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Proving ROI in the Year of Proof How AI and Automation Transform the Construction Industry
The construction industry in 2026 faces a critical moment. After years of experimenting with AI and automation, senior leaders like VPs and Operations Managers must now demonstrate clear returns on their investments. The pressure to show bottom-line results is intense, especially while managing a workforce that often feels skeptical or exhausted by constant change. This post explores how construction companies can prove the value of AI and automation, overcome workforce resis
Colt Kierstead
11 hours ago3 min read


Navigating Macroeconomic Trends Shaping Commercial Construction in Early 2026
The commercial construction industry faces a complex economic landscape in early 2026. Interest rates have begun easing after a prolonged period of tightening, but their effects on projects are delayed. Meanwhile, tariffs on steel and aluminum, reaching up to 30%, continue to drive material cost volatility. These factors, combined with broader macroeconomic trends, are reshaping how developers, contractors, and investors approach commercial construction projects today. Unders
Colt Kierstead
1 day ago4 min read


Revolutionizing Construction: The Impact of Virtual Inspection Technology on Project Efficiency
Construction projects often face delays due to approval bottlenecks and the need for frequent on-site inspections. These delays can increase costs and disrupt schedules, frustrating contractors, clients, and stakeholders alike. Virtual inspection technology offers a promising solution by enabling remote inspections and the use of digital twins to streamline approvals and keep projects on track. This article explores how virtual inspection technology works, the different tools
Colt Kierstead
2 days ago3 min read


Analyzing Recent C-suite Changes at Hensel Phelps and Fortis Construction for Market Insights
Leadership changes at the executive level often signal shifts in company priorities, strategic direction, and market focus. Recently, two major players in the construction industry, Hensel Phelps and Fortis Construction, announced significant C-suite appointments. Brad Jeanneret took over as CEO at Hensel Phelps, while Andrea Weisheimer stepped into the role of President at Fortis Construction. These moves offer valuable clues about how these companies are positioning themsel
Colt Kierstead
3 days ago4 min read


Harnessing Sustainability for Competitive Advantage: The Economic Benefits of Embodied Carbon Tracking in Green Building
Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword in construction and public procurement. New mandates require tracking embodied carbon in public bids, pushing green building practices to the forefront. This shift is not only about environmental responsibility but also about financial performance. Studies show that green buildings can reduce operating costs by nearly 17%, offering a clear economic advantage. This post explores how embodied carbon tracking creates a competitive edge
Colt Kierstead
3 days ago3 min read


Navigating Challenges in Data Center Construction
Increasing Complexity of Design and Engineering Data centers are no longer simple warehouses filled with servers. Modern facilities require intricate designs to support high-density computing, advanced cooling systems, and energy efficiency standards. This complexity increases construction time and costs. High-density power and cooling : New data centers must handle greater heat loads from powerful servers. This requires innovative cooling solutions such as liquid cooling or
Colt Kierstead
Feb 234 min read
Analyzing Key Trends and Notable Projects in the Commercial Construction Industry Q2 2023
The commercial construction industry continues to evolve rapidly, shaped by shifting market demands, technological advances, and changing economic conditions. The second quarter of 2023 has revealed several important trends that are influencing how projects are planned, financed, and executed. This post explores the key developments shaping the sector, highlights notable projects gaining attention, examines the growing role of data centers, and offers insights on market forec
Colt Kierstead
Feb 174 min read


First Quarter Insights on the Commercial Construction Industry Trends and Challenges
The commercial construction industry is showing clear signs of change as the first quarter unfolds. Shifts in market demand, supply chain issues, labor availability, and evolving client expectations are shaping how projects move forward. Understanding these trends and challenges is essential for contractors, developers, and stakeholders who want to stay competitive and deliver successful projects this year. Commercial construction site with cranes and steel framework Market D
Colt Kierstead
Feb 174 min read


Scale Fast: General Contractor Hiring Solutions
Architect wearing hard hat and mask reviews floor plans on site for new construction project. The pressure cooker of rapid expansion defines modern success in Commercial General Contracting and construction. Securing a major new regional contract or landing that cornerstone client can instantly transform your annual projections, but this excitement often brings a critical bottleneck: talent acquisition. If your project pipeline is overflowing, yet your supervisory and skilled
Colt Kierstead
Feb 165 min read


Staffing Success: PM Power for Contractors
Group of diverse contractors collaborating on a construction project indoors, using a level bar. The modern construction landscape, particularly within Commercial General Contracting and construction, is defined by accelerating complexity. Projects are larger, schedules are tighter, and margins demand surgical precision. If your firm views its Project Managers (PMs) merely as administrative overseers, you are leaving profitability and project delivery success on the table. Tr
Colt Kierstead
Feb 165 min read


Recruit Top Trades Talent Now: GC Strategy
Four colleagues smiling and shaking hands in a bright office setting. The silence in the trailer on a Friday afternoon often masks the real crisis gripping Commercial General Contracting firms today: the deepening chasm in skilled labor availability. You see the bids getting tighter, the schedules stretching thinner, and the quality control demands increasing, all because the pipeline for experienced tradespeople is effectively drying up. If your firm views recruiting skilled
Colt Kierstead
Feb 165 min read


Addressing Commercial GC Staffing Challenges: Relentlessly Recruiting Elite Construction Talent
In the competitive world of commercial general contracting, finding and retaining top-tier talent is a constant challenge. As companies grow and projects become more complex, the demand for skilled professionals who can manage, execute, and innovate on construction sites intensifies. I have witnessed firsthand how addressing these staffing challenges head-on can transform a company’s trajectory. In this post, I will share practical insights and strategies to help you overcome
Colt Kierstead
Feb 93 min read
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