In the ever evolving landscape of industrial construction, major shifts and trends have reshaped the industry, responding to global disruptions and market demands.
From the impact of supply chain disruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic to the redirection of investment to the U.S., the sector has witnessed significant changes. Louisiana Construction Education Foundation (LCEF) Vice Chair and VP of Corporate Development at ISC Constructors, Kyle Zeringue, explores these trends, advancements and challenges with BIC Magazine, while shedding light on the path ahead for this vital sector of the economy.
Q: What major trends do you feel have impacted the industry?
A: From a macro-economic perspective, the supply chain disruptions that became evident following the pandemic, in addition to the war in Ukraine, have shifted investment from global manufacturers to the U.S. Access to affordable energy sources, reliable regulatory and business climate, and stable infrastructure are just few factors driving expansion and innovation at existing facilities — as well as the design and construction of new facilities to support global demand for energy, products and materials.
Q: Please highlight any technological or educational advancements that are significantly impacting industrial construction?
A: 3D modeling, tablets and other technology are being used on critical projects to give companies additional clarity on how facilities are designed and constructed. In addition, this creates efficiency and access to real-time data that enhances decision making.
Further innovations including placement and utilization of QR codes throughout several locations of a project are enhancing communication. Individuals are now able to access QR codes with tablets to identify their exact locations within BIM 360, construction management software, models, as well as identify critical components within a facility.
Q: Are there any notable workforce development initiatives or programs that address the skill gaps in construction?
A: Remote, online training is becoming more prevalent in satisfying the needs of workers entering the trade by providing ready access that is self-paced and portable. The industry would benefit from a broader educational effort to inform perspective future leaders of its essential role in making the everyday products we use that enhance our quality of life. This must begin in the classrooms of our high schools. Students must be given the full spectrum of career opportunities versus the message that "everyone needs to go to college and obtain a four-year degree."
Q: Have you observed any notable challenges or obstacles industrial construction companies are facing?
A: Attracting future construction industry leaders has been a challenge given their options and ongoing experiments with remote work. Owners are requiring more from contractors, with inconsistent consideration for the increased costs associated with meeting their demands. "Industrial" is often synonymous with "dirty" and "dangerous." We need to better educate the public while ensuring an understanding of how rewarding this type of work can be. While it can be dirty, industrial construction is one of the safest industries. Owners and contractors work together to maintain — and often, exceed — the standards for safety on industrial construction projects.
Q: Are there any upcoming trends or developments in industrial construction?
A: There are forces seeking to diminish or hinder the petrochemical industry from expanding. This debate is complex as it involves the reliability of existing infrastructure for the production and distribution of energy, materials essential to manufacturing products, chemicals required for productive agricultural development and a variety of other products that we rely on daily.
By recognizing the vital role of industrial construction in economic stability and consumer needs, as well as fostering collaboration among stakeholders, we can forge a prosperous path forward.
For more information, visit lceftoday.org or call (225) 757-5527.
