Building with Blockchain: 4 Ways the Tech Could Revolutionize Construction

One of the things we always hear these days is how construction is changing. Companies that embrace this new world will set their businesses up to succeed deep into the future. Those that do not, however, are going to likely struggle to keep up. Rapid advances in technology are mainly driving construction’s transformation, and undoubtedly, one of the big buzzwords that the technological revolution has birthed is blockchain.

Spotlight

KONE Corporation

At KONE, our mission is to improve the flow of urban life. We understand People Flow in and between buildings, making people’s journeys safe, convenient and reliable. We are a global leader in the elevator and escalator industry, and our job is to make the best of the world’s cities. In 2017, KONE had annual net sales of EUR 8.9 billion and at the end of the year over 55,000 employees.

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Engineering Tech

Infrastructure Policy Watch: new resilience guidelines from Australia and UK hydrogen strategy

Article | July 14, 2022

Infrastructure Australia outlines new guidance on how to improve infrastructure resilience Infrastructure Australia has released a new set of resilience guidelines for infrastructure, noting that the events of recent years have brought Australia’s vulnerability to threats such as bushfires, droughts, floods, pandemics and cyber-attacks into sharp focus. The Advisory Papers, developed in partnership with Infrastructure New South Wales, estimate that, by 2050, the economic cost of natural disasters in Australia will more than double from about AU$18 billion annually to AU$39 billion. Infrastructure Australia wants infrastructure resilience in project planning and business cases “to become business as usual”. The organisation is required to evaluate business cases for infrastructure projects that receive more than AU$250 million in funding from the federal government and has indicated it may reject proposals that do not effectively incorporate infrastructure resilience.

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Engineering Tech

Where we are now: reflecting on 5 years of State of the Nation

Article | August 24, 2021

The UK has undergone five years of unprecedented change while facing up to long-term challenges, such as reducing regional inequalities and mitigating the impact of climate change. Over that period, ICE’s annual State of the Nation reports have set out a range of policy interventions aimed at ensuring the UK has the high-performing infrastructure needed to meet those challenges. Each report has focused on major cross-cutting infrastructure issues, including devolution and reaching net-zero greenhouse gas emissions.

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Robotics and Automation

Futuristic learning modules that need to be part of engineering education

Article | July 13, 2022

Engineering technology is evolving at a rapid pace across the world. Companies are depending on newer technologies like artificial intelligence, big data, machine learning, and automation. The new-age curriculum has transformed the way engineering education is delivered in the classroom. Here are futuristic modules that engineering education needs to include in the curriculum. The manufacturing facilities available today have formed a fully integrated production system powered by digital technologies.

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Engineering Tech

'Securing the talent of the future will not be the same as the past'

Article | August 25, 2021

writing this piece, there are hundreds of thousands of vacancies in the job market and companies closing or reducing service levels because they cannot get enough people. Yet at the same time, there are also hundreds of thousands of people at home because they are still on the furlough scheme. That such a position could exist – and be correct policy - shows how the job market has been turned upside down by the pandemic. The issue of skills in the workforce has not been so critical for many years. When it comes to the workforce we need, the UK has not been growing its own for many years. That is compounded by restricted international movements from both the pandemic and changing politics. The very nature of the skills required are changing, too.

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Spotlight

KONE Corporation

At KONE, our mission is to improve the flow of urban life. We understand People Flow in and between buildings, making people’s journeys safe, convenient and reliable. We are a global leader in the elevator and escalator industry, and our job is to make the best of the world’s cities. In 2017, KONE had annual net sales of EUR 8.9 billion and at the end of the year over 55,000 employees.

