ConstructorCast

America's Moving Forward: Why Congress Needs to Pass an On-Time Highway Bill

AGC of America — Thu, 02 Jul 2026 12:47:30 -0400

America's transportation system is approaching a critical deadline.

In this episode, host Spencer Phillips is joined by Deniz Mustafa, Jonathan Porter, and Al Stanley (Stanley Construction Company) to discuss the proposed Build America 250 Act, why a long-term highway bill matters, and how contractors, businesses, and everyday Americans can help ensure Congress acts before the September 30 deadline.

The conversation covers:

Why the current transportation law expires September 30 What's included in the Build America 250 Act
How long-term funding creates certainty for contractors and state DOTs Why transportation investment impacts every American—not just the construction industry
The role of AGC's America's Moving Forward advocacy campaign How listeners can take action today

Help support a long-term highway bill by sending a message to your Senators and Representative through AGC's America's Moving Forward campaign. Take Action: Contact Your Members of Congress

Resources

More on the Build America 250 Act
America's Moving Forward Campaign
Learn more about getting involved with an AGC Division or Committee
Advocacy Resources

The Most Dangerous Hazard You Cant See: Heat Safety and OSHA's New Standard

AGC of America — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 12:46:19 -0400

As temperatures rise across the country, heat exposure remains one of the most serious and often underestimated hazards facing construction workers.
In this episode of ConstructorCast, host Spencer Phillips sits down with Eric Simmons, Vice President of Risk Management at Helix Electric, to discuss what effective heat safety looks like on today's jobsites. From hydration and nutrition to acclimatization, wearable technology, and weather monitoring, Eric shares practical strategies contractors can use to prevent heat-related illnesses before they become emergencies.

The conversation also explores OSHA's proposed heat safety standard, the challenges of creating a one-size-fits-all regulation for a dynamic industry, and why education, planning, and worker engagement are critical to keeping crews safe during the hottest months of the year. Whether you're a safety professional, supervisor, or craft worker, this episode offers valuable insights for recognizing heat hazards, building a proactive safety culture, and protecting workers when the temperatures start to climb.

In this episode:

Recognizing the early warning signs of heat illness Why hydration starts before the workday begins The role of nutrition, acclimatization, and personal health
Practical heat safety measures for construction jobsites
Wearable technology and real-time heat monitoring
OSHA's proposed heat safety rule and what it could mean for contractors
Creating a culture where workers look out for one another

Listen now and learn how leading contractors are taking a proactive approach to heat safety before the summer heat reaches its peak.

Resources
AGC's Heat Safety Hub

Built to Connect: Inside the 2026 AGC Convention Experience

AGC of America — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 11:48:43 -0400

In this special mini episode of ConstructorCast, host Glenda Johnson takes you on-site to the 2026 AGC Annual Convention in Orlando capturing real, unfiltered perspectives from attendees experiencing it firsthand. From students exploring career pathways to seasoned professionals building meaningful connections, this episode highlights what makes convention more than just an event, it’s a catalyst for growth, opportunity, and inspiration.

Hear directly from attendees about:

What exceeded their expectations and made the trip worthwhile
The power of networking across the construction industry
How students are preparing for careers in construction management, engineering, and beyond
Why events like this play a critical role in bridging education and industry
The impact of keynote speakers and shared experiences that resonate long after the event ends

Whether it’s your first time or your tenth, one thing is clear: the connections made here are what keep people coming back.
🎧 Listen in to hear what inspired attendees, what they loved most, and why they’re already planning to return next year.

Check out the video recap
See the full lineup and be the first to know about Phoenix in 2027 at convention.agc.org!

2026 Construction Safety Week - Recognize. Respond. Respect.

AGC of America — Fri, 13 Feb 2026 08:29:33 -0500

Construction Safety Week 2026 is approaching, and this episode of ConstructorCast explores why this industry-wide initiative matters now more than ever.
Host Max Nelson is joined by 2026 Construction Safety Week Chairs Adam Jelen, President & CEO of Gilbane Building Company, and Kyle Larkin, President & CEO of Granite. Together, they discuss the evolution of Safety Week, the industry’s ongoing challenges with serious injuries, fatalities, and mental health, and how a unified approach can drive lasting change. The conversation breaks down the 2026 theme—Recognize, Respond, Respect—with a focus on identifying high-energy, high-hazard work, putting effective controls in place, and executing plans with discipline across every phase of a project.

Construction Safety Week takes place May 4–8, 2026. Learn more, access free resources, and register your company today!

Revolutionizing Construction with Autonomous Drones

AGC of America — Thu, 20 Nov 2025 14:50:00 -0500

Rapid advances in drone technology are reshaping construction, from jobsite safety and progress tracking to automation and AI-powered insights. And with the FAA’s newly proposed Part 108 rule for Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations, the industry may soon see its biggest leap yet.

In this episode of ConstructorCast, host Max Nelson sits down with:
Spencer Phillips, Counsel, Regulatory and Litigation Advocacy, AGC of America
Grant Hagen, Head of Community, DroneDeploy

Together, they break down what contractors need to know about the proposed rule, including:

How BVLOS operations differ from the current Part 107 limitations
What “airworthiness acceptance” means and how it could impact the drone market
How contractors would certify their drone programs, not just individual pilots
The shift toward autonomous and remote piloting
The opportunities and risks as drones integrate into the national airspace
The timeline for FAA rulemaking and how contractors can engage in the process
Whether your firm is already using drones or just considering what’s next, this conversation helps demystify the regulatory landscape and paints a clear picture of what the future of drone usage in construction may look like.

Resources:

2026 Construction Hiring and Business Outlook Survey
AGC's Comments on FAA 108
Article Overview on AGC News
The 2025 AI Resource Guide for Construction Professionals
DroneDeploy's Built Different Podcast

Extreme Impact: The Power of Purpose-Driven Construction

AGC of America — Wed, 24 Sep 2025 11:29:46 -0400

What happens when a construction company takes on the “impossible” and delivers it in record time?
In this episode of ConstructorCast, we sit down with Claire Brehmer and Casey Port of Hubbell Construction Services to talk about their award-winning 2024 Extreme Build project, Homes for Hope. In just five days, Hubbell and its partners designed, coordinated, and built two fully furnished homes for families of brain injury recovery patients through On With Life. The project not only pushed the limits of construction speed and logistics, but also left a lasting mark on the community and everyone involved. Tune in to hear how Hubbell turned an “extreme” challenge into an even greater impact, proving that construction builds more than structures, it builds hope.

The AGC in the Community awards are open for applications now! Is your organization doing something to help your community?
Submit now through October 31!

Guests:
Casey Port Vice President Hubbell Construction Services
Claire Brehmer Communications Manager, Hubbell Realty Company

Learn more about the project
Hubbell's Dig It Podcast
Learn more about Hubbell's AGC Recognition

Tariff Ready? Lessons From The Front Lines

AGC of America — Tue, 08 Jul 2025 14:19:13 -0400

Recorded July 2, 2025
Tariffs are in the spotlight, and construction firms are feeling the heat.
In this episode of ConstructorCast, host Suzanne Hitt sits down with supply chain leaders Tim Jed (DPR Construction) and Jay Pendergrass (Gilbane Building) to unpack the real-world impact of tariffs on materials costs, project timelines, and client decisions.
From supplier price hikes and shifting policies to smart strategies and collaborative solutions, this conversation gets into what contractors need to know now, and how to stay ahead in an unpredictable market.

Guests:
Tim Jed: TimJ@dpr.com | DPR Construction
Jay Pendergrass: JPendergrass@GilbaneCo.com | Gilbane

Resources:
AGC's Tariff Resource Center for Contractors
Webinar Slides:
Pricing Impact by Trade and Gypsum Rock Drywall Example
Market Conditions Report

2025 AGC Workforce Survey

Not Just a Job: Why Students Are Choosing The Construction Industry

AGC of America — Fri, 02 May 2025 10:00:02 -0400

In this episode recorded live at the 2025 AGC Convention, host Max Nelson sits down with Alex Juarez (Pittsburg State University) and Chip Wilson (Colorado State University)—two soon-to-be graduates preparing to enter the construction workforce. They share what inspired their career paths, how AGC student chapters and internships have shaped their journey, and what they’re looking for in potential employers.
Whether you're a contractor looking to connect with emerging professionals or a student thinking about your next step, this conversation offers real-world insights into the future of the industry.

To learn more about AGC's Student Chapter network, visit agc.org/connect/chapters/student-chapters

All In Together: Construction Safety Week 2025

AGC of America — Sat, 08 Mar 2025 19:00:00 -0500

In this episode, we are exploring the 2025 Construction Safety Week theme—All In Together—with insights from this year’s co-chairs.
This theme underscores the industry’s shared commitment to safety, emphasizing that when every worker, company, and partner is fully engaged, job sites become safer for everyone. We'll chat about the initiatives shaping this year’s campaign, strategies for fostering a culture of safety, and how companies can take an active role in promoting teamwork and accountability on the job. Be sure to listen in and start preparing for Construction Safety Week 2025—because safety is a collective effort, and we’re All In Together!

All resources discussed in the episode are available at constructionsafetyweek.com.

Guests:
Mike Choutka - Chairman & CEO, Hensel Phelps
Adam Jelen - CEO, Gilbane Building Company

Mission-Ready: Why Veterans Are a Perfect Fit for Construction Careers

AGC of America — Wed, 05 Feb 2025 19:00:00 -0500

In this episode of ConstructorCast, we shine a light on a vital and often untapped workforce: military veterans.

Host Max Nelson is joined by Adam Stark, founder of Jet.Build and the Veterans Who Build podcast, and Jesse Gemberling-Johnson, a Marine Corps veteran and construction professional leading a veteran hiring initiative.
Together, they discuss the challenges veterans face in transitioning to civilian life, how their skills compare to those needed in construction, and what contractors can do to recruit and retain this incredible talent pool.

Guests:
Adam Stark Principal, Jet.Build | Host, The Veterans Who Build Show
Jesse Gemberling-Johnson Chief Talent Officer, MCFA

Resources Mentioned:
🎧 The Veterans Who Build podcast > Jesse's Episode
📖 An Organizational Guide to Leveraging Military Veteran Human Capital
📊 AGC Workforce Survey Results
📄 National Construction Industry HR & Workforce Conference After-Action Report

The Road Ahead: Post-Election Outlook for Contractors

AGC of America — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 19:00:00 -0500

In this episode of ConstructorCast, host and General Counsel for AGC, Leah Pilconis is joined by Chief Economist Ken Simonson and Vice President of Government Affairs Alex Etchen to unpack the results of the recent election and what they mean for the construction industry.
From workforce challenges and regulatory shifts to infrastructure investment and tax policy changes, our experts provide key insights to help contractors prepare for the opportunities and challenges ahead.

Resources:
2025 Construction Industry Hiring and Business Outlook Survey
Advocacy in Action and Data DIGest Newsletters
AGC Judicial Advocacy Updates
Action Alerts

Reimagining Construction: Transforming the Industry with Generative Tech

AGC of America — Thu, 29 Aug 2024 15:35:40 -0400

From automating tedious tasks to supercharging project management, AI is becoming a game-changer for construction professionals. But it’s not just about the tech—our guests share real-world stories of how AI is transforming their day-to-day work, making projects smoother and more efficient. We also tackle the big questions around ethics and responsible AI use, ensuring that innovation doesn’t come at a cost.

