Industry Sessions

Joint Contractors Session
Wednesday, April 17, 2024
Practical Applications of New Construction Technologies

Which technologies are shaping the construction industry and which technologies are most needed? Erin Khan will discuss how contractors can strategically identify, enable, and operate these tools and solutions in their existing projects and workflows, and how to train your current team on these tools to help streamline processes and efficiencies. Erin will also discuss how artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping the industry by empowering contractors with game-changing solutions, along with providing practical tips on how to apply AI solutions in your contracting operations.

Speaker:
Erin Khan, Founder, Sr. Consultant, Erin Khan Consulting

Health and Safety Session
Wednesday, April 17, 2024
Workers’ Compensation Trends

Workers’ compensation laws have been in place for more than 110 years in the United States with very little legislative reform for more than a decade, other than changes made due to COVID-19. Most case law is well-established, and changes have focused on the benefits provided to injured workers. Join Jason Spandet as he discusses several emerging trends, including the evolving claims process, the resurgence of companies and vendors promoting a wide range of services, and the critical need for existing programs to advance.

Speaker:
Jason Spandet, Risk and Insurance Manager, Performance Contracting, Inc. (PCI)

Merit Contractor Session
Friday, April 19, 2024
Stronger Field, Stronger Profits: FMI’s 2023 Labor Productivity Study

Labor productivity is a challenge for the construction industry, and FMI’s 2023 Labor Productivity Study confirms the well-documented trend of productivity decline. Managed well, labor productivity can significantly improve bottom-line margins. Managed poorly, labor overruns, or exceeding labor budgets, can wipe out contractor profitability. FMI’s Michael Keller will provide an overview of this study, including the major internal and external challenges and key operational best practices.

Speaker:
Michael Keller, Consultant, FMI Corp.

Distributors/Fabricators Session
Friday, April 19, 2024
The AI Advantage: Elevating Operations for Distributors

Explore the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on B2B operations for distributors. Justin King will provide a general introduction to AI, highlighting its capabilities and the various models available, including ChatGPT, and will address the common misconception that AI will replace humans by emphasizing that it is, in fact, those who know how to leverage AI who will lead the future. Plus, Justin will delve into practical uses of AI for supply chain, marketing, and e-commerce.

Speaker:
Justin King, Global Analyst, B2B eCommerce Association (B2BEA)

Associates (Manufacturer) Session
Friday, April 19, 2024
Deep Dive Economic Outlook for Manufacturers

Take a deeper dive into the most important economic topics for manufacturers, including manufacturing production and capacity utilization rates, purchasing manager index, unemployment, and much more. Plus, Chris Kuehl will also share his insights and predictions on potential growth rates, sector challenges, and possible risks.

Speaker:
Chris Kuehl, Managing Director, Armada Corporate Intelligence

Union Contractors Subcommittee (Open only to Signatory contractors of the International)
Friday, April 19, 2024

Join Chairman John Lamberton, Irex Contracting Group, Vice Chairman, Rick Sutphin, Performance Contracting, Inc., and fellow Signatory Contractors of the International Association of Heat and Frost Insulators and Allied Workers for a conversation on industry topics, including updates from the International and emerging issues for union contractors. (This is a closed meeting—open only to signatory contractors of the International Association of Heat and Frost Insulators and Allied Workers.)

NIA’s 68th Annual Convention