Digging Deeper - ForConstructionPros: Recent Episodes
ForConstructionPros
In "Digging Deeper" we discuss all aspects of the construction industry with a variety of influential construction business owners. Topics include: equipment operation, safety, business management, technology and labor issues across the construction industry, but we also dive deep into niche markets like concrete, rental and asphalt. See more at forconstructionpros.com
Featuring an interview with Gil Aleman and Roy Mullman from HKA Enterprises, this Digging Deeper episode discusses the benefits that could potentially come from a third-party employee of record to construction business and contractors.
Working in construction is an inherently hazardous activity, with a high risk of accidents on-site due to the heavy equipment surrounding workers. One of John Deere's core initiatives is to care for their customers and safety is a huge part of that. Mark Colvin - Senior Product Manager of Jobsite Safety at John Deere, sits down with Digging Deeper to discuss the latest technologies that are helping keep workers safe. To learn more visit: Obstacle Detection Solutions | John Deere US
This special episode of Digging Deeper profiles Luck Companies, one of the nation’s largest family-owned crushed aggregate and environmental performance producers, to find out the key to a successful 100 years in business.
The DEWALT concrete sensor uses AI from Converge to provide actionable data for construction professionals. We speak with Brad Roberts DEWALT president of Construction Technology, Stanley, Black & Decker and Raphael Scheps co-founder and CEO, Converge, for their insight into where we are at today with construction AI and where we’re headed tomorrow.
Jonathan Kozlowski takes an opportunity to talk with Dominic Sims, the CEO of the International Code Council to take a dig a little into what goes on with building safety professionals in construction and pick his brain a bit about some advice in working with them for your next job.
Sanibel Island is home to just over 6,000 local residents, but receives more than 1.5 million tourist visits annually. The community depends on tourism and business coming over from the mainland to sustain its local economy. On September 28th, the devastation of hurricane Ian brought the most intense and destructive winds that Lee County, Florida has ever seen. During the storm, the Sanibel Causeway partially collapsed. In the days after the storm passed through, the Florida Department of Transportation awarded a contract to a joint group of companies, all working together to restore access and make final repairs and reinforcements. That joint venture is made up of Superior Construction and The De Moya Group, as well as additional paving services conducted by Ajax Paving. We spoke with Central Florida Division Manager Ryan Hamrick about the difficulty faced with a job like this, and how everyone worked together to get it done as quickly as possible.
Hundreds of millions of dollars are now available to states for infrastructure projects, one of the most highly touted is the “Reconnecting Communities” pilot program that seeks to undo the effects of transportation initiatives that negatively impacted neighborhoods and communities across the country. This episode is part 1 of a new series focused on investigating the history these effected areas, the projects that disrupted them, and the efforts to restore them to their former heights. In this installment, Brandon Noel, editor of Asphalt Contractor Magazine speaks with long-time Detroit Free Press journalist John Gallagher, and Michigan Department of Transportation Project Manager, John Lurie about I-375 and the lost neighborhood of “Black Bottom”.
On this episode of Digging Deeper, David Young, backhoe specialist at Caterpillar, joins us to talk about the future of the backhoe. Has its dramatic drop in utilization across the construction industry placed it in danger of becoming a relic? Or will Cat’s approach to keeping this machine fresh preserve the machine’s future as a fixture on many jobsites. Listen to find out.
Featuring Bryan Williams, Portfolio Manager at Trimble, this Digging Deeper episode covers the technologies that can help minimize construction project delays. While efficiencies have improved with smartphones on the jobsite, there’s still a timely difference between the intended information versus what is actually happening in the field. How can we build smarter?
Digging Deeper welcomes in Jeff Jacobsmeyer of Case Construction Equipment to discuss their long-awaited Minotaur DL550—a machine that is half dozer, half CTL. We first saw this machine in a concept phase just about five years ago at ConExpo. Since then, Case has put in a lot of time to refine and prove this machine capable of doing large loading tasks, but also real dozing as well. Jeff takes us through all of that and what makes this machine truly unique.
Once COVID hit the U.S., everything from fuel to construction material shortages spun out of control - supply chains shut down, materials became a lot more expensive, and it became very difficult to predict when (or if) materials would become available. This episode of the Digging Deeper podcast features Jonathan Kozlowski’s interview with Maria Rioumine, CEO and founder of Kojo, to get a look at what’s happening currently and how modern technology can help.
Digging Deeper is joined by Daniel Cohen, a product application specialist at Caterpillar to discuss compact machines and attachments. Daniel provides insight into the the maturation of the compact machine segment as well as into individual machine categories and best practices on matching work tools to a these machines.
Caterpillar Senior Market Professional, Construction Industries Lonnie Fritz joins the Digging Deeper Podcast for a comprehensive discussion of the connected job site. What is it and how can connected equipment and processes make contractors more successful? Fritz lays out the role specific offerings from Caterpillar play in this rising market trend, including Cat Connect, 3D Grade Control, VisionLink and Cat Productivity.
Is the housing shortage a true shortage of housing or is it a backlog due to the current rate of construction? What can be done to speed that and catch up to the needs of the country? This Digging Deeper episode features the interview of editor Jonathan Kozlowski and Chris Anderson, CEO of Vantem.
Caterpillar Senior Market Professional, Construction Industries Lonnie Fritz joins the Digging Deeper Podcast for a comprehensive discussion of the connected job site. What is it and how can connected equipment and processes make contractors more successful? Fritz lays out the role specific offerings from Caterpillar play in this rising market trend, including Cat Connect, 3D Grade Control, VisionLink and Cat Productivity.
Asphalt contractors, concrete contractors, and construction professionals alike, deal with credit card purchases daily. This Digging Deeper podcast looks into surcharge fees and compliance. Featuring an interview with editor Jonathan Kozlowski and Kurt Benjamin, CEO of CardX West.
Caterpillar Senior Market Professional, Construction Industries Lonnie Fritz joins the Digging Deeper Podcast for a comprehensive discussion of the connected job site. What is it and how can connected equipment and processes make contractors more successful? Fritz lays out the role specific offerings from Caterpillar play in this rising market trend, including Cat Connect, 3D Grade Control, VisionLink and Cat Productivity.
This Digging Deeper episode features an interview with Mark Malekoff, director of Thermal Intelligence - an equipment manufacturer out of Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Mark and his co-founder used their first-hand experience in dealing with equipment that didn’t meet their standards for reliability and efficiency and brought a sustainable solution to construction jobsites.
For contractors and the reconstruction and repair of the country’s infrastructure, hydrodemolition can be a key element in the efficiency of a job. This Digging Deeper episode features an interview with Keith Armishaw, business development manager for Aquajet’s North American subsidiary. Armishaw and editor Jonathan Kozlowski talk about the use of hydrodemolition in today’s concrete infrastructure construction and what the future of the technology looks like.
Equipment Today Editor-in-Chief Erica Floyd talks with Briggs & Stratton Product Manager Chris Meyers about the features OEMs should look for to save time and money in these times of lean labor supply and high jobsite demand.
While decarbonizing the built environment has long captured the attention of Silicon Valley, they have recently started focusing on the foundational material itself: cement. The increased attention on low-carbon cement comes as the Portland Cement Association is working to meet the goals set out in its Roadmap to Carbon Neutrality—carbon neutrality across the entire cement-concrete-construction chain by 2050. Crucially, Silicon Valley’s interest shows the benefit of collaboration across the entire chain, with end users stating carbon neutrality as a goal in new construction. Editor Jonathan Kozlowski speaks with Rick Bohan, PCA’s Vice President of Sustainability about what’s happening and the potential impact in the industry.
While decarbonizing the built environment has long captured the attention of Silicon Valley, they have recently started focusing on the foundational material itself: cement. The increased attention on low-carbon cement comes as the Portland Cement Association is working to meet the goals set out in its Roadmap to Carbon Neutrality—carbon neutrality across the entire cement-concrete-construction chain by 2050. Crucially, Silicon Valley’s interest shows the benefit of collaboration across the entire chain, with end users stating carbon neutrality as a goal in new construction. Editor Jonathan Kozlowski speaks with Rick Bohan, PCA’s Vice President of Sustainability about what’s happening and the potential impact in the industry.
E-SMART’s tiny dashboard cameras are mounted in trucks and use artificial intelligence (AI) to read highway construction signs. These cameras dynamically reduce the truck’s speed for safety. The company partnered with Deeplite to make its AI smaller, lighter, and faster, enabling computer vision on these small dashboard cameras. Learn more about how AI keeps our roadways safe.
Integrated Roadways is embedding sensors inside precast slabs of materials to help create network that will support the current and future needs of drivers, owners, vehicles and devices.
In this episode of Digging Deeper, Caterpillar’s Scott Hagemann joins the show to discuss the company’s entire range of machine control solutions across several categories of equipment. It’s the machine control deep dive you need to make an educated buying decision!
On this episode of Digging Deeper, we’re joined by Todd Roecker of Doosan Infracore North America. Acquired last August by Hyundai, Todd takes us through what will happen to the Doosan brand of equipment in the next year, and what impact Hyundai’s purchase of the company will have on both Doosan Infracore and Hyundai’s own equipment brand.
This Digging Deeper episode features a conversation with 3D concrete printing contractor Zach Mannheimer, founder and CEO of Alquist 3D. They are part of a handful of 3D concrete printing companies here in the U.S. and head up the construction of a 3D home from the summer to fall of 2021. We spoke about the impact the technology can have on the construction industry, the potential benefits contractors can find with the technology, and even discussed a bit about how it works.
With the list of struggles for paving contractors growing by the day, manufacturers are working hard to develop equipment and technologies to help. In this episode of Digging Deeper, Jessica Lombardo talks with Brian Nagel, Global Sales Consultant at Caterpillar, Inc. about how contractors can lean on their equipment to help them get the work required of them done right, the first time.
This Digging Deeper Podcast episode features an interview with Mike Hammer, of Generational Equity, discussing what happens behind the scenes in the merger and acquisition process. And, yes, we also ask what first things a contractor should do if considering selling the business. Generational Equity is a mergers and acquisitions advisor for privately held businesses headquartered in Dallas.
Rick Bohan, vice president of sustainability for the Portland Cement Association, explains the fifth link in the PCA Roadmap to Carbon Neutrality value chain: using concrete as a carbon sink. He talks to us to clear up some confusion surrounding the natural phenomena and carbon capture technologies.