If you're curious about how AI can take your construction game to the next level, this episode is a must-listen!

Guests:
Harry Schmidt Director, Business Strategies | O’Shea Builders
Jared Christman Director, Innovation and Technology | Big State Electric, Ltd
Theresa Voorhies Manager of Construction Customer Success | Autodesk

Resources:
Practical AI in Construction
Learn more about AGC's Member Discount Programs

This episode is sponsored by Autodesk.

Beyond the Hard Hat: Prioritizing Healthy Minds in Construction Safety

AGC of America — Fri, 05 Jul 2024 09:10:57 -0400

In this episode of ConstructorCast, host Max Nelson is joined by key members of Jordan Foster Construction—Asma Bayunus and Tricia Kagerer—to dive into the crucial topic of mental health in the construction industry. They explore the alarming rates of suicide and addiction among construction workers and discuss Jordan Foster's innovative approaches to addressing these issues. Discover the inspiration and development of Jordan Foster's Mind Saver program, and learn about the integration of mental health into daily operations to ensure both physical and psychological safety on-site.
This episode offers valuable insights and practical strategies for promoting mental health awareness and resilience. Join us as we navigate this essential conversation, providing actionable steps to safeguard the wellbeing of construction professionals.

Guests:
Tricia Kagerer Executive Vice President Risk Management
tkagerer@jordanfosterconstruction.com

Asma Bayunus EHS Department - Operations Manager
abayunus@jordanfosterconstruction.com

AGC's Mental Health Resource Page
More on AGC's Culture of Care

Decarbonize and Conquer: The Playbook Unplugged

AGC of America — Wed, 29 May 2024 12:16:45 -0400

In this episode of ConstructorCast, host Max Nelson is joined by key members of the carbon reduction taskforce Myrrh Caplan from Skanska USA, Joe Rozza from Ryan Companies, and AGC's own Melinda Tomaino.
They dive into the creation and significance of the AGC Decarbonization Playbook, discussing its formation, key drivers, content, and expected outcomes. Learn about the collaborative efforts behind the playbook, the challenges and solutions in carbon reporting, and the future of decarbonization in the construction industry.
In addition to Skanska and Ryan Companies, AGC appreciates the support of task force participants from Clark Construction, DPR Construction, Granite Construction, Kiewit, M.A. Mortenson Company, and Turner Construction Company in developing the Playbook.

Resources:
AGC Decarbonization Playbook
AGC Environmental Conference: Details on the upcoming Climate Change and Construction Summit on July 15th can be found at shec.agc.org

ConstructorCast SHORT - Celebrating Construction Safety Week with Alliance Construction Solutions

AGC of America — Fri, 19 Apr 2024 15:40:29 -0400

Take a quick listen to this special ConstructorCast SHORT to hear how member company Alliance Construction Solutions are celebrating Construction Safety Week this year featuring Todd Konigsfeld - General Superintendent at Alliance Construction Solutions, LLC.

ConstructorCast SHORT - Celebrating Construction Safety Week with TDIndustries

AGC of America — Fri, 12 Apr 2024 14:52:03 -0400

Take a quick listen to this special ConstructorCast SHORT to hear how member company TDIndustries, a mechanical contractor based out of Dallas, Texas is celebrating Construction Safety Week this year featuring Jamie Dabbs - Vice President of Safety, Health & Environmental and this year's Construction Safety Professional of the Year!

Behind the Bench: AGC's Litigation Strategy

AGC of America — Fri, 15 Mar 2024 10:05:55 -0400

In this episode, we look into the intricacies of the Associated General Contractors of America's (AGC) litigation program, which serves as a crucial component of its broader advocacy efforts. We explore how AGC strategically engages in judicial matters to safeguard and improve the business environment for construction contractors, aligning with its overarching goal of advancing industry interests and protecting against disruption.
AGC’s legal staff discuss the decision-making process behind legal action, the importance of partnerships, updates on current judicial actions, and the vital role of funding through the Construction Advocacy Fund (CAF). Additionally, we outline guidelines for AGC chapters and members to request support for impactful cases, emphasizing the significance of national impact and broader industry implications in AGC's decision-making.

Guests:
Stephen Sandherr CEO – AGC of America
Jimmy Christianson Vice President, Government Relations – AGC of America
Leah Pilconis General Counsel and ConstructorCast Host – AGC of America

For details on current issues visit advocacy.agc.org
The Construction Advocacy Fund: The Fund helps finance a host of critical campaigns, including AGC’s ongoing efforts to fight for federal infrastructure investments, push back against costly and needless regulatory burdens, promote workforce development and workplace safety, and enhance construction technology. Visit agc.org/caf to learn more.

Timestamped Topics:

00:00 - Introduction
01:35 - Overview of AGC's litigation program and its alignment with advocacy goals
05:37 - Goals and strategies for challenging government regulations
8:08 - Decision-making process for legal action
10:25 - Partnerships and collaborations within the industry
11:58 - Updates on current judicial actions and recent US Supreme Court victories
36:27 - AGC’s litigation program funding
39:53 - Guidelines for AGC chapters and members to request support for impactful cases
41:22 - Conclusion

Value Every Voice: Construction Safety Week 2024

AGC of America — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 10:13:52 -0500

In this special episode of AGC's ConstructorCast, host Max Nelson sits down with industry leaders Dan Johnson, CEO of Mortenson, and Mike Choutka, Chairman and CEO of Hensel Phelps, to dive deep into the upcoming 10th-anniversary celebration of Construction Safety Week.
As this year's Chair and Co-chair, Dan and Mike share their insights on the growth and evolution of Construction Safety Week over the past decade, and discuss the theme for this year, "Value Every Voice."

Guests:
Dan Johnson Chief Executive Officer, Mortenson
Mike Choutka Chairman | Chief Executive Officer, Hensel Phelps

Resources:
All information and resources on Construction Safety Week can be found on constructionsafetyweek.com
2024 Construction Safety Week Slide Deck

Concrete Commitments: How to Create a Culture of CARE

AGC of America — Fri, 19 Jan 2024 08:38:50 -0500

The Culture of CARE is an program created by the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) and the AGC of Washington to support companies in creating diverse, safe, welcoming, and inclusive job sites and promote diversity and inclusion in the construction industry.

Culture of CARE is more than just caring about people; it is asking companies to commit to building work environments where every employee feels valued, respected, and heard through the programs four pillars: Commit, Attract, Retain and Empower.

This episode of AGC’s ConstructorCast podcast highlights the partnership between AGC and FMI in developing a series of articles that explore how construction firms are successfully implementing the four pillars of Culture of CARE. Here we spotlight the transformative impact of a Culture of CARE's two pivotal pillars: Commit and Empower, specifically in the context of fostering leadership and accountability within construction firms. You will hear from two leading construction firms who share how a steadfast commitment from leadership sets the stage for a culture of inclusion and belonging. We explore how empowering employees at all levels contributes to a sense of responsibility, aligning individual actions with organizational values. Join us to understand how cultivating leadership and accountability through a Culture of CARE not only enhances workplace inclusivity but also propels construction companies toward sustained success.

Guests:
Michelle Thompson Senior Consultant | FMI Consulting - https://fmicorp.com
Bill Aalerud Executive Vice President | Columbia Construction Co. - https://www.columbiacc.com Chair, Board of Directors - AGC of Massachusetts
Stephanie Roldan Vice President Learning & Development, Director of Lean Culture | Rosendin Electric - https://www.rosendin.com
Co-host Construction DEI Talks: https://constructiondeitalks.com
Resources:
Visit www.BuildCulture.org and find out more.
Take the Culture of CARE pledge: https://buildculture.org/commit
See the list of Impact Champions who have already taken the pledge: https://buildculture.org/impact-champions/
Take the AGC Diversity & Inclusion Assessment - https://www.agc.org/culture-assessment
2023 FMI Talent Study: https://fmicorp.com/insights/industry-insights/2023-fmi-talent-study
HERstory Emerging Managers Institute: https://fmicorp.com/consulting/training/herstory-emerging-managers-institute
See the article in the latest issue of Constructor Magazine: https://constuctorjanfeb24.mydigitalpublication.com/publication/?i=811684
Direct link to the article at Culture of CARE: https://buildculture.org/commit-to-employee-wellbeing

ConstructorCast - 2024 Outlook: Economic Insights for Builders

AGC of America — Fri, 15 Dec 2023 09:13:36 -0500

In this episode, AGC of America’s chief economist, Ken Simonson becomes your guide through the bustling landscape of construction economics, trends shaping the industry, sound projections for the upcoming year, and how all of the above can impact builders and stakeholders. Tune in to see what contractors can expect in 2024!
Guest: Ken Simonson Chief Economist AGC of America
Subscribe to the DataDIGest

ConstructorCast - Constructing Cyber Resilience

AGC of America — Fri, 17 Nov 2023 09:08:43 -0500

Join us as we explore the dynamic intersection of cybersecurity and the commercial construction industry. Our guest, CJ Dietzman at Alliant Insurance Services, talks about the latest trends in cyber threats, risk management strategies, and innovative solutions shaping the future of digital resilience on construction sites. Don't miss this insightful episode for a blueprint for safeguarding your projects against evolving cyber challenges. #ConstructorCast #Cybersecurity #ConstructionTech #AlliantInsurance #TheMoreRewardingWay Guest: CJ Dietzman Senior Vice President, Alliant Cyber Alliant Insurance Services https://www.linkedin.com/in/cj-dietzman-cissp-cisa Resources: Read Cyber Risk & Security Considerations in the Construction Industry: https://alliant.com/news-resources/article-cyber-risk-security-considerations-in-the-construction-industry/ Learn more about Alliant Cyber: https://alliant.com/risk-management/risk-solutions/cyber/ The NIST Cybersecurity Framework: https://www.nist.gov/cyberframework ISO/IEC 27001: https://www.iso.org/standard/27001 Contact Alliant Cyber at alliantcyber@alliant.com

ConstructorCast - Digging Deeper: Unearthing the Risks of Trenching & Excavation

AGC of America — Fri, 06 Oct 2023 10:19:22 -0400

In this eye-opening episode, we sit down with construction professionals, Phillippe Falkner of Ed Bell Construction Company, and Perry Silvey from BT Construction who are true champions of trenching and excavation safety. Discover the critical importance of safeguarding lives and preventing injuries in the construction industry. Gain valuable insights and practical tips to ensure every project is built on a foundation of safety first. Join us as we unearth the secrets to saving lives below ground. OSHA Trenching and Excavation Webpage: https://www.osha.gov/trenching-excavation Webinar - Staying Safe When Digging: Trenching & Excavation Basics https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mke80vDNIQ4 AGC Targeted Topics Training Resources - https://www.agc.org/agc-safety-and-health-training-resources Partners for Safe Trenching and Excavation Operations: https://www.osha.gov/alliances/safe-trenching-excavation/safe-trenching-excavation Think Inside The Box: https://thinkinsidethebox.info Guests: Perry Silvey, CHST Safety Manager BT Construction Phillippe Falkner Safety Director, Project Management, and Business Services Specialist Ed Bell Construction Company Kevin Cannon, CSP, ARM Senior Director, Safety, Health & Risk Management AGC of America

