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Senior level move - Mott MacDonald UK & Europe boss joins Board Construction consultant, Mott MacDonald, has announced the appointment of a new member to its executive team. Richard Risdon. Credit: Mott MacDonald. Richard Risdon joined the executive board on 1 January, he has been managing director of the UK and Europe region since 2022 and will continue in that role. With more than 25 years’ experience in civil engineering, specialising in the water sector, Risdon has a track record of growing businesses, team building, and delivering for clients. Before taking on the leadership of Mott MacDonald’s UK and Europe region, which now stands at more than 11,000 people, Risdon helped to form Mott MacDonald Bentley Contracting and served as the company’s head of operations. At JN Bentley, which was acquired by Mott MacDonald in 2014, he sat on the board and undertook a variety of roles across the business including operational delivery and health and safety. Commenting on his appointment, he said: “Mott MacDonald is a thriving business that is well positioned to succeed across its key markets in the coming years. “We have a community of brilliant people that knows how to apply technical expertise for the benefit of clients and the communities they serve, and I am committed to growing our business, our people and our success as I join the executive board.” James Harris, chief executive of Mott MacDonald, said: “Richard has demonstrated his ability to grow businesses and build high performing teams throughout his career, and through his leadership of our UK and Europe region we have continued to go from strength to strength. “He now brings his collaborative and inclusive approach to our executive board, and I am looking forward to working with him more closely as we deliver on our strategy.” In November last year, a Mott MacDonald-Jacobs consortium was appointed as the design development partner for the next phase of the £2.5 billion West Yorkshire Mass Transit Programme, for the West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA). The advanced, high-capacity public transport system is one of the largest urban transit schemes in the UK, to be integrated with cycling, walking, and rail, to connect communities across the region. The early construction stage is anticipated to begin in 2028, with Phase One to include two lines serving Leeds and Bradford. https://lnkd.in/etvaEXPT

Compelling article linked below🔩🏗️🚜 What innovations and advancements can we expect from the construction industry? Construction landscape is evolving faster than ever...... #construction #constructionindustry #contractors #buildingmaterials #building #SABuilding #southafrica #career

Construction advisory firm SJA has announced plans to expand its operations to the United Kingdom in early 2025, with new offices set to open in London and Dublin.

Partnership is laying the foundations for careers in construction

When you partner with White Cap Construction Supply from the start of the project you are gaining a level of trust for your project jobsite needs.

Major Developments in Florida's Construction Sector Florida’s construction industry is experiencing significant growth and investment. Over the past year, the state added 37,100 construction jobs, reflecting a 5.9% increase, ranking it second nationally for numerical job gains. This growth coincides with the state’s ambitious Moving Florida Forward Initiative, a $4 billion investment aimed at accelerating critical infrastructure projects to address congestion, improve safety, and enhance economic growth. Key upcoming projects include: Interstate 75 Improvements: Expansion and redesign of the I-75 interchange at Pine Ridge Road, with construction beginning in early 2025. State Road 29 Enhancements: New alignments and widening projects to improve traffic flow around Immokalee, scheduled to start in 2027. Capacity Upgrades: Adding lanes on an 18-mile stretch of I-75 between Golden Gate Parkway and Corkscrew Road. While these projects highlight Florida’s commitment to infrastructure, the industry faces a shortage of skilled labor. Industry leaders are advocating for increased federal support for workforce training programs, including the re-authorization of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act and the Carl D. Perkins Act. Florida’s construction sector is at a pivotal moment, with substantial opportunities ahead for industry professionals and communities across the state.

Acknowledging the Current Landscape The construction industry has been my home for many years and will continue to be, but it's no secret that our field is facing new challenges (at least, in Africa, where I reside). With increasing competition, market saturation, and contracts awarded to those undeserving, and underpaid as a professional employee, the landscape is shifting. While construction remains a vital and rewarding industry (no lies), I've found myself questioning how I can continue to grow in this industry and make a meaningful impact in a way that aligns with these changes. It’s a question I’ve been pondering for a while now.

Akela Ground Engineering has officially expanded its operations into Ireland, opening a new base in Co. Armagh. This move comes as part of Akela’s continued growth beyond Scotland and England, fuelled by its innovative ABeam precast concrete beam system. ABeam, a groundbreaking product designed to install foundation ground beams in just a few hours, is already transforming construction projects with significant time and cost savings. With over 8,000 meters of precast beams installed and more than 200 house plots completed, ABeam is set to make a big impact on Ireland’s housing sector. The company has also welcomed Barry Christy as Operations Manager for Akela Ground Engineering Ireland. Barry will oversee piling and beam operations, helping to deliver high-quality projects and build strong relationships with clients across the region. With Ireland facing a housing shortage, Akela Ground Engineering’s expansion and innovative solutions couldn’t have come at a better time. Read https://lnkd.in/enpWMRz2 more details about this exciting development and how Akela is driving innovation in the construction industry. #AkelaGroundEngineering #ABeamSystem #ConstructionInnovation #IrelandHousingMarket #PilingAndBeamSolutions #ConstructionIndustryNews

As we approach the end of the year, we take a moment to reflect on the incredible progress of the Maalgaate Bridge Widening project, a collaborative effort between SNA Civil and Structural Engineers (Pty) Ltd and the Western Cape Government. The project is well underway, and we’re making great strides in bringing this innovative bridge to life. Our team of skilled engineers is working hard to ensure the highest standards of quality, safety, and sustainability are met throughout every phase of the construction process. This iconic arch bridge will not only enhance infrastructure and connectivity in the region but also stand as a testament to engineering excellence and community development. Check out the video below to see the incredible progress we've made so far and stay tuned for more updates as we move closer to completion! 💪 #construction #civilengineering #infrastructure #structuralengineering #projectmanagement #EngineeringExcellence

1/3 of people would never consider a career in construction! Considering the range of roles and skills required in the industry, that’s a significant barrier to dealing with a massive shortage of people over the next decade. Great research, report and recommendations here from Deconstruction 👏👏