Erica Gilliland, craft recruiting director at McCarthy Building Companies, discusses the challenges the construction industry faces in hiring and retaining craft workers and other skilled laborers, and the steps construction companies can take to not only attract talent, but also help to build that talent and continue to meet future workforce needs.
Conor O’Riain, managing director for Ecocem Materials – a company out of Ireland featured in the “Solving for Zero” documentary. He speaks on some innovative ideas to reduce the amount carbon dioxide in concrete and the advantages of using Ground Granulated Blast-furnace Slag (GGBS or GGBFS).
Tarik, CEO of GPR, shares how the company’s ground positioning radar technology located underneath a vehicle can be used to gain information about its position, what might be beneath material a machine is about to dig into and more, improving safety but also aiding the transition toward more automated systems and fully autonomous vehicles.
Engine designs and expectations are shifting to both meet the demands of users and the changing regulations that are coming down the pipeline for emissions requirements. Briggs & Stratton is rising to the occasion with the 400 EFI/ETC engine from Vanguard. Hear from Chris Meyers, product manager at Briggs & Stratton about how this engine came to be and how it will change the way the construction industry uses its equipment.
Daniel Cohen, product application specialist at Caterpillar, highlights the benefits of tiltrotators on compact excavators and other equipment, including their ability to enable more work to be done without the need to reposition the machine; provide more flexibility in the types of work that can be performed; and even reduce labor requirements by enhancing machine and attachment productivity.
Announced early October 2021, the Portland Cement Association’s Roadmap to Carbon Neutrality looks to provide “turn by turn” directions on how the U.S. cement and construction industry can drive towards the goal of being carbon neutral by 2050. This episode features Rick Bohan, vice president of sustainability and Jonathan Kozlowski discussing the Concrete and Construction links of the PCA Value Chain.
Tara Anderson, director of customer success at Newforma, discusses the role data plays in risk management, including the risks of “bad data”, plus shares how Project Information Management software can be used to capture more “intelligent data” and ensure that it’s readily available when needed.
Steve Ile, Regional Sales Manager, Thunder Creek, provides an overview of the latest developments in bulk diesel fuel, DEF and oil handling products, including trailers and truck upfits. Learn how products can eliminate the need for CDL or Hazmat endorsement while increasing jobsite efficiency.
At World of Concrete, Becky Schultz, editor, Equipment Today, sat down with Kevin Thieneman, chairman, LiuGong North America, to discuss the new products the company is bringing to the North American construction, quarry and aggregates markets in 2022, as well as the challenges and opportunities he sees for the company, and the industries it serves, in the year ahead.
Caterpillar’s Jason Hurdis, global market professional, GCI, discusses the role today’s construction equipment and related technologies can play in helping to address the industry’s labor and skills gaps by allowing existing workers to do more using the same tools. He also highlights how it can help companies attract new talent and open doors for a new pool of workers.
At World of Concrete 2022, Becky Schultz, editor, Equipment Today, spoke with Edric Funk, general manager, Toro Siteworks, about the company’s advancements, and plans, in the areas of electrification, automation and connectivity – all of which, he says, are focused on meeting customer needs now and in the future.
According to the Associated General Contractors, prices for construction materials have outstripped bid prices by more than double since the start of the pandemic. In this episode of the Digging Deeper podcast features with Dmitry Alexin, the CEO of 1build – a real-time data platform for construction cost estimates. With profit margins at their lowest, creating bids with accurate pricing has become do-or-die for residential and commercial contractors alike. Yet the industry has been slow to adopt technology to replace the status quo—an antiquated, printed directory of building costs that’s only updated quarterly or maybe even once a year. Join Jonathan Kozlowski, editor of Concrete Contractor magazine, and discover more about 1build’s platform and how it was designed to aid estimating and help you with more accurate bids.
Supply chain challenges, inflationary pressures and a severe skilled labor shortage could be challenging as contractors try to gear up to take advantage of the recently passed bi-partisan infrastructure package. Anirban Basu, Chief Economist, Associated Builders and Contractors shares his insights on how the year may play out.
In this episode of the Digging Deeper podcast, Dan Feinblum, partner, of HKA and John Paolin, the principal of business development from HKA speaks to us about the research behind their recently they published their 2021 CRUX Insight repot. A report on the intelligence on projects across the globe on claims and disputes, allowing people to find out the primary issues were.
In a special recording for World of Concrete 2022, this Digging Deeper episode features Earthwave Technologies and the FleetWatcher solution. Listen to Evan Triggs, vice president of Earthwave Technologies, and the company’s customer success manager Matt Jordan talk about how construction technology has changed over the years, the benefits found with telematics and e-ticketing, and the role contractors have in shaping technology for the better.
Greg Worley, market professional, Caterpillar mini hydraulic excavators, discusses the technology advancements in the Next Generation models ranging from 1.5 to 10 tons and how they enable new and experienced users to be more efficient by adapting the machine to the operator. He also discusses why grade control has increasingly become a viable option for smaller size classes of these machines.
Adam Gilbertson, vice president, RDO Equipment, examines the challenges the construction industry faced in 2021 and is likely to continue to face in 2022, and the role advanced technologies such as grade control, telematics and others could play in helping contractors be more productive and profitable in the New Year.
Todd Roecker, Vice President of Growth Initiatives at Doosan to discuss how the company plans to become a top 5 construction equipment player by 2025 and how the acquisition by Hyundai will help make this possible.
Michael Kucharski, vice president of dealer development at Fecon, outlines the challenges contractors – especially those new to the business – may face in developing project bids and what they need to know to maximize success, and profits, in the bidding process.
Jenny Aldridge, operations manager at KATO-Compact Excavator Sales, shares her journey with the family-owned organization, as well as the challenges – and opportunities – the company has witnessed throughout 2021. She also highlights key factors that will influence the construction industry, and construction equipment availability, going forward.
Federal district courts have issued a temporary stay in implementing the Occupational Safety & Health Administration’s COVID-19 temporary emergency standard, and the decision about whether OSHA overstepped its authority is likely to make its way quickly to the Supreme Court. In Part 1 of a conversation with Chief Risk Architect Gary Pearce for risk-management technology provider Aclaimant Solutions, he outlines the ambitions of the standard, the legal challenges, prospects for passage and unusual timing that underscores the urgency of the standard.
Legal challenges to the Occupational Safety & Health Administration’s COVID-19 temporary emergency standard have introduced uncertainty, but are unlikely to make it vanish. This Part 2 of a conversation with Chief Risk Architect Gary Pearce for risk-management technology provider Aclaimant Solutions, details requirements the standard adds to existing COVID guidance, and offers a priority list of projects for contractors to work on so that when the standard is implemented, their workforce won’t attract investigations.
Our colleague, Sara Jensen, editor of OEM Off-Highway, spoke with Greg Morris, Americas Product Application Specialist- Greases, Americas PAS Team Lead, at Shell, about a new grease specification for heavy-duty equipment, as well as the role important greases play in heavy equipment performance.
Jody Staruk rose quickly through the ranks at Consigli Construction, eventually becoming a project executive responsible for all stages of a construction project. She shares her experiences – including leading an all-female team on a project for the YWCA – as well as discusses the various opportunities for other women to find fulfilling careers in the construction industry.
At Caterpillar’s Year-end Press Event, Glen Powell, paving development coordinator and project manager for civil construction firm Schlouch Incorporated, highlighted some of the complexities surrounding the asphalt paving process and how pavers are key to ensuring a quality mat. He also discussed the company’s relationship with Caterpillar and his impressions after his crew put the all-new AP455 8-ft.-size class paver through its paces.
Howard Hawk, president of bidadoo, shares details on eBay’s recent investment in the online equipment marketplace and what it means for both the company and its customers, including expanded access to services and equipment. He also addresses recent industry trends, such as component and material shortages, that are impacting online buying and selling activity and how bidadoo’s partnership with eBay can help.
Announced early October 2021, the Portland Cement Association’s Roadmap to Carbon Neutrality looks to provide “turn by turn” directions on how the U.S. cement and construction industry can drive towards the goal of being carbon neutral by 2050. It’s a massive undertaking and everyone can have an impact. And it’s possible. Rick Bohan, vice president of sustainability joins editor Jonathan Kozlowski to talk about what you can expect within the PCA Roadmap.
Announced early October 2021, the Portland Cement Association’s Roadmap to Carbon Neutrality looks to provide “turn by turn” directions on how the U.S. cement and construction industry can drive towards the goal of being carbon neutral by 2050. It’s a massive undertaking and everyone can have an impact. And it’s possible. Rick Bohan, vice president of sustainability joins editor Jonathan Kozlowski to talk about what you can expect within the PCA Roadmap.
DiBara Masonry discovered immediate benefits for both clients and contractors in taking payment in the form of cryptocurrency that range from early-adopter cool, to reduced fees, to protecting owner privacy. President Matt DiBara tells us how the tech-enabled payments could entirely revamp the way money changes hands over construction contracts in a way that slashes the risk and payment time.
At the Utility Expo in Louisville, KY, Ryan Goodfellow, general manager for Utah-based Rock Structures Utility & Excavating, shared the benefits the contractor has seen from using an engcon tiltrotator attachment, including reduced labor and material costs as well as less wear and tear on the undercarriage of the company’s excavators. The result has been greater productivity and reduced costs, particularly when working in tight spots.
While OSHA places substantial attention on the “Fatal Four” – the four leading causes of construction fatalities – it fails to address motor vehicle crashes in the same way. Yet, as safety consultant John Meola points out, of the roughly 5,300 fatal incidents reported for 2020 in the industrial category (which includes construction), 40% were transportation related. Meola, who serves private long-term clients primarily in construction, shares his insights and provides tips for defensive driving best practices that can help protect your drivers, and your business, against motor vehicle-related incidents.
Thousands of readers have followed Garry Bartecki’s advice for more than 20 years in Equipment Today and Rental magazines, and he’s helped the entire construction industry as a consultant for Associated Equipment Distributors. In Garry’s session at Ignite you’ll get to hear straight from Garry steps you can take in today’s environment to keep (or get) your financials in line. Listen to his podcast with Ignite Conference Manager Jessica Lombardo for a preview of his important session.
Knowing how contracts and liens work can help subcontractors grow and protect their business. Karalynn Cromeens, an attorney specializing in the construction industry, owner and managing partner of the Cromeens Law Firm and author of “Quit Getting Screwed: Understanding and Negotiating the Subcontract” talks about how subcontractors can get the most out of construction subcontracts and liens.
