the ones that contractors will face as nations race to meet aggressive goals in reducing carbon emissions.

At the United …

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Automated, Connected, and Intelligent

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

KCI Continues Growth in Texas with Acquisition of Civil Engineering Consultants

SAN ANTONIO, TX — KCI Technologies Inc., a multi-disciplined engineering firm with offices throughout the United States, announces the acquisition of Texas-based Civil Engineering Consultants (CEC). CEC’s civil engineering, construction management, and surveying expertise will complement KCI’s continued expansion throughout the state.

“We couldn’t be more pleased to welcome …

Recognizing and Addressing Worker Stress on Jobsites

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

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Ask an Expert: Funding Water Infrastructure Projects Through Bond Sales

AUSTIN, TX — The Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) recently issued revenue bonds to fund water and wastewater projects through the state revolving funds (SRFs). The SRF Series 2021 bond sale followed AAA ratings from financial services companies, continuing a trend of strong ratings for the TWDB’s bond offerings. Hundreds …

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General Contractor and Construction Technology Firm Pilot Automated Robotic Layout

DALLAS, TX — Brasfield & Gorrie recently teamed up with Houston-based construction technology firm Rugged Robotics to pilot new robotic layout technology on a Brasfield & Gorrie jobsite in Dallas. Together, the firms tested the new Rugged Robotics rover on a hotel construction site. Rugged Robotics completed multi-trade layout on …

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Wing to Launch First Commercial Drone Delivery Service in Major US Metro Area at Frisco Station

FRISCO, TX — Rooted in mobility innovation, Frisco Station, a 242-acre mixed-use development in the North Platinum Corridor of Frisco, Texas, will soon be home to a drone delivery facility operated by Wing, one of the first providers of drone delivery service in the United States. As part of the …

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VLK Wins Best Overall Design in 2021 CANstruction Fort Worth

FT. WORTH, TX — VLK Architects CANstruction Fort Worth team received the 2021 Best Overall Design Award, allowing them to qualify and participate in the CANstruction National Competition. Professionals from the architecture, engineering, and construction industries teamed up to participate in this annual event to design and build themed structures …

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Halff Associates, Inc. Completes Acquisition of Morrison-Shipley Engineers

RICHARDSON, TX — Halff Associates, Inc. (Halff) announces the completion of its acquisition of Morrison-Shipley Engineers. This strengthens Halff’s position as a leading engineering/architecture consulting firms. Morrison-Shipley is now branded as Morrison-Shipley Halff.

Expansion of services in civil engineering, land surveying, aerial mapping, and 3D laser technology is now …

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With U.S. Vehicle Travel Nearing Pre-Pandemic Levels, Freight Bottlenecks Slowing Shipments, and New Federal Transportation Funding Reaching States, Additional Investment in U.S. Freight Network will be Needed to Improve Supply Chain Reliability

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

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Transform Your Construction Operations Through RPA

Amid thin margins and a shortage of skilled labor, construction companies are continuing to turn toward robotics and automation as solutions to help their businesses. Beyond bricklaying robots and 3D-mapping drones, the use of robotic process automation (RPA) has become very common place in many tech-savvy construction company back-offices.

The …

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ASCE Texas Section Hosts CECON 2021

In September, more than 300 civil engineers and industry experts from across Texas and beyond gathered in San Marcos for the American Society of Civil Engineers' Texas Section flagship annual conference – the Texas Civil Engineering Conference or CECON. This three-day event – organized by dedicated volunteers – is …

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Preserving Payment Rights

A contractor’s right to payment is a critical part of any contract. In fact, it is probably the most important term a contractor negotiates before the contract is signed. But what can a contractor do if it is not being paid for work performed after a contract is executed? Similarly, …

Pape-Dawson Engineers, Inc. Announces Acquisition of Plano-Based Firm Dowdey, Anderson & Associates, Inc.

DALLAS, TX — Pape-Dawson Engineers, Inc., a civil engineering firm in Texas, announces the acquisition of Plano-based firm Dowdey, Anderson & Associates (DAA), expanding its footprint in the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area.

Headquartered in San Antonio with offices across the state, Pape-Dawson established its Dallas location in 2014. Led …

Fecon Adds Vermeer Texas-Louisiana as Forestry Mulcher Dealer

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

Vermeer Texas-Louisiana …

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KAI Named Recipient of AIA Dallas Firm Award

DALLAS, TX — KAI Enterprises announces that it has been named the Firm of the Year as the recipient of the 2021 American Institute of Architects (AIA) Dallas Firm Award. As part of AIA Dallas’ Honor Awards, the Firm Award is given to the member firm that has best demonstrated …

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How Contractors Can Win New Talent Amid the Labor Crisis

For years, the labor shortage has challenged every U.S. contractor’s ability to be shovel-ready.

According to the 2021 Construction Outlook Survey by the Associated General Contractors (AGC) of America, 54 percent of construction firms have a difficult time filling salaried and hourly positions, while 49 percent of construction firms expect …

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Martin Marietta to Acquire Ferrovial's SCC for $140M

HOUSTON, TX — Martin Marietta Materials, Inc. has inked a deal with Spanish conglomerate Ferrovial to acquire the latter’s U.S.-based unit Southern Crushed Concrete (SCC) for $140 million, per Reuters.

Texas-based SCC — established in 1991 — uses practical and inexpensive methods to produce recycled concrete for a variety of …

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Stellar Industries, Inc. Introduces the New EC3200 Aluminum Telescopic Crane

Stellar Industries, Inc., a leading manufacturer of service vehicles, cranes, and hooklift hoists, is expanding its EC Series of telescopic service cranes with the Stellar EC3200 Aluminum Telescopic Crane. This crane is more than 30 percent lighter than its steel counterpart.

The compact Stellar EC3200 Aluminum Telescopic Crane weighs …

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Texas Crane Owners Association Works to Ensure Fair Treatment in Legislation and Regulation

When the Texas Crane Owners Association (TCOA) started in 2008, “The primary interest of the parties that formed the organization was to have a voice at the Texas Legislature and to ensure fair treatment by the authorities who regulate mobile cranes in the state,” said Glenn Rex, TCOA’s Executive …

Water for Texas 2021 Conference Challenges and Inspires Water Industry

AUSTIN, TX — More than 550 attendees, speakers, and sponsors attended the Water for Texas 2021 conference, “Clear Vision for the Future,” hosted by the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) in Austin, Texas.

“Togetherness often spurs conversations that lead to innovation, collaboration, and outside-the-box thinking,” said TWDB Chairwoman Brooke Paup …

Port of Corpus Christi, Autonomy Institute Enter into Partnership to Move Freight Mobility Infrastructure into the Future

CORPUS CHRISTI, TX — The Port of Corpus Christi Authority has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Autonomy Institute Inc. to develop and deploy intelligent and autonomous projects along the port’s Joe Fulton International Trade Corridor.

The agreement between the two parties provides the Joe Fulton International Trade …

ETI Precision Secures Dallas, Texas, Field Office

DALLAS, TX — ETI Precision, a company focusing on calibration, repairs, as well as test and measurement equipment, secured a new field service office located in Dallas, Texas. Jonathan Blanchard, CEO of ETI Precision, said, "This field office positions ETI Precision to provide onsite calibration services at our …

Perkins Engineering Consultants, Inc. Joins Mead & Hunt

DALLAS, TX — Perkins Engineering Consultants, a Texas engineering firm specializing in water/wastewater services, joins Mead & Hunt, a national, full-service architectural-engineering firm. This move allows both Mead & Hunt and Perkins Engineering Consultants to offer enhanced services to clients and expand their geographic reach, furthering the strategic …

Over 12,600 Bidders Register for $57M Ritchie Bros. Auction in Fort Worth, Texas

FORT WORTH, TX — Ritchie Bros.' latest Texas auction attracted over 12,600 online bidders from 64 countries to compete for more than 4,300 items consigned by over 600 sellers. As a result of this unprecedented demand, Ritchie Bros.' Fort Worth auction generated more than $57 million in gross transaction …

Halff Associates, Inc. to Acquire Morrison-Shipley Engineers

FRISCO, TX — Halff Associates, Inc. (Halff), an engineering/architecture consulting firm, announces it is acquiring Arkansas-based firm Morrison-Shipley Engineers. Morrison-Shipley will do business as Morrison-Shipley Halff.