ConstructorCast - Building Tomorrow's Heroes

AGC of America — Fri, 28 Jul 2023 11:42:41 -0400

Unleash the power of imagination in our latest episode, as we dive into the captivating story of “Grit Leads to Greatness”, a children’s book written by our two guests Chris Eccleston and Jenny Schroen. With workforce issues challenging the construction industry, this brilliant duo saw an opportunity to sow the seeds of interest early on and cultivate a generation that thrives on skill, creativity, and passion. Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation that combines the magic of storytelling with the practicality of real-world skills. Hit that play button and let's embark on a journey of reshaping perceptions about construction, breaking down barriers, and creating exciting pathways for our future builders, architects, and engineers! Chris Eccleston, LEED, AP, CHC President & Founder Delmarva Veteran Builders Chris@delmarvaveteranbuilders.com Jenny Kerr Schroen Creative Developer Delmarva Veteran Builders Jenny@delmarvaveteranbuilders.com Resources: https://www.gritleadstogreatness.com/ https://www.delmarvaveteranbuilders.com/

ConstructorCast - Building Bridges: Construction D&I Winners

AGC of America — Mon, 19 Jun 2023 08:13:57 -0400

On this episode of ConstructorCast, we spotlight success stories and provide actionable strategies for creating a more diverse and inclusive future within the construction industry. You’ll hear from our guest host, Jorge Quezada, and two winners of this year's AGC Diversity & Inclusion awards program – Brad Lewis of Hensel Phelps and Judith Monrouzeau of Bermúdez Longo Díaz Massó (BLDM). They will share how they approached the application, what the recognition means to them and their companies, and how they are learning and getting better from the process. Guests: Judith Monrouzeau, PhD. SPHR. Executive Director of Human Resources Safety & Compliance Bermúdez Longo Díaz Massó, LLC. https://www.bldmpr.com/ BLDM D&I Program One-Pager: https://go.agc.org/DEI-BLDM Brad Lewis, ECMA Corporate Director of Supplier Diversity Hensel Phelps https://www.henselphelps.com/ Hensel Phelps D&I Program One-Pager: https://go.agc.org/DEI_HenselPhelps To explore more about Construction DEI Talks and access their episodes, resources and community, visit their website at https://constructiondeitalks.com. Find out more about AGC’s Diversity & Inclusion Committee: https://www.agc.org/diversity AGC’s Culture of CARE: https://buildculture.org/ AGC’s Diversity & Inclusion Assessment: https://www.agc.org/culture-assessment The AGC Diversity & Inclusion awards are open to general contractors, specialty contractors, and service and supply provider companies in good standing of at least one AGC Chapter. Nominations must be submitted by principals or officers of firms, or with their written permission. https://www.agc.org/DiversityAwards

ConstructorCast - Contractors Care: An Industry of Support

AGC of America — Fri, 12 May 2023 09:30:48 -0400

Construction has one of the highest suicide rates of any industry. It is four times higher than the national suicide average and five times higher than that of all other construction fatalities combined, according to the Centers for Disease Control. AGC of America has established a Mental Health & Suicide Prevention Task Force to stand up against this issue and is honored to have had the chance to speak with the two co-chairs for this episode - Mandi Kime of AGC of Washington and Brandon Anderson of AGC of Missouri. Together they are leading the fight for an industry in crisis. In the episode, they share why they are so passionate, and how they are working to combat construction’s leading mental health difficulties and the stigma that accompanies them. Guests: Mandi Kime Director of Safety AGC of Washington - https://www.agcwa.com Brandon Anderson Vice President of Safety AGC of Missouri - https://www.agcmo.org Resources: AGC of America Mental Health & Suicide Prevention website https://www.agc.org/safety

ConstructorCast - Construction Safety Week 2023

AGC of America — Fri, 31 Mar 2023 14:02:18 -0400

Construction Safety Week started in 2014, when more than 40 national and global construction firms comprising the Construction Industry Safety Initiative (CISI) group and the Incident and Injury Free (IIF) Forum joined forces with a single aim: to inspire everyone in the industry to be leaders in safety. On this episode, Mike Burke of Alberici Constructors and Dan Johnson of Mortenson, both serving as chairs on the Safety Week committee, share some history of the tradition, what this annual campaign means to them, and how you can get involved. This year's Construction Safety Week will take place May 1-5, 2023. Visit the website to find all the resources you need. Guests: Michael Burke Chief Operating Officer Alberici Constructors alberici.com Dan Johnson Chief Executive Officer Mortenson mortenson.com Resources: Construction Safety Week website: www.constructionsafetyweek.com

ConstructorCast - Check Your Chats: How Texts Fuel Disputes

AGC of America — Thu, 02 Mar 2023 22:57:13 -0500

Texters beware: Your data is not your own! Joining on this episode to share their experiences on the front line are Lauren Abeyta, COO at Construction Discovery Experts, and Kristin Protas, VP & Deputy General Counsel at Gilbane Building Company. They talk about the realities and proliferation of electronic communication and how to successfully manage your digital footprint and train your teams to keep you out of trouble. Lauren Abeyta Founder & Chief Operating Officer Construction Discovery Experts https://www.cdelegal.com/#about Kristin Protas VP, Deputy General Counsel Gilbane Building Company https://www.gilbaneco.com/ AGC Hot Topic Paper: The Cutting Edge – Strategically Managing ESI Risks, Costs and Burdens https://www.agc.org/sites/default/files/users/user22628/Managing%20ESI%20Risks%20Costs%20and%20Burdens_FINAL.pdf Presented in January 2023 by Gregory Chertoff, Co-Managing Partner of Peckar & Abramson’s New York office, during AGC’s annual Surety Bonding and Construction Risk Management Conference. https://risk.agc.org/ BIFF Communication: Brief, Informative, Friendly & Firm – created by the High Conflict Institute https://www.highconflictinstitute.com/hci-articles/responding-to-hostile-mail-biff

ConstructorCast - Coming to a Jobsite Near You: Hardhats to Helmets

AGC of America — Fri, 03 Feb 2023 15:51:22 -0500

Traumatic Brain Injuries are responsible for 25% of all construction fatalities, and many life-altering injuries. With this information and emerging technology, many contractors are considering the transition from the traditional brim hardhat, to a chin-strap safety helmet. Joining on this episode to talk about their respective companies journey in this transition, are Seth Randall of Clark Construction, and Jamie Dabbs of TD Industries. Seth Randall, CSP, CHST Regional Safety Director, Infrastructure Group Clark Construction Group www.clarkconstruction.com Jamie Dabbs, CSP, ASP, CRIS Vice President, Safety, Health & Environmental TDIndustries www.tdindustries.com Kevin Cannon Senior Director, Safety & Health Services AGC of America kevin.cannon@agc.org www.hardhatstohelmets.org Photo for graphic provided by Clark Counstruction Group

ConstructorCast - 2023 Vision: The Outlook for Design & Construction

AGC of America — Fri, 16 Dec 2022 15:07:08 -0500

On this episode of ConstructorCast, two of the nation’s leading construction economists will discuss where the economy is headed, construction categories they think will do particularly well, and share their insights on top issues including supply chains and inventories, finding qualified workers, and materials costs. Guests: A.C. Michael Guckes Senior Economist ConstructConnect Michael.guckes@constructconnect.com Construction Economic Resources https://www.constructconnect.com/economic-resources Construction Economic News https://www.constructconnect.com/construction-economic-news Kenneth D. Simonson Chief Economist Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) ken.simonson@agc.org Data Digest, a weekly one-page summary of economic news relevant to construction: https://store.agc.org/Store/Store/StoreLayouts/Item_Detail.aspx?iProductCode=4401&CATEGORY=1900 AGC's Construction Inflation Alert: https://www.agc.org/learn/construction-data/agc-construction-inflation-alert More AGC construction economic information: https://www.agc.org/learn/construction-data

ConstructorCast - What's at Stake? 2022 Midterm Elections

AGC of America — Tue, 25 Oct 2022 10:54:28 -0400

Election day is two weeks away! Are you wondering how results could impact you and the industry? On this episode, AGC Chief Executive Officer Steve Sandherr, Jimmy Christianson, Vice President of Government Relations, and David Ashinoff, Director of Political Affairs discuss all things midterm elections including what congress has accomplished in the current cycle, match-up analysis, and seat predictions. Visit https://constructionvotes.com to register to vote or confirm registration status, obtain early voting and absentee ballot information, confirm your polling place, download employer resources, and more. Members are also encouraged to visit https://advocacy.agc.org to learn more about AGC’s political action committee (AGC PAC) and the Construction Advocacy Fund. Links: https://constructionvotes.com https://constructionadvocacyfund.agc.org/donate/ https://advocacy.agc.org/agc-pac This episode was recorded Oct. 12, 2022. Please be sure to keep up with recent polling results to make your most informed decision on Election Day!

ConstructorCast - Evolving Marijuana Laws and Workplace Safety

AGC of America — Wed, 28 Sep 2022 08:54:01 -0400

Grappling with the maze of marijuana laws and your company policy? On this episode, Bill Judge of Drug Screening Compliance Institute talks about considerations for employers to create and enforce drug-testing policies that are consistent with the laws in all of the states in which they operate – as well as best practices for addressing safety-sensitive roles. Guest: William J. Judge, JD, LL.M. Drug Screening Compliance Institute bjudge@drugscreeningci.com www.askbilljudge.com Resources: At the federal level, marijuana is listed as a Schedule I drug (https://www.dea.gov/drug-information/drug-scheduling) under the Controlled Substances Act. Many federal contractors and all federal grantees are required by law to establish and maintain a drug-free workplace policy. In addition, some federal agencies have rules in place for specific industries/occupations that require employers to have drug testing programs. For example, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT)[https://www.transportation.gov/odapc] and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)[https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/regulations/drug-alcohol-testing/overview-drug-and-alcohol-rules] have adopted drug testing rules for certain drivers. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)[https://www.samhsa.gov/workplace/employer-resources/federal-laws] provides guidance to employers on how to implement drug-free workplaces that will comply with federal laws. States are continuing to legalize marijuana, either for medical use, recreational use, or both. Here are maps of where things currently stand in September 2022 – https://www.agc.org/sites/default/files/Files/ConstructorCast/THC_Group_2022Sep27.pdf. State laws may dictate how (and to what extent) employers can do pre-employment screenings, drug testing, or make employment decisions based on an employee’s drug use. Many employers choose to drug test employees because of safety-sensitive positions, reductions in rates for workers’ compensation insurance, or to ensure that their employees are not impaired on the job. It is particularly important that construction companies review current policies and evaluate the need for changes – based on evolving marijuana laws and to ensure employee safety and reduce company risk.

