Category: Labor & Workforce Development
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Construction Firms Embracing Tech Gain Competitive Edge in Bids, Revenue, and Talent
Don’t underestimate what technology can do for a construction business. That’s the overriding message from a newly released benchmarking report covering the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industries. Findings from the 2025 AEC Inspire Report from Unanet [of which I am co-author] show a clear performance divide between AEC firms that are mature in their…
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Key Takeaways from the 2025 NAPA Mid-Year Conference in Louisville
As I write this, I just got back from Louisville, Kentucky, and while the bourbon down there flows as freely as a McDonald’s soda fountain—the conversations, ideas, and industry insights at the NAPA Mid-Year Meeting were just as prevalent. As someone who’s spent time in the trenches with the commercial pavement maintenance professionals, I’ll be…
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How to Reduce Construction Turnover by Building a Culture of Loyalty and Engagement
Employee turnover is notoriously high in construction — outpacing other industries by an average of 2.5% in 2024. This churn carries a steep price. Research shows that hiring and training new construction staff can cost between 50 and 200% of each worker’s annual salary. High turnover also leads to knock-on effects, hindering your ability to…
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How AI Is Reshaping Construction: Tackling Labor Shortages, Data Silos and Project Complexity
The construction industry is poised for a $4.2 trillion expansion over the next 15 years. But there’s a catch: a growing skills gap, with job vacancies already up 41% year-over-year, and looming retirements threatening to worsen the shortage of qualified professionals. This is where artificial intelligence (AI) steps in, not just as a futuristic technology,…
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Bobcat Appoints First Ever Chief Marketing Officer
Bobcat Company has appointed Laura Ness Owens as its first Chief Marketing Officer, a new executive role overseeing global marketing, brand, customer experience and corporate communications. Ness Owens has been with the company since 2003, serving in various leadership roles across marketing, communications, dealer development, and brand management. Most recently, she held the position of…
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Bobcat Appoints First Ever Chief Marketing Officer
Bobcat Company has appointed Laura Ness Owens as its first Chief Marketing Officer, a new executive role overseeing global marketing, brand, customer experience and corporate communications. Ness Owens has been with the company since 2003, serving in various leadership roles across marketing, communications, dealer development, and brand management. Most recently, she held the position of…
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Hiring AI in Equipment Rental
The skilled labor crisis isn’t on the horizon—it’s already here. Millions of Baby Boomers with decades of hard-earned knowledge and experience in the field service industry are retiring and equipment dealers and rental businesses are feeling the effects: shrinking profits, rising costs, and a knowledge gap that threatens efficiency and customer satisfaction. This isn’t just about…
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DOGE Reforms Trigger Surge in Federal Construction Contract Terminations
The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has launched sweeping reforms aimed at eliminating waste, streamlining procurement and reallocating federal funds away from underperforming or redundant programs. While DOGE’s mission focuses on government operations, government contractors – including in the construction industry – are feeling the ripple effects of the department’s actions. One of the most…