Morrison-Shipley is a multidiscipline civil engineering firm under the leadership of Greg Shipley, John Wary, Brian Maurer, and Travis Brisendine …

Tarrant Regional Water District Approves FY22 Budgets

FT. WORTH, TX — The Tarrant Regional Water District (TRWD) board of directors has adopted budgets for the 2022 fiscal year that include flat water and property tax rates while using non-operational revenues to support special projects.

TRWD officials said the $154,869,988 Revenue Fund and $20,868,978 General Fund budgets reflect …

Closing a Critical Gap In Utility Safety: Identifying Serious Injury and Fatality Potential

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

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

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Next Gen Demolition

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

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TACA Members Learn How Conservation Efforts Can Increase Business Profitability

AUSTIN, TX — The Texas Aggregates & Concrete Association (TACA) — the state trade association for the aggregate, concrete, cement, and associated industries — welcomed more than 50 attendees to its Environmental & Sustainability Seminar on September 23-24 at the Marriott Riverwalk in San Antonio, Texas.

Industry professionals delivered topical …

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The Impact of BIM on Construction Projects

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

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

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McKim & Creed Acquires Texas Engineering And Mapping Company

HOUSTON, TX — McKim & Creed, an engineering and surveying firm, announces that it has acquired Texas Engineering And Mapping Company (T.E.A.M.), a Houston-based firm that specializes in land surveying, site development engineering, and subdivision platting.

T.E.A.M. was established in 1995 by Greg Schmidt, PE, RPLS and Carlos Barillas, …

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TxDOT to Distribute $89M in Transit Funding

LAREDO, TX — With help from federal COVID-19 relief funding, the Texas Transportation Commission recently approved $89 million to support rural and urban transit services in more than 96 percent of the state’s land area, serving 41 percent of the state’s population.

That funding — comprised of $35 million in …

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Horizontal Directional Drilling Operator Training Pays Dividends

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

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Preventing Heavy Equipment Theft

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

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Termination Clauses: A Contractual Necessity

As is the case in many endeavors, all good things must come to an end. A construction project or contract is no different. Unfortunately, not every construction contract ends at the completion of a project. At times, parties must separate prior to completion. Any number of circumstances can cause an …

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Cyber Insurance Trends and Best Practices: An Evolving Landscape

With cybersecurity attack attempts and successful breaches surging, cyber insurance has never been more valuable to middle market companies. However, the cyber insurance landscape is changing as long-standing risks increase and new ones emerge. In the past, cyber insurance was relatively inexpensive, but the increase in attacks – especially ransomware …

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For Workforce Wearables on Construction Sites, Comfort and Mobility Must Go Hand In Hand With Assistance

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

Sprayroq Defines Infrastructure Rehabilitation Strength in Recent Academic Study

ARLINGTON, TX — Spraywall, the only proven and structural high-build polyurethane lining on the market, developed and manufactured by Sprayroq, was chosen by the University of Texas at Arlington in a 2020 study to create testing and application standards for spray-applied pipe rehabilitation liners in Department of Transportation markets. …

U.S. Pave is Now Serving Customers in Austin, Texas

AUSTIN, TX — The newest addition to the U.S. Pave network is in Austin, Texas, providing area businesses with commercial asphalt and paving services. The professionals at the Austin location offer a variety of asphalt services, concrete work, striping, and signage.

U.S. Pave's Austin, Texas, network partner has a complete …

New Task Force to Direct Funding to Vital Highway Safety Projects

AUSTIN, TX — The Texas Transportation Commission announces a new task force to be comprised of representatives from the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) and the state’s metropolitan planning organizations (MPOs) to further identify and fund safety projects from funding allocated to MPOs throughout the state with a focus on …

AECOM to Relocate its Global Headquarters to Dallas

DALLAS, TX — AECOM, an infrastructure consulting firm, announces that it will relocate its global headquarters from Los Angeles, California, to Dallas, Texas, effective October 1, 2021.

AECOM Chief Executive Officer Troy Rudd and select corporate leaders will join the more than 1,200 AECOM professionals based at the company’s …

GN Provides Green Way for Hydro Excavation Companies to Save Green

HOUSTON, TX — Compared to traditional digging and excavating, the hydrovac excavation process is a much faster, safer, and more environmentally friendly digging process as it uses pressurized injecting water to dig out the aggregates, sands, soils. Hydrovac excavation works by injecting high pressure water into the ground through a …

Vita Inclinata Ships its First System to HOLT Crane & Equipment

HOUSTON, TX — Vita Inclinata (Vita), developer and producer of helicopter and crane load stabilization and precision hardware, announces it shipped its first system to HOLT Crane & Equipment (HOLT), a provider of heavy equipment, service, and parts. The system — the Vita Load Pilot — departed Vita Headquarters in …

CAS Group LLC Announces Successful Registration of Service Mark

THE WOODLANDS, TX — CAS Group (City and Sea Group LLC), an engineering, urban planning, and program management firm providing services across the U.S. and worldwide, announces that it has received Service Mark Registration Number 6,341,746.

The new Service Mark secures CAS Group's position as a provider of services related …

Construction Retrofit Opportunity

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

Safer Approaches for Excavating Around Underground Utilities

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

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METRO Adding Electric Buses to Fleet

HOUSTON, TX — Battery electric buses will be added to METRO's fleet as the Authority moves forward with the purchase of 20 full-size electric buses and 10 paratransit vans. The buses will operate on the 402 Bellaire Quickline and the 28 OST/Wayside routes. The vans, meanwhile, will be used …

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Texas Science Teachers Learn How Industrial Minerals Contribute to the Quality of our Modern-day Lives

How do industrial minerals enhance our daily lives and how are they mined in Texas? This month, 14 Texas science teachers learned the answers at an intensive industrial minerals mining workshop jointly sponsored by the Texas Aggregates & Concrete Association (TACA) and the Texas Mining and Reclamation Association (TMRA).

During …

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Optimizing Self-Cleaning Screen Media to Reduce Blinding and Plugging

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

Blinding occurs when …

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Rosendin Sponsors Camp NAWIC Construction Camp for Girls in Austin

Rosendin, the electrical contracting industry’s largest employee-owned firm sponsored Camp NAWIC, a construction camp for girls created by the Austin Chapter of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC). The week-long camp gave 24 middle schoolers the opportunity to explore career paths in construction and gain hands-on learning …

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TACA Hosts 67th Annual Meeting

The Texas Aggregates & Concrete Association (TACA) welcomed more than 450 attendees to their 67th Annual Meeting June 16-18 at the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort. Members were excited to participate in the association’s largest in-person annual event.

Opening General Session
Kicking off the opening General Session was …
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How Innovative Technology Can Support the Response to the Infrastructure Damage Caused by Wildfires

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

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Heavy Equipment Dealers Increase Profitability with GPS Tracking

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

To maximize profitability, dealers need …

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Why Smart Roads are Just as Important as Autonomous Vehicles

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

However, …

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Weekly News and Year-Round Value

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

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

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Four Leading Measures Contractors Can Use to Evaluate Operations

As contractors prepare for future growth, knowing how they stack up against others in the industry is a valuable tool in evaluating whether existing operations – and the processes that drive them – are all they can be.

