Construction Costs

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If you own your own construction business or work in the construction industry, you know that there has been a significant surge in material costs, posing challenges for businesses across the sector. Understanding the factors driving these cost increases and implementing effective cost management strategies are essential for construction businesses of all sizes to navigate this challenging landscape without compromising on quality. Let’s delve into the reasons behind the rise in construction material costs and explore practical ways for businesses to mitigate these challenges while maintaining the integrity of their work.

Factors Driving the Increase in Construction Material Costs

Supply Chain Disruptions

Disruptions in global supply chains, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic four years ago, have led to shortages and delays that we are still seeing today in the production and transportation of construction materials. Factors such as factory closures, labor shortages, and logistical challenges have contributed to supply chain bottlenecks, driving up material costs.

Rising Demand and Economic Recovery

As local, state, and national economies rebound from the effects of the pandemic, there has been a surge in demand for construction materials, particularly in sectors such as residential housing and infrastructure development. Increased demand, coupled with limited supply, has created upward pressure on prices.

Escalating Raw Material Prices

The cost of raw materials such as lumber, steel, cement, and copper has skyrocketed due to a combination of factors, including increased demand, supply constraints, and inflationary pressures. Fluctuations in commodity prices and geopolitical tensions (like the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East) have further exacerbated price volatility.

We know how hard it can be for construction companies right now, especially for smaller businesses. That’s why we’ve put together these strategies for construction businesses to decrease costs.

Cost-Cutting Strategies for Construction Businesses

Strategic Procurement and Supplier Relationships

Foster long-term relationships with reliable suppliers and negotiate favorable pricing terms based on volume commitments and payment terms. Explore alternative sourcing options and diversify your supplier base to mitigate the impact of supply chain disruptions.

Optimize Material Usage and Waste Reduction

Implement efficient inventory management practices to minimize material waste and optimize usage. Utilize advanced technologies such as Building Information Modeling (BIM) and prefabrication to streamline construction processes and reduce material waste on-site.

Embrace Sustainable and Cost-Effective Alternatives

Explore sustainable building materials and construction techniques that offer cost savings without compromising quality. Consider alternatives such as recycled materials, modular construction, and energy-efficient technologies that can reduce long-term operational costs.

Invest in Technology and Innovation

You know we love technology at Steadfast Entities, LLC, and part of the reason why is because it can save you money! Leverage technology solutions such as construction management software, project tracking tools, and drones for site monitoring to enhance productivity and efficiency. Automation and digitization of workflows can streamline operations, reduce labor costs, and improve project outcomes.

Continuous Training and Skill Development

Turnover costs businesses thousands every year. Invest in training programs and professional development initiatives to upskill your workforce and enhance productivity, and give them the opportunity to grow and learn. Equip your team with the knowledge and expertise to leverage new technologies and construction methods effectively.

Collaborative Project Planning and Value Engineering

Engage in collaborative project planning sessions with stakeholders to identify value engineering opportunities and cost-saving measures without sacrificing quality. Evaluate design alternatives, material substitutions, and construction methodologies to optimize project costs while meeting project objectives.

While the surge in construction material costs presents significant challenges for businesses, proactive cost management strategies can help mitigate these challenges and maintain competitiveness in the marketplace. By optimizing procurement practices, embracing innovation, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement, construction businesses can navigate the current landscape successfully while delivering high-quality projects that meet client expectations. Adapting to evolving market dynamics and embracing sustainable and efficient construction practices will be key to long-term success in the construction industry.

Looking for great prices on the most up-to-date equipment rentals? Contact Steadfast Entities, LLC, today! We prioritize sustainability, utilizing technology, and staffing with IUOE Local 542, who are thoroughly trained to help you get the job done safely, efficiently, and right the first time. Let’s see what we can build together. 

Women Through Time

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March is Women’s History Month, so what better time to highlight the women who have made a difference in construction! 

From ancient times to the modern era, women have played crucial roles in shaping the building environment, often overcoming obstacles and prejudices to leave an indelible mark on the industry. 

Here are just a few of their contributions: 

Ancient Builders and Architects

The history of women in construction dates back to ancient civilizations, where women were involved in various aspects of building and architecture. In ancient Egypt, women worked alongside men in constructing grand monuments like the pyramids, with archaeological evidence suggesting that women were involved in tasks like brickmaking, hauling stones, and even supervising construction projects.

