November 2011: High Energy at CONSTRUCT2011

Words: Dan Kamys Thousands of architects, specifiers, engineers, contractors and manufacturers converged in Chicago in September for CONSTRUCT2011 and The CSI Annual Convention. The vibe on the exhibit hall floor was energized, and people seemed ready to do business and showcase their latest products offerings. CONSTRUCT2011 also delivered engaging education, focused on CSI’s mission of improving communication in the construction community. Attendee registration was up 7 percent as compared to last year, which was visible in the exhibit hall, much to the delight of exhibitors. Craig Boucher of Grace Construction Products showcased Grace’s moisture control product. Craig Boucher of Grace Construction Products showcased Grace’s moisture control product.
Managing the Mysterious Job Site Slowdown
August 2026

Every contractor knows the feeling. A job looks good on paper. The schedule makes sense. The crews are lined up. The material is supposed to be there. Then, for no obvious reason, the whole job starts crawling. That is what makes it so frustrating. Nobod

Sainte-Cécile Cathedral
August 2026

Imagine being handed a set of plans calling for the largest brick cathedral in the world. Now imagine building it without modern cranes, engineered scaffolding, forklifts, power tools, or structural analysis software. That was the challenge facing medie

Why SkillsUSA is the Keystone to MCAA’s Outreach
August 2026

When I stepped into the role of the MCAA’s first Director of Youth Outreach and Education, I knew we had a massive job ahead of us. I am a fourth-generation brick mason, and I have spent over two decades teaching the trade, from working with apprentices a

The First Paycheck
August 2026

Several years ago, Huntley Brothers hired a young apprentice. It was his first real job, and he had never had a paycheck before. Friday rolled around, and he got paid just like everyone else. Later that day, one of the guys told me something I have never