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Engineering Tech

Bowman Acquires South Carolina Firm Dennis Corporation

Business Wire | October 17, 2023

Bowman Consulting Group Ltd., a national engineering services firm delivering infrastructure solutions to customers who own, develop and maintain the built environment, today announced the acquisition of Dennis Corporation (“Dennis”), a civil engineering, surveying and construction management firm headquartered in Columbia, SC. Supporting public and private sector clients, Dennis specializes in delivering general civil infrastructure planning and design; program and construction management and oversight; environmental and geotechnical services for traffic and transportation; intelligent transportation systems (ITS), aviation, water resources and public sector facilities. With a rich history of client-focused services, sustainable engineering practices and forward-thinking solutions, the firm has a proven reputation of success. Established in 2005 by current CEO Dan Dennis, the firm has grown to become one the largest locally owned engineering, surveying and construction management firms in South Carolina. All 40 technical and administrative professionals will become Bowman employees in connection with the acquisition. “Dennis Corporation embodies a culture of commitment to unparalleled client service, which aligns perfectly with our cultural values, making them a great fit for Bowman,” said Gary Bowman, chairman and CEO of Bowman. “Their focus on transportation, construction management and surveying complement recent acquisitions we’ve made, and their geographic footprint introduces us to an attractive growth market in a familiar region. We’re looking forward to getting Dan and his team onboard and integrated into our platform so we can start sharing work and growing our collective base of business through revenue synergies.” “Becoming a Bowman company begins an exciting new chapter in our proud story,” said Dan Dennis, CEO of Dennis Corporation. “Our employees are looking forward to the suite of professional development platforms available at Bowman. We’re anxious to contribute to Bowman’s work-sharing mindset and we’re excited about the opportunities we will have to expand our service offerings and increase our exposure to clients and markets.” Financed with a combination of cash, seller notes and equity, the acquisition falls within previously discussed target multiple and operating metric ranges and is expected to be immediately accretive. The Company anticipates the acquisition will initially operate at an annualized net service billing run rate of approximately $4.5 million. More detailed information on M&A activities, pipeline and guidance updates are provided in connection with scheduled quarterly and annual communications. About Bowman Consulting Group Ltd. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, Bowman is a national engineering services firm delivering infrastructure solutions to customers who own, develop and maintain the built environment. With over 2,000 employees and more than 80 offices throughout the United States, Bowman provides a variety of planning, engineering, geospatial, construction management, commissioning, environmental consulting, land procurement and other technical services to customers operating in a diverse set of regulated end markets. Bowman trades on the Nasdaq under the symbol BWMN. About Dennis Corporation Since 2005, Dennis Corporation has operated as an engineering, survey and construction management firm committed to innovative designs, sustainable solutions and high-quality services for clients in South Carolina. The firm employs highly trained and experienced personnel who utilize the latest equipment and software for design and construction management. The construction services division has all the necessary DOT, environmental, OSF and OSE certifications and equipment required to perform field inspections and testing. Managing projects throughout the state of South Carolina, the Dennis team understands the importance of completing projects within budget and ahead of schedule. For more information on Dennis Corporation, their projects and their services, visit www.denniscorporation.com.

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Engineering Tech

EXP announces new Northern Ontario Engineering Sector

GlobeNewswire | October 12, 2023

EXP, a global engineering, architecture, design and consulting firm, has announced the establishment of a new Northern Ontario Engineering sector. The new sector will be led by EXP’s Vice President, Northern Ontario Kevin McKay. In his promoted role as sector leader, Kevin will be responsible for engineering services on critical infrastructure projects throughout Northern Ontario. Kevin will use EXP’s global footprint to nurture client relationships, promote growth, recruit talent and foster EXP’s inclusive culture. Kevin’s promotion comes amid robust infrastructure projects in Northern Ontario. “EXP is proud of its reputation for organic growth. As we continue to expand our presence across North America, we are committed to hiring and promoting team members who are client-focused, results-driven and embody EXP’s core values. Kevin’s familiarity with Northern Ontario and his exceptional leadership skills will allow EXP to support clients and communities to reach their desired outcomes,” said EXP’s President and COO Mark Dvorak. Kevin brings over 25 years of experience in strategy, planning and execution of engineering and construction projects. Throughout his career, he has been influential on transportation, building, building science, mining, water and energy projects, including the City of North Bay’s John Street Bridge Replacement, the Dufferin Aggregates’ Flamboro Quarry Expansion and the Municipality of Callander’s Wharf Rehabilitation. He has a Bachelor of Engineering degree from Laurentian University and is a member of Professional Engineers Ontario. EXP’s growth has led to the creation of an international sector, mining sector and extension of its science and technology expertise throughout North America. To continue its rapid growth across Canada, EXP will also expand its transportation market with the upcoming promotion of Vice President, Transportation, Central Canada Magdy Saaman to Sector Leader in FY25. About EXP With a mission to understand, innovate, partner and deliver, EXP provides engineering, architecture, design and consulting services to the world’s built and natural environments. Our heritage dates back to 1906, when the earliest of EXP’s predecessor companies started its engineering infrastructure practice.