Fortunately for contractors, data that can be used for the purpose of …

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BIM Industry Standards Create Predictability and Cost Efficiency

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

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CTS Maintenance Tips to Extend Equipment Life

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

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Six Tips for Selecting the Right Traveling Axle Trailer

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

SAM Announces Acquisition of The Whiddon Group

AUSTIN, TX — SAM Companies, a provider of geospatial and construction services, announces that it completed the acquisition of The Whiddon Group (TWG), a Texas-based company specializing in utility engineering services.

Headquartered in Austin, Texas, The Whiddon Group has delivered utility management, identification, coordination, inspection, and conflict analysis services …

Improved TexasFlood.org Website Launches

AUSTIN, TX — Texas is no stranger to flooding. Given the deadly nature of flood events and the rapid timeframe in which they can occur, remaining flood-ready is essential. The Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) has reorganized the sea of flood-related information and redesigned the TexasFlood.org website to provide a …

ASCE Texas Presents the 8th Annual Civil Engineering Conference

AUSTIN, TX — The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Texas Section will present the Texas Civil Engineering Conference (CECON), taking place at Embassy Suites by Hilton San Marcos Hotel, Conference Center & Spa in San Marcos, Texas, on September 15-17, and featuring a variety of educational & networking opportunities …

World Estimating Celebrates the Milestone Moment of Running the Company for Three Generations

DALLAS, TX — World Estimating announces their milestone of efficiently running the company within three different generations from Robert S. James, belonging to the first generation, to Nathanial S. James, belonging to the third generation of the James family. This milestone is a major move for World Estimating …

DCCM Acquires Binkley & Barfield

HOUSTON, TX — DCCM, a national provider of design, consulting, and program & construction management services, announces the acquisition of Binkley & Barfield.

Based in Houston, Texas, Binkley & Barfield is known for its portfolio of projects requiring complex consulting services for county and municipal clients, regional and …

McDermott Joins H2@Scale in Texas and Beyond

HOUSTON, TX — McDermott International, Ltd announces it has joined a consortium of public, private, and academic partners collaborating on a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) project — Demonstration and Framework for H2@Scale in Texas and Beyond. H2@Scale in Texas and Beyond intends to show that renewable hydrogen can be …

Budgeting Ahead for Safety is Critically Important

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

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

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Mbroh Engineering Introduces New Logo and Website Following Recognition of Service and Commitment During COVID-19

DALLAS, TX — Mbroh Engineering, a Texas-based engineering design, consulting, and professional services firm, unmasks its refreshed logo and redesigned website, a representation of perseverance through 2020 and commitment as a service provider and employer. To view the unveiling, go to www.mbroh.com/welcome.

“Since Mbroh’s founding in 2006, we …

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Electrical Safety Awareness for Non-Electrical Contractors

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

By paying attention to the small details, you …

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The Risks of Not Knowing Who’s On Your Job Site

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

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The Simple Keys to Vacuum Excavation Success

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

One reason for this growth is that vacuum …

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Tier 3 Nozzles Optimize Sewer Crew Efficiency and Profitability

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

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Instant Concrete Moisture Measurement Ensures Construction Quality and Speed

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

Water …

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Proper Care Pays Off Over Time

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

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Legislative Change – Contractors Absolved From Liability for Design?

In last month’s article, I addressed three changes to Texas law that resulted from the 2021 regular legislative session. Each of those laws have a direct impact on non-transportation civil works and should be noted by this publication’s core readership. Following up on that column, the legislature did make a …

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How an ESOP Can Preserve a Business and a Legacy

After more than a year of whipsaw change brought on by the pandemic, many business owners have decided to retire. A recent survey of business owners conducted by the Wilmington Trust found that the pandemic is behind this rush to retire, adding another unexpected wrinkle to a devastating year.

But …

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Integrated Precision

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

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

Connected Vehicle Technology and Artificial Intelligence Transforming the Approach to Traffic Management in Central Texas

AUSTIN, TX — Waycare, a provider of cloud-based artificial intelligence (AI) traffic management solutions, has partnered with the Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority to use real-time anonymized data from connected vehicles and data from advanced roadway sensors to expedite the detection of traffic incidents and improve response and clearance …

McCarthy Building Companies, Inc. Joins U.S. Army Partnership for Youth Success Program

DALLAS, TX — McCarthy Building Companies, Inc. recently hosted a signing ceremony, formalizing the national construction firm’s partnership with the U.S. Army Partnership for Youth Success (PaYS) program. McCarthy joins with other corporations to connect with active and former military professionals for future employment opportunities.

A strategic partnership between the …

City Electric Supply Receives 2021 TITAN Business Award

DALLAS, TX — TITAN Business Awards (TITAN) recently announced the list of the 2021 Season 1 winners, and City Electric Supply (CES) announces that it walked away with a victorious win. The electrical wholesale distributor received the platinum award in the Company & Organization - Construction Category, Family Business with …

Genie Named Associate Member of the Year by Texas Rental Association

FT. WORTH, TX — The Texas Rental Association (TRA), a state chapter of the American Rental Association, recently recognized Genie for its contributions to the rental industry, naming the company the TRA Associate Member of the Year for 2020. The award, which was presented during the TRA Roundup, held …

Texas A&M, Hillwood Announce Research Partnership

FT. WORTH, TX — The Texas A&M Transportation Institute (TTI) entered into an agreement with Hillwood as AllianceTexas’ official Mobility Innovation Zone (MIZ) research partner.

Hillwood’s AllianceTexas development is located next to the world’s first dedicated industrial airport, Fort Worth Alliance Airport. The partnership will leverage the experience and …

The Crosby Group Announces 2021 Rigging for the Troops Campaign

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

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Sage Oil Vac LubeBuilder: What You Need, Nothing You Don’t

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

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GarverGives Partners with Annual Project Lead the Way Event

FRISCO, TX — Garver employees across the country continually dedicate their time to inspiring students and sparking an interest in the engineering field.

For the sixth consecutive year, Garver employees in Frisco partnered with Frisco Independent School District’s Career and Education Technology Center’s Project Lead the Way program to mentor …

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Guidelines on Outfitting a Fuel and Lube Truck

When choosing a fuel and lube truck for a business, a customer usually gets to pick between ready-made and custom options. For many customers, custom fuel and lube trucks present an opportunity to tailor each aspect of the vehicle to their particular needs and maximize efficiency.

While the way to …

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The 87th Legislature: A Brief Evaluation for the Construction Industry

The 87th legislative session has closed – some would say “with a whimper”, at least as it relates to the construction industry. Very few bills made it to the governor’s desk to become law that impact the industry. However, three new key pieces of legislation do have an immediate impact …

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Why Tank Chances?

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

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Successful Bond Elections Signal Stabilizing Government Activity

It is almost impossible to read a newspaper or listen to a newscast without being reminded that the country is beginning to return to normalcy. Activity can be found everywhere. Projects, initiatives, and opportunities are being announced daily. The activity level in government marketplaces is close to an all-time high. …

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Infrastructure: Rethink, Reshape, Redevelop

President Joe Biden has unveiled a revitalization plan consisting of an ambitious $2 trillion investment in America’s infrastructure, with a focus on stimulating the economy, job growth, and green development to modernize America’s old and crumbling roads, bridges, railways, and other groundwork. The plan should act as a catalyst to …

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Hooklift vs Cable Hoist, What’s the Best Choice for Me?

