With 2024 on the horizon, contractors are preparing to welcome in the new year and hit the ground running after the holidays. Caterpillar estimates $132 million will be spent on highway construction, $58 billion for healthcare construction and $12 billion will go toward public safety construction. Give your business a jump on the new year by preparing now for three important construction trends that will help with any new project. 

SUSTAINABILITY

Sustainability has been a hot topic in every industry and construction is no exception. Clients expect environmentally conscious building options, which has driven the industry to get creative with sustainable materials and recycling. Eyes are focused on sustainable practices to remain competitive with clients and potential job applicants, especially the younger generation. More workers expect the organizations they work for to have practices focused on sustainability.

Because of its importance, sustainability was at the forefront of CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023. Topics ranged from a beginner-friendly “Sustainability 101” to the more in-depth “Balanced Mix Design and Recycling: Advancing Technology and Economics.” You can catch up on both tracks and all the sustainability education sessions on-demand. 

AI & AUTOMATION

The construction industry is changing rapidly and adopting new technologies is the only way to stay ahead of the game. Once you secure the needed hardware or software, make sure you use your data to your best benefit. Some of the top ways to use technology to your advantage: 

• Optimize production schedules
• Schedule predictive machine maintenance
• Map your job site for accessibility

WORKFORCE

Workforce challenges are persistent, but if you address the technology and sustainability solutions mentioned above, chances are you will see a direct effect on your workers. We know that Gen Z is entering the workforce with technology on the brain, so training fresh eyes on tech to support your business will go a long way. STEM education programs are preparing today’s students for the job site of tomorrow. Make sure your business is ready to anticipate those needs for hiring and training. Hire and onboard with intention – plan for how you want to approach job seekers and find them where they already are.

STICK TO THE PLAN

Back when you started your business, you had to produce a business plan. Take the time to review that plan now and use data from 2023 to determine your next steps. What was your business plan? Does that match up with the services you performed the most in 2023? How would you like to see your business grow? Set aside some time to find those answers as we near 2024.

Education sessions from CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023 are available on-demand. Click here to explore all education sessions at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023 in one place.