The Biden Administration tapped OSHA on September 9, 2021, to prepare a new COVID-19 Emergency Temporary Standard that will require employees of federal contractors and companies with 100 or more employees to be vaccinated or provide weekly COVID test results. The agency is still working on the details, but James Junkin, president of occupational safety and health consulting firm Mariner-Gulf Consulting & Services and master trainer for supply-chain risk management company Veriforce, explains that employers have decisions to make and work to do now in order to be prepared for what’s to come.
Justin Ganschow, business development manager for Caterpillar safety services, shares insights on the company’s Safety at Home campaign, which emphasizes the importance of applying safety best practices outside the workplace. He highlights the potential benefits to both workers and employers, as well as shares real-world examples of how such initiative are helping to prevent injuries – and have even saved the lives of workers and those they love. Access more information and resources at https://www.cat.com/en_US/support/safetyservices/safety-at-home1.html
Mark Nowakowski, field director at Travelers, examines the safety-related challenges the construction industry encountered during the COVID-19 pandemic and the role technology has, and will continue to play, in safety on the jobsite. He also looks at lessons learned from the crisis and how they can be applied to address risks going forward.
COVID-19, discrimination and mounting financial burdens are all cause for concern in the construction industry. Alex Willis, founder of Leadership Surge will help attendees of the Ignite Construction Summit learn how to identify and overcome underlying issues with profitability, performance, labor and productivity that could all derail both your company growth and growth of the industry. Listen to his podcast with Ignite Conference Manager Jessica Lombardo for a preview of his dynamic session.
Known for its compact excavators, KATO-CES has introduced full-size models into its product lineup. Bart Dehaven, director of sales at KATO-CES, shares what led to the expansion into the large excavator size class and the opportunities this presents to help customers grow their business. He also highlights features and benefits that can set these machines apart on the jobsite.
An increase in cybersecurity threats and government reporting regulations have kept businesses on their toes in a growing minefield of cybersecurity threats. ISN Senior Director Ghousuddin Syed talks about those threats and what companies can do to reduce their risks. ISN prequalifies and monitors third-party contractors and suppliers through an online platform, ISNetworld. The company helps construction companies make hiring decisions by selecting the most qualified contractors who meet industry requirements and standards.
Kyle Peter, President, JAX INC. and Chris Foti, Technical Director, JAX INC., discuss current biodegradable fluid offerings and the associated trade-offs that you need to take into account when choosing these fluids for mobile machinery applications. There have been advancements in biodegradable fluids that you may want to consider in order to make an informed choice.
In this Digging Deeper podcast conduced at CONEXPO 2020, ForConstructionPros.com conducted interviews with various manufacturers and experts while at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2020 to discuss how construction contractors can help solve the workforce puzzle.
All construction business owners have shared the same dream -- to have a growing, profitable business that executes effectively and can run without them there make sure it all happens. This podcast with Jim Canfield, president of CEO tools, provides a glimpse of how to do this with full details to be shared at the Ignite Construction Summit this fall in Las Vegas.
In Part 2 of this conversation with Shepherd Nelson, equipment superintendent at Goodfellow Bros., Shep talks about Goodfellow’s 100-year anniversary and the role technology played in helping to reach that milestone – and will continue to play as the company strives to find innovative ways to improve safety, attract new hires and help propel the construction industry into the future.
Robart Constantini, CEO of Triax Technologies, explains why the Spot-r Radius solution was developed, applications of the solution in construction, how it works and benefits in terms of increased safety and efficiency.
In Part 1 of a discussion with Shepherd Nelson, equipment superintendent at Goodfellow Bros., Shep shares what it’s like to manage a fleet of roughly 1,500 pieces of construction equipment and 500+ vehicles; the steps Goodfellow is taking to implement smart technologies for its fleet operations; as well as the challenges and opportunities of turning telematics data generated by this massive fleet into actionable insights.
With 60 Olympic medals, Adam Kreek knows a thing or two about sustaining peak performance. He will bring his wisdom to the Ignite Construction Summit, November 3-5 in Las Vegas and teach construction business owners and high level managers how to create a culture of peak performance at their companies and then how they can sustain it.
Listen to this throwback Digging Deeper podcast from CONEXPO 2020 as Tim Boulds of Kubota talks about the SCL 1000, the company's first stand-on track loader. The new stand-on track loader features wide tracks, a narrow body and a Rated Operating Capacity (ROC) of 1,000 pounds.
In this episode of the Digging Deeper podcast, Ronen Ven Gosh, general manager of Egnyte’s construction division shares insights derived from the change in contractors’ adoption and use of software since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The data demonstrates a dramatic acceleration in use of certain software, and continued change that illustrates the most profitable use of applications.
The Ignite Construction Summit, November 3-5 in Las Vegas, is the premiere networking educational event for construction business owners and high-level managers. In this podcast, Conference Manager Jessica Lombardo speaks to Ignite speaker Matt Booth to preview his session on the importance of a positive attitude at your construction business.
David Devitt, operations manager at Fortress Development Solutions, a company specializing in construction development for civil construction projects, discusses how the company’s use of the Busy Busy time tracking app is enabling it to track project progress, monitor costs and improve the accuracy of its bids.
Tom Schwind, vice president and business line manager for hydraulic attachments tools – North America at Epiroc, looks at key trends in the construction industry that are affecting the types of demolition attachments being used, plus provides tips on how you can get maximum return on your attachment investment.
Construction business owners looking to help manage the chaos at their company won’t want to miss Dave Crenshaw’s session at the Ignite Construction Summit. Listen to his podcast with Ignite Conference Manager Jessica Lombardo for tips on how your company can be more focused to maximize profits.
In a year full of challenges, Wirtgen America saw opportunity to grow and emerged even stronger from COVID-19. In this episode of Digging Deeper, Asphalt Contractor Editor-in-Chief Jessica Lombardo talks with Matthew Graves, Director of Marketing Communications with Wirtgen America about the company's priority to remain close to their customers during the pandemic.
Jacqueline Pruitt tells how she proved herself in the strenuous rebar installation trade and positioned herself to found Marvella Steel Placers, a successful rebar installation company, after just a few years in the construction industry. She also shares insights on how other women can forge their own career in construction.
Barton Malow Company’s Matt Hedke, director of virtual design and construction, and Ryan Tow, operations manager, discuss the benefits the company has gained by implementing tool tracking technology to not only manage hand tool inventory and logistics on projects but also capture data on tool performance and use.
Callie Nottingham, project manager, McCarthy Building Companies’ Southern California Region, shares her journey into the construction industry, as well as the various components of the McCarthy Partnership for Women, a program designed to help grow women’s opportunities from within, and outside, of the organization.
It might be Work Zone Safety Awareness Week but the asphalt industry works tirelessly year round to find a path towards improving the safety of these work zones for each employee. Asphalt Materials Inc has made safety one of their core values and shares their thoughts on how other companies can make safety a priority for their crews as well.
In this Digging Deeper podcast, Editor Becky Schultz speaks with three female team members from Sunbelt Rentals – Tiffanie Mendez, regional sales director, Dayna Shelkey-Bray, national strategic customer manager, and Kristie Thompson, mechanic. The women share their diverse backgrounds and roles within the company, their own career paths within Sunbelt Rentals, and the larger career potential for women within the construction industry.
Lea Stendahl, executive vice president and chief marketing officer at Suffolk Construction, shares her unique path into the industry and the various career opportunities she sees for other women in construction. She also highlights Suffolk’s “Rebuild the Ratio” campaign, which not only targets 10% growth in the company’s female workforce over the next 10 years, but partners with two youth-centered organizations to offer STEM education to girls at an early age to help build the next-generation workforce.
Roger Grant, BIM manager at the National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS), discusses NIBS’ efforts to expand application of a national Building Information Management (BIM) standard, as well as promote a public-private partnership to produce a national BIM program that holds potential to improve construction productivity and cut costs by anywhere from 13% to 20% on major infrastructure and other projects.
In this throwback Digging Deeper podcast from CONEXPO 2020, ForConstructionPros.com conducted interviews with various manufacturers and experts while at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2020 to discuss jobsite connectivity issues, integrating mobile apps with software platforms and more.
Steve Whaley, director of Autogas business development, the Propane Education Research Council, shares how converting medium- and heavy-duty internal combustion engines to propane actually produces a lower carbon footprint in the vast majority of states versus electrical vehicles. Other advantages of propane adoption are discussed as well.
Richard Branch, chief economist at Dodge Data & Analytics, shares the current construction outlook and how a major infrastructure investment plan could become a “game changer” for the industry. He also addresses questions on what the plan could mean to various industry sectors – as well as the major hurdles that could impact its passage.
This episode of Digger Deeper features Bruno Gattamorta, VP of Sales and Marketing, Cojali USA. He discusses the advantages of investing in diesel engine diagnostic systems and how these systems can streamline maintenance and repair operations for contractors, rental houses and dealers in the construction industry.
Dr. Dan Carlin tells how his company, JobSiteCare, is delivering physician-led managed healthcare directly to injured or ill workers on the construction site. He also shares how the TextBadge smartphone-based screening technology provides customizable capabilities that will keep workers safer during the pandemic – and well beyond.
We sat down with Pavement Best of the Web award winner, Marvin Joles of Wis-Coat to discuss how to create a website that reflects your business culture.
This interview addresses the challenges of training CDL truck drivers during the COVID pandemic
Peter Bigwood, general manager of Mecalac, highlights the challenges of attracting workers into the construction industry and the role advances in equipment and technology can play in building the next-generation workforce.
Big changes at the cloud construction-management leader include improved collaboration, muscular financial capability and a very short lead time for more-interactive AI
In this episode of Digging Deeper, Stephen King, president and CEO of GrowthForce, discusses the prevalence, and costs, of fraud in the construction industry, especially among smaller businesses; the steps contractors can take to identify and mitigate risks; and the role technology can play in fraud prevention.
In this episode of Digging Deeper, Johana Godoy, assistant superintendent at Skanska USA, shares her experiences and career growth in the field of construction, as well as the many opportunities the industry offers for other women who are seeking a promising and rewarding career path.
