AGC and AIA 'Walk a Day in Each Other's Shoes'

The Associated General Contractors of America and the American Institute of Architects have instituted a new program - "Walk a Day in My Shoes" - in which the national president of each organization spends a day in each other's office to help facilitate a better understanding of industry roles and responsibilities.

"I visited Jack Kelley at his company on bid day and was given a baptism by fire as to what contractors go through in an attempt to win a project," said AIA Pres. Thompson E. Penney. "I have a whole new perspective about how my role affects the contractor's ability to perform his responsibilities and how valuable good relationships and trust are in this industry."

"Thom was able to give me a very good overview of the business of architecture, including what it takes to run and manage a design firm," said Jack Kelley, AGC president. "Companies succeed in this industry by having years of expertise and specialization - but the leading design and construction industry firms like LS3P understand the role of all stakeholders and appreciate the need to work cooperatively toward mutual goals."

AGC and AIA are looking at ways in which the "Walk a Day" program can be utilized at the state, local and college levels. AGC and AIA meet two times per year to discuss major industry issues and promote joint activities between the national organizations and their local chapters.

AEM Comments on Federal 'Manufacturing Matters' Initiative

The Association of Equipment Manufacturers is encouraging the U.S. government to take actions that will strengthen the manufacturing sector, including building strong equipment markets by stimulating capital investment and creating jobs through highway and transportation infrastructure investment. AEM also advocates reducing regulatory burdens on equipment manufacturers, including implementation of balanced diesel engine emissions regulations and repealing steel tariffs that have hurt U.S. manufacturers.

"A strong highway bill would cause immediate manufacturing and construction job creation as well as long-lasting impact because of the sorely needed investment in the nation's transportation infrastructure. For each $1 billion invested in transportation infrastructure, 47,500 direct and indirect jobs are created, supplying nearly $2 billion a year in family income," said AEM Chairman Ron DeFeo, chairman and CEO of Terex Corp. of Westport, Conn.

The association outlined its members' priorities in comments to the U.S. Department of Commerce in response to the agency's "Manufacturing Matters" initiative. AEM represents manufacturers of construction, agricultural, forestry, mining and utility equipment and related service providers.

Click here for more News >>