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

One trend that all customers are impacted …

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NETA Shares Outlook for the Work Truck Industry

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

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Succeeding with Standardization

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

Safety When Working On Geothermal Energy Projects

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

TDIndustries Celebrates 75 Years of Leadership and Partnerships

DALLAS, TX — TDIndustries, Inc. (TD) celebrates 75 years of leadership and partnerships as a mechanical construction and facility services contractor. Founded as Texas Distributors in Dallas, Texas, in 1946 by Jack Lowe, Sr., the founder's son Jack Lowe, Jr. kicked off TD's 75th anniversary on a special segment …

McKim & Creed Acquires GSA Consulting Engineers, Inc. and Expands into Louisiana

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

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

Pacific Mobile Structures Expands Texas Footprint with the Opening of a New San Marcos Branch

SAN MARCOS, TX — Pacific Mobile Structures, Inc., a provider of mobile office space and permanent modular construction and storage solutions, announces that it has expanded its presence into the Texas market with a new branch location in San Marcos. The full-service branch is located in the H&H Industrial …

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EPA Recognizes Port of Corpus Christi Among Nation’s Leading Green Power Users

CORPUS CHRISTI, TX — The Port of Corpus Christi joins the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Green Power Partnership as part of its ongoing commitment to the port’s leadership role as an environmental steward in the Coastal Bend. The EPA’s Green Power Partnership seeks to reduce the negative health impacts …

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Heavy Equipment Underground Waste Disposal Systems

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

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

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Gilbane Building Company's Gilbane Cares Golf Tournament Nets over $129,000 for Local Charities

HOUSTON, TX — Gilbane Building Company recently held its 13th Annual Gilbane Cares Charity Golf Tournament at the Black Horse Golf Club in Cypress, Texas. More than 225 golfers joined Gilbane and helped raise over $129,000 for local charities including the ACE Mentor Program, Camp For All, Folds of Honor, …

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Utility Inspection Systems and Their Benefits

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

Mainline …

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Congressionally Requested Report Finds That Most of Interstate System Needs to be Reconstructed and Modernized, Requiring More Than a Doubling of Current Funding

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

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Being Deemed Essential Doesn't Preclude ERTC Eligibility

The construction ecosystem has not been immune to the COVID-19 pandemic. In March 2020, as world leaders were trying to figure out how to prevent the continued spread of COVID-19, many states and local governments deemed some forms of construction to be an essential service that could continue with appropriate …

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Vacuum Excavators Help Maryville Municipality Expand and Maintain Its Underground Infrastructure

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

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Price Escalation Clauses: A Contractual Solution to Rising Costs of Building Materials

Recent economic news has focused on the return of inflation on an economy-wide scale. Prices for consumer goods across the economic landscape have been reported to have risen 4.2 percent. While a broadly spread increase of that size will have a noticeable impact on a macro level, that increase is …

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Cutting Inefficiency, Not Corners

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

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

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Improving Efficiency in Roadbuilding

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

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Eight Factors to Consider When Selecting an Exosuit for Your Workers

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

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

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Top Three Technologies That Drive Preconstruction and Streamline the Build

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

But what about the tools and …

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Arlington, Texas, Launches Autonomous Transit Vehicle Pilot

ARLINGTON, TX — An on-demand autonomous transit program in Texas could mark the start of a transportation movement across the country.

Riders in Arlington, Texas, can now book and board an autonomous shuttle for trips around downtown and the campus of the University of Texas at Arlington. The pilot program, …

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TDIndustries Earns National Safety Award from Associated Builders and Contractors

DALLAS, TX — TDIndustries, Inc. (TD) announces it has earned a National Safety Excellence Award from Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC). The awards were presented at the 31st annual Excellence in Construction Awards during the ABC Convention 2021 held in Grapevine, Texas. This is the fourth consecutive year that TD …

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Ensight Haynes Whaley Becomes Certified as U.S. Small Business Administration Small Disadvantaged Business

HOUSTON, TX — Structural engineering firm Ensight Haynes Whaley (EHW) is now certified under the U.S. Small Business Administration’s 8(a) business development program as a Small Disadvantaged Business. This is just one of the minority business certifications the firm received in 2020. The certifications held at the local, state, and …

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Pivotal Machines

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

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Hitachi Construction Machinery Announces Two New Programs to Increase Productivity

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

Grade Control …
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John Deere Announces Global Preferred Supplier Agreement with engcon

John Deere announces a preferred supplier agreement with engcon, a global market leader in tiltrotators. Tiltrotator models ranging from the EC204 up to the EC233 will be available through John Deere construction and compact construction equipment and Hitachi excavator dealers. These tiltrotator models match with the John Deere 26G …

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Turn One Machine into a Multi-faceted Workhorse with Stand-on Skid Steer Attachments

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

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Six Tips to Optimize Compact Track Loader Forestry Performance

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

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Big Iron, Attachments, and Technology Come of Age

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

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

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Understanding the Makings of a $2T Infrastructure Project

The latest report card on the nation’s infrastructure from the American Society of Civil Engineers confirms what just about everyone already knows: It’s old, it’s broken, and it doesn’t work anymore.

To address this gap, the Biden Administration has proposed spending roughly $2 trillion over the next decade. Among the …

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The Right Attachment for the Job

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

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Rise of the Machines

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

In today’s competitive market, …

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Equipment Evolution

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

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

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The Sound of Silence

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

US Department of Labor, Texas Panhandle Construction Industry Group to Continue Alliance to Protect Workers' Safety, Health

AMARILLO, TX — The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the Panhandle of Texas Chapter of the Associated General Contractors in Amarillo renewed a three-year alliance designed to educate employers and employees on construction hazards.

The alliance focuses on reducing and preventing falls, electrocution, struck-by, and …

Getting on Top of Tower Safety

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

The growing presence of towers means …

Del Mar College Diesel Applied Technology AAS Degree Program Gains AED Foundation Accreditation

CORPUS CHRISTI, TX — The AED Foundation (AEDF) announces the accreditation of the Del Mar College (DMC) Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree in Heavy Equipment Maintenance Technician offered through its Diesel Applied Technology Program. Located in Corpus Christi, Del Mar College joins South Plains College in Levelland as The …

A Snapshot of the Demolition Industry and Trends for 2021

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

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TDIndustries Celebrates International Women's Day and Women in Construction Week

DALLAS, TX — TDIndustries, Inc. (TD) celebrates Women in Construction Week with a kick-off on International Women's Day. For 75 years, TD has supported women in the industry by providing equal opportunities for women to give back and to grow the business while working in construction, technology, manufacturing, facility services, …

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Five Tips for Maintaining Low-Level Access Mobile Elevating Work Platforms

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

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Trinity Metro Expands Two ZIPZONE Service Areas

FT. WORTH, TX — Trinity Metro has expanded the service areas for two ZIPZONE ridesharing on-demand services.

The Mercantile ZIPZONE has expanded to include North Tarrant Parkway to the north and East Long Avenue to the south. The larger service area will provide access to popular destinations, including the Walmart …

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Goree Architects, Inc. Acquires Whitfield Associates, Inc.

HOUSTON, TX — Goree Architects, Inc. (Goree), a Houston-based automotive, commercial, and interiors architecture firm, announces it has acquired Whitfield Associates, Inc. (WAI), a full-service architectural, planning, and interior design firm located in Dana Point, California. The acquisition creates a new entity, Goree Whitfield, Inc., which will operate as …

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Core & Main Expands Into West Texas With Acquisition of Triple T Pipe & Supply

LUBBOCK, TX — Core & Main LP, a U.S. distributor of water, sewer, and fire protection products, reports it has closed on its previously announced agreement to acquire substantially all of the assets of Triple T Pipe & Supply, LLC, of Lubbock, Texas. Financial terms were not disclosed. …

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Performance-Based Smoke Detection Reduces Cost and Enhances Safety

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

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

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Getting the Most From Compact Track Loaders

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

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Getting the Most From Compact Track Loaders

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

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Enhancing Safety in the Heavy Equipment Rental Industry

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

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Enhancing Safety in the Heavy Equipment Rental Industry

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

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How to Maximize Bridge Repair Productivity with Hydrodemolition Attachments

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

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Conditions Ripe for Strategic Real Estate, Construction Investments

Historically low interest rates are providing a rare opportunity for many businesses in the pandemic-depressed economy to access low-cost capital and make long-term strategic investments in technology and other improvements such as upgrades to their facilities, writes RSM U.S. Chief Economist Joe Brusuelas. Real estate and construction is no exception. …

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Towers of Tomorrow

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

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Using Technology to Solidify a Unified Team Culture in 2021

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

SAM Announces Acquisition of John F. Watson & Company

AUSTIN, TX — SAM Companies, a provider of geospatial and construction services, announces that it completed the acquisition of John F. Watson & Company (JFWCo), a geospatial services and consulting firm located in Midland, Texas, specializing in renewable energy and natural resource development.

