New Radar, AI Method Reveals Hidden Flaws in Cold-Formed Steel Structures

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A University of Houston engineer has developed a method to detect possible damage in concealed cold-formed steel construction framing materials hidden behind walls, without having to tear the walls open. The new technology uses ground-penetrating radar and artificial intelligence to automatically detect possible damage in materials like studs and joists made of the lightweight steel found in 30% to 35% of nonresidential buildings in the United States.    Over the past decade, as advancements in developing cold-formed steel surged, its use in the construction industry has soared. In comparison to hot rolled steel, cold-formed steel is more affordable and offers … Read more

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NFPA Report Reveals Disconnect Between Organizational & Workforce Priorities

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Skilled Workers Look to Technology Amid Workforce Shortages and Codes & Standards Rollbacks The National Fire Protection Association released its annual “State of the Skilled Trades” report, which highlights workforce perspectives, sentiments and anticipated challenges as artificial intelligence, deregulation and labor shortages remain pervasive industry concerns. The report unveils what is driving uncertainty, where avenues for progress are opening, and how industry leaders can better align with their employees in the coming year. As AI reshapes work, employees want more training, not just more technology Most skilled trade professionals anticipate significant growth in AI usage throughout 2026, but many believe that improved training should be a higher priority. This reveals an emerging … Read more

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AGC Report: Contractors Have ‘Dampened’ Expectations for 2026

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Construction contractors have “dampened” expectations for 2026, aside from surging demand for data centers and power facilities, amid broader worries about the direction of the economy, according to Dampened Expectations: The 2026 Construction Hiring and Business Outlook, which the Associated General Contractors of America and Sage released. In addition to lower expectations, contractors report they have been impacted by tariffs, enhanced immigration enforcement and challenges finding qualified workers. “While there are pockets of optimism in select private-sector markets, contractors’ overall sentiment has dampened notably compared to last year,” said Jeffrey Shoaf, the association’s CEO. “One reason for their lowered expectations is … Read more

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New NFPA Study Spotlights AI Adoption, Training Trends in Skilled Trades

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The National Fire Protection Association released findings from its third-annual industry survey conducted at the NFPA 2025 Conference & Expo. The survey highlights how people across the skilled trades are viewing industry changes and where their fields are headed, against the backdrop of persistent labor shortages and growing demands fueled by infrastructure investment and technological advancement. “The skilled trades are at a turning point: rising safety hazards, rapid technology adoption and an unprecedented demand for training are reshaping how work gets done,” said Jim Pauley, president and CEO at NFPA. “Leaders must understand how these forces are affecting skilled professionals. … Read more

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Skanska Adopts AI-Powered Security Monitoring Technology for Project in Washington State

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Skanska is teaming up with Hakimo, a technology company dedicated to modernizing physical security through its artificial intelligence software, to be among the first to use the company’s AI-powered security monitoring tools at Skanska’s 4.5-mile-long jobsite for the I-405, Brickyard to SR 527 Improvement Project in Bothell, Washington. “Construction sites – especially ones as large as this one – unfortunately can become targets for theft, vandalism and unauthorized access, especially at night,” said Ryan Clayton, senior vice president – general manager of Skanska’s West Coast civil operation. “Being able to protect our operations using the mix of deterrents that are … Read more

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