Medieval Craftswomen

During the medieval period in Europe, women continued to contribute to construction, particularly in the realm of craftsmanship. While men dominated guilds and trade associations, women were involved in trades such as carpentry, masonry, and thatching. Their expertise can still be seen today in the intricate woodwork, stone carving, and decorative elements adorning cathedrals and castles across Europe.

Renaissance Innovators

The Renaissance era saw a burgeoning interest in architecture and engineering, and women played pivotal roles in advancing these fields. For example, Italian noblewoman Caterina de Vigri is believed to have designed and overseen the construction of several buildings in 15th-century Bologna. Historians are still reviewing her architectural drawings and writings today, which reflect a keen understanding of both structural and design principles.

Modern Pioneers

The 19th and 20th centuries witnessed both the rise of women in construction and significant societal barriers to them doing the work they loved. Still, they persevered, and the industry is better for it. One of the most well known, Emily Roebling, is often hailed as one of the female pioneers of engineering, as she played a pivotal role in the construction of the Brooklyn Bridge. Following her husband Washington Roebling’s illness, Emily assumed responsibility for overseeing the bridge’s construction, demonstrating exceptional leadership and engineering prowess.

Trailblazers of the 20th Century

As the 20th century progressed, even more women began entering the construction industry. Lillian Moller Gilbreth, an industrial engineer and efficiency expert, made significant contributions to the field of construction management. We should be grateful for her pioneering work in time-motion studies and ergonomics: it revolutionized construction practices, and led to safer and more efficient worksites.

Contemporary Icons

Women continue to make their mark in construction today, holding key positions in design, project management, and executive leadership. Renowned designer Zaha Hadid shatters glass ceilings with her avant-garde designs and innovative approach to architecture. Her iconic structures, characterized by fluid forms and bold geometries, have left an indelible imprint on skylines worldwide.

Women of the Future

Despite the progress made, women in construction still face challenges such as gender bias, unequal opportunities, and workplace harassment. However, initiatives promoting diversity and inclusion, along with advocacy for equal representation, are gradually transforming the industry’s landscape. Organizations like the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) provide support, networking, and advocacy for women in the field.

At Steadfast Entities, LLC, we support diversity in construction through our partnership with IUOE Local 542, which is a blend of heavy equipment operators in building and construction. These highly trained, experienced workers are available for all your staffing needs, and are guaranteed on-site when scheduled. 

Contact us today to find out how our talented workers can help you get the job done right!

Safety First

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At Steadfast Enterprises, LLC, we take pride in connecting our clients with highly trained staff from IUOE Local 542. 

Our goal is twofold: 

  1. to provide you with the people you need to get the job done efficiently, and 
  2. to keep our workers safe and healthy. 

Safety is paramount for construction businesses of all sizes and it’s non-negotiable. Poor employer precautions and hazardous conditions don’t just result in employee injury or death, they also result in high fines and penalties that put some companies out of business completely.  

To help, we’ve put together this list of effective strategies to enhance safety and protect your team:

Training and Education

Providing comprehensive safety training to all workers is fundamental. Even for smaller businesses, investing in safety training sessions ensures that employees understand potential hazards, safety protocols, and emergency procedures. This education instills a safety-conscious mindset among workers.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Equipping workers with appropriate PPE is essential. Safety helmets, high-visibility vests, goggles, gloves, steel-toe boots, and hearing protection are basic necessities that shield workers from various job site risks. Prioritize the availability and proper use of PPE through regular checks and replacements as needed.

Regular Safety Inspections and Maintenance

Conducting routine safety inspections of equipment, machinery, and job site conditions is critical. Businesses should prioritize regular maintenance of tools and equipment to ensure they’re in optimal working condition, reducing the risk of accidents due to malfunctioning machinery.

Utilization of Technology for Safety

Mobile apps and software are available for all budgets, and can aid in safety documentation, hazard reporting, and conducting safety audits. Wearable technology like smart helmets or vests equipped with sensors can alert workers to potential dangers, improving situational awareness.

Job Hazard Analysis (JHA)

Performing a thorough job hazard analysis for each task on the construction site helps identify potential risks and develop mitigation strategies. This analysis enables workers to understand the hazards associated with their specific roles and take necessary precautions.