In this episode of Digging Deeper, David Wald, CEO and co-founder of Aclaimant, a safety and risk management solutions provider, discusses the unique safety risks and regulatory challenges construction companies will face this winter due to COVID-19, and the role technology can play in helping to mitigate those risks and ensure your business maintains compliance in what has become an ever-changing regulatory environment.
Ongoing research into limiting concrete form face surface defects with Controlled Frequency Vibrators has shown great promise. Field investigations into limiting high frequency vibration to control the amount of concrete material separation using the same approach to limit the surface distresses in concrete pavements. Researchers have applied some common sense and solid clinical analysis to make pavement surfaces more durable. Paul Jaworski of Minnich Manufacturing Inc. joins editor Jonathan Kozlowski to discuss the research and recent developments.
In this episode of Digging Deeper, Doug Hacker, national sales rep, Kato - Compact Excavator Sales, highlights the company’s recent excavator product line expansions, the return of a fan favorite compact track loader and further additions and opportunities that lie ahead for both the company and its customers as we head into in 2021.
In this episode of Digging Deeper, Stephen King, president and CEO of GrowthForce, one the country’s largest cloud-based accounting services, shares strategies construction business owners can use to not only improve cash flow in the current challenging economic climate but long term. He also highlights the opportunities data-driven decision making can provide by enabling contractors to more accurately manage operating costs and ensure profitability on construction projects.
In this episode of Digging Deeper, Peter Halldin, CSO and co-founder of MIPS, a Swedish helmet safety company, discusses safety risks not currently addressed by construction hard hats and how technology such as the Multi-directional Impact Protection System can help to mitigate those risks and make workers even safer on jobsites.
In this episode of Digging Deeper, Darick Franzen, vice president of business development – North America at Miller Formless, talks about the company’s 50-year history in the concrete paving industry, recent acquisitions that are broadening the company’s concrete slipform paver product line and growth opportunities that lie ahead for the company, its customers and the paving industry.
In this episode of Digging Deeper, Asphalt Contractor editor Jessica Lombardo speaks to Dave McKee, VP of sales & Marketing at PSS International about work zone safety. PSS International manufactures devices with the intention of getting every person who travels home safely at the end of the day. Listen to how their company is intentional about safety in everything they do.
In this sponsored episode of Digging Deeper, Kato-CES owner and founder Mike Smith shares how the company got its start, its progress over its 25+ years in operation and how its longstanding relationship with IHI and now Kato has enabled it to continue to expand its product line and offerings to customers. Smith also touches on future plans, and possibilities, for his family-owned business.
Here’s how 250,000 users across 2,100 construction projects are overcoming COVID-19 with dramatic increases in uploading documents and photos, downloading forms, submittals, RFI and more.
Jeff Stachowiak, national safety director for Sunbelt Rentals, sheds light on some of the common safety myths and misconceptions related to both fall protection and equipment used to work at heights; the steps that can be taken to promote them; and the role the new ANSI standards may play in facilitating a safer jobsite.
Chris Teetor, director of operations, DE Storage, talks about the company’s use of the Soil Connect digital platform to find a specific soil required for a mini-storage expansion project in Pennsylvania, and how it saved them thousands of dollars on purchasing and trucking in the soil.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast where Caterpillar's Scott Thomas talks about Cat's latest advancements in articulated dump trucks (ADT) Typically, ADT drivers are among the last positions filled on a jobsite and they may not be the most experienced employees. The latest advancements make ADTs easier to operate.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast as Erica Magdelinskas, marketing manager at Chaney Enterprises, talks about how the building materials supplier upgraded from a private closed-loop communication system to the Zello platform. Chaney chose Zello because it was user friendly, had an app, was paperless and had a bluetooth connection for communication. "It had everything we needed," Magdelinskas says.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast as Hy-Brid Lift CEO Terry Dolan discusses how the company revamped its product line and introduced its new 19-ft. scissors lift in 2020.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast where Editor Becky Schultz talks with Larry Baker, president at Earthwave Technologies, about the company’s telematics technology and how it differs from other providers. Baker discusses how the Earthwave system focuses on measuring operators not just equipment usage numbers.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast to hear Geoff Arnold, general manager of Built Technologies’ Software Solutions division, shed light on the bottlenecks that liens and lien wavers present to the construction payment process. Arnolddetails how the software Built For Contractors is designed to automate the lien process on all sides to make sure everybody has the right documents to move payments at maximum speed. Arnold brings more than 15 years of experience in professional software development, team management and revenue growth to his position as General Manager, Contractor Solutions, at Built Technologies. Arnold cut his teeth in the NYC fintech scene at International Fund Services (acquired by State Street), before joining venture-backed Intent Media where he led a team of 53 engineers as VP, Technology. Arnold holds a BS in Computer Science and Economics from Allegheny College, Meadville, PA.
Curt Bennink speaks with Propeller Aerobotics CEO Rory San Miguel. They discussed the benefits of drone surveying in earthmoving applications. Propeller is not merely a drone company that happens to provide surveying. It is an earthworks solution company and some of those solutions have expanded services well beyond drone mapping.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast as Karen Scally, a journalist who has covered the construction industry for over a decade, speaks with Ben Preston, chief marketing officer and co-founder of Gearflow, about how businesses can tackle online marketing. Covering common misconceptions, tips, SEO and best practices, Preston shows the best ways to market your construction business.
In this Digging Deeper podcast, Pace Davis, CEO at TruckIt, discusses the advantages of e-ticketing in place of paper-based systems for managing material delivery and logistics, as well as its role in maintaining driver safety throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast with Greg Sizemore, vice president of safety, health, environment and workforce development for the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC), who talks about the challenges the construction industry has faced attracting workers and the opportunities the industry has to rebuild both its workforce and their skill sets within, and because of, the pandemic environment.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast with Bonnie Mauldin, managing director of The Mauldin Group (www.themauldingroup.com/), who shares insights on how to market your construction business to help secure work in the current environment, rebrand construction’s image to attract new hires, and position your business for growth in the post-pandemic economic recovery and beyond.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast to hear Howard Hawk, president of bidadoo, discuss online buying and selling of heavy equipment, including the influence the pandemic has had on contractor utilization of ecommerce tools and how the lessons learned may shape the future of equipment buying and selling long term.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast to hear James B. Bretz, Director, Uptime & Connected Services, Volvo Construction Equipment, share his telematics experience and his vision of where we are headed with the technology. Uptime is a concern for every contractor and telematics can help address that concern. Telematics has come a long way and it continues to evolve.
In this episode of Digging Deeper, renowned safety expert John Meola delves into the critical topic of heat stress management and how construction leaders can protect not only their employees but their businesses by putting a proper plan and procedures in place.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast with Sean Mairet, product marketing manager, grade control, at John Deere, as he highlights the different levels of grade control technology available and their potential to improve jobsite productivity and build upon operator skills. He also shares insights on how to get the system you need to maximize ROI from your grade control investment.
In this episode, Jessica Lombardo, editor of Asphalt Contractor magazine, talks to Ben Schmidt, president of Roadbotics, Inc. Schmidt discusses how cities and municipalities can best measure and manage their roadways using technology which will help them extend the life of these expensive assets.
Listen to thais Digging Deeper podcast as Adam Opperman, product manager at Stellar Industries, talks about the company's new service truck telematics system, which was introduced in early 2020 at The Work Truck Show.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast as Jim Fraser, Director of CRE Strategy with Built Technology, talks about how the company's lending software tracked the progress of projects since many were placed on hold with the coronavirus pandemic shutdowns. Find out how they’re recovering, and consider the risks ahead. Jim Fraser is the director of CRE strategy at Built Technology. He has over 30 years of experience in financial services, with an emphasis in construction lending and real estate development. Before Built, Fraser was EVP of Commercial Lending at Axos Bank, where he was responsible for commercial construction lending, income property, lender finance, equipment leasing and factoring, with a combined portfolio of $5 billion. Prior to joining Axos, Fraser was Managing Director at Banc of California, managing $500 million in residential and CRE construction.
In this Digging Deeper podcast, Jay Denton, chief innovation officer at ThinkWhy, discusses his assessment of the trends in construction employment leading up to the pandemic and how things have changed, the latest employment data and what the future may hold as the industry begins the recovery process.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast with Stephanie Schmidt, president of Pennsylvania-based Poole Anderson Construction, to hear about the challenges her company encountered during the pandemic-related shutdown in her state and how the company positioned itself to move ahead both during and after the shutdown. She also passes along key lessons learned that she feels can help to better position Poole Anderson and other construction companies for the future.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast as Terry Dolan, CEO, Hy-Brid Lift, looks back at the 2019 aerial and rental industries and what could be in store for the future of these industries in 2020 and beyond.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast where Ryan Lopes, national product manager for the construction and industrial segments of Alliance Tire Americas Inc., explains how tires can enhance equipment performance and how rental fleet managers can decide among pneumatic, foam-filled, and solid options to improve their bottom line. From sidewall construction to the complex world of compounds, listeners will get an inside look at the difference between “good” and “great” in the manufacturing process and learn how proper tire selection can give telehandlers and MEWPs a boost.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast as Michael Bordes, AA Jedson Company LLC president, talks about how the company is back to work on all of its sites but expects to remake its business model in this new COVID-19 era. Bordes has decades of experience in construction management. Bordes’ expertise, combined with exceptional directorial and organizational skills, has presented him with bigger and broader opportunities and more and more satisfied clients. Bordes leads AA Jedson’s team of experienced construction managers, skilled craftsman, field and support staff. The company has earned a reputation for commitment, responsibility, attentiveness and partnership by delivering superior service within aggressive time frames and budgets. Its highly principled business model has been the fundamental building block in maintaining long-lasting relationships.
Curt Bennink talks to Sarah Loaiza, senior product manager, about how the Samsara Fleet Management System can be used to increase the efficiency and safety of your truck fleet. An open API lets this system integrate with existing telematic systems, and it also offers a dashcam with artificial intelligence, which can help prevent accidents.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast with Bobcat Company loader marketing manager Sarah Peckskamp who talks about the latest editions to the R Series product lineup. The Bobcat R-Series Loaders debuted in February 2020 at World of Concrete. Listen as Peckskamp walks us through the features on the new 60-frame size vertical lift loaders including the T66, T64, S64 and S66 models.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast as Summit Funding Group's Chris Lewis talks about how equipment financing can help contractors cope with the COVID-19 economy. Lewis also discusses what to consider as companies manage liquidity, cash flow and equipment needs during pandemic business conditions. Lewis is a Senior Regional Manager at Summit Funding Group, an Ohio-based company that provides equipment lease and finance solutions to businesses across the U.S. and Canada. Founded in 1993, Summit Funding Group has originated more than $4 billion in equipment lease and finance transactions to date. Contact him at clewis@4sfg.com.
