All major segments of construction spending increased in October, bringing total spending to a 37-month high at an annualized rate of $872 billion, according to an analysis of new federal data released by the Associated General Contractors of America. Association officials warned, however, that the fiscal cliff imperils future improvement in both public and private spending. Widespread gains in spending in October, along with hefty upward revisions to estimates for the previous two months, show that construction has finally come out of its long slump, said Ken Simonson, the association’s chief economist. Although all major spending categories are far below … Read more

The Design-Build Institute of America, the only organization that defines, teaches and promotes best practices in design-build project delivery, has revamped its committee structure and reached out to renowned industry experts to dramatically strengthen the reach, products and services of DBIA. Barbara Wagner, senior vice president, Clark Construction Group and chair of DBIA"s 2013 National Board of Directors said, “This is a very exciting time to take the helm. Our goals are aggressive, but our Thought Leaders represent some of the best minds in the industry. I"m confident they will move DBIA and the A/E/C community in the right direction.” … Read more

The Association of Equipment Manufacturers and the I Make America campaign announce the 2012 recipients of the annual Pillar of the Industry awards, given to companies achieving or maintaining Gold status in the campaign. The awards recognize the companies" tremendous dedication and outstanding contributions to the people and communities of the equipment manufacturing industry through extensive I Make America campaign activities in support of pro-manufacturing policies to improve the economy. AEM and I Make America initiated the awards in 2011 to honor the work of these true industry champions. For 2012 a total of 19 companies received Pillar of the … Read more