Thanks for stopping by for our weekly News Roundup! This week’s installment features an interesting lineup of stories surrounding the future of apprenticeship programs in the United States, current economic concerns and new tech initiatives. Follow the links below for the full scoop on all the latest events shaping the construction industry of tomorrow:
Latest Trans Mountain Delay Tests Industry Patience
Journal of Commerce
Mounting legal opposition to Western Canada’s new pipeline project is frustrating construction industry leaders in the region. Project backers argue that this heavy resistance is impacting investments and growth by shaking market confidence and stability. Some say Canada may have already missed out on $100 billion in construction investments over the past two years as a result of the controversy.
As Construction Worker Shortage Worsens, Industry Asks Government for Help
Fox News
The Associated General Contractors of America are asking federal officials to increase funding for career and technical training in the construction sector as concerns mount surrounding the current workforce labor shortage.
Trump’s Plan to Grow Apprenticeships -- With or WIthout Unions -- Splits Construction Industry
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
A new debate is stirring over how to best increase and improve apprenticeship programs. Current administration officials plan to circumvent current rules and regulations while union leads say the new plan will undermine long established practices.
Unions Favor Controversial Highway Tolls; Opposition Continues
Hartford Courant
Initiatives from Connecticut union leaders seek to add highway tolls across the state. Proponents argue the projects could restore job levels to pre-recession levels while opponents paint the idea as simply another unnecessary tax on citizens.
Expert: Trade War Could Impact Hawaii Construction Projects
Hawaii News Now
Increased fears of a construction slowdown are rippling across the Hawaiian Islands this week. While some projects have already had the brakes applied, industry leaders await the global economic consequences of the current trade tensions.
Big Raise for AI-Powered Construction Tech Bringing “Street View” to Builders
ZDNet
Interested in up-and-coming construction tech? Take a look at OpenSpace: a new company bringing 360 degree cameras to construction sites around the globe. After receiving $14 million in Series-A funding, OpenSpace hopes to expand their current technology which uses hardhat-mounted cameras to recreate digitally navigable worksites.
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