Marcum Commercial Construction Index Reports Strong Q4 Driven by Infrastructure Spending

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The Marcum Commercial Construction Index for the fourth quarter of 2019 reports healthy levels of construction spending in large part due to the ongoing strength in infrastructure-related categories.  Nonresidential construction spending stood at an annualized rate of $779.6 billion in December 2019, down 1.2% from the previous month but up 4.4% year-over-year. The index is produced by Marcum’s National Construction Services group. Eleven of the 16 nonresidential construction sectors expanded year-over-year, including massive upticks in publicly funded categories like water supply (+33.6%), conservation and development (+16.9%), highway and street (+14.1%) and public safety (+10.1%). Spending decreased from the same time last year … Read more

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NARI Updates Key Certification to Keep Remodelers ahead of Changing Industry Demands

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To align remodeling professionals with newly emerging industry best practices and technologies, the National Association of the Remodeling Industry will introduce a comprehensive update to its Universal Design Certified Professional certification in early 2021. This important certification announcement showcases the commitment of NARI to lead the remodeling industry as demand for universal design projects continues to show steady growth. The updated UDCP certification will be supported by an all-new study guide and examination, and approved by a certification board comprised of select certified remodelers. The UDCP certification update marks the third NARI certification to be adjusted to meet member needs … Read more

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Architecture Billings Continue Growth into 2020

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Starting the year on a strong note, architecture firm billings strengthened slightly in January, according to a new report today from The American Institute of Architects. AIA’s Architecture Billings Index score of 52.2 for January compared to 52.1* in December reflects an increase in design services provided by U.S. architecture firms (any score above 50 indicates an increase in billings). Indicators of work in the pipeline, including new project inquiries and new design contracts remained positive, posting scores of 57.9 and 56.0 respectively. “Despite the continued presence of volatility in the economy, design activity has begun to accelerate in recent … Read more

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Construction Advisory Committee Workgroups to Meet, Discuss Industry Hazards

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The U.S. Department of Labor will hold a teleconference meeting of the Advisory Committee on Construction Safety and Health Workgroups on Thursday, March 5. The Education, Training and Outreach workgroup will meet from 10 a.m. to noon EST to discuss trench safety and fall prevention. The Emerging and Current Issues workgroup will meet from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. EST to discuss opioids and suicides in construction. WHAT:          Teleconference Meeting of Advisory Committee on Construction Safety and Health Workgroups WHEN:          Thursday, March 5 Education, Training and Outreach workgroup: 10 a.m. to noon EST Emerging and Current Issues workgroup: 1-3 p.m. … Read more

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Debra Hilmerson, Hilmerson Safety Top Women in Construction Finalist

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Although construction is a male-centric industry, Finance & Commerce heard stories of how certain women are impacting Minnesota’s construction industry and felt the time was right to recognize that contribution. Debra Hilmerson, Hilmerson Safety, has been recognized as a Finance & Commerce Finalist Women in Construction: Minnesota Company to Watch. All nominations were submitted by peers and supporters with an outside panel of judges selecting a limited number of finalists. Criteria included excellence in performance above and beyond the job description; and a company’s or an individual’s innovative approaches to industry development, community involvement and business integrity. Categories include: Industry … Read more

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