Two Locations

Knoxville

865-982-6452

Tri-Cities

423-975-9111

Operating Hours

Parts & Service

M-F 7am - 5pm

Sales & Rentals

M-F 8am - 5pm

Contact Us

865-982-6452

Sales: Blake Wilson

Parts/Service: Terry Nichols

Construction and manufacturing outlook for 2025.
Construction
December 1, 2024

Construction Outlook for 2025

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Contractors Machinery

2025 is looking like an improved environment for the construction and manufacturing sectors, thanks to moderating inflation, lower interest rates and steady growth in the nation’s overall economic activity.

Bernard Yaros, Jr., lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics said, “We anticipate a federal funds interest rate of 2.75% by the end of 2025, down from the recent 4.75% rate. We also see an average inflation rate of 2.2% in Q4 of 2025, which will be within spitting distance of the Fed’s target of 2.0%.” Corporate profits are projected to wrap up 2024 with a 9.6% increase, and a 9.0% increase for 2025. Both of these are up from the 6.9% gain in 2023.

As Money Gets Cheaper, Construction Rebounds

Housing activity is a big driver for the U.S. economy, and economists are projecting a nationwide upsurge. Yaros says, “We forecast housing starts to increase by 6.2% in 2025, after a 2024 4.7% fall and 8.4% decline in 2023.” Lower mortgage rates and a decline in the cost of money will fuel this growth. Experts cite the fact that those currently holding onto 3%-4% mortgages will see it’s less painful to give them up, sell their current homes, and move up.

Industrial policymaking in America is having a reemergence, thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, Chips and Science Act and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Future prospects are looking quite positive for contractors who are able to participate in major public works, as manufacturers are receiving billions of dollars in subsidies for large-scale infrastructure projects, many in support of technological transformations, like the growth in AI and broadband expansion.

There is a darker side of this, however. For contractors dependent upon multi-family construction, hotels or existing office retrofits, the 2025 outlook is somewhat bleaker, due to high interest rates that have led to high financing costs. Partnered with general inflation, and increased regulatory oversight, certain contractors have become vulnerable to a lack of work and are concerned for the future. 2025 is looking to be a transitional year for them, with 2026 likely better as lower interest rates finally take root.

Employment Levels

Consumer confidence is projected to continue increasing in 2025, and that fuels optimism for the construction industry. Also powering this optimism is healthy employment levels. Economists peg unemployment rates of 3.5%-4.5% as the sweet spot that balances risks of inflationary wage escalation and economic recession. The Q4 2024 rate was at 4.1%. The magnitude of a lack of skilled labor, while still many contractor’s #1 challenge, is abating as hiring has slowed due to a slowing economy and the shrinkage of the number of available unskilled jobs. This reduction in available employment has also given workers less bargaining power, so there is some relief in the trendline of worker wages. That rate has been about 3.7% in 2024, down significantly from the 8-10% levels of the previous two years.

A Crystal Ball for the Road Ahead

Construction companies and their employees are advised to be vigilant in being aware of any changes in the following:

  • Interest Rates – The pace and amounts of cutting will be especially impactful, good or bad, for the construction industry.
  • Inflation – Many business plans could suffer as the consumer price index returns to positive territory.
  • Tariffs – These represent price increases to construction companies who must purchase materials abroad.
  • Geopolitics – It pays to be informed. Turmoil on the world’s stage can (and does) impact supply chains, which can quickly throw a monkey wrench into the economy.

The resilience of the U.S. economy has been remarkable. Economic experts don’t anticipate a recession, as the Fed will be dialing back monetary policy restrictiveness, and they are seeing no glaring economic imbalances.

At Contractor’s Machinery we too will be watching these trends in 2025 and looking forward to strengthening existing partnerships while also building new ones!

