RALEIGH, N.C. — FMI released the second quarter 2012 Construction Outlook Report. FMI's forecast calls for 3 percent growth for construction put in place by the end of 2012 and another 7 percent in 2013 for a total of $882.4 billion. This is $92.6 billion more than the lows of 2011. Despite the constant confusion of news from Europe and uncertainty and inaction in the U.S. Congress, there are some positive signs in the economy. As one might expect, improving housing construction is helping to lead the way, especially multi-family housing. However, power construction is another strong point, and even … Read more

LIVERMORE, Calif. — Topcon Positioning Systems announces the “Topcon is Everywhere” photo contest — inviting participants from around the world to share a look at where and how Topcon products are being used. “Topcon is a global company and our equipment is "everywhere" from high-accuracy monitoring in a large-scale London tunneling project, to mapping flood-affected areas in Australia to leveling a field in South Carolina,” said Scott Langbein, TPS director of product marketing. “Topcon products can be found on the jobsite, saving time and increasing productivity around the globe and we invite the public to share those photos with cash … Read more

ALACHUA, Fla. — On June 27, the winners of the SkillsUSA Carpentry Competition were announced at the awards ceremony for the 48th annual SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference. The Conference was held in Kansas City, Mo. More than 5,600 outstanding career and technical education students joined in the excitement of hands-on competition in 94 different trade, technical and leadership competitions. This is NCCER's third year sponsoring the SkillsUSA Carpentry Competition, with carpentry committee chair Boyd Worsham of The Haskell Company leading the way in organizing the event.NCCER is proud to congratulate secondary level medalists Brandon Hicks of Tiffin, Ohio … Read more

ATLANTA, Ga. — HD Supply White Cap Construction Supply released its 2012-13 full-line catalog, featuring thousands of new products and an enhanced index for greater ease-of-use. The new catalog provides professional contractors with quick and easy access to the hardware, tools, materials, pricing and information needed to get the job done right. “The White Cap catalog is a great tool on the jobsite,” said HD Supply White Cap Construction Supply President John Stegeman. “From the sheer number and variety of products we offer, to the expert tips and tricks of the trade our associates share within these pages—the catalog provides … Read more