Construction software becomes a competitive advantage when it delivers actionable project insights. Here’s how current software and data security makes that happen John Meibers is the vice president and general manager of Deltek + ComputerEase, a provider of accounting, project management and field-to-office software for the construction industry. In today’s rapidly changing and fast paced world, a big part of John’s role is to ensure that ComputerEase equips clients with the most cutting-edge technology. Prior to joining ComputerEase 22 years ago, John spent a decade working for a large mechanical contractor. Could you gain a competitive advantage with a change in software? Check out this white paper from Deltek Inc.: Five Ways Using Old Software Can Create New Challenges
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast as Greg Sizemore, vice president of safety, health, environment and workforce development, Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) talks about suicide risks in construction — particularly in light of the current crisis. Sizemore also discusses the steps contractors need to be taking to ensure the safety of their employees and to get the conversation on the topic started.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast with Joe Piro, vice president, corporate director of supply chain management at Gilbane Building Company, discussing disruptions in the supply of building materials as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, and the changes he anticipates as a result of the lessons the industry is learning from this during the crisis.
Editor Becky Schultz spoke with Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) President and CEO Mike Bellaman about how the coronavirus pandemic is affecting construction activity and the ability to complete projects, as well as his outlook for the industry going forward.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast as Larry Stewart talks with Richard Branch about Branch's expectations and predictions for construction spending during the second half of 2020. Richard Branch, chief economist for Dodge Data & Analytics (formally McGraw Hill Construction), focuses on ensuring Dodge’s expertise in tracking, analyzing and forecasting construction activity, and working closely with national, regional, and trade media to share this insight. This includes continued execution of the monthly Dodge Momentum Index and National Construction Starts research, as well as serving as anchorman for the prestigious and widely circulated Dodge Construction Outlook — a seminal reference for the industry. He is an industry veteran with 20 years of experience as an economist at various consulting and publishing firms, and is well versed in helping organizations gain the insight they need to enhance their profitability. Most recently, Branch served as Senior Economist at Dodge and his 10-year tenure has included developing a construction forecast model for Canada, as well as several in-depth reports across key verticals such as education and healthcare. He is also a contributing author for the Construction Market Forecasting Service (CMFS), which provides five-year projections for 22 U.S. building types. Branch holds a Master’s degree in Economics from Boston College, and an undergraduate degree in economics from the University of Ottawa in Canada.
Michael Wright, CEO of RedTeam Software, talks about how smart devices and collaborative project-management software can document the oral contracts made on project sites to head off contract disputes. With a background as a commercial general contractor with hands-on experience in all aspects of commercial construction, Wright developed RedTeam as a comprehensive cloud-based solution for construction projects and accounting management built for contractors by contractors.
Learn how advances in head protection design help to enhance safety and tailor this critical PPE to jobsite applications. Dennis Capizzi, MSA – The Safety Company, discusses advances in head protection design for the construction industry, including the benefits of safety helmets such as the V-Gard H1 for many jobsite applications. Caprizzi also shares insights on what contractors need to consider when selecting head protection in order to maintain compliance and ensure optimal safety for workers based on working conditions and the types of tasks being performed.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast to hear Brian Alves, group product manager, Milwaukee Tool, talk about the development, uses and benefits of the company's new MX Fuel Equipment System.
Electronics manufacturer Morey expects that enlarging the cellular data pipeline by a factor of 10 with 5G going into place now will make jobsite data more secure, more up to date and more complete. Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast as Alan Mindlin, technical manager with The Morey Corp., talks about5G and how it will affect and improve construction jobsite data. Mindlin focuses on new business development and new customer acquisition at The Morey Corp. He does so by leading strong product design teams, creating state-of-the-art solutions and using best-in-class manufacturing facilities. Mindlin has 40 years of engineering expertise, having worked with Bell Laboratories in the U.S., Europe and Asia, and as a consultant for startups. He also has a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering and a master's degree in marketing and operations from Washington University in St. Louis, as well as a master's degree in electrical engineering from Purdue University. Mindlin is also the vice chair of the DuPage County Workforce Innovation Board; the board explores how to get people into the workforce and funds programs that help them to succeed.
Norm Anderson, president and CEO, CG/LA Infrastructure, discusses the critical role strategic infrastructure investment could play in the country’s economic recovery following the coronavirus crisis. While he believes passage is possible, it will require all facets of the industry to come together around a unified message capable of changing perceptions of infrastructure in Washington.
Matt Fearon, Genie president, Terex AWP, provides his insights on what he saw as major trends and challenges for the aerial lift equipment industry in 2019 and what opportunities he expects for 2020 and beyond.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast to hear from Jay Tangney, executive vice president and general counsel at Suffolk, about how the company is actively recruiting and employing military veterans to solve the company's labor needs and create a welcome place for veterans after they serve. Suffolk Construction is a national construction management company that operates 10 locations across the country. Suffolk is creating pathways for veterans to join the construction industry, where they can apply their military experience and succeed. Suffolk believes the technical skills and training military veterans acquired during their service makes them ideal candidates for construction jobs – including positions as project and safety managers, crew leaders and operations supervisors. This is especially significant in an industry like construction, which is currently undergoing a labor shortage across the country. According to Tangney, the company's veteran employment efforts have "made a good culture even stronger." Suffolk’s approach to safety and building is defined by real people and real relationships. Like a military brotherhood, Suffolk takes the time to develop personal relationships with team members and trade partners, and fosters a sense of comradery on each project, instilling in everyone the need to work as one team.
Social media is no longer a fad. Customers expect companies to have a presence on at least one social media channel. Contributing Editor Marjorie Romeyn-Sanabria spoke with Nina Giordano from Panasonic North America about how to leverage social media to elevate your brand. Even though Giordano does social media for a large company, her social media strategies and advice can be scaled to fit your construction company’s and your customers’ social media needs. Using social media to promote your company’s services and to humanize your company is a great opportunity. Social is also becoming a new avenue for customer service and a way to speak one-on-one with your target audience.
Robert Cheek with UVify dives into the role drone technology is beginning to play in autonomous technology in the construction industry. He also shares his thoughts and predictions on where contractors may start using drones in the near future, including the possibility of aerial robots replacing construction cranes.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast as Skyjack's David Swan dives into the benefits of the company's load sensing technology for its aerial lift equipment.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast with Skyjack's David Swan to learn more about the newest technologies the company is offering for its construction and aerial equipment. Skyjack's Elevate Live product is aimed at equipment operators and rental companies to help improve the bottom line and lower the cost of ownership. The product uses a QR code to access telematics data so an operator can see battery information, faults and more prior to starting the machine for the day.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast with Dell Salter, data analyst with Hyundai, to get deeper insight into what construction equipment technology is and what it involves.
In this episode of the Digging Deeper podcast, Curt Bennink and Tim Davison, product manager for bodies and cranes at Stellar Industries, talk about the history of mechanics trucks, the role they play in the North American construction industry and their importance in preventative maintenance.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast to hear about LBX's products including new and protoype products. Adam Woods talks about not only LBX products but what the company is doing with technology, including grade control and the wide angle visual enhancement system (WAVES). The WAVES system pairs three camera angles and puts it into a 270-degree view.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast to hear Josh Swank, vice president of sales and marketing, talk about Philippi-Hagenbuch's products including the positive seal tailgate and rear eject bodies.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast to learn about Tenna's construction technology platform focused on equipment fleet operations. Austin Conti said that despite asset tracking products being on the market for years, he and his company felt there was a lack of construction focused asset tracking products.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast to hear more about opportunities in the Internet of Things (IoT) for concrete ready mix companies. Dean Marris, executive vice president sale, North America, with Coretex talks about IoT opportunities as well as the company's new CoreHub product. CoreHub connects an in-vehicle IoT hub with wireless sensors throughout the vehicle to collect and present information about the driver, asset and load — providing a full digital view of supply chain operations.
The trend is toward higher hour tractors, and the price of oil looks to be a big factor going forward, with the potential to flood the used equipment market. Tax law changes may continue to encourage companies to lease thereby creating more used equipment on the market.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast to learn about Caterpillar’s Think Big program, which helps with service technician workforce development. Griffin Reome tells us how it works and offers his unique perspective as a graduate of the program. It offers an associate degree along with on-the-job training. Fast-track courses mean Think Big students are taking finals when others are taking their mid-terms. Then they work at a CAT dealership the rest of the semester. Graduates have over 2,000 hours of on-the-job training that transfers into their apprenticeship putting them halfway through becoming a Journeyman Technician. The program is accredited, and there are scholarships available.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast to hear how Chevron's new Delo 600 ADF diesel oil will extend DPF life and cleaning. Chevron's Dan Holdmeyer, Industrial Segment Manager, says the company's new product has .4% sulfated ash vs typical CK4 oil today that is up to about 1% sulfated ash. By doing that Chevron is putting 60% less ash into the DPF content. According to Chevron, Delo 600 ADF 10W-30 helps to keep rings clean and free for maximum combustion pressure and to provide minimal wear. It minimizes valve and piston crown land deposits, thus managing oil consumption. Its high level of ashless dispersants keeps fuel soot in suspension and thus helps to avoid oil filter plugging, heavy cylinder head sludge, abrasive polishing wear, high viscosity increase, oil gelling, and minimizes the risk of valve train wear.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast to hear Hitachi's Al Quinn discuss the company's telematics system and how its technology is improving customer experience and solving problems.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast to hear Don Ahern talk about what is driving the upward momentum of the Snorkel boom and scissor lift lines.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast to hear Kevin Very and David Throne discuss John Deere's automation journey and the next evolution in the company's technology. With the release of the 333G smart grade CTL, a mastless grade control compact track loader John Deere is taking the next step in technology for the company, according to Very, Director of Technology and Product Marketing and Thorne, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing.
Bobcat teams up with the Wounded Warrior program. A one of a kind camouflaged wrapped T76 compact track loader will be donated to a wounded vet on Memorial Day.
