Construction Unemployment Rate Increases Slightly, Higher Pay Levels Attract People with Recent Construction Experience

Construction employment increased by 17,000 jobs in April and by 257,000 jobs over the past year while firms boosted pay to help recruit new workers, according to an analysis of new government data by the Associated General Contractors of America. Association officials noted the increases in pay appear to be attracting more former construction workers back into the job market, but cautioned that labor conditions remain extremely tight. “Many firms are boosting pay and taking other steps to compete for a relatively small pool of available, qualified workers to hire,” said Stephen E. Sandherr, the association’s CEO. “While these steps … Read more

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Bluebeam Revu 2018 Redesigned for Maximum Efficiency

Bluebeam, Inc. has released Revu 2018, which features a new interface and enhancements designed to maximize productivity, improve predictability and fast-track new users while supporting existing workflows. Bluebeam Revu is a project-efficiency and collaboration solution tailor built for the AEC industry, and trusted by over 1.2 million design and construction professionals worldwide to improve project communication and streamline processes. Revu 2018 puts the tools and resources professionals need right where they need them, transforming the way projects are designed, engineered and built. Work faster with a responsive properties toolbar; focus on the work with improved panel views; boost efficiency by … Read more

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Festool Mixer Features Jobsite-Tough Design

Festool has launched the Mixer MX 1200 EF, featuring tool-free height adjustment and a variety of optional, quick-change stirrer rods that broaden the application scope from stirring paint to mixing drywall mud and mortar. The mixer’s design also features rubber corner bumpers and a motor cap, which contribute to its robust, jobsite-tough design. Feature highlights of the mixer include ergonomic height control and tool-free rod changes; high-power 1200 watt (10 amp) motor equipped with soft-start feature, as well as variable speed controls in the trigger and speed control dial.

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DEWALT LANYARD READY Solutions Available for Select Corded, Cordless Tools

DEWALT’s LANYARD READY solutions are now available for select corded and cordless tools. These integrated solutions offer options to tether select corded and cordless tools to rigid structures on jobsites when working at heights with a maximum lanyard length of 2 meters, helping to secure the tool in case it’s dropped. The solutions are available in two ways: pre-installed or by a DEWALT service center where attachment points can be installed on select cordless DEWALT drills and impact drivers. Kitted LANYARD READY cordless tools such as the 20V MAX* Brushless Hammer Drill/Impact Driver Combo Kit include an integrated lanyard attachment … Read more

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McShane Construction Company’s SW Regional Team Grows with 3 New Hires in Phoenix Office

McShane Construction Company’s Southwest Region is growing with the addition of three experienced veterans to the team in its Phoenix, Arizona office. Marc Roberts, LEED AP, was hired as the new director of pre-construction. Roberts will lead McShane’s comprehensive pre-construction services for numerous projects within the multi-family, industrial, office and healthcare markets, among others. He is responsible for the preparation of cost estimates, value engineering, lifecycle cost analyses, constructability reviews and project scheduling. Roberts received his Master of Architecture and Business Administration from the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign. Elaine McLean is the newest senior project manager to join McShane’s … Read more

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