With more than 20 years of …

Texas Civil Engineers Give the State’s Infrastructure a 'C' Grade

AUSTIN, TX — The Texas Section of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) released a brief of the 2021 Texas Infrastructure Report Card. Texas civil engineers gave 12 categories of infrastructure an overall grade of a ‘C,’ meaning the state’s infrastructure is in mediocre condition. This is an improvement …

Sundt Foundation Donates to Five DFW Charities

DALLAS, TX — During its first-quarter round of giving, the Sundt Foundation awarded $11,400 in grants to five nonprofits in the Metroplex.

“Our employee-owners continue to support organizations directly impacted by the pandemic,” said Elizabeth Harvey, the Sundt Foundation’s North Texas Board Member. “Organizations such as Family Compass and …

Sundt Foundation Donates to Winter Storm Relief in Texas

DALLAS, TX — In response to the winter storms that recently struck Texas, the Sundt Foundation donated $10,000, split equally between the Tarrant Area Food Bank and the Let’s Help San Antonio emergency fund, to aid relief efforts.

“The Sundt Foundation has a long tradition of responding to natural disasters …

Thorough Accident Investigations Require Seven Steps

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

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

NTMWD Recognized by National Association of Clean Water Agencies for Innovative Workforce Training Program

WYLIE, TX — The North Texas Municipal Water District (NTMWD) has been selected to receive a 2021 National Environmental Achievement Award (NEAA) from the National Association of Clean Water Agencies (NACWA) in the Workforce Development category for its Waterworks Program. This training program is a collaborative partnership with Collin College …

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Construction Industry Outlook: Survive to Thrive

From suburban migration to the impact of e-commerce on retail, the real estate market is rife with change and opportunity for savvy participants set to pivot and meet evolving needs. Meanwhile, construction is set to benefit from a boom in housing, the renovation of industrial space, and impending infrastructure spending …

Vortex Technology Group Acquires VeriCure Trademark from Pipeline Renewal Technologies

HOUSTON, TX — Vortex Technology Group, LLC, a business entity of the Vortex Companies' Products Division, announces that it has completed the transfer agreement with Pipeline Renewal Technologies (PRT), to acquire the VeriCure trademark. With this latest deal, Vortex will now be able to market and sell its …

Using Good Catches to Increase Worker Ownership of Safety

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

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Texas Water Development Board Partners with Federal Agencies to Enhance Flood Decision Support Toolbox

AUSTIN, TX — A critical tool developed by federal agencies for analyzing flood risk has received important enhancements for Texas as a result of state and federal cooperation.

The Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) has partnered with the federal Interagency Flood Risk Management (InFRM) team, composed of the U.S. Geological …

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TEXRail Earns PTC System Certification

FORT WORTH, TX — Trinity Metro TEXRail has received certification for Positive Train Control (PTC) from the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA).

PTC is designed to stop a train before an accident occurs. Specific preventions include incidents created by human error, such as train-to-train collisions, derailments that occur from excessive speed, …

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Sustainable Construction Waste Management and LEED

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

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Finding a Snow-Worthy Track Loader

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

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Elon University Puts Vacuum Excavator to Work in a Wide Range of Applications

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

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A Good, Hard Look at Prestressed Concrete

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

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Four Strategies for Construction Companies to Rebound from COVID-19

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

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87th Legislative Session Primer and Preview

In January, lawmakers from across the state of Texas convened in Austin for the 87th Texas Legislative Session. This is the first time that all 181 legislators have come together since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. While the focus of this session will likely be on responding to the …

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Keep Your Head – and Your Construction Business – in the Cloud

Technology is serving as a catalyst to reshape the economy. The construction industry – long characterized by its mark on the physical world – is not immune to the digital transformation shaping the broader business landscape.

Since the start of the coronavirus pandemic in March, uncertainty has plagued the construction …

Primoris Services Corporation Completes Future Infrastructure Acquisition

DALLAS, TX — Primoris Services Corporation, a provider of specialty contracting services in North America, announces that it has closed its acquisition of Future Infrastructure Holdings, LLC (Future Infrastructure or FIH) in an all-cash transaction valued at $620 million. The transaction directly aligns with Primoris’ strategy to grow in …

Have You Fallen for These Common Safety Myths?

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

U.S. DOT Launches New Regional Infrastructure Accelerators Program

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

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PlanNorth Architectural Co. Named to the 16th Annual Aggie 100, Honored as a Fastest Growing Company

BRENHAM, TX — PlanNorth Architectural Co. of Brenham is among the top 100 companies from around the world selected for the 16th annual Aggie 100. The recognition honors the fastest-growing companies owned or operated by former students of Texas A&M University. PlanNorth earned a ranking of 59 with a compound …

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ABC 2020 Review and 2021 Construction Economic Forecast

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

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

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Strong Pricing Continues in $53M Ritchie Bros. Auction in Houston, Texas

HOUSTON, TX — Demand for equipment at Ritchie Bros.' online auctions continues to break records, as the company saw bidder registrations jump 39 percent year over year for the recent $53-million auction in Houston, Texas.

Due to COVID-19, the auction was conducted 100 percent online, attracting interested bidders from …

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ATI Wins ABC Houston Excellence in Construction Award

HOUSTON, TX — Aggregate Technologies Inc. (ATI) recently won the ICE award by Associated Builders and Contractor’s Houston chapter in the Specialty Construction category. The ICE award is the top award given in the Excellence in Construction Awards. Tropical Storm Imelda led to damaged bridge columns on Interstate 10 …

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McCarthy Building Companies Partners with Adaptive Construction Solutions in Support of Veterans

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

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Sundt Construction Launches Sundt Renewables

TEMPE, AZ — Sundt Construction, Inc., a general contractor, expands its presence in the renewable energy construction market with the launch of Sundt Renewables, LLC. Prior to forming the new subsidiary, Sundt acquired select assets and key personnel from i1 Energy, a company in the renewable power …

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Wells Fargo 2021 Economic Outlook

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

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Eight Ways to Optimize Spending Within Your Existing Technology Budget

As we begin 2021, with the promise of a vaccine rollout to ease the COVID-19 pandemic, many businesses are developing plans to safely return to business as normal. However, many companies may be reluctant to increase technology spending until they better understand what the future looks like. Luckily, there are …

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Fatal Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make: Failing to Create (and Update) an Estate Plan

This is the tenth and final article in my series exploring legal mistakes that can be fatal to a business (even a seemingly well-established one). The illustrations and guidance provided are designed to help you spot these mistakes early. Each of these mistakes is preventable with proper planning and preparation. …

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ASCE Texas Hosts Virtual CECON 2020

In November, more than 280 civil engineers and industry experts from across Texas and beyond gathered in an unprecedented virtual format for the American Society of Civil Engineers' (ASCE) Texas Section flagship annual conference – the Texas Civil Engineering Conference or CECON 2020 Virtual. This three-day event – organized …

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How AGC of America is Making Sure Politicians Learn the Right Lessons from the Election

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

Texas Comptroller Hegar Announces Transfer of $2.3B to State Highway and Rainy Day Funds

AUSTIN, TX — Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar announces he recently completed the transfer of $2.27 billion into the State Highway Fund (SHF) and the Economic Stabilization Fund (ESF; commonly known as the “Rainy Day Fund”). Each fund received more than $1.13 billion, or 50 percent of the total transfer.

The …

The Power of Where Symposium Puts Spatial Intelligence at Your Fingertips on January 26

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

Area Universities to Provide Innovative Transportation Assistance

FT. WORTH, TX — A new research initiative has been developed to help industry, municipalities, and public agencies meet real-world transportation challenges through innovative partnerships with universities across Dallas-Fort Worth.

