Construction Industry Must Attract 349,000 Workers in 2026 Despite Macroeconomic Headwinds
The construction industry needs to attract an estimated 349,000 net new workers in 2026 to meet demand for construction services, according to a proprietary model developed and released by Associated Builders and Contractors. In 2027, the industry will need to bring in 456,000 new workers to meet demand as construction spending growth is poised to resume for the first time in years.
Defense Bill Authorizes Progressive Design-Build for Military Construction
The 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) recently signed into law by President Donald Trump includes authorization of progressive design-build (PDB) for military construction.
It is the first time that the NDAA explicitly authorizes progressive design-build delivery for military projects. The provision establishes a clear framework for PDB, emphasizing qualifications-based, single-phase selection, and early collaboration between owners and industry partners.
AI Is Transforming Construction: New Dodge and CMiC Report Reveals Industry Trends
Dodge Construction Network, in partnership with CMiC, has released AI for Contractors, a research report examining how artificial intelligence is impacting construction. The study found 87% of contractors believe AI will have a meaningful effect on the industry, with early adopters reporting measurable improvements.
House Passes Bill that Could Fast-Track AI Infrastructure Projects
The U.S. House of Representatives recently passed a bipartisan bill to modernize the National Environmental Policy Act and fast-track federal approval of U.S. infrastructure projects, according to a press release from Rep. Jared Golden (D-Maine), one of the bill’s co-sponsors.
The Standardizing Permitting and Expediting Economic Development (SPEED) Act seeks to limit the number of federal actions that can trigger NEPA project reviews in an attempt to accelerate the permitting process, according to the bill’s summary. The SPEED Act passed the House in a 221-196 vote.