CMI December Blog Source Material – https://palletenterprise.com/construction-forecast-2025-a-welcome-economic-rebound/

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Summer heat can harm your expensive machinery just like it can harm you!
Equipment Maintenance
August 1, 2024

Maintaining Your Machinery in the Summer Heat

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Contractors Machinery

Schedule machine use outside of peak sunlight hours

When possible, try to avoid using heavy machinery during peak heat hours. In most places, the summer heat typically peaks between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Operating equipment during these hours significantly increases the chances of your radiator or engine overheating. Instead, schedule heavy machinery use for early morning or later in the day. This tactic also helps protect your machine operators from the extreme heat.

Store your equipment in a shaded area

Try not to leave your equipment in the sun. This simple and logical trick will protect your machine from direct sunlight when it’s not in use. Find shade under trees, a tent, a tarp, or any other cool, dry place. Additionally, consider parking your equipment in the shade, even during short breaks. Any time you can keep your heavy equipment out of the sun it will help reduce heat-related issues.

Inspect your heavy equipment regularly

Daily inspection is important for the life of the equipment. Hot temperatures can cause overheating issues, so it is crucial to check things like coolant and antifreeze levels. These fluids are essential for keeping your machinery cool. It is also wise to regularly check your radiator, hoses, and fans for any leaks or cracks. A small problem with a key component left unfixed can lead to larger issues, so inspect often and don’t skip scheduled maintenance.

Properly clean your equipment

Keeping your equipment clean is not only an important part of general maintenance but is also crucial for maintaining performance during the summer heat. Mud and other debris can accumulate on key components of machinery throughout the day. Ensure that all cooling components are clear of dust and debris daily to prevent overheating and allow for proper airflow.

Prepare your heavy machinery in advance

Don’t wait for the heat to come, prepare ahead! Creating a list of general maintenance that needs to be completed is a great way to get ahead of the heat. Check fluids, grease your machines, and check key components such as the radiator. All of the steps go a long way in keeping your fleet and your business running at full capacity.

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CASE equipment for all types of excavation projects.
Heavy Equipment
July 14, 2024

CASE Equipment to Tackle Excavation Projects

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Contractors Machinery

Topsoil Excavation

Topsoil excavation is one of the most common types of excavation required in almost all construction projects. It is often the first step before laying the foundation or installing pipelines. Having the correct heavy-duty equipment for topsoil removal is crucial to the success of a project. CASE offers a variety of excavators, any of which can be used for such a job, with equipment ranging from compact to large.

Rock Excavation

Many soils contain large rocks or even boulders, necessitating rock excavation before construction can begin. The CASE CX140E or CX490E models are typically used and recommended for rock removal and relocation. Heavy excavators with hydraulic hammers help break up the tough East Tennessee rock for removal.

Footing Excavation

Every foundation requires footings to stabilize the structure and prevent it from sinking or collapsing. Footing excavation is necessary to dig trenches for this essential support. To meet this need, CASE has developed machinery perfect for the job. The CASE CX57C and CX60C Mini Excavators are ideal for residential footings and small commercial buildings, while the CX75 and CX80C Midi Excavators are often used for larger projects. 

Earth Excavation

Earth excavation involves removing the spoil, which is the layer of earth directly below the topsoil. The spoil is used to construct embankments, foundations, bridges, and ditches. Due to the nature of this work, larger excavators with greater bucket capacity are often recommended such as the CASE CX300D and CX500D.

Cut and Fill Excavation

Cut and fill excavation, which involves removing topsoil and spoil to form embankments, raise sections of land, and create foundation filling, often requires large, heavy-duty excavators. At Contractor’s Machinery you’ll find tough excavators like the CASE CX140 and CX500D, either of which can easily gt the job done in comfort and with 6% greater breakout force.

Trench Excavation

Trench Excavation is like footing excavation but applies to a broader range of applications. Trench excavation is used to dig trenches for sewer and pipeline installations, as well as for telephone and electric lines. Since trench excavation is done in stages to prevent deeper trenches from collapsing, it’s important to have equipment that can operate in smaller areas. For utility construction in tight spaces, the short tail radius models of the CASE excavator line are ideal. This includes the CASE CX60C, CX80C, CX145D SR, and CX245D SR.