The North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG) is partnering with the Texas Research Alliance and four area universities that …

ARTBA 2021 US Transportation Construction Market Forecast

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

Do Your Workers Truly Understand HazCom?

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

That’s why OSHA requires …

2021 Manufacturer Forecast

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

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UTA Civil Engineer Determines How to Keep Transportation Infrastructure Operating During COVID-19 Pandemic

ARLINGTON, TX — A Civil Engineer at The University of Texas at Arlington is determining how to keep transportation construction workers safe during the coronavirus pandemic while ensuring that critical infrastructure systems are properly inspected and maintained.

Mohsen Shahandashti, Assistant Professor of Civil Engineering, is using a National Science …

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Lamb Co-Founds New eDiscovery and Consulting Firm, Focuses on Construction Industry

DALLAS, TX — Construction Discovery Experts (CDE), a new eDiscovery and consulting firm, is launching with its headquarters in Dallas. CEO Brett Lamb, a former General Counsel for Austin Industries, is aiming to make CDE the go-to teammate for the construction industry through his team’s eDiscovery expertise and familiarity …

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High Efficiency ‘Shaped’ Wire Screens are the Way to the Future

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

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Kirksey Architecture Acquires House+Partners

HOUSTON, TX — Kirksey Architecture has acquired Houston-based architectural design firm, House+Partners Architecture & Planning, LLP, expanding their multifamily residential, senior living, and commercial office expertise and portfolios. The acquisition includes ongoing work with five residential development projects by Hines, which are under construction and total 1.5 million …

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Ancora Corporate Training Awarded Two TxDOT Contracts That Will Help Keep Texans Safe

HURST, TX — The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) recently awarded two contracts to Ancora Corporate Training, a division of Ancora Education, to provide skills-oriented training for up to 1,000 employees on diesel truck maintenance and the operation of heavy equipment used to build and repair roads. TxDOT is responsible …

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Demolition Doctors

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

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There is More to Ransomware Recovery Than Decrypting the Systems

You’re a well-rounded CIO, your staff is competent, you’ve invested as much as possible in security – but of course, the budget is never enough. You’ve done the research and you know the essentials for reducing the risk of ransomware:

  • Train the employees to recognize malicious emails and websites – …
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Unlocking the Full Potential of Construction Fleet Physical Security Integration

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

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

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The Role of Rental in 2020 and What It Teaches Us for 2021

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

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Fatal Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make: Failing to Fund a Buy-Sell Arrangement

This is the ninth in a 10-part series exploring legal mistakes that can be fatal to a business, even a seemingly well-established one. The illustrations and guidance provided are designed to help you spot these mistakes early. Each of these mistakes is preventable with proper planning and preparation.

Last month, …

Southland Holdings Acquires American Bridge Company

GRAPEVINE, TX — Southland Holdings LLC announces the acquisition of American Bridge Company, a firm that specializes in complex civil engineering, bridge construction and rehabilitation, marine construction, and specialty structures. The Coraopolis, Pennsylvania-based company was founded in 1900 as a JP Morgan-engineered merger of 28 bridge and structural companies. …

Construction Industry Companies Putting Employee Well Being at the Forefront

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

Improving Contractor Interactions Through the SCARF Model

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

The safety professional …

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Avoiding Costly and Potentially Deadly Shortcuts in Netting System Selection

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

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McCarthy Building Companies Deploys Women’s Safety Harness Program

DALLAS, TX — A recipient of the women’s safety harness grant from the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) and Autodesk, McCarthy Building Companies, Inc. (McCarthy) is piloting a new women’s safety harness design across it’s Dallas, Houston, and Atlanta-area project sites. The safety harness grant was created by …

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Making the Whole Person Matter

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

Driving this ability is …

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HDD Training Teaches More Than Just Basic Skills

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

As HDD expands …

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Fatal Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make: Failing to Establish a Buy-Sell Arrangement

This is the eighth article in a 10-part series exploring legal mistakes that can be fatal to a business, even a seemingly well-established one. The illustrations and guidance provided are designed to help you spot these mistakes early. Each of these mistakes is preventable with proper planning and preparation.

Last …

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Tire Tales

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

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Advanced Water Treatment to Increase Efficiency and Meet Environmental Standards

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

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Mortenson Pushes the Boundaries With Large-Scale Modular Projects

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

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Bomanite Cares

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

CII, CURT, and ECC Explore Formation of Official Alliance to Streamline Service and Support for the Capital Projects Industry

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

CAS Group LLC Receives Full Registered Trademark Status from United States Trademark Office for "Coastlines To Skylines"

HOUSTON, TX — City and Sea Group LLC (CAS Group LLC), an engineering and professional services consulting firm, announces that it has received the official USPTO Notice of Publication Confirmation for "Coastlines to Skylines". The trademark reinforces CAS Group's expertise in complex planning, design, and construction projects in both the …

StonePoint Materials Announces Acquisition of River Aggregates

HOUSTON, TX — StonePoint Materials LLC (StonePoint) announces the acquisition of River Aggregates, LLC (River). StonePoint Materials is a producer of crushed stone, sand, and gravel serving markets including infrastructure, commercial and residential construction, and energy.

Operating across 10 states, StonePoint has approximately 10 million tons of annual aggregates production. …

Phishing Awareness: Recognizing, Addressing, and Avoiding Threats

Phishing is one of the most common and most successful forms of cyberattack: emails designed to trick users into providing valuable information (such as login credentials) or running malicious code that compromises their workstation. Unlike other attacks, phishing does not rely on technical vulnerabilities or security misconfigurations to be effective. …

Public and Private Sectors Working Together To Improve Texas Highway Project Safety

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Texas transportation construction industry, Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) and the American Road & Transportation Builders Association (ARTBA) are continuing to work through the COVID-19 pandemic to improve traffic safety and reduce worker injuries, ARTBA Chairman Steve McGough said.

In his remarks before the virtual Associated …

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Ready to Roll

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

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Virtual Reality Leaps Forward, Providing New Value to Stakeholders

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

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Fatal Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make: Failing to Implement Restrictive Covenants with Employees and Contractors

This is the seventh in a 10-part series exploring legal mistakes that can be fatal to a business (even a seemingly well-established one). The illustrations and guidance provided are designed to help you spot these mistakes early. Each of these mistakes is preventable with proper planning and preparation.

Last month, …

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Don’t Get Caught in the Cold

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

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Pulling Augers No Longer Needed

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

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Laying the Foundation for Construction's IT Future

The construction industry has seen gains in employment since April, despite overall declines in spending, as workers were brought back to complete necessary emergency projects and jobs begun prior to the pandemic. While employment has pushed upward the past three months, total spending has decreased since a peak in February. …

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Technology Enables Construction Continuity

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

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Living on the Cutting Edge

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

Fast forward to today, where we find an …

LJA Engineering Nationally Ranked in Top Ten as Best Firm To Work For by Zweig Group

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

"With recruitment …

METRO Named Outstanding Public Transportation System of the Year

HOUSTON, TX — METRO has received a national award recognizing the transit agency's achievements over the last three years. The American Public Transportation Association (APTA) has awarded the authority with its 2020 Outstanding Public Transportation System Achievement Award. METRO President & CEO Tom Lambert made the announcement at the transit …

What Contractors Need to Know About EMR

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

Halff Associates, Inc. Announces Acquisition of BESH, Inc.

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

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

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Restoring the Interstate Highway System

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

The Interstate Highway System remains the workhorse of …

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Big Creek Construction

For more than a quarter of a century, John Miller and his son, Wade Miller, have worked for the same company. During the past 23 years, they’ve owned Big Creek Construction, one of the most well-known heavy-highway contractors in central Texas.