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Engineering Tech

Atwell expands to Utah with acquisition of Summit Engineering Group

Business Wire | October 10, 2023

Atwell has acquired the operations of Summit Engineering Group, a civil engineering and land surveying firm headquartered in Heber City, Utah. This is Atwell’s first permanent office in Utah, adding to the company’s recent expansion in the western United States. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Founded in 2001 by Brian Balls and Michael Johnston, Summit offers a wide variety of professional and technical services throughout Utah. Their employees have a broad range of construction experience, utilizing design software and data reporting methods that help ensure accuracy, construction feasibility, efficiency, and low construction costs. “Atwell and Summit place a priority on getting it right the first time, which makes our services and company cultures an ideal fit,” said Brian Balls, Principal at Summit. “Similarly, both companies have strong reputations for expertise, experience, and responsiveness to their clients’ needs. The breadth of Atwell’s services will expand into Utah, providing greater opportunity for our clients.” “The team at Summit is focused on providing clients with the highest standards of quality, value, and service,” said Jeff French, Vice President of Real Estate and Land Development for Atwell. “We look forward to working with the Summit team and leveraging their decades of experience within their community. We’re very excited to expand our national reach by bringing Atwell into Utah to provide greater service options for our clients.” Atwell continues to expand its geographic footprint, service offerings, and capabilities through organic growth and strategic acquisitions. Summit is Atwell’s eighth acquisition over the past year. In the last two months, Atwell acquired Mead Gilman & Associates, a land surveying firm located in Woodinville, Washington, and Bay Engineering, a civil engineering, land surveying, and environmental services firm headquartered in Annapolis, Maryland. About Atwell Atwell, LLC is a national consulting, engineering, and construction services firm with more than 1,500 professionals located across the country. Creating innovative solutions for clients in industries such as real estate and land development, power and energy, oil and gas, and infrastructure and transportation, Atwell provides comprehensive turnkey services including land and right-of-way support, planning, landscape architecture, engineering, land surveying, environmental compliance and permitting, and project and program management.

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Engineering Tech

Bowman Acquires South Carolina Firm Dennis Corporation

Business Wire | October 17, 2023

Bowman Consulting Group Ltd., a national engineering services firm delivering infrastructure solutions to customers who own, develop and maintain the built environment, today announced the acquisition of Dennis Corporation (“Dennis”), a civil engineering, surveying and construction management firm headquartered in Columbia, SC. Supporting public and private sector clients, Dennis specializes in delivering general civil infrastructure planning and design; program and construction management and oversight; environmental and geotechnical services for traffic and transportation; intelligent transportation systems (ITS), aviation, water resources and public sector facilities. With a rich history of client-focused services, sustainable engineering practices and forward-thinking solutions, the firm has a proven reputation of success. Established in 2005 by current CEO Dan Dennis, the firm has grown to become one the largest locally owned engineering, surveying and construction management firms in South Carolina. All 40 technical and administrative professionals will become Bowman employees in connection with the acquisition. “Dennis Corporation embodies a culture of commitment to unparalleled client service, which aligns perfectly with our cultural values, making them a great fit for Bowman,” said Gary Bowman, chairman and CEO of Bowman. “Their focus on transportation, construction management and surveying complement recent acquisitions we’ve made, and their geographic footprint introduces us to an attractive growth market in a familiar region. We’re looking forward to getting Dan and his team onboard and integrated into our platform so we can start sharing work and growing our collective base of business through revenue synergies.” “Becoming a Bowman company begins an exciting new chapter in our proud story,” said Dan Dennis, CEO of Dennis Corporation. “Our employees are looking forward to the suite of professional development platforms available at Bowman. We’re anxious to contribute to Bowman’s work-sharing mindset and we’re excited about the opportunities we will have to expand our service offerings and increase our exposure to clients and markets.” Financed with a combination of cash, seller notes and equity, the acquisition falls within previously discussed target multiple and operating metric ranges and is expected to be immediately accretive. The Company anticipates the acquisition will initially operate at an annualized net service billing run rate of approximately $4.5 million. More detailed information on M&A activities, pipeline and guidance updates are provided in connection with scheduled quarterly and annual communications. About Bowman Consulting Group Ltd. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, Bowman is a national engineering services firm delivering infrastructure solutions to customers who own, develop and maintain the built environment. With over 2,000 employees and more than 80 offices throughout the United States, Bowman provides a variety of planning, engineering, geospatial, construction management, commissioning, environmental consulting, land procurement and other technical services to customers operating in a diverse set of regulated end markets. Bowman trades on the Nasdaq under the symbol BWMN. About Dennis Corporation Since 2005, Dennis Corporation has operated as an engineering, survey and construction management firm committed to innovative designs, sustainable solutions and high-quality services for clients in South Carolina. The firm employs highly trained and experienced personnel who utilize the latest equipment and software for design and construction management. The construction services division has all the necessary DOT, environmental, OSF and OSE certifications and equipment required to perform field inspections and testing. Managing projects throughout the state of South Carolina, the Dennis team understands the importance of completing projects within budget and ahead of schedule. For more information on Dennis Corporation, their projects and their services, visit www.denniscorporation.com.