ConstructorCast - Build America, Buy America: What You Need to Know

AGC of America — Fri, 22 Jul 2022 10:16:59 -0400

In this episode, AGC’s own Jimmy Christianson, Vice President of Government Relations, and Deniz Mustafa, Program Coordinator for the Building Division take a dive into what Buy America/n requirements are, why we have them, and what we may be able to expect from new Buy America Build America Act regulations that come with the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. As government agencies work through their individual processes and procedures, AGC would like to prepare members for imminent changes involving material procurement. Guests: Deniz Mustafa, Program Coordinator, Building Division, AGC of America, deniz.mustafa@agc.org Jimmy Christianson, Vice President, Government Relations, AGC of America, jimmy.christianson@agc.org Resources: Made in America Office within the White House Office of Management and Budget: https://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/management/made-in-america/ AGC's comments to OMB: https://www.agc.org/sites/default/files/Files/Communications/Constructorcast/AGC%20Comments%20Re%20OMB%20RFI%20on%20BABAA%20Construction%20Materials%205.23.22.pdf https://www.agc.org/sites/default/files/Files/Communications/Constructorcast/AGC%20Supplemental%20BABAA%20Comments%20to%20OMB%20RFI%206.6.22.pdf

ConstructorCast - Assessing Design Build Risk

AGC of America — Fri, 01 Jul 2022 05:47:59 -0400

Who’s on the hook for design defects in design-build projects? It may not always be who you think. In this episode, Dirk Haire, co-chair of Fox Rothschild’s Construction Law Practice Group, and David Hecker, group general counsel overseeing all claims, litigation, and investigations for Kiewit Corporation, share their wealth of knowledge on design-build risk. Find out when and why contractors do not always bear the risk of design errors or omissions on a design-build project. This episode explains design-builders’ liability standard and discusses certain types of overreach by owners that merit pushback from design-builders. This podcast episode will help you: 1. Understand the differences between design and performance specifications and how they may govern design liability on a design-build project. 2. Determine when the Spearin Doctrine applies to design-build contracts. 3. Identify cases where a design-builder has received equitable adjustment for defect designs, as well as examples of cases where the design-builder incurred liability for design. 4. Learn how contracting officers’ actions and federal contracting rules and regulations can dramatically raise a design-builder’s risk exposure. Guests: Dirk Haire, Fox Rothschild LLP - https://www.foxrothschild.com/ David Hecker, Kiewit Corporation - https://www.kiewit.com/ Brian Perlberg (co-host), AGC of America - https://www.agc.org/contract Resources: AGC 2022 Convention Slides – https://www.agc.org/sites/default/files/Files/AGC%20Design%20Build%20Presentation%20March%202022(132260853.1)-C%20(1).pdf AGC Article -- Unfair Risk Allocation on Design-Build Project: https://www.agc.org/news/2022/05/23/unfair-risk-allocation-design-build-projects AGC Article -- When is the Price Right? Setting the GMP for Design-Build: https://www.agc.org/news/2022/06/27/when-price-right-setting-gmp-design-build AGC design-build page -- https://www.agc.org/design-build

ConstructorCast - Winning the War on Talent

AGC of America — Fri, 03 Jun 2022 08:00:24 -0400

Struggling to find enough workers?

On this episode, three young construction professionals share their insights about how they made a decision on a full-time position and why their selected firms stood out. This episode was pre-recorded at AGC's Annual Convention. When recording on the road, audio isn't always studio-quality, but the content is worth the listen! Thanks for following!

Guests:
Our guests each bring different perspectives on the recruitment and hiring process and share what got them where they are now.
Trent Fair - Pittsburg State University / Simpson Construction Services, https://simpsonconst.com
Jack McGavran - Pittsburg State University / McCarthy Building Companies, Inc., https://www.mccarthy.com
Collette LeManske - Kansas State University / Brinkmann Constructors, https://brinkmannconstructors.com

Resources:

AGC Student Chapters - Membership in an AGC Student Chapter provides young professionals with an opportunity to observe and develop their skills with current industry leaders. AGC of America, in conjunction with our local Chapters, supports more than 170 Student Chapters nationwide. https://www.agc.org/connect/chapters/student-chapters
AGC Construction Leadership Council (CLC) - The purpose of the CLC is to act as a conduit for participants to network, exchange ideas about work and the industry, serve local communities and continuing education which includes both professional development and leadership skills. www.agc.org/clc
Undergraduate and Graduate scholarship opportunities with AGC open July 1, 2022. Visit www.agc.org/foundation for more information.

ConstructorCast - Environmental Highlights and Headlines

AGC of America — Tue, 19 Apr 2022 10:09:41 -0400

In this episode, we cover the steps the Biden Administration has taken related to construction and the environment. AGC’s Director of Environmental Services Melinda Tomaino walks you through the environmental highlights and headlines on WOTUS (waters of the United States), species-related issues, climate change policy developments and implications for projects, and environmental review and approvals. Find out how AGC is making timely decisions and setting priorities, the important role AGC plays in policymaking, and how you can get involved. Show Notes: Guest: Melinda Tomaino Director, Environmental Services melinda.tomaino@agc.org @AGCEnvironment More Information: There are a few forums available for you to get involved – • Attend AGC meetings and conferences, such as the Construction Safety Health and Environmental Conference on July 26-28, 2022, or the peer group discussion for In-House Environmental Managers scheduled for July 27. https://shec.agc.org/ • Join the Environmental Forum and eForum listserv to hear about new developments and opportunities to engage. https://www.agc.org/industry-priorities/energy-environment/environmental-forum • Serve on the Steering Committee for the Environmental Forum (recruitment annually). https://www.agc.org/news/2021/11/18/volunteers-needed-serve-associations-environmental-steering-committee Read the latest AGC news on Energy & Environmental online at https://www.agc.org/environment. Learn about climate change implications on construction at https://www.agc.org/climate-change.

ConstructorCast - Preparing for Safety Week 2022

AGC of America — Wed, 06 Apr 2022 10:40:05 -0400

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

ConstructorCast - Business Development - Challenge Of The Chase

AGC of America — Tue, 22 Mar 2022 10:53:22 -0400

Business Development within the construction industry presents multiple challenges as competition levels rise, continued supply obstacles occur, and labor shortages pressure companies to do more with less. On this episode, members of AGC’s Business Development Forum – Chris Martin, President at Atlas Marketing and Tonya Byrd (Jackson), Business Development Manager at Gilbane Building Company – discuss these challenges and share best practices and methods to help your construction company grow. Get ready for some first-hand stories of techniques and proven approaches that you can apply to achieve revenue and profit growth in today’s market. Guests: Chris Martin, Founder and President at Atlas Marketing and co-host of Building PA Podcast https://atlasstories.com/ https://buildingpapodcast.com/ Tonya Byrd (Jackson), Business Development Manager at Gilbane Building Company and Vice-Chair of the AGC Business Development (BD) Forum https://www.gilbaneco.com/news-room/press-release/tonya-byrd-joins-gilbane-building-company-to-expand-business-development-strategies-in-georgia/ Resources: AGC Business Development Best Practices (article series) - https://www.agc.org/connect/agc-groups/business-development/business-development-best-practices AGC 2021 Convention Slides - https://convention.agc.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/2021-AGC-Convention-1_Challenge-of-the-Chase.pdf AGC BD Forum - https://www.agc.org/connect/agc-groups/business-development-forum #businessdevelopment #clientrelationships #construction #AGCBizDev

ConstructorCast - Material Price Escalation, Delays, and COVID-19

AGC of America — Wed, 23 Feb 2022 13:15:44 -0500

Construction firms are coping with a seemingly unending series of supply-chain disruptions that are compounding problems caused by record materials cost increases and pandemic-induced challenges to operations. It has never been more important for project participants to be prepared with strategies to mitigate the risk of material price escalation and delays due to material shortages -- in order to preserve the feasibility and profitability of the project. On this episode, Greg Sweeso of Tarlton Corporation, Jack Mumma of Michigan State University, and Ronald Ciotti of Hinckley, Allen & Snyder LLP share risk mitigation strategies available during the bidding, procurement, and contracting phases of the project. Guests: Greg Sweeso, Project Manager, Preconstruction at Tarlton Corporation https://www.tarltoncorp.com/ Jack Mumma, Construction Contract Administrator, Michigan State University https://ipf.msu.edu/ Ronald Ciotti, Partner at Hinckley, Allen & Snyder LLP https://www.hinckleyallen.com/ Resources: ConsensusDocs Price Escalation Resource Center - https://www.consensusdocs.org/price-escalation-clause/ New COVID-19 Epidemic Contract Rider Helps Guide General Contractors and Subcontractors Through Uncertain COVID-19 Construction Risk Management - https://www.agc.org/industry-priorities/contracts-law/construction-law AGC Construction Inflation Alert - https://www.agc.org/learn/construction-data/agc-construction-inflation-alert AGC 2021 Convention Slides: https://www.agc.org/sites/default/files/Files/Communications/Constructorcast/AGC%202021%20Convention%20Slides.pdf Construction Trends & Outlook: https://www.agc.org/sites/default/files/Files/Communications/Constructorcast/Construction%20trends%20%26%20outlook.pdf

ConstructorCast - AGC & Procore: HBCU Scholarship Program

AGC of America — Fri, 14 Jan 2022 12:52:45 -0500

Panel discussion about HBCU Scholarship program between Procore and AGC

Building Inclusive Cultures & Company Success

AGC of America — Thu, 21 Oct 2021 07:00:32 -0400

Building Inclusive Cultures & Company Success Although inclusive cultures offer clear benefits, companies still struggle with knowing how to cultivate the right culture for all their employees. On this episode, Mark Havens talks about how his organization WMFDP | FDP Global (White Men As Full Diversity Partners) transforms mindsets and behaviors to help organizations sustain truly inclusive cultures. We also talk with President & CEO of Clark Construction Company Sam Clark on how he learned the skills needed to build strong relationships, navigate difficult conversations and become an ally. AGC’s Brynn Huenke shares what AGC is doing to provide companies with training and resources that translate learning to action. Show Notes Guests: Mark Havens Senior Consultant White Men As Full Diversity Partners (WMFDP | FDP Global) https://wmfdp.com/ Sam Clark President & CEO Clark Construction Company https://clarkcc.com/sam-clark/ Brynn Huneke Director, Diversity & Inclusion, Member Engagement Associated General Contractors of America https://buildculture.org/ Culture of CARE Launched in 2020, a partnership between AGC of America and AGC of Washington, Culture of CARE is asking companies to make a public commitment to creating diverse and inclusive workplaces by taking the Culture of CARE pledge. Learn more at www.BuildCulture.org AGC’s Construction Diversity Image Library The Construction Diversity Image Library is a collection of photographs for use by the media featuring diverse individuals in the construction workforce. By making imagery that showcases diversity easy to access for reporters, the library aims to increase representation and empower the industry to appeal to new, diverse talent. https://www.agc.org/construction-diversity-image-library

Construction Site Security and Theft Prevention

AGC of America — Wed, 01 Sep 2021 15:19:58 -0400

Contractors may have millions of dollars of equipment, tools and materials stored on their job sites. On this episode, John Wallen of HUB International discusses how to position your firm to best manage the risk of theft. That includes being aware of the coverage details of your insurance policies, taking a multi-layered approach to keeping sites secure and deterring theft, and considering “Internet of Things” (IoT)-based solutions. Also hear tips and best practices on filing a theft report and insurance claim. Guest: John Wallen CPCU, Vice President at HUB International, Wisconsin Construction Industry Practice Leader www.hubinternational.com Resources: Best Practices for Deterring Crime at Construction Sites https://www.constructormagazine.com/best-practices-for-deterring-crime-at-construction-sites/ Solving a Billion-Dollar Problem BEST PRACTICES FOR PREVENTING EQUIPMENT THEFT FROM CONSTRUCTION SITES https://www.constructormagazine.com/solving-a-billion-dollar-problem/ National Insurance Crime Bureau https://www.nicb.org

How Advances In Artificial Intelligence Are Benefiting Construction – Part 2

AGC of America — Thu, 15 Jul 2021 11:22:19 -0400

In part two of this series, we explore how artificial intelligence (AI) can streamline critical construction project workflows by automating time-consuming and repetitive processes like building a submittal log and tracking changes to specs over the course of a project. Bryan Rumple of Mortenson and Sameer Merchant of Autodesk Construction Solutions discuss document management challenges and how AI technology can improve productivity and reduce project risk. Guests: Bryan Rumple, Lead Project Management Controls Engineer at Mortenson https://www.mortenson.com/ Sameer Merchant - VP of product development at Autodesk Construction Solutions https://construction.autodesk.com/ About Pype: https://pype.io/ Pype, part of Autodesk Construction Cloud, is a suite of construction software solutions that use AI and machine-learning algorithms to elevate your efficiency from preconstruction through closeout – specifically for project requirement identification, submittal log creation, and project closeout. About Autodesk Construction Cloud: Autodesk Construction Cloud is a construction project management platform that connects people and data across the building lifecycle, from design through operations.

