News
Informing the Industry
Take a look at the top stories, information, and updates our membership needs to know to stay ahead in this competitive industry.
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Expectations of Higher for Longer Rates Weighs on Construction Activity
The construction industry retained a surprising level of momentum in 2024; construction spending currently stands just below the highest level on record, contractors added jobs at a faster-than-economywide-pace throughout the
Inflation Relents, But is Still Making Presence Known on Construction Firms
By Chris Coleman, HUB International Inflation may be moderating in the U.S., but it’s still a force exerting its influence on the construction industry as it heads toward 2025 with
Ritsema Associates Transitioning to an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
Ritsema Associates, an ABC member and interior contractor, has transitioned to an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). Quote from Press Release:“It’s really exciting for our people because we’re creating an
New Jobsite Plumbing Apprenticeship Ratios Coming April 2, 2025
New regulations are coming on April 2, and it’s important for plumbing contractors, apprentices, and construction managers to understand the changes to job site apprenticeship ratios. This blog explains the
A Merit Shop Majority Will Control the Michigan House of Representatives in January
Key Michigan Takeaways In January, the Michigan House of Representatives will operate under a merit shop majority of 58-52. ABC Secured victory in every state seat where we invested resources
Rate Cuts Arrive as Western Michigan Construction Industry Retains Momentum
Thirty months after the Federal Reserve began raising interest rates to suppress inflation, it reduced the target range of the Federal Funds Rate by 50 basis points at its September
Raising Awareness and Preventing Suicide in the Construction Industry
By Mark Dyke, Collaborative Counseling Group The Problem Did you know that construction workers face a suicide rate that is 5.5 times higher than the rate of all other fatalities
How Construction Companies Can Expand the Pool of Qualified Candidates
By Adam Cosola, CTC Talent Partners Most of us have probably heard the phrases “it is hard finding good people” or “it is competitive out there when we look for
Court Reverses FTC Ban on Non-Compete Agreements
The use of non-compete agreements has long been a contentious issue in the business world. These clauses, which restrict employees from working for competitors or starting similar businesses after leaving
Practical Solutions to Fix Michigan Paid Sick Leave Law
ABC Michigan (Western Michigan, Greater Michigan, and Southeastern Michigan) joined a statewide business coalition following the recent Michigan Supreme Court ruling on the Earned Sick Time Act (ESTA). The ESTA
Ensuring Safety in Construction: Rockford’s Commitment to Best Practices
Safety Protocol Planning In construction, safety is crucial, and companies like Rockford Construction demonstrate this commitment through careful planning and implementation of safety protocols. Their safety and health plan sets minimum
Addressing Workforce Mental Health at Ritsema Associates
Comprehensive Employee Assistance ProgramsRitsema Associates has taken significant steps to address the mental health of its workforce, recognizing the pressing need for support amidst changing demographics and the challenges faced