Implementing Safety Protocols and Guidelines

Establishing clear and concise safety protocols and guidelines is crucial. Ensure these guidelines are prominently displayed and easily accessible to all workers, in multiple languages if needed. Regularly review and update safety protocols in response to changing job site conditions or new risks.

Promoting a Safety Culture

Fostering a culture of safety among workers is essential for creating a safer work environment. Encourage open communication about safety concerns, recognize and reward safe practices, and involve workers in safety-related decision-making processes. Don’t let safety violations slide and commend workers when they take action to stay safe. 

Collaboration with Safety Organizations and Resources

Construction businesses can benefit from collaborating with OSHA or other safety organizations to access resources, training materials, and guidance on safety best practices. Networking with industry peers can also provide valuable insights into today’s safety measures and solutions.

Regular Safety Meetings and Toolbox Talks

Conducting frequent safety meetings and toolbox talks allows for discussion of safety issues, sharing best practices, and reinforcing safety protocols. These discussions create an opportunity for workers to actively engage in safety-related conversations.

Encourage Reporting and Investigation of Incidents

Encourage a reporting culture where workers feel comfortable reporting near-misses, incidents, or hazards without fear of reprisal. Investigate incidents promptly to identify root causes and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.

Prioritizing safety on construction sites, even for smaller businesses, requires a proactive approach from both staff and supervisors. By investing in education, leveraging available resources, and promoting a collective commitment to safety, construction businesses of all sizes can create a safer work environment for their workers, reducing accidents and ensuring their well-being on the job.

Hiring Gen Z

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The construction industry stands at the threshold of a generational shift as Gen Z individuals, born between the late 1990s and early 2010s, enter the workforce. 

Enticing this tech-savvy and socially conscious generation into construction careers poses a challenge. Here are some innovative strategies to captivate Gen Z and ignite their interest in the construction industry.

Technology & Innovation

Highlight Tech Integration: Showcase how technology is transforming construction. Emphasize the use of drones, building information modeling (BIM), virtual reality, and augmented reality in the industry. Gen Z is smart and tech-savvy and attracted to innovative solutions.

Digital Recruitment: Leverage social media platforms, virtual career fairs, and online recruitment tools to engage the next generation. Use engaging videos and interactive content showcasing the dynamic and tech-driven aspects of the construction field. If this sounds daunting, consider consulting with a marketing expert. 

Tech-Centric Training: Offer specialized training programs in digital tools and software used in construction. Highlight the opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology and further develop sought-after skills. 

Environmental & Social Impact

Sustainability Focus: Highlight the industry’s commitment to sustainability and green building practices. Emphasize projects aimed at reducing carbon footprints or using renewable energy sources, appealing to today’s focus on environmental consciousness.

Community Engagement: Showcase construction’s role in community development. Highlight projects that positively impact communities, such as affordable housing initiatives or urban regeneration, aligning with the next generation’s desire for meaningful work.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): Promote CSR initiatives within construction firms, showcasing efforts towards social causes, volunteer programs, or partnerships with nonprofits. Many Gen Zers seek employers aligned with their values.

Career Advancement & Diversity

Clear Career Pathways: Illustrate a clear path for career growth within the industry. Offer mentorship programs, apprenticeships, and opportunities for skill development and upward mobility.

Diverse and Inclusive Culture: Promote a diverse and inclusive workplace culture. Highlight efforts to create an environment where individuals of all backgrounds and identities feel welcomed and valued.

Flexible Work Arrangements: Consider offering flexible work hours or remote work options when feasible. Today’s workers values work-life balance and flexibility in their careers.

Education & Outreach

Engage in Educational Partnerships: Collaborate with schools, colleges, and vocational programs to promote construction as a viable career option. Offer workshops, internships, or educational sessions to introduce students to the industry.

Industry Ambassador Programs: Establish ambassador programs where current construction workers or industry professionals visit educational institutions to share their experiences and insights, providing a realistic view of construction careers.

Financial Support and Incentives: Offer scholarships, grants, or tuition reimbursement programs for those pursuing education or training in construction-related fields, attracting Gen Z individuals seeking financial stability.