Dredge Excavation

When the job calls for debris to be removed from the bottom of bodies of water, this is known as dredge excavation. Debris removal allows boats and other vessels to pass without scraping their hulls or getting stuck on obstructions. This type of excavation requires long-reach equipment, and CASE’s long-reach excavators are perfect for the job. Both the CASE CX220E and CX260E models will become exceptionally valuable tools for your fleet.

Muck Excavation

Muck, a mixture of soil and water, is present on many job sites and often needs to be removed to allow work to continue. Removing muck helps dry out an area or relocating it as needed. All CASE excavators can be used for muck removal, depending on the size of the project. We’re happy to help guide you as you choose the right machinery for the situation.

Basement Excavation

Basement excavation involves digging up a large area of soil, dirt, and rock to create space for installing basements or other underground structures. Due to the often-limited space, basement excavation generally requires mid-size excavators. This makes machinery like the CASE CX80C or the CX210 your go to excavators. 

Borrow Excavation

Need materials moved from one job site to another? To ensure that dirt, sand, or soil is moved and loaded into trucks efficiently and safely requires powerful, full-size excavators with big bucket capacity. The CASE CX210 and the CX750D have buckets ranging in size from 36”-96” and the lifting strength to get the job done is less time.

Contact Us

We’d love to help you find the right equipment for the job at hand. For more information about purchasing or renting CASE equipment, please contact the CMI sales team at 865-982-6452 or by email at blake@cmiCASE.com.

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Trends for heavy equipment in 2024.
Heavy Equipment
May 7, 2024

Heavy Equipment Trends in 2024

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Contractors Machinery

Ever-advancing technology and green energy are the consistent focal points for advancement as manufacturers charge into 2024. Large machines are becoming safer, more accurate, and more environmentally friendly, as the industry now looks to prioritizing autonomy as it meets the demands of this modern world.

The global trend for all vehicles is continued progress toward becoming carbon neutral. The automotive industry has been transformed with this goal in mind, and 2024 is finding that construction machinery is making huge strides in this area as well. Although history has proven that smaller equipment (such as mini excavators) can effectively run “green”, CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023 unveiled several prototypes of larger machines that employ alternative power sources as well.

These electric machines offer fuel savings (the cost of diesel fuel remaining the foremost expense for the operator) and reduced toxic emissions in the environment. Unfortunately, charging time of electric equipment has been a challenge to the construction industry, where every hour counts toward (or against) getting the job done on time. Again, technology is the hero in this story. It is evolving to lessen charging time for these massive vehicles, so operators are finding that they can cut charging hours while prioritizing the health of our environment.

For those machines that currently continue to demand diesel fuel, manufacturers are exploring technology that will at least lower the emission of that fuel. This is resulting in longer operation with less harm to the environment.

In addition to using advanced technology toward energy savings, manufactures are making safety a priority in 2024. Heavy machines are being equipped with object detection proximity sensors and blind spot monitors, which emit a loud sound when objects are near that the operator might not be able to see.

in addition, camera systems are being added to machines that not only increase rearview but all-around view as well (AVMs.). These AVMs are dramatically increasing an operator’s perspective of the job site.  He or she no longer spend valuable job time checking the site manually. These cameras afford 270 degrees of visibility, substantially decreasing the risk of accidents and injuries.

Progress in creating autonomy in the construction equipment industry is perhaps the most significant trend of 2024, as it encompasses all the goals of the industry. Manufacturers are investing in technology that allows equipment to be monitored and controlled remotely. Some are currently testing excavators and wheel loaders that can even effectively perform without an operator in the cab. Manufacturers are encouraged to explore this option, since it addresses the common problem of labor shortages in addition to cutting down the hazards of dangerous jobsites.

CASE is committed to leading the progress charge in 2024 to present operators with the most effective, energy-saving machines possible. Click here to get a glance at the CASE products available, or chat with a representative at CMI today to make sure your fleet is effectively meeting the needs of the construction industry in 2024.

