Specialty contractors should prioritize field-built construction software that integrates real-time data capture, mobile accessibility, and seamless coordination between office and jobsite teams. Key features like offline functionality, intuitive interfaces, and compatibility with existing tools help contractors reduce delays, improve accuracy, and keep projects on schedule.
Sortera has doubled its annual processing capacity to 240 million pounds at a Tennessee sorting facility by deploying physical AI technology. The facility upgrade demonstrates how robotics and AI are scaling material handling operations in the waste and recycling sector.
NP Aerospace has used wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) to produce Mastiff suspension and differential carriers, critical load-bearing components for military and dual-use vehicles. The production method cuts lead times in half compared to traditional manufacturing processes.
Specialized AI-powered machines designed for specific construction tasks will be more practical and cost-effective than humanoid robots for job sites. These task-specific systems will run AI locally on-device, enabling faster, more efficient real-world performance without relying on cloud connectivity.
Agnikul Cosmos, a Chennai-based private launch startup, successfully fired four semi-cryogenic rocket engines simultaneously, each manufactured as a single 3D-printed component developed entirely in-house. The test represents a significant propulsion advancement for the company and demonstrates the capabilities of additive manufacturing in aerospace engine production.
Chris Elston from YRG Robotics explains how to integrate PLCs with robotic systems and discusses Yamaha Robotics' automation solutions for construction and manufacturing. AI is playing an increasing role in making automation more accessible and driving innovation across the industry.
i3D Manufacturing, part of the BTX Precision group, has acquired Burloak Technologies, a metal additive manufacturing company based in Oakville, Ontario. The acquisition expands i3D's technical capabilities in metal 3D printing for construction and industrial applications.
LaGuardia Airport's Runway 4-22 remains closed due to a sinkhole in the runway area, with repairs underway and the runway expected to reopen on the morning of May 23. The closure continues to cause flight delays as repair work progresses.
Italian manufacturer ROBOZE acquired assets from bankrupt Dutch software company Dimanex to integrate digital and physical manufacturing operations. The acquisition combines Dimanex's platform with ROBOZE's existing Pandora and SlizeR software tools to close gaps in manufacturing workflow management.
Georgia is constructing a $10M timber gridshell in Doraville, the first of its scale in North America, designed as a saddle-shaped structure for the 2026 World Cup viewing venue. After the World Cup, the structure will convert into a permanent performance space, demonstrating innovative timber construction at a significant scale.
French additive manufacturing companies 3D Prod and Sculpteo have merged, with 3D Prod acquiring Sculpteo from BASF New Business GmbH to strengthen their combined market position. The transaction aims to scale additive manufacturing capabilities in France, though financial terms were not disclosed.
DC Water's CEO defended pre-spill maintenance practices and outlined steps like improved easement access and better regulatory coordination to prevent future failures. Stakeholders remain concerned about the lack of a definitive cause analysis and concrete prevention strategy moving forward.
Open Bionics has successfully fitted the world's first full-length 3D printed bionic arm to an above-elbow amputee in New York, expanding their Hero FLEX prosthetic technology. The advancement demonstrates how additive manufacturing and bionic technology can restore functional mobility to workers with upper-limb amputations.
Brian Gerkey from Open Robotics will keynote the Robotics Summit to discuss how open-source foundations are enabling the next generation of AI-powered robots. The presentation highlights the role of collaborative development in advancing robotics technology for practical applications.
The Chicago Bears have ruled out building a domed stadium within Chicago city limits and are evaluating suburban Chicago or Northwest Indiana locations instead. The team expects to make a final site selection by late spring or early summer.
Sage Oil Vac released a new enclosed lube truck weighing 24,684 pounds that doesn't require a commercial driver's license, making it accessible to more operators. The truck features expanded storage for dry goods and fluids plus dual onboard diesel heaters to support year-round service work.
The EPA is keeping strict limits on the most common PFAS chemicals in drinking water but rolling back standards for four other types, including GenX. Construction firms using these chemicals in materials or dealing with contaminated sites should monitor regulatory changes that could affect compliance costs and project timelines.
Volvo has upgraded its L120 electric wheel loader, North America's largest battery-powered loader at 22 metric tons, with enhanced regenerative braking and improved traction capabilities. The upgraded model demonstrates reliable performance in harsh cold weather conditions, making it a viable option for year-round construction operations.
Black & Veatch is constructing a $500 million global headquarters in Overland Park, Kansas as the anchor of a broader $1.34 billion mixed-use development. The project will be built out over 10 years and will include office, residential, and commercial components around the new corporate facility.
Turner Construction maintains its position as the nation's top commercial contractor for another year on Engineering News-Record's Top 400 list. Mortenson made significant gains, jumping 12 spots to enter the top 10 rankings.
A 1984 cover featured the world's first full-scale tension leg platform, marking a significant engineering milestone in offshore construction technology. Tension leg platforms use moored, vertically-tensioned legs to stabilize floating structures in deep water, enabling new possibilities for marine-based construction and operations.
Construction starts jumped in April with groundbreakings expanding across multiple project types beyond just data centers and energy megaprojects. The broader activity suggests renewed momentum across the construction sector according to Dodge Construction Network data.
The Army Corps of Engineers terminated Shimmick's contract for the lock chamber work on the Chickamauga Dam project, valued at $309 million. Shimmick is contesting the reasons cited for the termination.
Halmar and Skanska, operating as Penn Transportation Partners, have been named master developer for the $8 billion New York Penn Station renovation project. The partnership was selected by the DOT and Amtrak to oversee the comprehensive modernization effort.