How Advances In Artificial Intelligence Are Benefiting Construction – Part 1

AGC of America — Fri, 14 May 2021 08:00:26 -0400

On this episode, Josh Levy of Document Crunch, Paul James of BOND Brothers and Brian Perlberg of ConsensusDocs dive deep into how AI and Machine Learning are being used to assess contract risk and inform approaches to construction risk management. They discuss finding the right balance using technology versus operational discretion when bidding contracts, negotiating contracts, administrating projects, and managing insurance compliance. Hear their first-hand experiences on how AI powered contract review software for the construction industry can reduce costs, improve efficiencies and lead to a better industry understanding of what is fair and considered a best practice. Guests: Josh Levy, Co-Founder at Document Crunch www.documentcrunch.com Paul M. James, Senior Vice President, Risk Management & General Counsel at BOND Brothers, Inc. https://bondbrothers.com Brian Perlberg, Executive Director and Senior Counsel at ConsensusDocs https://www.consensusdocs.org Document Crunch, curated by legal professionals and risk management experts in the construction industry, harnesses state of-the-art artificial intelligence/machine learning technology to quickly identify what curators believe are the most important provisions in contract documents, and to also provide key insights and rationale, as well as sample contract provisions and other language. Special Offer for ConstructorCast listeners: Register at https://agc.documentcrunch.com/ for • Free Upload ($300 Value) • 10% off All Future Uploads at Document Crunch

Committed To Holistic Safety

AGC of America — Tue, 13 Apr 2021 12:25:59 -0400

On this episode, President and CEO at Gilbane Building Company Mike McKelvy covers everything you need to know about Construction Safety Week 2021 – happening May 3rd through May 7th. Mike shares his excitement to be the chairman of this year’s event and his passion behind the “Holistic Safety” theme; walks through the wealth of planning resources and communication tools that firms can use to participate; and talks about lessons learned, future goals, and how he keeps him team engaged in safety initiatives. Also hear from some Construction Safety Week partners who are offering free training and resources. Kevin Cannon, head of AGC’s safety and health services, ties it all together with what you need to know about OSHA’s National Safety Stand-Down to Prevent Falls in Construction, which is happening the same week. Featured Guests: Michael E. McKelvy, President and Chief Executive Officer at Gilbane Building Company and Chairman of National Construction Safety Week 2021 -- https://www.gilbaneco.com/ Kevin Cannon, Senior Director of Safety & Health Services at AGC of America -- www.agc.org/safety (via email at safety@agc.org) Additional Resources- 1. Construction Safety Week: https://www.constructionsafetyweek.com/ a. Planning Resources: https://www.constructionsafetyweek.com/plan-for-safety-week/ b. Certificate of Participation (via AGC): https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/KYH2BD8 c. Media Coverage Request Form: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/H8RPZGZ 2. OSHA National Safety Stand-Down to Prevent Falls in Construction: https://www.osha.gov/StopFallsStandDown/ a. Resources: https://www.osha.gov/StopFallsStandDown/resources.html b. Certificate of Participation: https://www.osha.gov/StopFallsStandDown/index.html#cert c. Media Coverage Request Form: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/H8RPZGZ 3. AGC Construction Safety Week and OSHA Falls Stand-Down Webpage: https://www.agc.org/industry-priorities/safety-health/2021-osha-falls-stand-down-construction-safety-week Here you will find additional information to help you plan your event, including the resources referenced by Procore, Milwaukee and Fastenal in this episode.

Leading Women Lead In Construction

AGC of America — Tue, 09 Mar 2021 08:00:18 -0500

As construction continues to be an essential industry in helping our nation’s economic recovery, firms are fighting the growing workforce shortage and looking to recruit more women than ever before. Women are making an impact in the industry by bringing new skill sets, opinions, and experiences into the office and the field – and a diverse workforce leads to stronger companies. Yes, there are certainly challenges. But perceptions and cultures are changing. During “Women in Construction Week 2021,” AGC’s ConstructorCast celebrates the successes and talks about what women have done to further the industry. In this episode, leading women – Lori Dunn-Guion of Swinerton, Maura Hesdon of Shoemaker Construction Co., and Lauline Mitchell of BBI Construction and current NAWIC National VP – share their stories and insights on how to recruit, train and empower women in construction. Listen to find out what attracted them to construction, the skills that have helped them succeed in the industry, and the tools for building a more welcoming, safe, and inclusive workplace. Guests: Lori Dunn-Guion, Division Manager at Swinerton - https://swinerton.com/ Maura Hesdon, General Manager at Shoemaker Construction Co. - https://www.shoemakerco.com/ Lauline Mitchell, Project Manager at BBI Construction - http://www.bbiconstruction.com/ and 2020-2021 NAWIC National Vice President Resources: * All the additional resources shown below can be found on https://www.agc.org/news/2021/03/09/agc-celebrates-women-construction-week U.S. Department of Labor workforce statistics: • Women make up close to 50 percent of the total workforce - https://www.dol.gov/agencies/wb/data/facts-over-time/women-in-the-labor-force#civilian-labor-force-by-sex • Women comprise only 10.9 percent of the current construction workforce - https://www.bls.gov/cps/cpsaat18.htm AGC’s Culture of CARE Sexism in the Workplace Toolkit - https://buildculture.org/make-an-impact/#educate-&-train (consists of three toolbox talks and a discussion guide to help “pledged companies” prepare for and successfully hold discussions with their employees about sexism in the workplace and create actionable next steps following those conversations) Constructor Magazine “How Personal Protection Equipment for Women Pays Off” (March 3, 2021) - https://www.constructormagazine.com/vested-interest/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+ConstructorMagazine+%28Constructor+Magazine%29 National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) Home Page - https://www.nawic.org AGC/NAWIC Partnering Agreement - https://www.nawic.org/nawic/Partners.asp Block Kids Building Competition / NAWIC Education Foundation - https://nef-edu.org/home-page/k-12-education/block-kids-building-competition/ NAWIC Emerging Professionals Committee - https://www.facebook.com/EPNAWIC/ (email at ep@nwic.org) Mentoring Young Women in Construction (MyWIC) Philadelphia - https://nawicphl.org/mywic Shoemaker Construction Co. Wins AGC Diversity & Inclusion Award (May 5, 2019) - https://gbca.com/agc-news-resources/shoemaker-construction-co-wins-agc-diversity-inclusion-award/ GBCA’s Construction Leadership Council (CLC) Coffee Chat with Maura Hesdon of Shoemaker Construction Co. - https://gbca.com/uncategorized/clc-coffee-chat-with-maura-hesdon-of-shoemaker-construction-co/ Swinerton Equity & Inclusion - https://swinerton.com/who-we-are/equity-inclusion/ Swinerton Empowering Women in Construction (Blog) - https://swinerton.com/blog/empowering-women-in-construction/

The Pro Act Legislation - Measuring True Impact On Construction

AGC of America — Wed, 03 Mar 2021 14:31:47 -0500

The Protect the Right to Organize (PRO) Act bill now making its way through Congress attempts to overturn decades of federal policy. Despite its name, the PRO Act does much more than protect an employee’s right to organize and engage in collective bargaining. In fact, the PRO Act would expand the economic weapons available to unions at the bargaining table, at the workplace, and beyond. While the union-favoring legislation presents obvious concerns for open-shop contractors, union contractors may not realize the detrimental impact it could have on them. AGC’s CEO Stephen Sandherr explains on this episode exactly HOW and WHY this bill has potential to cause significant disruption in the construction industry, both for firms and the workers they employ, and upset the delicate balance of rights and restrictions established over decades by the NLRB, courts, and Congress. AGC of America Opposes the misleadingly named “Protecting the Right to Organize” (PRO) Act because it will dangerously wreck the balance between an employee's right to bargain collectively and an employers' right to manage their business. Learn more: https://www.agc.org/protecting-right-organize-pro-act Take action: https://advocacy.agc.org/proact Additional Information: The PRO Act legislation contains provisions that are of particular concern to union contractors, see AGC’s 10-page white paper titled The PRO Act: What Union Contractors Need to Know - https://www.agc.org/sites/default/files/Files/Communications/PRO_Act_White_Paper.pdf Companion one-pager: Impact or PRO Act on Union Contractors - https://www.agc.org/sites/default/files/Files/Advocacy/PROACTunionimpact.pdf PRO Act – Labor Law Reform Legislation Introduced in Congress (Feb. 11, 2021) via AGC News - https://www.agc.org/news/2021/02/11/pro-act-%E2%80%93-labor-law-reform-legislation-introduced-congress AGC Statement: New “PRO Act” Will Hurt Construction Workers, Undermine Their Privacy And Make It Hard For The Economy To Recover, Official Warns - https://www.agc.org/news/2021/02/04/new-%E2%80%9Cpro-act%E2%80%9D-will-hurt-construction-workers-undermine-their-privacy-and-make-it

COVID-19 Is Transforming Construction Jobsites

AGC of America — Tue, 22 Dec 2020 14:00:28 -0500

This episode highlights some of the more unique and innovative aspects of how construction firms have adapted their operations and established new work routines to mitigate against the spread of the virus – so they can continue to work in a SAFE and ESSENTIAL manner. Learn from your peers as you hear Frank Baxter (Skanska USA Building), Mayone Sallows (Butz Family of Companies) and Felipe Serrano (The Beck Group) share how they are making use of technology advancements as well as some rudimentary systems to shift behaviors and change practices during the COVID-19 pandemic. Guests: Frank Baxter | EHS Director | Skanska USA Building -- https://www.usa.skanska.com/ Mayone Sallows | Safety Coordinator | Butz Family of Companies -- https://www.butz.com/ Felipe Serrano | Assistant Project Manager | The Beck Group -- https://www.beckgroup.com/ AGC’s COVID-19 webpage at https://www.agc.org/coronavirus shows how the construction industry is protecting workers and the public. From there you can access the association’s https://workingsafe.agc.org site that highlights examples of safety plans and special safety stand-downs designed to make sure every employee knows and follows new COVID-19 guidelines. AGC also features short safety tips (in English and Spanish) and pictures to illustrate how contractors across the country are routinely practicing social distancing, adding more hand sanitizing stations, and disinfecting projects more frequently, for example -https://workingsafe.agc.org/weekly-safety-tips/. Related Resources “How Is the Pandemic Driving Documentation Technology Usage in Construction?” by Grant Hagen, Virtual Design and Construction Manager, The Beck Group appeared in the Associated General Contractors of America Tech Brief - https://www.naylornetwork.com/ngc-nwl/articles/index-v3.asp?aid=637206&issueID=71021 (September 2020) AGC Project Innovation & Delivery Forum – Volunteer Opportunity: The mission of the forum is to align the execution of construction projects with the latest innovations in safety, quality and productivity, and to educate the industry on best practices in order to deliver quality projects on time and on budget. Visit www.agc.org/projectdelivery to learn more and to join the forum.