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Engineering Tech

EXP announces new Northern Ontario Engineering Sector

GlobeNewswire | October 12, 2023

EXP, a global engineering, architecture, design and consulting firm, has announced the establishment of a new Northern Ontario Engineering sector. The new sector will be led by EXP’s Vice President, Northern Ontario Kevin McKay. In his promoted role as sector leader, Kevin will be responsible for engineering services on critical infrastructure projects throughout Northern Ontario. Kevin will use EXP’s global footprint to nurture client relationships, promote growth, recruit talent and foster EXP’s inclusive culture. Kevin’s promotion comes amid robust infrastructure projects in Northern Ontario. “EXP is proud of its reputation for organic growth. As we continue to expand our presence across North America, we are committed to hiring and promoting team members who are client-focused, results-driven and embody EXP’s core values. Kevin’s familiarity with Northern Ontario and his exceptional leadership skills will allow EXP to support clients and communities to reach their desired outcomes,” said EXP’s President and COO Mark Dvorak. Kevin brings over 25 years of experience in strategy, planning and execution of engineering and construction projects. Throughout his career, he has been influential on transportation, building, building science, mining, water and energy projects, including the City of North Bay’s John Street Bridge Replacement, the Dufferin Aggregates’ Flamboro Quarry Expansion and the Municipality of Callander’s Wharf Rehabilitation. He has a Bachelor of Engineering degree from Laurentian University and is a member of Professional Engineers Ontario. EXP’s growth has led to the creation of an international sector, mining sector and extension of its science and technology expertise throughout North America. To continue its rapid growth across Canada, EXP will also expand its transportation market with the upcoming promotion of Vice President, Transportation, Central Canada Magdy Saaman to Sector Leader in FY25. About EXP With a mission to understand, innovate, partner and deliver, EXP provides engineering, architecture, design and consulting services to the world’s built and natural environments. Our heritage dates back to 1906, when the earliest of EXP’s predecessor companies started its engineering infrastructure practice.

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Engineering Tech

Atwell expands to Utah with acquisition of Summit Engineering Group

Business Wire | October 10, 2023

Atwell has acquired the operations of Summit Engineering Group, a civil engineering and land surveying firm headquartered in Heber City, Utah. This is Atwell’s first permanent office in Utah, adding to the company’s recent expansion in the western United States. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Founded in 2001 by Brian Balls and Michael Johnston, Summit offers a wide variety of professional and technical services throughout Utah. Their employees have a broad range of construction experience, utilizing design software and data reporting methods that help ensure accuracy, construction feasibility, efficiency, and low construction costs. “Atwell and Summit place a priority on getting it right the first time, which makes our services and company cultures an ideal fit,” said Brian Balls, Principal at Summit. “Similarly, both companies have strong reputations for expertise, experience, and responsiveness to their clients’ needs. The breadth of Atwell’s services will expand into Utah, providing greater opportunity for our clients.” “The team at Summit is focused on providing clients with the highest standards of quality, value, and service,” said Jeff French, Vice President of Real Estate and Land Development for Atwell. “We look forward to working with the Summit team and leveraging their decades of experience within their community. We’re very excited to expand our national reach by bringing Atwell into Utah to provide greater service options for our clients.” Atwell continues to expand its geographic footprint, service offerings, and capabilities through organic growth and strategic acquisitions. Summit is Atwell’s eighth acquisition over the past year. In the last two months, Atwell acquired Mead Gilman & Associates, a land surveying firm located in Woodinville, Washington, and Bay Engineering, a civil engineering, land surveying, and environmental services firm headquartered in Annapolis, Maryland. About Atwell Atwell, LLC is a national consulting, engineering, and construction services firm with more than 1,500 professionals located across the country. Creating innovative solutions for clients in industries such as real estate and land development, power and energy, oil and gas, and infrastructure and transportation, Atwell provides comprehensive turnkey services including land and right-of-way support, planning, landscape architecture, engineering, land surveying, environmental compliance and permitting, and project and program management.

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