“Prior to going into business for ourselves, …

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Point and Measure

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

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Leadership Through Extreme Circumstances

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

Then the COVID-19 pandemic hit. …

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How ESG is Affecting the Real Estate and Construction Industries

Public pressure is building for industries to adhere to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards, the real estate and construction industries are no exception. The European Union, for example, has passed many regulations that require proper ESG planning and disclosures for real estate businesses.

While ESG may not carry the …

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Ten Equipment Trailer Maintenance Tips

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

Start …
SAM Announces Acquisition of Midland GIS Solutions

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

The AED Foundation’s Construction Career Aptitude Test Soon to Launch

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

CII and AGC Bring Together a Panel of Industry Leaders for COVID-19 Webinar

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

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Sempra Energy Partners With Texas Economic Development Corporation

DALLAS, TX — Sempra Energy announces that the company has joined the Texas Economic Development Corporation (TxEDC), an independently funded and operated 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization promoting economic and business development in the state.

"As Texas dedicates itself to recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic, we are proud to support the TxEDC …

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We Only Get to the Stars by Starting from the Ground

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

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Two CEMEX USA Terminals Nationally Recognized for Energy Conservation Efforts

HOUSTON, TX — CEMEX USA announces two of its cement terminals in Texas achieved the ENERGY STAR Challenge for Industry by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), a national recognition for conserving energy use at operations.

CEMEX USA was recently informed by the EPA that operations at its De Zavala …

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JE Dunn Houston Achieves Platinum Level in the ABC STEP Safety Management System

HOUSTON, TX — JE Dunn Construction announces it has achieved Platinum Level in the Associated Builders and Contractor’s STEP safety management system. Founded in 1989, STEP participation demonstrates safety leadership and a cultural commitment to safety performance.

STEP applicants measure their safety processes and policies on 24 key components …

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Braun Intertec Welcomes New Co-ops

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

Braun Intertec Co-Op Program Overview
The Braun Intertec co-op program was …
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The Complex Made Simple

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

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Fluid Bridge Repair

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

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Construction Business as Project Business: Project Business Automation

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

Only by recognizing your company as a project business are …

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Accelerator for America Introduces New Partnership on Infrastructure Playbook

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

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

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The Importance of Safely Purchasing, Handling and Storing API Certified DEF

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

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

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Preventative Maintenance Creates Longevity for Drills

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

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Modular Design Trends, Challenges, and Increased Construction Liability Risks

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

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

POWER Foundation Pledges $150,000 for Education

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

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

Vortex Companies Launches New Website, Improves Customer Experience

HOUSTON, TX — The Vortex Companies announces the launch of its new website, vortexcompanies.com, a testament to the company's growth that showcases its trenchless infrastructure services and trenchless rehabilitation products.

The new website features an upgraded, streamlined design and is meant to provide a better user experience for customers …

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UTA Researchers Testing Viability of Slope Protection Systems to Strengthen Riverbanks Preventing Erosion to Keep Bridges Safe

ARLINGTON, TX — Two University of Texas at Arlington researchers are working with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) on new technology that could strengthen riverbanks and eliminate harmful erosion around bridge supports.

Associate Professor Xinbao Yu and Professor Laureano Hoyos, both of UTA's Civil Engineering Department, are working on …

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Public Invited to Comment on 2021 Regional Water Plans

AUSTIN, TX — Sixteen regional water planning groups, one for each regional water planning area of the state, are currently in the final stages of developing their 2021 regional water plans. The every-five-year plans include water strategies and projects to ensure each region will have enough water in the event …

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Over $81M of Equipment Sold in Ritchie Bros.' Largest-Ever Fort Worth Auction

FORT WORTH, TX — Ritchie Bros. conducted its largest ever Fort Worth, Texas, auction, selling close to 5,300 equipment items and trucks for over $81 million. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the auction was held with online bidding only and set a new site bidder record in the process, registering …

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Structure Tone Southwest Moves into New Houston Office

HOUSTON, TX, — Structure Tone Southwest has relocated its Houston office, moving into a modern workplace in a more accessible location for serving their clients across the Greater Houston area.

The new space on Sawyer Street brings the construction firm closer to Buffalo Bayou Park and the Central Business District …

DART Awards Uber Contract for Rideshare Services and New SCADA System

DALLAS, TX — The Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) Board awarded a three-year contract to Uber Technologies, Inc., (Uber) for rideshare services to supplement the agency's GoLink program, providing additional capacity across the agency's 13 GoLink/Uber service zones.

In January 2017, DART was awarded a Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Mobility …

North Texas Innovation Alliance Consortium Launches to Create the Most Connected, Smart, and Resilient Region in the Country

DALLAS, TX — The North Texas Innovation Alliance (NTXIA) was recently launched to create the most connected, smart, and resilient region in the country. NTXIA is a 501(c)3 consortium of key cross-sector stakeholders working to collaboratively solve challenges to improve quality of life, expedite inclusive economic development, and increase resource …

DeSimone Consulting Engineers Announces Alignment with Henderson Rogers Structural Engineers

HOUSTON, TX — DeSimone Consulting Engineers, a full-service engineering firm with offices worldwide, announces an alignment with Henderson Rogers Structural Engineers, a Texas-based structural engineering firm specializing in aviation, education, commercial, sports, and health care facilities. The move provides greater resources to Henderson Rogers while expanding DeSimone’s geographic …

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Railroad Commission Launches Drone Program to Enhance Emergency Response

AUSTIN, TX –– Taking advantage of 21st century technology, the Railroad Commission of Texas launched a statewide drone inspection team. Drones will help inspectors to quickly respond and inspect sites that are unsafe or inaccessible during emergencies such as fires, flooding, and other natural disasters. Drones can also assist in …

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RP Develops Square Sided Water Tank

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

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Trinity Metro to Receive $55M from CARES Act Funds

FT. WORTH, TX — Trinity Metro will receive $55 million as part of the CARES Act funding for public transportation. The Regional Transportation Council approved the funding, which can be used for financial impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Trinity Metro’s $55,161,034 will be used to offset losses in the operating …

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Steering Through Sandy Soils

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

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Going the Distance

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

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Why Productivity in Construction is Flatlining

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

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Cloud-Based Employee Time Tracking

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

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How Technology is Advancing One of the Most Dangerous Jobs in America

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

MDU Resources Donates $500,000 to Support Pandemic Response Efforts

AUSTIN, TX — MDU Resources Group, Inc. announces that it is donating $500,000 to a variety of organizations to support coronavirus relief efforts, including $27,000 to charities in Texas. The donation comes from the MDU Resources Foundation, which is funded by stockholder monies, and is in addition to the …

Diabetes Research Institute Foundation Receives $3M Gift from NABTU to Fund Cell Therapy for COVID-19

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

On April …

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HVJ Associates Expands in West Texas

EL PASO, TX — HVJ Associates continues to expand the HVJ brand in West Texas with the opening of the El Paso office located at 1700 E. Yandell in El Paso, Texas. HVJ has been doing business in the El Paso area for over a decade, including several major public …

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Burns & McDonnell Foundation Announces $1.5M in COVID-19 Relief Funding

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

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

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PacLease Names Rush Truck Leasing - Houston, North American Franchise of the Year

HOUSTON, TX — Rush Truck Leasing - Houston, has been named the PacLease 2019 North American Franchise of the Year.

According to Ken Roemer, President of PACCAR Leasing, PacLease has an extensive evaluation process to decide which franchise will receive the award.