Die-cast replicas are for sale at ConExpo along with hats & mugs and all of the proceeds will be donated to the Wounded Warrior program.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast to hear Serious Labs' Jim Colvin explain how technologies such as virtual reality is a great opportunity to help train the next generation of the workforce. In addition to virtual reality simulators, the company developed 16 different game-based e-learning products as well in conjunction with United Rentals. E-learning is a great way to deliver theoretical training in a convenient way. Mixing it with game-based features adds an element of interactivity.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast to hear how AED Foundation's study on equipment industry technician shortage spurred Caterpillar to get involved in helping support workforce development for industry technicians. The updated study looked at the technician shortage and reassessed the causes, impacts and policy recommendations on how to address it. The industry is going to need thousands of new technicians each year to fill in the gaps and replace retiring workers. Most survey respondents reported their jobs are remaining unfilled more than three times longer than the national average. The Caterpillar Foundation has responded to the study results by announcing a $300,000 scholarship program in partnership with AED to develop the pipeline between high school and technical education.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast to hear about Kobelco's focus on excavators and how the company is working to make Kobelco excavators a top choice.
Brian Rauch, Senior VP, Engineering John Deere Construction & Forestry, and Jon Gilbeck, Manager, Product Marketing & Planning John Deere Construction & Forestry, discuss John Deere's focus on telematics and connectivity and how the company is providing solutions to help construction customers enhance their data and productivity.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast as Tim Boulds of Kubota talks about the SCL 1000, the company's first stand-on track loader. Features include a 4.3-in. color LCD monitor, with keyless start and password protection. It has a 9.- in. wide track on a narrow (36-in.) platform to get into tight spots with good floatation. Powered by a Kubota D902 Diesel that stays under the 25-hp emissions threshold by adding a turbocharger, also adding performance at higher altitudes. Pilot operated instead of linkage means less effort and easy to use.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast to hear Doug Friesen, CEO of Sany America, talk about where Sany America is heading in the North America and what plans the company has for the future.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast to hear about Liebherr USA's growth and success over the last 50 years and the company's new workshop, which includes not only services but also a training center for customers.
Griffin Reome, global services, Caterpillar discusses the shortage of service technicians, what needs to be done to attract the current generation and what Caterpillar is doing to help.
Fred Rio, Director Construction Digital Technologies at Caterpillar, talks about where the industry is on the pathway toward autonomous technology on the jobsite and what autonomy could mean for construction business owners and equipment operators. "Autonomy is going to be delivered through increments of value through time," Rio says. Caterpillar is bringing autonomy to the market with three fundamental blocks: making machines smarter, introducing remote control operation and a back office system that can monitor jobsite progress and dispatch to the machines.
Wally Stegall, Technical Fellow & Director with The Morey Corporation, explains the trend toward electrification of compact construction equipment and the impacts on future jobsites.
The construction industry may have been a bit slow to embrace emerging technology in the past, but things are changing quickly. Virtually every day, new innovations emerge that enable contractors to get more work done in a shorter amount of time while also improving quality. On this episode of the Digging Deeper Podcast, Trimble senior director – mixed reality and BCI (brain-computer interface) Aviad Almagor sits down with ForConstructionPros staff writer Sheena Ingle to discuss some of the latest advancements in construction technology: autonomous robotics. Almagor says, "Trimble's mission is to transform the way the world works, and a significant part of this mission is to actually connect or merge the physical and the digital environment. Many of the inefficiencies in the [construction] industry reside in this gap, and by merging the two, we can improve productivity and safety." Listen to the full podcast to learn how innovations such as autonomous robotics in construction, GPS technology and telematics can help contractors complete projects more efficiently, cost-effectively, accurately and safely.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast as ConstructReach founder Paul Robinson discusses the "I Built This" program designed to combat construction’s image as "an industry that workers fail into" and solve workforce shortages by building industry diversity. ConstructReach Founder and CEO Paul Robinson helped Target develop a unique program called “I Built This” to help the brand reach people in the communities where stores are being built or remodeled. The program brings high-school-aged kids onto the construction sites for a couple of days, introduces them to all of the trades at work on the project, and puts tools in their hands. Profiles of the students and their work are posted in the new stores to engage and inspire customers. Paul describes how this program is working to build the diversity necessary to solve the construction workforce shortage, and offers advice on how contractors can tap this vast talent pool.
Becky Schultz talked with John Somers, senior director - utility for the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) and Tom Austin, OEM business development manager for Trimble, about trends in technology adoption in construction and the opportunities for the industry going forward. There is a lot of technology available to contractors, but the adoption rate is much lower than it should be.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast as Frank Nerenhausen, president of JLG Industries, talks about trends in the rental industry as well as trends in the aerial market. "I think rental is a healthy industry. I think it is going to continue to have organic growth," Nerenhausen says. Construction contractors are renting more equipment than they have in the past, and that trend is helping to lead the organic growth, and Nerenhausen expects this trend to continue. In 2020, Nerenhausen expects a slight pause in the aerial lift market; 2020 may see a little softening globally, but the North American market seems to be more resilient. Even so, he anticipates a modest downturn this year.
In this edition of the Digging Deeper podcast – brought to you by MSA – The Safety Company – John Meola, safety manager for the Timmons Group, and a regular contributor to ForConstructionPros.com, discusses OSHA requirements and best practices as they relate to PPE, including hazard recognition, hazard assessment, PPE selection and employee training. He gives particular focus to head, ear and eye protection for both workers on the ground and operators in machines. John Meola, CSP, ARM is the safety manager for Timmons Group in Richmond, VA. Recognized for nearly 25 years as one of Engineering News Record’s top 500 design firms, Timmons Group provides civil engineering, structural, environmental, electrical, geotechnical, GIS/ geospatial technology, landscape architecture and surveying services to a diverse client base.
On this edition of the Digging Deeper Podcast, Morey Corporation’s director of product lifecycle management Ginger Butz joins us to explain why contractors are renting more equipment than ever before. She also details the many benefits of renting equipment, including:
Lower costs.
Reduced liability.
Eliminated storage needs.
Less upkeep and downtime.
The convenience of paying for equipment only when you need it.
Telematics on rental companies' machines that allows contractors to track equipment.
Listen in to learn more about the rising trend towards rental equipment in construction, the benefits of renting and how companies are evolving to better serve customers.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast to hear from Skyjack experts on their forecast for the rental industry and aerial lift equipment in 2020 and beyond. Malcolm Early, vice president of marketing for Skyjack, anticipates that in 2020 the rental industry will see a lowering of equipment sales into the marketplace as a whole. "We see the market for aerial equipment going through an adjustment in 2020," Early says. Why? The general economy and trade wars have had a number of implications on materials and the industry, Early says. Plus, the new ANSI standard — and the delays pushing back the effective date — is creating some uncertainty. Ken McDougall, president of Skyjack, also points out that the election year in the U.S. may affect the industry as well. Many people are incorporating a "wait and see" approach. "Nothing is wrong [with the economy], but everybody is being a little more prudent," McDougall says. Early says we may see a developing trend in new machines in the sub-19-foot market. Plus hybrid and electric units are trends he expects will develop even further. Over the last few years the aerial industry has started to adopt telematics, and Early expects that will continue to grow. McDougall agrees, noting the level of the sophistication in rental business will continue to trend up, which he says can greatly increase ROI for rental businesses. Early and McDougall both stress the focus on alternative power sources, highlighting the proposal in Europe to eliminate internal combustion engines. While this is focused on the automotive industry at this point, if it becomes a reality it could likely trickle down into the construction and lift equipment markets.
At the 2020 ARA Show, Cummins introduced a new product, the trailer-mounted 12kW mobile power generator. Influenced by the Cummins product in the RV market, this generator was designed for the rental market. In addition to revealing the motivation behind this new product launch, Gibbons talks about the changes coming to the mobile power source segment. "We still see diesel as the prime mover in the mobile market because of current economies and delivery of the fuel to the product," he says. "There has been some push for natural gas, and then you had dual fuel machines. Now there's some hybrid solutions we see more in Europe currently." Listen to the full podcast to hear all of Gibbons' insights.
Thomas Rugg, president of the Allmand division, discusses how Allmand fits in with Briggs & Stratton on what products the company has to offer rental companies and customers. In addition, Rugg reviews some of Allmand's new and popular equipment which they highlighted at the 2020 ARA Show. Listen to the full podcast to hear more.
Brian Astl of Lind Equipment provides an overview of the All-in-One LED Beacon tower from Lind Equipment, including how it can be a great asset for equipment rental companies. With this new tower, equipment rental companies don't need to own three separate towers for different types of jobs. A single Beacon LED Tower can be used as a generator powered light tower, a no-glare diffuser light tower and an electric powered light tower. The All-In-One also incorporates features of the previous models including:
30,000 lumen weatherproof light heads
IP65 wet-location rated usability
Fits through man-doors
Two towers can fit in the back of a pick-up truck with ease
This full-power light tower can illuminate remote construction sites with an onboard generator as small as 1000W. For areas that require diffused, no-glare lighting, the All-in-One can do just that with clip-on diffuser frames. Each frame attaches, and detaches, to the light head in under one minute, according to the manufacturer. The All-in-One Beacon LED Tower uses separate diffuser frames for each light head. This provides users with the ability to adjust the light heads in the direction light is actually needed.
Chad Hislop, senior director, product management with Genie, gives an overview of what Genie has planned for 2020 and beyond. Hislop says the company has a few themes they are focusing on as the company moves forward. The first theme is global harmonization. For Genie, it means making a more common machine that can ship around the world. Hislop says it also means Genie can learn from what they've learned and succeeded with in other countries and bring that to the North American market. The second theme is return on investment for customers. Genie is focusing on optimizing performance, serviceability and other features on the products. In addition, the company wants to help customers solve the problem of making sure they are selecting the right product for them and their jobs. Hislop says Genie wants to make sure its customers know what is important with the new ANSI standards. "We try to break it down into easy digestible topics so people can read them when they have a little bit of time and they can spread them around inside of their companies. At the end of the day, there is a lot of confusion and everyone wants to know 'What do I need to know, and when do I need to know it?'" With the recent launch of the J Series boom, the company has a new window into a different tier of machines. Genie is also looking at alternative power sources. "There's a lot of future in electric drive and electric product," Hislop says. Expect more from Genie in this department.