Construction 3D Printing In The Here And Now

AGC of America — Mon, 02 Nov 2020 12:39:19 -0500

There’s real potential that we will be printing large concrete buildings in the future. But on this episode, Ryan Shults of Gilbane Building Company and Steven Koehler of Linbeck hope to convince you that contractors can easily benefit from Desktop 3D printing technology right now. They share how they are using 3D printing in various construction applications to help them get, plan and execute projects. Guests: Ryan Shults | VDC Manager | Gilbane Building Company - https://www.gilbaneco.com/ Steven Koehler | VDC Coordinator | Linbeck - https://www.linbeck.com/ AGC Project Innovation & Delivery Forum – Volunteer Opportunity: AGC members can also join the Project Innovation & Delivery Forum. The mission of the forum is to align the execution of construction projects with the latest innovations in safety, quality and productivity, and to educate the industry on best practices in order to deliver quality projects on time and on budget. Visit www.agc.org/projectdelivery to learn more and to join the forum.

Construction Safety Excellence Showcase

AGC of America — Tue, 13 Oct 2020 09:00:04 -0400

The 2021 competition is now open for one of the country’s most rigorous business safety competitions – AGC’s Construction Safety Excellence Awards (CSEA), sponsored by Willis Towers Watson. This episode highlights AGC-member Faith Technologies – the 2020 Grand Award Winner. Faith’s CEO Mike Jansen and their VP of Safety Rocky Rowlett talk about their safety program, their video series called Charged! and share some of their very own best safety practices. Also hear WTW’s Construction Safety and Risk Control Leader Mike Fredebeil discuss an incredible additional benefit of the safety excellence awards: the annual publication of a free document that includes hundreds of “Safety Management Best Practices” gathered from the competing companies’ submissions. AGC’s safety lead Kevin Cannon fills in all the details so you know how to get involved and benefit from the sharing of ideas and strategies. Guests: Mike Jansen, CEO at Faith Technologies Rocky Rowlett, Vice President of Safety at Faith Technologies Mike Fredebeil, North American Construction Safety and Risk Control Leader and certified safety professional with Willis Towers Watson Kevin Cannon, Senior Director of Safety and Health Services at AGC of America Additional Resources: • Faith Technologies – https://www.faithtechnologies.com/ • Faith Technologies “Charged!” Video Series – https://www.faithtechnologies.com/news/video-gallery/ The Charged! Videos can also be found on Faith’s company blog https://blog.faithtechnologies.com/ and social media channels, including Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube. • Willis Towers Watson – https://www.willistowerswatson.com/en-US • AGC Construction Safety Excellence Awards – www.agc.org/csea o 2021 CSEA application o AGC WebEd: Overview of the 2021 CSEA – Thu, Oct. 22, 2020 at 2:00 PM ET - REGISTER: https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/3457861124914414094 o CSEA Safety Management Best Practices (see right sidebar for links to 2017 – 2020 reports)

The Impact Of COVID-19 On Construction Workforce

AGC of America — Fri, 11 Sep 2020 10:07:07 -0400

Since the start of the pandemic, the construction industry has shed more than 400,000 jobs as demand for projects has stalled in many parts of the country. In this episode, Ken Simonson, AGC’s chief economist; Allison Scott, Autodesk’s Director of Construction Thought Leadership and Customer Marketing; and Steven Sandherr, the chief executive officer of the Associated General Contractors of America will talk about the key findings of the 2020 Construction Workforce Survey, observations about how the coronavirus is impacting the sector’s productivity and what AGC will be doing to support the construction industry going forward. Full report of the 2020 AGC Construction Workforce Survey and Fact Sheets by State: https://www.agc.org/news/2020/09/02/coronavirus-has-caused-significant-construction-project-delays-and-cancellations-yet

GenZ’s Perspectives On Industry Engagement

AGC of America — Tue, 08 Sep 2020 14:53:21 -0400

Generation Z will be the future of construction work as baby boomers retire and a new crowd of young people enter the industry. On this episode, an 18-year old Gen Z expert Josh Miller and two AGC student chapter leaders Anna Bennett and Tyler Korte offer authentic insights on how to leverage their unique skills to improve your business. Discover how to target your construction firm’s training and recruiting strategies to better engage with the 16 to 24-year old demographic. Speaker profiles: Josh Miller, Northwestern University – Medill School of Journalism; former director of Gen Z studies at XYZ University (Jan 2018 – July 2020) Anna Bennett, University of Louisiana at Monroe Tyler Korte, Crossland Heavy Contractors, Inc. Field Engineer; Pittsburg State University (Class of 2020 – Construction Engineering Technology)

Celebrate Construction - Built On Safety

AGC of America — Thu, 27 Aug 2020 12:00:14 -0400

On this special episode, AGC’s Senior Director of Safety and Health Services, Kevin Cannon and Director of Safety and Health Services, Nazia Shah, showcase the events scheduled for September 14-18, 2020, (Construction Safety Week and OSHA’s Fall Safety Stand-down) and how contractors and their partners can take this opportunity to recommit to sending every worker home safe each day. Find out how to participate, access online materials and best practice resources, and be recognized for your efforts. RESOURCES 1. Construction Safety Week: https://www.constructionsafetyweek.com/ • Resources: https://www.constructionsafetyweek.com/plan-for-safety-week/ • Certificate of Participation (via AGC): https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/2V7ZLP2 • Media Coverage Request Form: https://www.surveymonkey.com/summary/9bg7gA4eWUXCdgP_2BrNCDb3DF5ZYzqHnAjhb0Tvo9qF8A8obQFe9iQmazK1DWRREp 2. OSHA National Safety Stand-Down to Prevent Falls in Construction: https://www.osha.gov/StopFallsStandDown/ • Resources: https://www.osha.gov/StopFallsStandDown/resources.html • Certificate of Participation: https://www.osha.gov/StopFallsStandDown/index.html#cert If you have further questions about these two events, please email us at safety@agc.org.

The Most Innovative Contractors In The Industry

AGC of America — Tue, 18 Aug 2020 09:39:38 -0400

On this episode of ConstructorCast, we feature three AGC member companies that are pioneering tech solutions to challenges faced daily by the industry. As a result, they were named the 2020 winners of the AGC Construction Innovation Award. Listen and be inspired by their creations. Guests: Anne Brown -- “CopperWorks” by Christman Constructors Inc. Christman Constructors developed a tool called CopperWorks – which is an iOS-based (or mobile) application that brings job-placement logistics into the 21st century. https://www.christmanconstructors.com/ www.copperworks.app VIDEO: https://vimeo.com/370152701/650d17a7e0 Eric E. Cylwik -- “Slab Former” by Sundt Construction Sundt Construction’s creation called Slab Former uses technology to automate means and methods to prefabricate concrete edge forms around a slab, saving contractors time, labor and money. https://www.sundt.com/ VIDEO: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7CiV43oCgpE&feature=youtu.be Susan Heinking -- “Net Zero Trailer” by Pepper Construction Pepper Construction built the Net Zero Trailer – which turned out to be a more comfortable and energy efficient space that also improves jobsite sustainability. https://www.pepperconstruction.com/ https://www.pepperconstruction.com/stories/ideation-net-zero-trailer VIDEO: https://pepperconstruction.wistia.com/medias/va8x1jbsuf Congratulations to our 2020 AGC Construction Innovation Award Winners – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pwSseDQJF9U&feature=youtu.be. Spotlight Your Achievements! AGC Launches 2021 Awards Season: In 2018, AGC of America celebrated 100 years of serving the construction industry. While we celebrated and recognized the past it is important that we continue to look to the future to address ongoing issues affecting the industry. In this spirit, AGC decided to make the Innovation Awards an annual award to incentivize and encourage free thinkers to provide pioneering solutions to industry challenges. Apply by Wednesday, October 21, 2020 for full consideration. Learn more about AGC of America's awards programs at www.agc.org/awards. AGC Project Innovation & Delivery Forum – Volunteer Opportunity: AGC members can also join the Project Innovation & Delivery Forum. The mission of the forum is to align the execution of construction projects with the latest innovations in safety, quality and productivity, and to educate the industry on best practices in order to deliver quality projects on time and on budget. Visit www.agc.org/projectdelivery to learn more and to join the forum.

Using Weather Data To Manage Project Risk

AGC of America — Thu, 02 Jul 2020 13:27:48 -0400

The weather is consistently rated as one of the most frequent and harmful causes of construction project delays. Weather-related claims are also a frequent source of dispute between contractors and project owners. On this episode, Athenium Analytics explains how contractors, their risk management departments, and even their insurance carriers can use hyper-local forecasts as well as historical weather data to manage and mitigate delays, lost weather days, and onsite damages from natural hazards. Tool for Contractors: Protect your team, materials and timeline against weather-related risks. GaugeConstruction is the cloud-based weather analytics dashboard for the construction and business sectors, delivering short-term, long-term and post-event weather insights during every phase of your project – including hyperlocal forecasts, lightening alerts and analysis. You can also configure custom alerts for future weather events that may pose a threat to worker and site safety, based on the location and phase-specific needs for each project. AGC members receive an exclusive 30% discount on GaugeConstruction – sign up using your AGC member ID. Find out more on the AGC Member Benefits Web page https://www.agc.org/member-benefits/ (click Member Discounts).

ConstructorCast Special Edition Ep.10 - $1.5 Trillion Infrastructure Investment Bill

AGC of America — Fri, 26 Jun 2020 14:00:32 -0400

Our country is in desperate need of significant infrastructure investments. Tell Congress and President Trump to advance the $1.5 trillion infrastructure bill! The Moving Forward Act (H.R. 2) provides resources to build roads and bridges, public transit, airports, schools, hospitals, affordable housing, water infrastructure, locks, dams, levees and more. With 1,187,000 construction workers unemployed, and an increasing number of construction firms reporting cancelled or delayed projects, our elected leaders must act now to protect existing -- and create new -- construction jobs! In this episode, AGC’s VP of Gov’t Relations Jimmy Christianson lays out how the proposed House infrastructure package would provide needed investments in a broad range of aging infrastructure and support economic recovery by promoting demand for new construction careers, equipment and materials. Listen to find out how you can tell Congress and President Trump to enact the “Moving Forward Act” to combat the threat of more project delays and worker layoffs. Resources: Get Involved: www.advocacy.agc.org Take Action: https://advocacy.agc.org/moving_forward_act AGC Highlights of H.R. 2, the Moving Forward Act: https://bit.ly/2Bdc11M

COVID - 19 Special Edition - Ep. 9 - PPP Flexibility Act

AGC of America — Tue, 09 Jun 2020 16:32:39 -0400

Get the key facts on how the Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act of 2020 makes significant improvements to the original program that will allow businesses more flexibility in using their loan funds. AGC’s tax, fiscal affairs and accounting expert Matt Turkstra walks through the notable changes regarding how borrowers can spend the funds, and how long they can take to spend the funds, and still qualify for loan forgiveness. This episode also covers new safe harbors for hiring or rehiring qualified employees, as well as changes in the terms of the loan and the repayment timing of any unforgiven loan amounts. NOTES: Visit AGC coronavirus Web page for the latest news and information -- www.agc.org/coronavirus.