While each individual is different, attracting young talent from Gen Z to the construction industry requires a multi-faceted approach that aligns with their values, aspirations, and technological inclinations. 

By showcasing the industry’s innovation, social impact, career growth opportunities, and commitment to diversity and sustainability, construction businesses can effectively engage and entice the next generation of workers. This not only addresses the industry’s labor shortage, but also ensures a vibrant and skilled workforce ready to shape the future of construction.

Holiday Employee Appreciation

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Hard work and dedication are essential in the construction agency, and so is expressing gratitude and appreciation towards your employees. 

The holiday season provides the perfect opportunity for you to show your crew that their efforts are valued and recognized. Whether your company is small and just starting out, or large with hundreds of employees, we have ideas on how you can say thank you during this holiday season.

SMALL COMPANIES

Handwritten “Thank You” Notes

Small construction businesses can start by writing personalized notes to each employee, acknowledging their contributions and dedication. This simple gesture goes a long way.

Employee Recognition Awards

Consider creating holiday-specific awards, such as “Outstanding Craftsperson of the Year” or “Safety Champion,” to recognize individual employees for their exceptional performance. These awards can be presented during a small gathering.

Team Lunch or Dinner

Host a holiday lunch or dinner for your employees at a local restaurant, or catered at the worksite. This creates an opportunity for team bonding and celebrates the season together. Bonus points if they get paid to be there!

Flexible Hours

Offer employees the option to choose flexible hours during the holiday season, allowing them to spend more time with their loved ones and making the work-life balance easier to manage during this fun but busy season.

Gifts or Gift Cards

Provide thoughtful gifts or gift cards tailored to individual preferences. These tokens of appreciation can range from tools and gear to local restaurant gift cards.

MEDIUM COMPANIES

Holiday Bonuses

Consider providing holiday bonuses or profit-sharing bonuses to recognize and reward your employees’ hard work and dedication throughout the year.

Team Building Activities

Plan team-building activities like a friendly sports tournament, group volunteering, or a holiday-themed competition to boost camaraderie.

Annual Holiday Party

Organize an annual holiday party that includes all employees and their families. These events create a sense of unity and show that you care about them, personally and professionally

Charitable Initiatives

Promote employee involvement in charitable causes by organizing volunteer opportunities or making a donation to a cause that aligns with your company’s values.

LARGE COMPANIES

Employee Stock Options

Large construction companies can consider offering employees stock options, aligning their success with that of the company.

Generous Time Off

Provide additional paid time off during the holiday season or offer employees the option to take extended vacations to celebrate with their loved ones.

Annual Awards Ceremony

Host an annual awards ceremony to honor employees for their exceptional contributions. Recognize safety records, innovations, and long-term dedication to the company.

Appreciating employees in the construction industry during the holidays is not only a gesture of goodwill, but also a strategic move to enhance morale, boost loyalty, and ensure a productive workforce. 

No matter the size of your company or your budget, there are a multitude of ways to express gratitude to your hardworking team members. The more personalized, the better! In the end, happy and appreciated employees are more likely to be motivated, dedicated, and committed to your company’s mission and goals.

Eye Injury Prevention

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In addition to National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, October is also Eye Injury Prevention Month! 

Eye injuries can be both painful and potentially life-altering, especially in high-risk professions like ours. This is the perfect time to shine a spotlight on how those working in construction can proactively safeguard their eyes and prevent major accidents.

The Significance of Eye Safety in Construction

Construction sites are known for having a lot happening throughout the worksite. In a split second, a worker who isn’t wearing the proper eye protection can be in danger. Some common eye injury risks include:

Flying Debris: Tools, materials, and equipment can generate flying particles that pose a risk to unprotected eyes.

Chemicals: Construction sites often use chemicals for tasks like welding, painting, and cleaning, which can cause eye irritation or damage if they come into contact with the eyes.

Dust and Fine Particles: Dust from cutting, grinding, or drilling materials can irritate the eyes.

UV Radiation: Prolonged exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can harm the eyes, especially when working outdoors.

Tips for Preventing Eye Injuries in Construction

Wear Appropriate Eye Protection: It may sound obvious, but the most critical step in preventing eye injuries is to wear suitable eye protection. Depending on the task, this can include safety glasses, goggles, or face shields. Ensure that your eye protection meets industry standards and is in good condition.