Scott Cannon, CEO of BigRentz, talks about the company's business model and how working with a service like BigRentz can help rental companies succeed in marketing and online advertising. Cannon says BigRentz invests a lot to make sure it has high domain authority and ranks high on Google. Partnering with BigRentz keeps a rental company's focus on helping the customers while BigRentz takes care of the marketing and promotion for the business, Cannon says.
The skilled labor pipeline is not as full as it once was, and in a tight job market construction firms are being challenged to compete for top talent. Caroldean Ross, director of construction at RETS Associates, a recruitment firm specializing in the commercial real estate industry, talks about how construction companies can successfully recruit and retain top talent in a competitive job market.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast to learn more about LiuGong and the opportunities the company is pursuing in the North American construction equipment and rental markets. There has been a push to "buy American," and with all the tariffs that are affecting construction equipment manufacturing and purchasing, North American customers may be hesitant to buy from a foreign manufacturers. LiuGong Vice President Kevin Thieneman wants to change that perspective. The Chinese influence on the North American market is a good thing, Thieneman says, because it creates a more competitive market providing custoemrs with more choices. LiuGong specifically, is working to put a sustainable business in place in North America. The company is actively adding people to its company who understand the market and the construction industry. Thieneman says that some manufacturers may be getting complacent, but LiuGong is not.
Listen to this Digging Deeper podcast as LiuGong Construction Machinery N.A. LLC President Mani Iyer talks about the company's equipment in the North American market and why construction contractors will want to put LiuGong's equipment and brand to the test. Even though the company has been in North America for about 10 years, the LiuGong brand is not as well known. But Iyer wants potential customers to know how strong the equipment and brand is. Iyer stressed the strong strategic partner joint ventures and global partners that work with LiuGong to build the equipment including Cummins and Kawasaki Rexroth. LiuGong also plans to expand its dealer network as well as parts availability in the North American market in 2020 and into the future.
Craig Wilkens, business development with Doosan Portable Power, explains wet stacking in generators, why it's a problem and how the company's Intelligent Load Management System (ILMS) can reduce the chance of wet stacking. Purchasing or renting a generator that is larger than what a jobsite actually needs is a problem. Often, the load being powered doesn't exceed 5% to 10% of the general output of that large generator - basically the generator is idling. The goal is a 30% threshold, Wilkens says. When the generator is running so low, the engine doesn't get up to operating temperature, exhaust components plug up with unused fuel and the generator doesn't run properly. It could even cause the generator to not meet EPA regulations. The Doosan Intelligent Load Management System is an option designed to prevent this. The ILMS is belt driven and creates heat and load on the engine to get it over the 30% threshold, Wilkens says. According to Doosan, the ILMS creates supplemental heat within the exhaust system, which aids the regeneration process without limiting the generator capacity or causing downtime. The system is programmed to run only when it is needed.
Trimble's Kevin Vonesh, strategic accounts sales manager - aggregates, wants customers to know that Trimble is still committed to the ready mix industry. In fact, the company has broadened its product line for ready mix fleets and expanded its focus on the quality side of the equation as well. Trimble tablets can now run third party apps, which means users won't need multiple tablets cluttering up their concrete mixer trucks. The addition of Geogates in the Trimble Fleet Management System is a big plus for ready mix drivers. According to Trimble, Geogates is a virtual marker tool that triggers a text or text-to-voice notification to the driver, or back to the dispatch system via a system message. The manager can set the gate by vehicle direction (e.g. ‘east only’), vehicle type, and choose either text alerts, voice alerts or both. is include the hydraulic pressure sensor on its tablet display in the truck. This means drivers won't have to look behind them to find that information. Additionally, that information is also sent back to dispatch as well. Listen to the full podcast to find out more about Trimble's offerings for the ready mix concrete market.
Stephen Avery, application engineer for electrification products with Briggs & Stratton, goes into detail about the new 5 kW, 48V phase system lithium-ion battery the company recently released. The battery features cylindrical cells for safety and additional benefits. The cell's modular assembly also makes it easier to service and replace. The modular assembly means the whole unit will not have to be replaced. With the lithium-ion batteries, up to four packs of the same size can be paralleled; so with the 5 kW option contractors can parallel up to four packs for up to 20 kW. The 5 kW battery is currently in production. The company has plans to release a 2.5 kW and 10 kW options in the future.
Jeff Brown, compact equipment product specialist with Caterpillar, provides in-depth insight into the company's technology integration and what that means for equipment operators. Caterpillar is adopting technology from some of its larger equipment into the smaller compact equipment units. One of the biggest keys for technology on compact equipment is making sure the operator interface is easy, seamless and not overly complex, Brown says. That's a driving factor for Caterpillar's technology integration. The company's new Smart Technology and Smart Attachments aim to make operation easier for contractors. Smart Technology allows for a higher level of integration between the machine and new Smart Attachments. This technology allows the unit to automatically recognize Smart Attachments and convert machine controls to align with the operational and informational needs of that attachment. This "plug and play" ability makes the machines more versatile. With Smart Attachments, when you put the attachment on the unit (for example on a D3 skid steer) the machine recognizes the tool and tailors the controls to match the attachment and task. On the D3 skid steer, for example, if you attach the Smart Dozer Blade it "transforms" the skid steer into a dozer allowing the operator to operate the skid steer like a dozer even though he or she is still in a skid steer.
Martina McIsaac is the new region head and CEO of Hilti North America. As a women in a predominately male dominated industry, McIsaac hopes to spread the message that there is diversity and opportunity in the construction industry; and that's one of the things that attracted her to join Hilti. She was also drawn by Hilti's willingness to invest ahead with trends. McIsaac believes we'll see a leap in the construction industry rather than incremental steps forward, and she plans for Hilti to be at the forefront. Some of the areas Hilti will focus on as it moves ahead include:
Digitization
Sustainability
Worker safety
The Hilti Foundation
In terms of sustainability, McIsaac points out that Hilti has always had a commitment to sustainability, but it's time for the company to be bolder in what it does, she says. According to McIsaac, Hilti has zero landfill commitment when it comes to tools and batteries. The company recycles one million pounds of tools a year and over 50,000 lb. of batteries in 2019. As for the future, McIsaac says that Hilti will be more than just products. The company plans to become more of a partner to help make customers successful.
Eric Zieser, Case Construction Equipment product manager, talks about three of the driving forces behind the redesign of the Case B Series skid steers and compact track loaders. The new machines honed in on operator comfort, vehicle performance, and durability and reliability of the machine. One of the biggest improvements is Case has integrated the operational systems with new control and operator interfaces so customers can better utilize the units. An 8-in. LCD display provides the operators better control of the machine. Plus, a standard backup camera offers better visibility to the rear of the machine. According to Zieser, Case wanted to leverage the technology that was already available in the units and make it easier and more intuitive for operators to use.
Ray Kerwin, Director of Global Planning with Topcon, gives a quick overview and hits the highlights of how the Topcon GLS-2000 laser scanner with Rithm software can help concrete contractors monitor wet concrete and fix high or low areas before the concrete dries. First the concrete contractor scans the wet concrete with the GLS-2000. Then the software creates a heat map showing the high and low marks of the slab. Contractors in the field and see in real time where those spots are and fix them, minimizing rework once the concrete hardens.
While at World of Concrete 2020, Editor Curt Bennink spoke with Tim Wrinkle, Construction Product Manager with Mack Trucks, to get some of the key safety enhancements the Granite line will have with the addition of Bendix 2.0. Mack will start production of the Granite trucks with Bendix 2.0 in October, and the new feature will offer improved safety enhancements. New features of Bendix 2.0 include:
Driver facing camera
Speed sign recognition
Lane departure warning
Automatic Emergency Braking
Traliant co-founder and Chief Learning Officer Andrew Rawson conveys the importance of sexual harassment training in the construction industry. He explains how adequate and comprehensive training can help protect construction companies and also covers frequently asked questions and common misperceptions. For example, Rawson says that despite longstanding stereotypes about inappropriate behavior at construction sites, Traliant's research has shown no heavier prevalence of sexual harassment in construction than other industries. He also discusses how several states enforce laws and regulations regarding sexual harassment training compliance and that not making sure all employees have been properly trained and certified could cause contractors to lose out on projects. Sexual harassment training isn't only about being proactive in preventing this behavior in your company. This type of training also benefits employees who witness sexual harassment in the workplace. Training can help employees know what to do when they witness sexual harassment and who to report it to. Listen in to learn more about sexual harassment training in construction, including Traliant's training methods and options, what actually does and does not constitute harassment and frequently held misconceptions.
Tom Valbak Aardestrup, VP Business Development with Trackunit, discusses artificial intelligence (AI) and the opportunities it offers in helping to eliminate downtime. Valbak Aardestrup talks about what AI is, how it interacts with the construction environment, what you should be aware of before working with AI and the importance of sharing data.
Todd Brockdorf of Otonomo discusses the current trend of telematics adoption in rental operations, potential opportunities and how to ensure you get the most out of the telematics data generated. Major equipment rental companies are already using telematics data, and it's mainly these larger equipment rental companies leading the way. However, Brockdorf sees a trend that smaller rental companies will be adopting telematics data technology within the next two to three years. Listen in to hear what Brockdorf has to say about the potential of telematics data for construction fleet rental companies.
Todd Brockdorf, head of America's solution architecture with Otonomo, discusses current and future benefits telematics data analysis can offer to construction equipment owners including making jobsites safer and reducing business operating costs. Otonomo is a connected vehicle data services platform that works with service providers, such as OEMs, to utilize connected vehicle data and provide it to companies building applications and services around connected vehicle technology. Listen in to hear what Brockdorf has to say about telematics data analysis and how it benefits equipment owners and operators.
FieldChat CEO Katrin Lepik explains how emerging technology enables better communication in the construction industry, even for those who aren't tech-savvy. FieldChat, for example, provides anyone who can text with the ability to communicate effectively with team members across sites. Users can create different channels for different parts of the team, or for different agendas or trades, such as safety, efficiency, quality control or materials. Listen in to learn more about Field.Chat, construction technology and the importance of effective communication.