Increasing Lean Construction Engagement On The Jobsite

AGC of America — Tue, 02 Jun 2020 16:42:58 -0400

In this episode, three “Lean” practitioners and advocates share their personal stories on how to increase Lean engagement on construction jobsites to reduce waste, improve workflow and add value for project stakeholders. Hear Henry Nutt of Southland Industries, Keyan Zandy of Skiles Group, and Joe Donarumo of Linbeck explain their unique approach to getting earlier and more Lean buy-in from the “boots on the ground” leaders in the field (superintendents and last planners), rather setting Lean performance goals by using a top-down approach. Discover how a “Builder’s Lean” model can produce immediate, positive change on your projects. Guests: Henry Nutt III, Preconstruction/Business Development Manager at Southland Industries Keyan Zandy, Chief Operating Officer at Skiles Group Joe Donarumo, Senior Superintendent & Director of Lean Application at Linbeck Group, LLC All of the additional resources shown below can be found on: https://www.agc.org/news/2020/06/02/new-agc-podcast-episode-lean-construction AGC Lean for Trades Toolbox Series AGC Lean Construction Education Program “Lean, Mean, Building Machines: Understanding and Implementing the Lean Method” by Henry Nutt III appeared in Consulting-Specifying Engineer (December 2019) “The Top 3 Safety Factors Aﬀecting Teams Today” by Henry Nutt III & Dodge Data & Analytics appeared in Construction Business Owner (March 2019) The Lean Builder (book and blog) by Joe Donarumo & Keyan Zandy online AGC 2020 Convention PowerPoint Presentation: “A Blueprint for Builder’s Lean: Six Simple Steps for the Field to Follow” by Joe Donarumo & Keyan Zandy (March 2020) COVID-19 Information: Southland Industries “A3” Factsheet: “COVID-19 Response–Lean Mitigation, Best Practices that Can Keep Workers Safe and Productive” by Henry Nutt III, Andy Rhodes & Natasha Schnaitman (last updated May 11, 2020, V1.0) The Lean Builder blog: “The Daily Huddle – COVID-19 Protocol” by Keyan Zandy (April 6, 2020) The Lean Builder blog: “3 Ways to Pull Plan during the COVID-19 Pandemic” by Keyan Zandy (April 21, 2020)

COVID - 19 Special Edition - Ep. 8 – Going Virtual

AGC of America — Wed, 20 May 2020 15:25:33 -0400

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a dramatic impact on AGC educational programs. Since mid-March, all of AGC’s live events have been postponed or we’ve looked for a way bring the same caliber of information to contractors in a virtual format. On this episode, AGC staff goes over the changes AGC has made to move our programs and events online, including the upcoming Federal Contractors Virtual Conference (https://fedcon.agc.org/) and Construction Safety, Health & Environmental Virtual Conference (https://shec.agc.org/).

Building a Culture of CARE in Construction

AGC of America — Wed, 13 May 2020 09:00:24 -0400

AGC’s Culture of CARE initiative is challenging leaders to take a bold and visible step towards ensuring their workplaces are welcoming, safe and inclusive for an increasingly diverse and talented pool of workers. On this episode, our guests share how this important program got started, how it’s growing, how it’s benefiting contractors in the AGC family, and how more contractors can sign the pledge and get started. Guests: Pastor Lawrence Willis, Urban League Seattle - https://urbanleague.org/ Shannon Gustine, Hensel Phelps - https://www.henselphelps.com/ Kari Karst, BX Civil & Construction - https://www.bx-cc.com/ Visit the website www.BuildCulture.org to find out how your company can take the Culture of CARE pledge. Companies that sign the pledge, are able to take advantage of the many online tools and resources to help them establish a Culture of CARE in their workplaces. These include hardhat stickers, jobsite posters, toolbox talks, sample company policies as well as tips and best practices.

COVID-19 Special Edition - Ep. 7 – Priorities for Phase 4 Coronavirus Relief

AGC of America — Tue, 12 May 2020 16:52:35 -0400

On this episode, we talk with senior AGC staff about Congress’ next coronavirus relief funding proposal, expected policy disagreements, AGC’s top priorities, and the great deal of outreach and advocacy work that the association is doing to keep workers safe and keep construction going. NOTE: As of press time, House Democrats released their recovery bill, and AGC is working on its analysis of the measure.

COVID-19 Special Edition - Ep. 6 - Small Business Loan Success Story

AGC of America — Tue, 28 Apr 2020 10:00:19 -0400

COVID-19 has led to a surge of project cancellations and shut down construction almost entirely in some states, as per AGC’s coronavirus survey results. In this episode, Ali Mills from Plum Contracting Inc., talks about how the new federal Paycheck Protection Program has made a meaningful difference for her company, allowing her to rehire and retain employees and endure the construction stop order in Pennsylvania. As construction is given the green light in PA on May 1, Ali anticipates all her employees will be back to full salary, a story that she will also share at a press conference at the White House today.

COVID-19 Special Edition - Ep. 5 - Paycheck Protection Program Guidance

AGC of America — Fri, 24 Apr 2020 16:40:50 -0400

On April 23, the U.S. Department of the Treasury issued new and troubling guidance on the Paycheck Program. This guidance recasts one of the several vague certifications that borrowers have to make, suggesting that it requires borrowers to prepare themselves “to demonstrate” that, at the time they applied for the loan, that they did not have access to enough other “sources of liquidity” to support their ongoing operations. In this episode, two partners in one of Washington’s most prominent law firms, Crowell & Morning, put the new guidance into context and explain how borrowers should respond to it, including the potentially severe consequences of not assembling the documentation they might need. This information is significant as AGC’s Chief Economist reports that a large share of construction firms have received loan funds, allowing contractors to add and retain employees, as evidenced by AGC’s latest survey results.

COVID-19 Special Edition - Ep. 4 - Critical Workforce; 2nd Round Small Biz Relief

AGC of America — Mon, 20 Apr 2020 17:59:08 -0400

In this episode, AGC explains key changes in Version 3.0 of the feds guidance for identifying the “Essential Critical Infrastructure Workforce,” which state/local governments may use to decide what construction activities may continue during the pandemic. Recognizing that many firms are struggling to retain their crews, we update you on the federal Paycheck Protection Program that ran out of funding last week, and what relief small business contractors can expect in the near term. Also this week, Congress is expected to release a Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) reauthorization bill; listen as AGC shares its top priorities and key polices to protect the nation from floods and keep our waterways open to navigation.

COVID-19 Special Edition - Ep. 3 - Infrastructure for Next Stimulus; Culture of CARE

AGC of America — Mon, 13 Apr 2020 17:27:49 -0400

Today, our host Leah Pilconis talks with Cory Gattie about how AGC of America is making infrastructure a key part of our economic recovery suggestions as we work with Congress and the Trump administration to rebuild the economy. Leah also talks with AGC’s Brynn Huneke about how the association’s new Culture of CARE program can help firms and workers as they cope with the challenges of COVID-19. Learn more about our Culture of CARE at www.buildculture.org.

ConstructorCast - Controlling Communication And Reputation

AGC of America — Fri, 10 Apr 2020 16:16:47 -0400

The harsh reality is that 30 years of work can be destroyed in 30 seconds. It's difficult enough to plan for things that are happening, much less the things that might happen. But statistics show your company will, at some point, face a crisis situation of some type. Preparation is key to ensuring a professional and prompt response for your workers, customers/clients and the public. On this episode, Anthony Huey, president of Reputation Management and creator of CrisisDriver, shares communication tips, techniques and tools that any construction firm can use before, during and after any unfortunate incident to protect their hard-earned image and reputation. Anthony Huey, President at Reputation Management, LLC https://www.communicateclearly.com/ CrisisDriver -- An industry-focused incident response software solution that enables companies to quickly and efficiently respond to and manage negative events; learn more at https://www.agc.crisisdriver.com. Find additional tools and resources on AGC’s Crisis Response and Communication Resources Web Page: https://risk.agc.org/crisis-response-resources/

COVID-19 Special Edition - Ep. 2 - PPP Loans Eligibility Criteria; Safety Stand Down

AGC of America — Mon, 06 Apr 2020 18:37:53 -0400

This episode of ConstructorCast COVID-19 Special Edition offers a preview of the week ahead, including more details on the April 9th National Coronavirus Safety Stand Down and the steps AGC of America is taking to get the Small Business Administration to fix the qualification guidelines for its new Paycheck Protection Program loans so that all construction firms that employ 500 or fewer people can qualify.

Cybersecurity and Construction

AGC of America — Tue, 31 Mar 2020 13:49:53 -0400

Construction firms are vulnerable to many forms of cyberattack, including social engineering, ransomware attacks, wire fraud, and hacking. On this episode, Nikki Ingram, a cybersecurity risk engineer with Zurich North America, talks about what you need to look out for and shares some tips and preventative measures that will help contractors protect themselves. Nikki also presented a breakout session on cyber risks at AGC’s 2020 Annual Convention in Las Vegas. Link to her PowerPoint: https://bit.ly/39wmwIF Additional Resources: AGC of America has several on-demand webinar recordings covering cyber issues for contractors. Check out the collection on AGC’s Risk Management WebEd and Podcast Recordings page (https://www.agc.org/industry-priorities/risk-management/risk-management-webed-and-podcast-recordings), which includes: • New Cybersecurity – New Mandatory Requirements for Defense Contractors • New FAR and DFARS Cybersecurity Requirements for Federal Contractors - What You Need to Know • Wire Transfer Fraud: Understanding and Insuring the Risk Zurich’s Cyber Liability Risk Management Web page: https://www.zurichna.com/insurance/cyber National Institute of Standards and Technology Framework for Improving Critical Infrastructure Security (NIST Cybersecurity Framework) -- This voluntary Framework consists of standards, guidelines and best practices to manage cybersecurity risk, online at https://www.nist.gov/cyberframework.

COVID-19 Special Edition - Ep. 1 - Coronavirus Relief Bill (CARES Act) Details

AGC of America — Thu, 26 Mar 2020 19:14:11 -0400

There is so much going on in Washington DC, especially the last two weeks. We brought together our team of lobbyists who have been worked to help craft the coronavirus relief bill that is set for a vote as early as today (March 27, 2020) in the House. They provided an analysis of what is in the measure and how it could help the construction industry.