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The CASE D series full size excavator is built with the operator in mind.
Heavy Equipment
April 1, 2024

D Series Full Size Excavators

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Contractors Machinery

Redefining “full-sized” for the industry.

CASE knows that when you’re looking for a “full-sized” machine, you’re considering far more than loading capacity and engine power. These are the essentials, and this article will outline all the bells and whistles of its D Series Full Size Excavator. But first, let’s take a look at what’s in this machine just for YOU, the operator.

We know your job is hard enough…no need for the cab of your machine to be. This excavator was designed with comfort, capacity, and control:

COMFORT: Painfully long work days mean you can’t afford to be tortured by a cramped space and cruel seating. An ergonomic approach to its design means no more wincing and moaning when climbing out of your cab.

Series D engineers considered everything from legroom to temperature, seat cushion to placement of controls in order to provide the utmost comfort as well as protection from noise and vibration. The cab is extra-wide, pressurized, and is viscous-mounted, preventing breakage commonly caused by rough terrain.

In addition to the necessary comfort, this cab comes with some “luxuries”. An AM/FM Bluetooth radio, USB connection and phone charger mean the operator never needs to lose touch with the office or home while at the job site and the work environment just got much more satisfying.

CAPACITY: This full size excavator provides 6% greater breakout force and fuel savings than its competitors through the use of hydraulic power. Its arm and boom are more effective than ever, and the machine delivers with faster cycle times and greater precision.

CONTROL:  This increased capacity is credited to CASE’s Intelligent Hydraulic System (CIHS), which incorporates a larger main valve with an electronically-controlled pump and multiple hydraulic sensors. Having a powerful machine is of limited effectiveness if that power isn’t harnessed to get the job done with pinpoint accuracy and efficiency. The Series D full size excavator does it ALL, adjusting the hydraulic pressure of the machine according to the specific job at hand. Consider this:

  • Boom Economy Control (BEC) reduces RPMs during down and swing.
  • Auto Economy Control (AEC) lowers RPMs during idling.
  • Swing Relief Control (SWC) efficiently regulates hydraulic swing power when coming out of a hole and moving toward a truck or pile.
  • Spool Stoke Control (SSC) adjusts hydraulic pressure to optimal outputs and minimizes unneeded operational functions.

Case’s Series D full size excavator sets a new bar for the construction industry. CMI is proud to help put this ground-breaking (literally!) machine in to the hands of your operators!

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Heavy Equipment
March 1, 2024

A Mini Machine That Gives Maximum Performance

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Contractors Machinery

The mini excavator could be just what your fleet is missing

Just how “mini” is this mighty machine? The Mini Excavator literally fits in a standard garage. But don’t let its looks deceive: It’s able to move massive amounts of earth, runs with a diesel engine and contains a boom arm and hydraulic system just like its “daddy” machines; but the Mini weighs in just under 10,000 pounds.

Used in residential settings, the Mini Excavator is one of the most versatile machines on the market. It efficiently digs foundations, grades, and levels lands with precision, and it effectively performs heavy-duty tasks like trenching and digging holes for septic systems.  

In the commercial world, this machine is being used for digging trenches, foundations, footings, even demolition work. Operators use it to create narrow trenches in utility work, transport mining and quarrying materials, and perform a variety of farming operations, such as creating irrigation systems.

This machine’s versatility doesn’t stop there. The Mini Excavator excels in the industrial sphere as well, meeting industry standards with a whole new level of proficiency. Its smaller size enables it to reach places other machines cannot, all the while being equipped with the power and precision to clear land, break down concrete, and move quickly with ease to transport waste and debris.

There is no question that the Mini Excavator would be a sensational addition to your fleet. If you are considering it, it’s critical to consider the option of renting vs. buying. It costs between $20,000 and $90,00 to buy. Depending on the model, brand, age and condition (new or used), this is a pretty broad range, so careful research and taking a farsighted look at your budget may determine that renting is a better option than buying.