Know Your Environment: Familiarize yourself with the construction site and identify potential eye hazards. Be alert to flying objects, chemical exposure risks, and areas where eye protection is particularly crucial. If you think something might not be safe, ask a supervisor. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

Properly Maintain Tools and Equipment: Ensure that all your tools and equipment are in good working condition. Tools with broken or missing safety guards can increase the risk of eye injuries.

Use the Right Protection for the Job: Different tasks may require different types of eye protection. Choose the appropriate eyewear or face shield based on the specific hazards you’ll encounter.

Maintain a Clean Work Area: Keep your work area clean and free from debris and dust. Regularly clean up construction materials and ensure proper ventilation to reduce airborne particles.

Chemical Safety: When working with chemicals, wear eye protection and follow safety data sheet (SDS) guidelines for handling and storing chemicals.

Sun Protection: If your work involves outdoor construction, wear safety sunglasses with UV protection.

Regular Eye Exams: Prevention is the best way to protect your health, and your eyes are no exception. Schedule regular, annual eye exams to detect any vision problems early and ensure your eyes are in good health. 

First Aid Knowledge: Know how to administer first aid for eye injuries, and keep an eye wash station or emergency eyewash readily accessible. Practice this first aid regularly. Your quick actions could mean the difference in protecting the sight of you or one of your coworkers. 

Raise Awareness: Did you know there are over 2,000 eye injuries reported on construction sites in the US every year? Encourage your fellow construction workers to prioritize eye safety and report any unsafe practices or conditions to supervisors.

Remember, when it comes to your eyes, prevention is the key to a safer, healthier work environment. By adhering to best practices and consistently wearing appropriate eye protection, construction professionals can reduce eye injuries on the job.

Getting Started in Construction

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As students across the country return to school, you may have someone in your life considering going into the construction industry. Construction is a dynamic and rewarding field that offers diverse opportunities, and a long, steady, and rewarding career. 

However, with so many directions to go it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why we’ve created this step-by-step guide to get you started in the industry, regardless of your background or experience level.

Explore the Fields

There are lots of different jobs in the construction industry, so you’ll need to take some time to research. Understanding the various sectors (like residential, commercial, civil, and industrial construction) and reflecting on your interests and skills will help you determine which area aligns best with your goals and abilities. 

Get Educated

Depending on your chosen career path, you may need formal education or training. Here are a few options:

  • Trade Schools: Consider enrolling in a trade school to learn specific skills like carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, or masonry. Google “trade schools near me” and you’ll see what options you have. 
  • Apprenticeships: Apprenticeships offer hands-on training and often lead to well-paying jobs. You’ll work under the guidance of experienced professionals while earning a salary. Ask around with local construction companies to see what they offer. 
  • College Degrees: If you’re interested in construction management, engineering, or architecture, you can pursue a relevant degree program at a college or university. Since this can be expensive, research what kind of scholarships or assistance may be available. Your school website or scholarships.com are great places to start.
  • Certifications: Many positions, such as crane operators or safety managers, require certification rather than a full degree. Investigate the certifications needed for your chosen career path and plan accordingly.

Start Networking

It’s not what you know, but who you know! Building a strong network, attending industry events, joining professional organizations, and connecting with experienced individuals are all great ways to find job opportunities and valuable mentorship.

Gain Experience

Start by gaining hands-on experience. Starting as a laborer on construction sites will provide you with practical knowledge and a chance to learn from experienced workers.

Practice Safety First

Safety is paramount in construction. Familiarize yourself with safety regulations and procedures, and consider taking courses in construction safety to enhance your qualifications. This will let employers know that you take your future seriously. 

Create a Resume

Craft a compelling resume that highlights your relevant skills and experience. When you apply for jobs or apprenticeships, prepare for interviews by researching the company and practicing common interview questions.

Start Job Searching

Remember when we talked about networking? When you’re ready to start working, the best place to start is by asking for referrals from your network of mentors and contacts. If that doesn’t work, look for jobs on construction job boards, company websites, and local trade unions.

Get the Right Tools

Depending on your role, you may need to invest in your own tools and equipment. Start with the basics and gradually expand your toolkit as you gain experience.