Natural Disaster Impacts On Construction Projects – PART 2

AGC of America — Fri, 31 Jan 2020 12:35:07 -0500

Natural Disaster Impacts on Construction Projects – PART 2: In this final episode, our expert panel explores how to navigate through a complex property and/or business interruption claim, common insurance policy coverage issues, and strategies to full recovery after a natural disaster. Check out Part 1 for best practices on preparing for and mitigating the impacts of a natural disaster. Speakers: Tracy Alan Saxe, Partner at Saxe Doernberger & Vita, P.C. www.sdvlaw.com Frank Russo, Founder/Principal at Procor Solutions + Consulting www.procorllc.com Joseph Poliafico, Global Director Insurance & Risk Management at Interstate Restoration www.interstaterestoration.com Read more or listen to Part 1 here: https://www.agc.org/news/2019/12/18/new-constructorcast-episode-natural-disaster-impacts-construction-projects-–-part-1

Natural Disaster Impacts On Construction Projects – PART 1

AGC of America — Wed, 18 Dec 2019 15:15:59 -0500

We kick-off this two-part series discussing how natural disasters affect construction; pre-loss planning; lessons learned in mitigating losses – including insurance considerations before the event; and challenges in restoration and resumption of business operations, immediately post-impact. Stay tuned for Part 2 for expert advice on how to present a natural disaster claim for insurance recovery. Listen in as three experts in claims management, litigation and restoration discuss how they have worked through these tough issues and offer their advice on how you can do the same. Speakers: Tracy Alan Saxe, Partner at Saxe Doernberger & Vita, P.C. www.sdvlaw.com Frank Russo, Founder/Principal at Procor Solutions + Consulting www.procorllc.com Joseph Poliafico, Global Director Insurance & Risk Management at Interstate Restoration www.interstaterestoration.com Read more: https://www.agc.org/news/2019/12/18/new-constructorcast-episode-natural-disaster-impacts-construction-projects-–-part-1

ConstructorCast - 2020 Outlook For Design And Construction

AGC of America — Fri, 08 Nov 2019 14:39:24 -0500

On the latest episode of AGC’s ConstructorCast, we talk with two leading economists covering the construction sector: Ken Simonson, chief economist for AGC, and Kermit Baker, chief economist for the American Institute of Architects. Don’t be put off by their titles, though—these guys speak English! Ken and Kermit provide a fast-paced overview of what to expect in the coming year for different categories of construction spending, labor availability and materials costs. They assess the broader economic environment and how various changes in economic growth or policy could affect contractors. To receive the Data DIGest, Ken’s one-page weekly summary of economic news relevant to construction, email him at ken.simonson@agc.org. Visit AGC’s website at https://www.agc.org/learn/construction-data for construction-specific data and economic information. Access AIA’s business intelligence resources here: https://www.aia.org/business-intelligence.

ConstructorCast: Using Virtual Design To Build Better

AGC of America — Fri, 11 Oct 2019 10:01:16 -0400

In this episode of AGC’s ConstructorCast, we talk with virtual design and construction (VDC) leaders from Barton Malow Company(www.bartonmalow.com), Matt Hedke and Alan Todd, about the benefits of VDC, technology selection and how to ensure successful companywide integration. Barton Malow defines VDC as the application of BIM and related technology throughout the project lifecycle (pursuit to closeout) to improve overall project performance. Barton Malow shares how it picks the right tools -- and how it uses technology to continually improve safety, quality and productivity during construction. Listen and learn how the company’s VDC team partners with project delivery teams, including design and trade partners, to ensure they are trained to use the technologies that can best help them plan and execute the work on their projects. View Barton Malow’s VDC Quarterly Reports (https://www.bartonmalow.com/VDC-quarterly-reports) on the benefits of VDC and how it adds value to the owner. Join the more than 1,000 AGC members who have earned their CM-BIM credentials; complete AGC of America’s BIM education program – www.agc.org/BIM.

ConstructorCast: Handling a Crisis

AGC of America — Tue, 27 Aug 2019 15:19:32 -0400

On the latest episode of the ConstructorCast, we speak with two industry experts on how construction firms can best prepare for and handle the aftermath of a crisis. We discuss the logistical implications of crisis preparedness as well the imperative to address the psychological and emotional repercussions of job site accidents. Access more resources here: https://meetings.agc.org/risk/crisis

ConstructorCast: The Evolving Construction Risk Environment

AGC of America — Tue, 09 Jul 2019 11:10:51 -0400

In this episode we explore how the construction industry's risk environment is evolving and what it means for your business. Ryan Howsam, Principal at FMI Corporation, explains the results of the AGC/FMI 2019 Risk Study, highlighting key trends and takeaways. View the survey results here: https://www.agc.org/industry-priorities/risk-management/reports-hot-topic-papers

ConstructorCast: Technology Changing the Construction Industry

AGC of America — Wed, 29 May 2019 12:31:26 -0400

ConstructorCast: Technology Changing the Construction Industry by AGC of America

ConstructorCast: AGC 100th Convention Highlights

AGC of America — Wed, 24 Apr 2019 16:03:05 -0400

ConstructorCast: AGC 100th Convention Highlights by AGC of America

ConstructorCast: How to Advance Your Career

AGC of America — Tue, 26 Mar 2019 16:43:30 -0400

ConstructorCast: How to Advance Your Career by AGC of America

ConstructorCast: OSHA Crane Operator Evaluation Requirement

AGC of America — Mon, 25 Feb 2019 17:12:50 -0500

ConstructorCast: OSHA Crane Operator Evaluation Requirement by AGC of America

ConstructorCast: How To Train Construction Supervisors

AGC of America — Tue, 05 Feb 2019 13:30:12 -0500

ConstructorCast: How To Train Construction Supervisors by AGC of America

ConstructorCast: Lean

AGC of America — Fri, 04 Jan 2019 13:06:32 -0500

ConstructorCast: Lean by AGC of America

ConstructorCast: The 2018 Elections

AGC of America — Wed, 21 Nov 2018 15:46:56 -0500

ConstructorCast: The 2018 Elections by AGC of America

ConstructorCast: The Opioid Crisis & Construction

AGC of America — Tue, 23 Oct 2018 20:47:10 -0400

Additional resources Constructor Magazine article: https://www.constructor-digital.com/ngcs/july_august_2018/MobilePagedArticle.action?articleId=1408816#articleId1408816 The Center for Construction Research and Training website: https://www.cpwr.com/research/opioid-resources Suicide, Addiction, and Mental Health toolbox talk: https://www.agc.org/sites/default/files/Files/Communications/Toolbox%20Talk%20SAMH.PDF

ConstructorCast: The State of Worker Shortages

AGC of America — Sun, 30 Sep 2018 22:49:40 -0400

Read the survey results and analysis here: https://www.agc.org/news/2018/08/29/eighty-percent-contractors-report-difficulty-finding-qualified-craft-workers-hire

ConstructorCast: The Education and Research Foundation

AGC of America — Mon, 13 Aug 2018 16:50:16 -0400

ConstructorCast: The Education and Research Foundation by AGC of America

ConstructorCast: Infrastructure Funding Update

AGC of America — Tue, 17 Jul 2018 10:52:10 -0400

ConstructorCast: Infrastructure Funding Update by AGC of America

ConstructorCast: Looking Back On 100 Years

AGC of America — Tue, 19 Jun 2018 14:29:28 -0400

ConstructorCast: Looking Back On 100 Years by AGC of America

How Steel & Aluminum Tariffs Hurt Construction

AGC of America — Tue, 08 May 2018 15:31:39 -0400

How Steel & Aluminum Tariffs Hurt Construction by AGC of America

ConstructorCast: Dealing with Legalized Marijuana

AGC of America — Mon, 09 Apr 2018 17:17:31 -0400

ConstructorCast: Dealing with Legalized Marijuana by AGC of America

ConstructorCast: Trump's Infrastructure Plan

AGC of America — Tue, 06 Mar 2018 14:23:55 -0500

ConstructorCast: Trump's Infrastructure Plan by AGC of America

ConstructorCast: Working At The Local Level

AGC of America — Thu, 01 Feb 2018 15:40:23 -0500

ConstructorCast: Working At The Local Level by AGC of America

ConstructorCast: Where We Are With Tax Reform

AGC of America — Fri, 15 Dec 2017 11:35:34 -0500

ConstructorCast: Where We Are With Tax Reform by AGC of America

Streamlining Environmental Permitting in Construction

AGC of America — Fri, 17 Nov 2017 14:11:46 -0500

Streamlining Environmental Permitting in Construction by AGC of America

ConstructorCast: Men Without Work

AGC of America — Thu, 26 Oct 2017 14:17:20 -0400

ConstructorCast: Men Without Work by AGC of America

ConstructorCast: Diversity & Inclusion in Construction

AGC of America — Tue, 19 Sep 2017 16:06:48 -0400

ConstructorCast: Diversity & Inclusion in Construction by AGC of America

ConstructorCast: What You Don't Know About Safety Could Kill You

AGC of America — Tue, 15 Aug 2017 14:40:30 -0400

ConstructorCast: What You Don't Know About Safety Could Kill You by AGC of America

ConstructorCast: Construction's Case for Immigration Reform

AGC of America — Thu, 11 May 2017 16:42:34 -0400

ConstructorCast: Construction's Case for Immigration Reform by AGC of America

ConstructorCast: Why Construction Needs Standard Form Contracts

AGC of America — Tue, 21 Mar 2017 15:49:17 -0400

ConstructorCast: Why Construction Needs Standard Form Contracts by AGC of America

ConstructorCast: Construction Policy & the New Congress

AGC of America — Thu, 26 Jan 2017 13:53:39 -0500

ConstructorCast: Construction Policy & the New Congress by AGC of America

ConstructorCast: What Trump Could Mean for Construction

AGC of America — Tue, 29 Nov 2016 15:11:47 -0500

ConstructorCast: What Trump Could Mean for Construction by AGC of America

ConstructorCast: OSHA Rule Affecting Drug Testing

AGC of America — Mon, 17 Oct 2016 14:42:53 -0400

For this episode, we sit down with Jimmy Christianson, AGC's Regulatory Counsel, for the full story on how OSHA's rule may prevent companies from using post-incident drug and alcohol testing, what contractors need to know about compliance, and what AGC is doing to stop the rule. UPDATE (10/21): https://www.agc.org/news/2016/10/21/osha-delays-rule-enforcement-related-post-incident-drug-testing-position UPDATE (10/24): https://www.agc.org/news/2016/10/24/agc-efforts-help-move-osha-modify-controversial-drug-testing-position

ConstructorCast: Cyber Security

AGC of America — Fri, 16 Sep 2016 10:27:19 -0400

ConstructorCast: Cyber Security by AGC of America

ConstructorCast: Multiemployer Pension Reform

AGC of America — Thu, 18 Aug 2016 11:13:41 -0400

ConstructorCast: Multiemployer Pension Reform by AGC of America

ConstructorCast: OSHA's Silica Rule

AGC of America — Tue, 12 Jul 2016 11:30:52 -0400

ConstructorCast: OSHA's Silica Rule by AGC of America

ConstructorCast: 2016 Elections

AGC of America — Thu, 09 Jun 2016 11:34:02 -0400

ConstructorCast: 2016 Elections by AGC of America