Labor
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OSHA hearings hint at revised heat rule
Though many expected the Trump administration to kill the proposed regulation, the agency may simply tone it down to a more performance-based standard, experts say.
By Zachary Phillips • June 26, 2025 -
Contractors back New York’s Scaffold Law update
Liability insurance premiums in New York generally run about 30% higher than in other states due to the legislation, builders say.
By Sebastian Obando • June 26, 2025 -
Employers should regularly check E-Verify for authorization status changes, DHS warns
The Trump administration recently revoked work authorization status for more than half a million noncitizens from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua and Venezuela.
By Emilie Shumway • June 25, 2025 -
Startup JetZero to build $4.7B factory in North Carolina
The aircraft maker plans to create 14,500 jobs as it looks to produce more fuel-efficient, spacious planes.
By Kate Magill • June 18, 2025 -
PLA mandate to stay, with exemptions: OMB
The Trump administration said that it supports the use of project labor agreements on federal construction projects when they are “practicable and cost effective.”
By Zachary Phillips • June 13, 2025 -
OSHA’s proposed cuts won’t affect enforcement: DOL chief
A smaller budget will “modernize and streamline” the department, Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer said in a recent House committee hearing.
By Zachary Phillips • June 12, 2025 -
Opinion // Business Matters
Strive for more than work-life balance
A construction career can be deeply rewarding, not an experience to be dreaded, writes consultant Chad Prinkey.
By Chad Prinkey • June 12, 2025 -
Opinion
Why construction needs to lean into better mentorships
Teaching early-career professionals should go beyond technical know-how to give future leaders critical thinking and problem-solving skills, writes a senior project manager.
By Nelson Frech • June 6, 2025 -
Planning for Pride? Attorneys offer tips to navigate a ‘thornier’ year
Cultural observances may not necessarily be a target for federal enforcement actions, but some experts still urge caution.
By Kate Tornone • June 5, 2025 -
Job openings stagnate as labor churn flattens
Hires, layoffs and quits were historically low in April, while employers held onto valuable skilled labor amid economic uncertainty.
By Zachary Phillips • June 4, 2025 -
ICE raids on building sites stoke fear, uncertainty
Law enforcement officers arrested construction workers in San Antonio, New Orleans and Tallahassee, Florida, last week.
By Zachary Phillips • June 4, 2025 -
42% of Gen Z workers say they’re turning to blue-collar roles for security
Regardless of education level, workers said they’re choosing blue-collar work for better long-term prospects, higher pay and a lower risk of being replaced by AI.
By Carolyn Crist • May 29, 2025 -
Why veterans make good construction leaders
Former and current military members are well-suited for superintendent and safety manager roles, according to a recent webinar hosted by Skanska and the Society of American Military Engineers.
By Sebastian Obando • May 27, 2025 -
Q&A
Take breaks, buddy up: Tips for beating the heat
Ventilated hard hats, “heat buddies” and electrolyte drinks are just a few of the ways that Curran Young Construction helps keep workers cool.
By Jennifer Goodman • May 22, 2025 -
Defense Department must resume use of PLAs, judge says
A U.S. District Court ruling ordered the agency to return to using project labor agreements on major construction projects to align with a Biden-era executive order.
By Zachary Phillips • May 22, 2025 -
Foreign job seeker interest in US jobs has plummeted, Indeed says
“This drop could have real economic consequences, especially for sectors like healthcare and construction that depend heavily on immigrant labor,” according to the report.
By Carolyn Crist • May 15, 2025 -
Q&A
New York contractors boost pay, benefits to fight labor shortages
A report that surveyed more than 200 contractors in New York also highlighted workforce development programs, flexible work options and mental health resources.
By Sebastian Obando • May 15, 2025 -
Opinion // Business Matters
How new construction execs can set themselves up to succeed
Emerging leaders must be flexible in the face of change while also speaking up for what they need, writes consultant Matt Verderamo.
By Matt Verderamo • May 14, 2025 -
Safety Week 2025
Ready to stand down? Construction Safety Week kicks off.
This year’s initiative will focus on fall prevention among other efforts to keep workers safe and healthy.
By Jennifer Goodman • May 5, 2025 -
DOL orders staff not to enforce Biden-era independent contractor rule
The Labor Department is still considering whether to rescind the rule, which faces ongoing litigation, it said Thursday.
By Ryan Golden • May 5, 2025 -
Economic Reports
Construction hiring slows to lowest rate ever recorded
New job numbers point to a decreased demand for labor across the industry, according to Associated Builders and Contractors’ analysis.
By Jennifer Goodman • May 1, 2025 -
‘I can’t find any help’: Employers scramble to solve worker shortages caused by immigration crackdowns
President Donald Trump recently said the government would seek to let some undocumented persons return to the country “if they’re good,” but he was scant on details.
By Ryan Golden • May 1, 2025 -
DOT will cut funds to transportation projects with DEI: Duffy
The U.S. transportation secretary also told funding recipients that they need to cooperate with immigration officers or potentially face civil or criminal prosecution.
By Julie Strupp • April 29, 2025 -
Sponsored by HACIA
HACIA’s 2024 Impact Report: How one organization is building a more inclusive construction industry
How HACIA is helping diverse business owners grow and win in Illinois’ construction industry.
April 28, 2025 -
Column // Help Wanted
Trades skills course provides second chances
GAF Roofing Academy’s free weeklong training seeks to get students, some of whom have been charged with a crime or served prison sentences, job-ready.
By Zachary Phillips • April 24, 2025