Never Stop Learning

As you progress in your career, consider pursuing additional certifications or advanced degrees. This can open up higher-paying positions and leadership roles down the line. Talk to your managers, too; companies will often pay for additional training!

Be Dedicated

Regardless of what sector you choose, a strong work ethic and the ability to work well in a team are the most important traits you can bring to any project. Construction projects are often collaborative efforts, and your attitude and professionalism will be noticed and appreciated. Being comfortable in different climates, going up and down ladders, and working long hours will help you excel in construction. 

The construction industry offers a wide range of opportunities for individuals with varying backgrounds and interests. Whether you’re swinging a hammer or managing a project, you’re helping to build the future, one brick at a time. 

The 6 Steps to Dealing with Unhappy Customers

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If you’ve been in construction for any length of time, you’ve probably come across a difficult customer or two. Whether they’re hard to get in touch with, don’t ever seem satisfied with your work, or want to negotiate payment after you’ve completed the job, it’s important to maintain a good relationship and keep up your company’s reputation. 

The good news? We have several effective strategies to help you handle unhappy customers and turn their negative experiences into positive reviews.

1. Actively Listen and Empathize

When a customer expresses dissatisfaction, it is important to let them voice their concerns. While it might be tempting to roll your eyes or get defensive, do your best to actively listen to their complaints without interruption. Make sure you show genuine empathy for their frustrations, and let them know their feedback is valuable.

2. Respond Promptly

Timeliness is key when addressing customer concerns. Respond promptly to their complaints, preferably within 24-48 hours. This demonstrates your commitment to addressing the issue and prevents the situation from escalating further. If you need more time to investigate the matter thoroughly, keep the customer informed about the progress.

3. Investigate the Problem

To address the issue effectively, you’re going to need to understand its root cause. Gather all relevant information from the customer, project documents, and interview any team members who were involved. See if you can find any mistakes, miscommunications, or areas for improvement. This step will enable you to propose solutions, and can help you prevent similar issues in the future. Even if you’re not ultimately at fault, doing your due diligence shows the customer that you care and may help improve operations as you grow.

4. Offer Solutions

Once you have a clear understanding of the problem, propose appropriate solutions to the customer. Depending on the situation, this could involve rectifying the issue at no extra cost, providing a discount or refund, revisiting the project with enhanced supervision, or even offering additional services. Tailor your solution to meet the specific needs of the customer and aim for a mutually beneficial outcome.

5. Maintain Transparent Communication

Communication is key! Keep the customer updated on the progress, explain the steps being taken to rectify the situation, and provide realistic timelines for completion. Transparency builds trust and reassures the customer that their concerns are being addressed seriously.

6. Learn and Improve

It may sound cliche, but every unhappy customer is an opportunity to improve your business. Analyze the root causes of the issue and implement measures to prevent similar situations in the future. This may include enhancing internal communication processes, improving project management, conducting more employee training, or revising quality control protocols. By continually learning from your mistakes, you can enhance customer satisfaction and prevent future complaints.

Unhappy customers are an inevitable part of any business, but you can turn these situations into opportunities for growth. That’s why Steadfast Entities prides itself on great customer service! Whether you’re looking to rent reliable, modern equipment, hire knowledgeable staff, or purchase top-of-the-line equipment, we have exactly what you need, when you need it. 

Getting into Construction: Books, Movies, & TV

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Children often idolize construction workers, but as they get older that appreciation sometimes fades. All too often, those in our fields feel the bias against blue collar work. 

Maryland contractor and CEO of Delmarva Veteran Builders, Chris Eccleston, wanted to change that. He teamed up with graphic designer Jenny Kerr Schroen to create Grit Leads to Greatness, a children’s adventure book about two siblings living in a city that has forgotten how to build. Together, they work to find a mason, a carpenter, a plumber and an electrician who help them rebuild their home. The book captures the imaginations of kids and adults alike, reminding them how exciting and important construction is to our world. 

We love seeing young people (and adults!) encouraged to look into the trades, so this blog post highlights the many books, movies, and TV shows that spotlight construction or construction workers. Check them out!