Sheena Ingle with ForConstructionPros.com and The Digging Deeper Podcast spoke with Verizon Connect Head of Global Product Success Kevin Aries about transportation management, driver safety, communication, common misperceptions and Verizon Connect’s new Integrated Video service. A recent press release and study from Verizon Connect shows that 83% of survey respondents (everyday drivers) believe they are safer on the road than commercial drivers. In reality, a mere 3% of severe accidents in the U.S. involve commercial vehicles. According to the press release, the reason behind this misconception is frequent instances of everyday drivers observing commercial vehicles being operated in dangerous and reckless ways – such as speeding, changing lanes abruptly and taking turns too quickly. Aries details how Verizon Connect Integrated Video uses artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) to help encourage safety and combat these misperceptions. The technology enables transportation managers to monitor driver conduct, review performance, see video of events, track speed, curb reckless behavior and communicate more comprehensively with drivers.
If you’re in transportation, construction, agriculture or any other similar field, you probably know the name Talbert Manufacturing. The company has provided heavy capacity trailers and specialized transportation equipment to customers since 1938. Equipment Today Editor Becky Schultz got a chance to speak with Talbert’s VP of Sales and Marketing Troy Geisler, Sales Engineer Russell Losh, and Dealer Development Manager David Henderson about the company’s recent expansion and constant focus on customer needs.
ForConstructionPros.com Contributing Editor Becky Schultz talked with Jeremy Bailey, product manager of air compressors for Doosan Portable Power about the future of the industry and meeting emissions regulations in the U.S. and Europe. For the past decade, the industry has been working to meet Tier 4 Interim and Tier 4 Final emissions standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Once Doosan had its product lineup updated to meet those standards, the company could move on to other challenges.
Contributing editor Ryan Whisner gets some insight on the Bobcat’s new small articulated loader on this episode of the Digger Deeper podcast. Built to fit into backyard areas and capable of carrying small pallets of block or landscape materials, it is designed for landscaping, tree removal and other light duty applications. Product Manager Marty Miller shares some of the highlights of the new machine that will be available in early 2020.
On this edition of the Digging Deeper Podcast, For Construction Pros writer Sheena Ingle sat down with Murray Rice of Richard and Rice Construction to get his insights on workers' compensation. He explains that general contractors don't just need to make sure they have adequate workers' compensation coverage, they must also ensure any subcontractors they hire carry policies that cover themselves and their own workers.
Curt Bennink sat down with Tim Lussier, national sales manager with Bekaert Corporation, to talk about fiber reinforced concrete and how it offers concrete contractors savings in both labor and materials.
The incident rate of suicide in the construction industry is the highest of any industry, according to a recent CDC study, and the rate continues to increase. Stuart Binstock, president and CEO of the Construction Financial Management Association (CFMA) talked with contributing editor Becky Schultz on the pressing need to understand suicide in the construction industry and bring prevention to the forefront of discussion.
Larry Stewart with ForConstructionPros.com sat down with Joel Honeyman, vice president of innovation for Bobcat Co., to find out what the Bobcat innovation team does and how their work has come to fruition through new Bobcat products and technologies, including a new mobile device remote control Bobcat recently introduced. Honeyman and his innovation team are constantly on the lookout for new technologies — often exploring technologies in use non-construction industries — to find and determine how those technology solutions can make contractors safer and more productive. For example, Bobcat's innovation team helped spearhead the R&D of the company's new remote controlled equipment which uses a mobile device as the remote control. Listen in to hear more from Honeyman and what the Bobcat innovation team is up to.
When For Construction Pros Chief Content Officer Christoph Trappe attended ICUEE 2019 (the International Construction and Utility Equipment Exposition) in October, he and the entire crowd were drawn to the Vermeer demonstration area. Right in the center of the display sat a 40-foot-long crate with "NOT TO BE OPENED UNTIL ICUEE" stamped in huge letters on its front. A banner that read "CAN'T BE CONTAINED" and a screen above the crate playing promotional videos finished off the intriguing spectacle. Vermeer President and CEO Jason Andriga and VP of Sales Doug Hundt soon approached the stage and addressed the crowd. They talked about the piece of equipment being revealed and the construction industry problems it aimed to solve. While the crowd cheered, the crate's 15-foot-high wall was dropped to reveal the Vermeer XR2 Vacuum Excavator. On this episode of the Digging Deeper Podcast, Trappe sits down with Vermeer product marketing lead Kayla Breja to learn more about the two-year planning and marketing campaign that went into preparing for this product unveiling and positioning it for success. Listen in to learn more about the work behind such an endeavor.
Contributing Editor Ryan Whisner takes a look at the Vermeer’s newest and largest mini skid steer, the CTX160. With heavy lifting capabilities and compact footprint, the CTX160 is well-suited for a landscape contractor. Brett Newendorp, landscape market manager at Vermeer was interviewed for the latest episode of Digging Deeper to give an overview of the new machine’s capabilities and features.
Curt Bennink spoke with Kris Nagy, industry sales representative for Caterpillar, about using Caterpillar skid stters or compact track loaders, a box blade and Trimble Earthworks Go to make jobsite grading faster, accurate and require less people.
The Hyundai 960 HD and 960 HD XT (Extreme) are heavy-duty wheel loaders that offer maximized performance, efficiency and productivity. These machines have been proven to provide as much as 5% higher productivity and 10% lower fuel consumption than previous models. Each boasts 222 hp at 2,200 rpm, and have operating weights of 42,825 lbs. (960 HD) and 43,211 lbs. (960 HD XT). The 960 HD XT has an extended boom arm. For Construction Pros' Becky Schultz got a chance to sit down with Hyundai senior product specialist Chad Parker recently for the Digging Deeper Podcast. Parker discussed the comprehensive range of specialized configurations and guards available for the loaders, and productivity and life-cycle cost benefits.
On this edition of the Digging Deeper Podcast, we discuss the recent announcement that Hyundai and Engcon are now partnering on Hyundai's new excavator lineup. While attending a Hyundai dealer training session just outside of Atlanta, Georgia, For Construction Pros' Becky Schultz got a chance to speak with Engcon business development executive Curtis Albert on the partnership and what it means for customers. The collaboration came about when Hyundai reached out to Engcon for new control systems, says Albert. Engcon was tapped to provide its innovative joystick control systems to run Hyundai's entire fleet of machinery – from mini excavators up through demolition machines. As the partnership flourished, it led into Hyundai utilizing Engcon's innovative tiltrotator that goes with the control system. According to Albert, the tiltrotator with innovative joystick control systems will be available on machines ranging from 3 to 33 metric tons – and different sized tilt rotators will be offered depending on the size of the machines. Albert says the primary benefit for customers is that these innovative tiltrotator controls enable end-users to perform multiple functions at one time. Whereas standard joysticks often offer just two functions at one time, Engcon's MIG2 joystick controls allow users to perform "as many functions as they can do accurately at once, but more importantly really maxing out about seven functions at once." Listen in for more on this exciting development!
In episode 6 of our ANSI Experts Explain podcast, Kevin O'Shea, director of safety and training at AGF Access Group, talks about training requirements for erecting and using mast climbing work platforms (MCWPs), one of the safest means of performing work at height on particularly complex projects.
In episode 5 of our ANSI Experts Explain podcast, Jim Colvin, president and CEO of Serious Labs, talks about how virtual reality simulators work and why they can have a massive impact on mobile elevating work platform (MEWP) training and safety.
Christoph Trappe speaks with Liebherr International's Andreas Böhm and Holger Streitz on the future of construction sites.
In episode 4 of our ANSI Experts Explain series, Bal Guerrero, United Academy director with United Rentals, talks about new requirements for jobsite risk assessments included in the upcoming ANSI standards for mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) which go into effect December 2019.
In episode 3 of ANSI Experts Explain, Scott Owyen, senior training manager for Genie, talks about new ANSI requirements for a Safe Use Plan for mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs), outlining specific requirements for operators and jobsite supervisors.
In episode 2 of our ANSI Experts Explain series, Tony Groat, North America Manager of IPAF, talks about the new training standard which goes into detail about specific responsibilities for MEWP users, owners, dealers, operators, occupants and jobsite supervisors.
Tenna has released three additions to its construction technology including its One Platform, the Tenna App and the TennaMINI. The Tenna One Platform gathers data from GPS, Cellular, Bluetooth Low Energy and QR technologies and synthesizes it on our to give you the information you need. One Platform gives you uninterrupted visibility across your entire mixed fleet. No more managing multiple systems or data sources. Tenna will be your single source of truth for managing everything from heavy iron to fleet vehicles and trucks, down to mid-sized equipment and small tools and everything in-between. The Tenn App gives you have the freedom to step away from your desk and access asset information from the One Platform at your fingertips anytime. The TennaMINI battery trackers provide precise GPS tracking and management for high-value heavy yellow iron assets. It measures only 1.25 in. x 2.25 in. x 5 in.
In Episode 1 of this ANSI Experts Explain series, Tony Groat, North America Manager of IPAF, talks about new ANSI standards for mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) and why equipment owners and users need to be ready.
Wally Adamchik shares his advice for how construction contractors can improve their existing workforce through servant leadership and what the industry needs to do to bring in new workers.
The one-year grace period for the new ANSI Standards is up in December 2019. That means manufacturers will be producing new machines to the new ANSI Standards, and operators will see a change in how mobile elevated work platforms perform in the field. Genie's Sr. Director of Product Management Chad Hislop gets Chris Wood up to speed on ANSI standards and Genie's global effort to harmonize fleets in this episode of Digging Deeper.
Profitability and cash flow drive any construction business, and construction industry consultant Shawn van Dyke explains how they work together to assure "Profit First for Contractors."
All effective leaders look to improve their leadership skills, and Bart Gragg, Blue Collar University, outlines his approach, which he will detail at the Ignite Construction Summit, Dec. 12-13 in Las Vegas.
Brad Humphrey, Pinnacle Development Group, offers leadership training tips as a preview of his Ignite Construction Summit session.
This on-location Digging Deeper podcast from ICUEE 2019 features Jason Andriga and Doug Hundt of Vermeer discussing the new XR2 Vacuum Excavator and rebuilding after an unforeseen disaster.
David Venable, Director of Off-highway Sub-segment leader of Cummins Inc. discusses electrification in the off-road industry including current trends and a look into the future.
Rick Rodier, Toro Company Group VP of Construction Business, discusses the acquisition of Ditch Witch and Charles Machine Works and what customers can expect from both brands moving forward.
Diego Bustamante, IPAF Mexico and South U.S. representative, talks about the importance of industry participation in IPAF's MEWP Accident Reporting Project to promote the safest use of powered access equipment and reduce potential injuries and fatalities.