“Rush Truck Leasing - Houston, …

Balfour Beatty U.S. Buildings Celebrates 20 Years of Building Austin and Central Texas

AUSTIN, TX — This year, Balfour Beatty’s U.S. Buildings team announces its 20th anniversary of providing construction management services to Austin and Central Texas clients. This celebration marks two decades of service to one of the fastest-growing cities in America and the company’s role in delivering construction needs to …

CICB Offers Online Crane Operator and Inspector Classes in Response to COVID-19 Pandemic

HOUSTON, TX — Crane Inspection & Certification Bureau (CICB), a veteran-owned Texas company with a global network, has rolled out its initial online training programs as a response to the coronavirus. As social distancing and safety precautions dissuade some companies from sending their employees to traditional classrooms, CICB has created …

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EMJ Serves the North Texas Community

DALLAS, TX — Employees from the EMJ Construction Dallas office spent the afternoon serving at the North Texas Food Bank, a Dallas nonprofit hunger relief organization that distributes donated, purchased and prepared foods. The food bank supports the nutritional needs of children, families and seniors through education, advocacy and strategic …

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The Christman Company Acquires MEDCO Construction from Baylor Scott & White Health

GRAPEVINE, TX — The Christman Company, a national construction management and real estate development firm based in Lansing, Michigan, with a local office in Grapevine, has acquired MEDCO Construction. The acquisition allows Christman to expand its construction services and sets the stage for growth in Texas and the …

Restoration Builders Continues Southwestern Expansion with Acquisition of Austin-Based Alden Roofing, Inc.

AUSTIN, TX — Restoration Builders, Inc. announces that it has officially acquired Alden Roofing, Inc., headquartered in Pflugerville, Texas.

Established in 2017 in response to the growth of the over $210-billion insurance restoration industry, Restoration Builders has been focused on developing a nationwide network of licensed contractors and other …

Sempra Energy Subsidiary Port Arthur LNG and Bechtel Sign EPC Agreement

PORT ARTHUR, TX — Sempra Energy and Bechtel announce that their respective subsidiaries, Port Arthur LNG, LLC and Bechtel Oil, Gas, and Chemicals, Inc., have signed a fixed-price engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contract for the Port Arthur LNG liquefaction project under development in Port Arthur, Texas.

“Building new …

Diversified Product Development Launches DesignWise Brand

WACO, TEXAS — In response to growing demand for its engineering design services, Diversified Product Development has launched its DesignWise brand. The new brand encompasses all of Diversified’s fully integrated product design and development capabilities. The DesignWise team offers services to clients including exploring new markets and products; redesigning or …

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TDIndustries Opens Skilled-Trades Training Program in Austin

AUSTIN, TX — TDIndustries’ Central Texas branch just began a new skilled-trades training program, the only regional program of its kind for its merit shop employees.

In a partnership with North Texas’ Construction Education Foundation (CEF), TD provides this 20-week training program for HVAC and plumbing employees as their …

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McCarthy Dallas’ Casino Night Raises $50,000 for American Heart Association

DALLAS, TX — McCarthy Building Companies, Inc.’s Dallas office raised $50,000 for the American Heart Association (AHA) at its annual Casino Night. Funds were raised through ticket sales, employee donations and sponsorships. The donation was presented to AHA by McCarthy’s Southern Region President, Joe Jouvenal.

“Over the last …

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Flatiron Unveils New Brand Identity

DALLAS, TX — “We’ve made so many positive and good steps forward, that we want to declare a new chapter.”

And with those words from Flatiron CEO John DeCiurcio, the company unveiled a new brand identity, including a logo that he called “a little more modern” and more representative …

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METRO Celebrates Big Savings in the Big Apple

HOUSTON, TX — METRO's name was in lights to celebrate a Wall Street deal that means $72.3 million in savings for the Authority. The successful pricing of its 2020A bonds for $304 million capitalized on market conditions to maximize savings on debt repayment.

"This savings deal is exciting and …

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R2 Becomes First Autonomous Vehicle to Receive USDOT-Approved Exemption

HOUSTON, TX — The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) approved a regulatory exemption for R2, Nuro’s second-generation vehicle. Nuro is the first company to be granted approval for a self-driving vehicle exemption. Under Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao’s leadership, USDOT …

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University of Texas at Arlington Developing Better Bridge Inspections

ARLINGTON, TX — The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) has received funding from the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) to use a testing system invented by a UTA researcher to inspect bridges for repairs without disrupting Texas commuters.

Suyun Ham, Assistant Professor of Civil Engineering, and Simon Chao, Professor …

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Dewberry Selected to Provide Asset Management Services to Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority

FAIRFAX, VA — Dewberry announces that it has been selected by the Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority (GBRA) in Seguin, Texas, to provide asset management services for its various system domains in order to implement a computerized maintenance management system in 2020. The firm’s geospatial and technology services group will conduct the …

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BGE Engineers to Present at Upcoming 2020 Texas Water Conference

HOUSTON, TX — BGE, Inc. announces that two of its Engineers, Julia Frankovich, PE and Lindsay Kovar, PE will be co-presenting their abstract entitled “A Graph is Worth a Thousand Cells: Visually Communicating Variables in Water Supply and Demand Projections to Decision-Makers,” at the upcoming Texas Water Convention in Fort …

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CEMEX USA 2020 Safety Week Highlights Safety Through Leadership

HOUSTON, TX — CEMEX USA kicked off the new year by hosting its annual company-wide Safety Week 2020, an initiative solely focused on one of its core values, Health and Safety. This year’s theme, “Safety Through Leadership,” aims to empower supervisors and others in leadership roles to actively lead their …

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Lift & Move USA Supports Student Career Exploration

HOUSTON, TX — Lift & Move USA, hosted by Liebherr USA in Houston, Texas, received one of the largest ever groups of students and educators. Nearly 550 high school juniors, seniors, technical college students, teachers and administrators from 17 schools attended the event.

At the event, Texas Congresswoman Sheila Jackson …

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RSM Hosts Annual Texas Construction Industry Conference in San Antonio

SAN ANTONIO, TX — RSM US LLP hosted its 17th annual Construction Industry Conference at The JW Marriott Resort in San Antonio. This year’s event gathered nearly 120 construction professionals from around the country to learn more about important industry topics of today from several national and local experts.

The …

Ironwood Midstream Energy Partners II Forms with $400M Equity Commitment

SAN ANTONIO, TX — Ironwood Midstream Energy Partners announces the formation of Ironwood Midstream Energy Partners II, LLC (Ironwood II). The company is supported by an initial capital commitment of $400 million from EnCap Flatrock Midstream and management. Ironwood II is an independent energy company focused on the development of …

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Williamson County Voters Approve $447M in Bonds

WILLIAMSON COUNTY, TX — Bond elections allow voters to decide whether or not to use long-term financing through the sale of bonds for major capital improvement projects such as new construction and expansion of roads, parks and trails. The Road and Bridge tax rate only covers maintenance and operation for …

Permian Basin Becomes Most Productive Energy Resource

ODESSA, TX — For decades, the Ghawar field in Saudia Arabia stood alone as the most productive energy resource on the global stage — a behemoth of energy supplying much of the world’s demand. This year, though, marked an unprecedented shakeup in the energy ranking with a resurgent Permian Basin …

US Department of Commerce Invests to Establish New Workforce Training Center in Houston

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross announces that the department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $5-million grant to SER-Jobs for Progress of the Texas Gulf Coast, Inc., Houston, Texas, to help establish a new workforce training center that will help develop skilled workers to …

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IEDA Announces Launch of Revamped Website, Hosted by Sandhills Global

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

Construction Jobs Increase by 4,000 in May as Unemployment Rate Falls to Record-Setting Low

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

Somerset CPAs and Advisors Launches 2019 Construction Industry Survey

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

City of Corpus Christi Water Utility Joins State Program to Protect Water Sources

CORPUS CHRISTI, TX – The City of Corpus Christi, Public Water System Number TX1780003, has joined the state’s Source Water Assessment and Protection (SWAP) Program. This free program allows local water suppliers to partner with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to find ways to proactively protect their water …

Austin announces new transportation plan

The Austin Strategic Mobility Plan (ASMP) is the City’s new transportation plan. It guides our transportation policies, programs, projects, and investments for the next 20+ years. The ASMP covers all the ways we get around Austin. This includes: driving, walking, bicycling, and taking public transportation like buses and trains.
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