When weighing the two options, here are some critical questions to consider:

  • How long and often will I use the machine? If needing for the very occasional job, renting is most certainly the wise thing to do.
  • Do I have the current capitol in my budget to either buy outright or make payments on a new machine? Even an occasional use over time may make a purchase worth it. (And something to consider with this specific machine is that, because of its versatility and unique size, many customers find that they opt for its use even more than originally anticipated.)
  • What could I potentially save? Larger machines are a more substantial expense to run. If the Mini can take on some of that work, you can potentially extend the life of your fleet all around.
  • How much can I allot for maintenance and repair costs? No purchase is carefree, and these are expenses that need to be approached thoughtfully when looking at your long-term bottom line, whether you buy new or used. If you’re contemplating the Mini or any other major equipment, talk to current owners and get a general feel for the weight of any long-term investment of a construction machine.

CMI-CASE takes pride in not only the products we carry, but the expertise that comes with them. If you want to check out the magnificent Mini, our experts will help you make the decision of whether buying or renting is the best option for you!

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Construction Industry Trends
February 1, 2024

CASE Brings Some Exciting Innovations Into 2024

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Contractors Machinery

When Terry Dolan speaks, the industry listens! Dolan, who serves as the vice present of CASE Construction Equipment, recently addressed the innovations and challenges of the equipment industry in 2024 and highlighted some ways CASE is not only overcoming, but thriving as it leads the construction business into the future.

According to Dolan some of the biggest challenges from 2023 will unfortunately continue. Labor shortages have improved since last year at this time, but the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey revealed that October’s end still reported 423,000 job openings.

Not only are inherited labor shortages a concern, Dolan explains that 2024 will bring some additional workforce challenges. Government programs are initiating massive investment in the nation’s infrastructure (an estimated $1.2 trillion) and the demand will continue to soar. Despite these shortages and apparent doom and gloom forecasts, Dolan’s prediction for the year is optimistic, stating:

“Whether it’s incorporating more intuitive electrohydraulic controls in dozers to minimize the operator’s learning curve, or now offering new, subcompact machine markets to give small contractors construction-grade options for getting more done with fewer people, we’re innovating to meet customers where they are today so they can overcome those labor challenges.”

2023 brought extraordinary levels of growth to the heavy equipment industry. Over 30 new machines were introduced in the past year. Dolan refers to innovations like machine guidance and satellite positioning technology that drastically increase machine accuracy and control.

Although this new year isn’t expected to match this, it is expected to be market-driven, incorporating new technology to get the jobs done faster and with fewer people. This is going to be critical to the survival of this industry, since infrastructure is expected to develop at a time in our nation’s history when an unprecedented number of workers will be retiring.

Along with other experts, Dolan states that the push to decrease emissions will also continue throughout this year. In an industry that depends on diesel as its primary power source, this serves as a challenge and top priority as the construction equipment industry forges ahead in 2024. Exploration of alternative fuels and hydrogen continues to show great promise, and there has been huge progress in the electrification of vehicles.

In fact, in 2024 CASE will be launching the industry’s first fully electric backhoe! This model, along with other EVs being designed, is now able to perform with the same power and performance that was once available only by diesel. These vehicles will also offer multiple charging options, so that traditional challenges EVs bring to the contractor’s business will be averted.

Although no one can predict with complete accuracy what our economic forecast will be, Terry Dolan looks forward to a promising year of addressing the problems of labor shortage and fuel emissions. Machine guidance, satellite positioning technology, and huge progress in electrification mean this year will be an outstanding one for CASE and for Contractor’s Machinery, as it perpetuates an innovative trajectory in the construction business.

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Buying new or used equipment. Today's blog breaks it down.
Equipment Maintenance
January 17, 2024

New or Used?

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Contractors Machinery

Some easy ways to answer a hard equipment question.

