As the construction industry continues on its path toward to contend with a retiring workforce and increasing demand increases for young people to enter a career in the industry talent, a few rising stars are bringing the high energy, strong work ethic and dedication needed to take construction into the next generation. In line with ABC’s merit shop philosophy, these young pros are embracing cultures of safety and inclusivity and building a foundation for a future of leadership—just what the construction industry needs to turbocharge the major influx of project opportunities, job gaps and economic growth predicted for the next five years. Visit abc.org/cwa to learn how to nominate your firm’s up-and-comers for next year’s Construction Workforce Awards, to be named at ABC Convention 2022 in San Antonio.

Predicted growth and opportunity is not without its challenges, and one major challenge ahead for contractors in the year ahead is understanding how to navigate President Joe Biden’s proposed tax changes. Learn about Biden’s proposed revisions to the Internal Revenue Code and their potential impact on your business.

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic remains a strain on all facets of life, from safe workplace practices to economic hardships and everything in between. Put simply, the pandemic has changed everything—and the building industry is no exception. More than a year and a half from the onset of COVID-19, employees are negotiating terms for a return to the office; among them, structural changes to office buildings themselves to allow for safe social distancing practices and overall health and wellness improvements. These changes, necessitated by the pandemic and perpetuated by a strong desire on the part of employers to get back to business, are poised to impact the commercial construction sector for years to come.

Plus, be sure to take a look at our important industry news briefs; learn about contractors’ legal rights in the wake of a building collapse; and check out a list of upcoming industry events, both virtual and in-person, that are of value for construction professionals to attend.

Lastly, for a lot of wisdom and a bit of levity, read Construction Executive’s Q&A with Betsie Hoyt, director of product management for Viewpoint, where she discusses everything from the importance of construction tech and managing generational differences in the workplace, to her favorite ice cream.

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