Author: agcnews

Construction sector employment increased by 11,000 positions in April as rising wages enabled the industry to add workers more rapidly than other sectors, according to an analysis of new government data the Associated General Contractors of America released today. Association officials said growing uncertainty about the impacts of new tariffs could undermine future employment growth in the sector. “The construction industry continued to add workers at a faster clip than other sectors in April as the industry boosted pay more than other private employers,” said Ken Simonson, the association’s chief economist. “But uncertainty over tariffs and other policy reversals may…

In this episode recorded live at the 2025 AGC Convention, host Max Nelson sits down with Alex Juarez (Pittsburg State University) and Chip Wilson (Colorado State University)—two soon-to-be graduates preparing to enter the construction workforce. They share what inspired their career paths, how AGC student chapters and internships have shaped their journey, and what they’re looking for in potential employers. Whether you’re a contractor looking to connect with emerging professionals or a student thinking about your next step, this conversation offers real-world insights into the future of the industry. To learn more about AGC’s Student Chapter network, visit agc.org/connect/chapters/student-chapters

Construction spending decreased 0.5 percent from February to March with a pullback in all of the largest nonresidential public and private project types, according to an analysis by the Associated General Contractors of America of a new government report. Association officials noted that the decline in construction activity comes amid growing uncertainty about the impacts tariffs and trade disputes would have on materials prices and overall demand for new projects. “Construction spending retreated in March, as media reports and corporate announcements suggest owners are hesitant to start new projects in light of uncertainty over tariffs, government funding, and other policy…

The AGC Education and Research Foundation proudly unveiled the inaugural recipient of the Bowen Prize for Great Builders, an award honoring the most influential and impactful leaders in the construction industry. This new distinction recognizes those who manage the work on the ground, solve complex challenges, and deliver transformative infrastructure projects. We are thrilled to announce the first-ever recipient of the Bowen Prize is Michael Svoboda, Project Manager at Kiewit Infrastructure South Co. Michael led the Broadway Bridge Replacement Project in Nashville, TN—an ambitious $71.8 million urban infrastructure initiative. Under his leadership, the project was completed two weeks ahead of schedule,…

Construction employment increased in 192, or 53 percent, of 360 metro areas between March 2024 and March 2025, according to an analysis by the Associated General Contractors of America of new government employment data. Association officials noted fewer metro areas are adding construction jobs compared to a year ago amid signs that tariff uncertainty and tight labor markets are impacting demand for projects. “In the past 12 months barely half of metro areas experienced an increase in construction employment, a notable slowing from last year,” said Ken Simonson, the association’s chief economist. “This may be a sign that investors and…

The winter season has been a busy one for the Construction Leadership Council. Following the Kansas City Region Builders holiday party in December, CLC members gathered at Society in the Crossroads Art District of Kansas City to celebrate the holidays and commemorate the year’s achievements. Attendees enjoyed a happy hour and some networking at the art-centric restaurant. Dan Baird with Mark One Electric Company, Inc. organized the happy hour event. For their January event, McCownGordon Construction hosted CLC members to kick off the new year with some appetizers and raffle with great prizes. The Jan. 23 event was one of…

Defense Department Announces It Will Not Prohibit Firms from Voluntarily Entering into a Project Labor Agreement Even as it Drops a Biden-Era Mandate that Required the Agreement for Most Projects The Associated General Contractors of America’s chief executive officer, Jeffrey Shoaf, issued the following statement in reaction to the U.S. Department of Defense memorandum revising prior language, following entreaties from the association, clarifying that it will neither prohibit firms from voluntarily engaging in project labor agreements nor require them on its projects: “From day one we have taken the approach that project labor agreements should neither be mandated nor prohibited…

Hensel Phelps was recognized for having the nation’s top construction safety and health program in 2024 by the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC). The association, which oversees the Construction Safety Excellence Awards (CSEA), an annual ranking of construction safety and health programs, noted that 66 other companies were also selected as winners for their commitment to occupational safety and health management and risk control. “Through these awards, we are seeking to identify the most effective tactics companies are using to address and improve construction safety and health,” said Todd Roberts, the association’s senior vice president and president of ERS Inc. in Jackson,…

Spanning 3.7 miles through three cities and two counties, the Lynnwood Link Extension L300 is more than a light rail expansion—it’s a testament of construction excellence. Skanska delivered the project on time and within budget despite immense challenges, earning it the Grand Award in this year’s Build America Awards. From the start, access was limited to just 40% of the alignment. Skanska’s phased construction and early work packages kept progress moving. The team navigated a global microchip shortage by installing escalators ahead of delivery and performing final tests onsite, avoiding six months of delays. They also cut full freeway closures…

AGC of America and our survey partner, HCSS, are asking all highway and transportation members help us improve work zone safety by completing this brief survey. We want to collect information on the number, severity, impacts and potential solutions to highway work zone crashes. We will use the results of this survey for a media and public education campaign we will launch the week before Memorial Day to encourage motorists to be more careful in work zones. We will also use this data to work with our chapters to advocate for stronger highway work zone safety laws and more aggressive enforcement…