Weekly Grind: New ConTech Report Presents Some Interesting Findings, Pros and Cons of P3s, and Honoring Our Vets

The latest construction news from around the globe…

Catch up on what’s going on in construction this week. From a story on Skanska USA’s inclusion and diversity journey to the world’s most extreme construction jobsites, we’ve got you covered on all the industry news from around the world.

New Report Demonstrates Growing Need for ConTech in the Industry

Conducted with over 700 industry representatives throughout the world, the FMI report looks at the major concerns firms are facing, and how they are addressing them.

Overall, the report finds that although construction companies are open to adopting new technologies, in order to realize some tangible results there must be an established and internal culture shift.

Staying Warm on the Jobsite This Winter

With reports suggesting temperature drops of 15-25 degrees in some US cities, it’s time to start seriously thinking about bundling up before leaving the house.

Check out this article by Construction Boss Owner to find out how to avoid contracting frostbite on the jobsite during these cold and wet months.

Skanska Creates a Safety Vest Tailored to Meet the Needs of the Women Workforce

As gender diversity continues to grow in the construction industry, construction leader Skanska USA has taken steps to ensure that its personal protective equipment (PPE) is inclusive of all construction professionals.

Take for example their new safety vest, with an adjustable band around the waist that removes the larger fit of original vests, Skanska is prioritizing the safety of everyone on the jobsite.

Photo courtesy of Skanska USA.

Why VR Still Isn’t Where It Needs to Be

While the buzz around VR and its benefits have been substantial for some time now, many wonder when VR will become readily utilized in the construction industry.

According to Michael Fontana, a Senior VDC Engineer at VIATechnik, before VR is a viable platform for construction, these three things need to happen first.

British Prefab Housing Company Makes Big Announcement

Westward Ho-based prefabrication company, Koto recently announced that along with the help of American homebuilder Abodu, it is now able to deliver its modular cabins within two weeks of purchase to anywhere in the Bay Area. Additionally, other areas in the US will receive their cabin within 12 weeks of purchase.

Check out some of their previous work here.

Photo courtesy of Koto.

U.S. DOT Announces Largest Investment in U.S. Infrastructure Ever

Through the BUILD Transportation Discretionary Grants program, the DOT has confirmed that new funding will be awarded to 55 projects in 35 states.

To reflect its effort to rebalance historic underinvestment in rural America, the DOT has awarded 50% of BUILD Transportation grant funding to projects located in rural areas.

The Pros and Cons of P3s

During a recent session at the Design-Build Conference & Expo 2019, panelists weighed the strengths and weaknesses of public-private partnerships in big construction projects.

While some large contractors have decided to opt-out of the P3 business, traditional design-build projects aren’t always the smarter business move.

NYC’s Midtown Slated to be a Construction Zone for the Next 20 Years

Originally reported by the Wall Street Journal, a major construction project is expected to commence soon in one of Manhattan’s busiest neighborhoods.

The twenty-year project will cost $2 billion and begin closing lanes and sidewalks on Park Avenue in 2021.

Why Veterans Are the Perfect Candidate for the Construction Industry

The Home Builders Institute (HBI), Military and Veterans program is designed to help transitioning military and veterans at every stage of the employment continuum.

Thanks to HBI, retired U.S. Army Sergeant Trevor Warner was set on the path to success and ultimately demonstrated high-quality construction skills.

WATCH: The World’s Most Extreme Construction Site

If you have an extra moment, take a few minutes to check out this video by B1M.

Located in some of the world’s coldest and most remote places, these jobsites top the list for the most intense workplace environments.

This was just an appetizer. Are you ready for the full course?

Dive into more business news, check out the latest tech trends, and get a couple quick tips from our health section.