December 2024 eBulletin

"Innovation, Safety, and Leadership: AGCVA's Recipe for Workforce Success"

Over the last several decades, the world, and more specifically the construction industry, have changed a lot. Members’ needs have changed, how we do business, and the types of technology used, have also changed. However, one thing does not change; we are not born knowing everything. We need to be lifelong learners, and our businesses need to be learning organizations. This has never been more true than now. We are in a period of rapid change in ideas, technology, materials, and building techniques at the same time as we are recruiting workers into the industry. AGCVA is the go-to source for the training support members need.

AGCVA members have been up to a lot in the last month!

We are thrilled to recognize these accomplishments and recognitions, and we encourage you to connect with your fellow members and extend your congratulations!

Construction wages vary significantly across the world's top 10 economies, with the U.S. leading in both annual and hourly pay, according to the Economic Research Institute. Germany and the UK also offer high wages, reflecting strong labor protections, while countries such as China and Brazil show lower averages.

CONSTRUCTION BRIEFING

As the demand for modernized and expanded infrastructure surges, one sector stands out with unprecedented momentum: medical facilities. Healthcare buildings are critical components of the nation’s infrastructure and from what can be seen in planning documents, it appears that almost every region in the U.S. is evaluating some type of healthcare-related upgrade. 

CONSTRUCTION DIVE

This week, the House of Representatives and Senate passed several long-overdue pieces of legislation relieving much of the burden of Affordable Care Act (ACA) compliance for applicable businesses. AGC has advocated for employer reporting reform ever since the ACA was enacted and eagerly anticipates President Biden signing the legislation into law. The two bills that passed include: employer reporting reform and paperwork burden reduction.

AGC

In this episode of ConstructorCast, host and General Counsel for AGC Leah Pilconis is joined by Chief Economist Ken Simonson and Vice President of Government Affairs Alex Etchen to unpack the results of the recent election and what they mean for the construction industry. From workforce challenges and regulatory shifts to infrastructure investment and tax policy changes, our experts provide key insights to help contractors prepare for the opportunities and challenges ahead.

AGC

The skilled workforce shortage in construction continues to put a strain on project deadlines and budgets. With a projected shortage of more than half a million workers per year, construction companies are looking for solutions to stock their teams with talent.

To begin filling the pipeline of workers, industry should consider one demographic as an ideal fit for the workforce — veterans.

Here are three reasons contractors should consider hiring veterans.
LinkedIn

Construction sector employment rose by 10,000 jobs in November with moderate increases in both residential and nonresidential jobs, according to an analysis of new government data the Associated General Contractors of America released. Association officials noted that contractors continue to hire amid some softening in demand, a sign they expect demand to rebound again in the near future.

“Job gains in both homebuilding and nonresidential building construction have slowed over the past year,” said Ken Simonson, the association’s chief economist. “But contractors have been hanging onto workers, a sign that they expect work to pick up soon.”

AGC

The Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) is partnering with technology provider Autodesk to distribute free, size-appropriate, personal protective equipment for women in construction.

Proper-fitting safety equipment is essential for all workers. However, women in construction require gear that accounts for differences in body shape, size, and fit to be fully protected. Unfortunately, that equipment is hard to find as relatively few manufacturers produce equipment sized for most women. That is why Autodesk is partnering with AGC to provide contractor members with complimentary safety equipment designed and sized to provide a better fit for women. Specifically, they will be providing safety gear packages containing glasses, gloves, and a vest to women in construction and/or firms that employ women in construction.

Supplies are limited, however, and the safety gear packages will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Be sure to apply today to secure safety equipment sized to keep you and your women employees safe.

AGC

 The construction industry is acclimating to an ever-digitizing workflow and ecosystem, alongside the growing importance of protecting equipment in sectors related to critical infrastructure. Construction companies and their employees must all be aware of digital safety concerns just as much as they are physical ones to establish confidence among staff in deterring cybercriminals.

Construction Executive

We always look forward to returning to The Greenbrier Resort for AGCVA's Convention, and this year we are excited to see what they have to offer in February! 

We encourage you to give yourself the optimal experience by reserving your room now to ensure the best accommodations and make your dinner reservations. Plus, with the convention being held in February, you have plenty of time to check out what activities you and your family can enjoy!

To reserve your room, call 855-766-3431 by February 10, 2025.

Dining options available for dinner include:
– The Main Dining Room
– The Forum
– Room Service
– Prime 44 West (additional $50 per person upcharge)