When you need to increase your fleet, you may have a better option than buying new. Purchasing used machinery isn’t only a great idea for the small business owner who doesn’t have the capital to purchase new; there are advantages for every business owner that are worth considering. If you are weighing the advantages and disadvantages of a used equipment purchase, just be sure you can check all the necessary boxes and have genuine savings in the end.

CONDITION – Since there will always be some unknowns when buying used construction equipment, it’s critical that you ask as many questions as possible. (a) Can the owner verify the operational hours on the equipment? (b) How about a complete service history? (c) Will there be any type of warranty on your used equipment? The answers to these questions (or lack of answers) may quickly determine your decision. If you’re still leaning toward used, have a third party do a thorough inspection.

PRICE – Determine that the purchase price really is lower than buying new. Just like with a car, equipment dealers have some “wiggle room”. This increases if you’re buying multiple machines, so make sure you really know the rock-bottom costs you are comparing. Another factor in determining price is interest rates. They must be factored in when you are comparing prices of new and used alike.

AVAILABILITY – Factories typically have a substantial production lead time. Once you place an order for a new machine it may be months before your equipment hits the job site. In fact, you may need to rent equipment temporarily until yours arrives. In an industry where time equals money, this is a necessary consideration. If you buy used, it’s possible to have your new skid steer lifting, excavator digging, and dozer moving within a few days.

VALUE – New heavy-duty equipment depreciates the second it leads the dealership. This will hit hardest when it’s time to sell. Used equipment doesn’t carry the same depreciation, so the buying and selling price point should be much less substantial.

TECHNOLOGY – There are substantial technological advancements being made each year in the heavy equipment industry. If these are critical to your work, get creative and take the financial plunge…new will be your best decision in the long run.

When all things are considered, you may conclude that it’s best for your business to buy new. But don’t rule out used until all things truly are considered! You just may have a better pre-owned option. Call your CMI-Case dealer today to find out more.

Knoxville | 865.982.6452
Tri-Cites | 423.975.9111

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Mini Excavator
Heavy Equipment
December 1, 2023

Don’t Discount the Mini Excavator

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Emily Bieger

Check out these top uses for the mini excavator and see just how versatile this mini but mighty piece of equipment can be.

Tree Planting and Roadside Installation

Before the advent of the mini excavator, homeowners and contractors alike were forced to dig holes the old-fashioned way, with a shovel and a whole lot of muscle. Same goes for road sign installation.

These versatile machines can now easily dig deep holes for trees, ensuring proper depth for root balls and trunks. And their compact size enables easy roadside work without disrupting traffic. Quickly and easily drill for sign poles by utilizing a hydraulic auger attachment.

In utility trench excavation, mini excavators excel in digging the necessary deep trenches. Soil challenges can affect whether trench excavation is successful. Safety measures like shoring, de-watering, and benching address such challenges. Mini excavators can handle trenching, backfilling, and compaction, providing a comprehensive solution.

For drainage ditch construction, mini excavators efficiently dig the necessary wide trenches, allowing water to flow away from properties. The machine’s agility ensures precise digging and easy filling of the ditch with crushed rock.

Job Preparation

Effective jobsite preparation will be step #1 for any construction project. Prep involves clearing vegetation, surface soil, and debris. A mini excavator can be utilized to clear and level the ground and move materials as needed.

CASE Mini Excavator

They are highly versatile and can be equipped with several different attachments that can tackle different needs. Example: a mini excavator with a long boom can help demolish old buildings from the top down and then place organize the resulting debris into piles and eventually, lift and dump the materials into a dump truck.

Pool Installation

 For many, having a pool in their own backyard is the stuff of dreams. A piece of construction equipment like the mini excavator makes a mid-sized project like pool installation much easier for a contractor or even an experienced DIYer.

Even though mini excavators are said to be stable like their larger counterparts, it’s not recommended to ride up slopes with angles greater than 20 degrees.

Irrigation and Landscape Design

Utilize a mini excavator for swift and efficient digging of trenches to place PC pipes for an underground sprinkler system. Prevent dirt from falling back into the trenches by using the excavator’s hydraulic arm and bucket or blade to move and backfill, completing the job much faster than manual tools.