Books

  1. “The Hard Hat: 21 Ways to Be a Great Teammate” by Jon Gordon: This book tells the inspiring true story of George Boiardi, a construction worker and college lacrosse player who embodied the qualities of a great teammate. It offers practical advice on how to build a strong team, both on and off the construction site.
  2. “The Art of Fielding” by Chad Harbach: While not specifically about construction workers, this novel tells the story of a college baseball team and the construction workers who built their stadium. It explores themes of teamwork, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence.
  3. “The Soul of a New Machine” by Tracy Kidder: This Pulitzer Prize-winning book tells the story of a group of engineers and construction workers who built a new computer in the late 1970s. It offers a fascinating look at the creative process and the challenges of building something new.

Movies

  1. The Big Short: This movie tells the story of a group of investors who bet against the housing market before the 2008 financial crisis. It features several scenes of construction workers building new homes and developments, and offers a sobering look at the consequences of reckless speculation.
  2. Joe Dirt: A comedy that follows the misadventures of a janitor who dreams of becoming a construction worker. It’s a lighthearted and fun movie that features several scenes of construction workers on the job.
  3. Iron Man: This superhero movie features several scenes of construction workers building Tony Stark’s state-of-the-art laboratory and other high-tech facilities. It’s a fun and action-packed movie that shows the importance of construction workers in building the infrastructure of the future.

TV Shows

  1. Undercover Boss: This reality show follows CEOs as they go undercover and work alongside their employees. Several episodes have featured construction companies and their workers, offering an inside look at the challenges and rewards of the job.
  2. Dirty Jobs: This popular show features host Mike Rowe as he travels the country and works alongside people in a variety of dirty, difficult, and often dangerous jobs. Several episodes focus on construction workers and the many difficulties they face.
  3. Building Alaska: This show follows a group of construction workers as they build homes and other structures in the harsh Alaskan wilderness. It offers a fascinating look at the challenges of building in such a remote and unforgiving environment.

We hope you get a chance to sit back, relax, and enjoy something from the list above. You’re never too old to get excited about construction!

The Future of Women in Construction

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As part of Women’s History Month, the construction industry celebrates Women in Construction Week from March 5th-11th. To celebrate, we wanted to highlight women who are making a difference in construction: who they are, what they bring to the industry, and how they are making the future brighter for everyone.

Who They Are

Women make up 14% of the construction industry and only about 3.4% of actual trade workers. Considering women make up 47% of the national workforce, this number is low, but it’s growing. 

Studies have shown that diversity increases employee engagement, improves productivity, and fosters innovation, so it’s no surprise that 59% of employers are actively working to bring a wider variety of people to their teams. This includes hiring more women, providing them with ongoing training and professional development opportunities, and promoting them into positions of leadership.

Bringing Growth to the Industry

Women are drawn to construction for many of the same reasons men are: a plethora of available jobs, great wages, and the ability to build a long, rewarding career. Yet there are even more reasons why a woman in particular would want to work in construction: For one, the pay gap in construction is small, with women earning 99.1% of what their male counterparts earn. This is substantially better than the national average of 81.1%. 

Beyond being a very physical job, construction requires intelligence and problem solving skills. Whether it’s making a bid for a job, creating a budget, drawing a blueprint, or solving a difficult puzzle on a job site, women inhabit the world differently and therefore can bring a different perspective to these tasks that often improve efficiency and save companies money.

Workers of the Future

Opportunities for women in construction continue to grow. As the industry looks for ways to recruit young workers, scholarships and training programs are becoming more widely available. For example, just this month the Department of Labor entered into a $20 million agreement with TradesFutures to create pathways for women and minorities into the industry through registered apprenticeship programs. TradesFutures, a Washington, DC-based nonprofit, plans to enroll 13,000 applicants into these programs, with over half of them being placed into registered apprenticeship programs across the country over the next four years. 

To make sure that women, veterans, people of color, Native Americans and other underrepresented groups are getting access to the program, TradesFutures will be partnering with the National Urban League and North America’s Building Trade Unions. The initial apprenticeship programs will be in Tennessee, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Missouri, but will expand to other states as programming becomes available. 

Want to be part of this great change? Check out our last Women in Construction blog post for tips to help you diversify your labor. 

At Steadfast, LLC, we believe that diversity is a strength, and it will only improve the future of construction! We hope to see more women and other underrepresented groups given equal pay, equal access to learning opportunities, and an equal chance to build a thriving career in construction.