Enhance residential or commercial property aesthetics with DIY landscaping projects. A mini excavator is essential for tasks like digging trenches, moving heavy stones, lifting fountains, and more, making landscaping projects more manageable and efficient.

CASE Mini Excavator

Drilling

Drilling is made quite simple with the versatile mini excavator. The auger attachment, featuring teeth and a pilot or drive, effortlessly drills into concrete or soil. Tree augers, designed with a smaller diameter at the bottom and a larger one at the top, facilitate tree planting.

For tougher tasks in solid rock or concrete, rock bits are the ideal auger type. Common projects utilizing a mini excavator with an auger include road signage posts, fence posts, tree planting, drainage, landscaping, mining, rock blasting, and more. Choose from a range of drilling attachments, each with unique features and benefits, available for purchase or rental.

In Summary

Turn time-consuming projects into much easier endeavors with the versatile mini excavator. This powerful machine handles tasks like planting trees, digging trenches, and installing pools or spas effortlessly. Its ability to maneuver around obstacles, coupled with a retractable undercarriage for navigating narrow spaces, makes it highly adaptable. With a range of attachments, the mini excavator is a versatile solution capable of tackling almost any project you present to it.

At Contractor’s Machinery, we offer a full line of CASE mini, midi and full-size excavators to tackle whatever project awaits you. Check out all our heavy duty CASE equipment to learn more or give us call so we can help you find the right equipment for the job.

Knoxville | 865-982-6452             
Tri-Cities | 423-975-9111

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Help your business thrive despite labor shortages
Construction
September 1, 2023

How to Help your Business Thrive Despite Labor Shortages

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Contractors Machinery

Getting the contracts for the big jobs is the goal in construction, but it only yields profit if you have the manpower to handle those jobs. As our nation recovers from these pandemic years, there is no promise that labor shortage won’t get even worse before it gets better, and your company must be able to recruit and retain excellent employees. It’s critical that construction managers are proactive and strategic as they prepare for the employment years ahead.

Two essential components to this strategy are cross-training of employees and eliminating safety risks.  And the key to effectiveness in both is becoming abundantly apparent:  technology! Technology is fast becoming the answer to so many concerns; combatting labor shortages is just one:

Cross-training is essential to retain your workers. Infrastructure construction jobs are on the increase, and those employees will need to increase their skill sets so they can do the jobs well.  As technology in our industry improves, so must our training.

Invest now in cross-training of your valued workers to ensure that they remain “tech savvy” in an industry that is steadily becoming so; otherwise, you will find yourself constantly looking to hire as the industry progresses. Do your workers understand performance metrics via dashboards?  Training them in this technology will give your employees more ownership of jobs and help them to play a more integral role with the back office. The more adaptable your “team” is, the longer your team will work efficiently.

Perhaps surprisingly, job safety is another critical area that ultimately fights the labor shortage. When injuries occur, you find yourself scrambling to replace competent workers. Doing everything you can to mitigate safety risks now will prevent a potential hiring panic in the future, and technology is vastly aiding the construction industry in this arena. Do your workers have digitized protective gear? Items like hats and vests that measure air quality and GPS watches that limit falls and on-the-job accidents are proving remarkable as they ensure the safety of our workers.

Utilizing software in the safety and quality assurance process has transformed the construction industry, as it is applied to risk management, commissioning, and inspection. Through such technologies as drones and BIM (Building Information Modeling) the issue of safety on the construction site has transitioned from response to prevention. In this technological age, construction equipment is tracked electronically and potential concerns are eliminated before they become actual problems, but only if today’s construction worker knows how to use it.

The best tool we have in the construction industry is technology. As we train our employees in its use and use it to invest in our employees, we will be taking critical steps to keep our good workers and fight labor shortages. As our employees become more versatile in this tech-savvy industry, they will be more effective in your business and the construction industry as a whole.

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