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The Training Gap Hurts the Whole Crew Bringing new hands onto the job should increase productivity—not slow it down. But too often, foremen find themselves babysitting rookies who weren't trained properly or who weren’t given the right expectations. Instead of grumbling about “the new guy,” it’s time to take control with better onboarding. Here are the top 5 mistakes new hires make on the job—and smart, practical ways you can train them up faster, safer, and …

When it comes to getting the job done right, every contractor knows that having the right tools isn't just helpful it’s essential. We asked pros from different trades to open their toolboxes and share what they never hit the jobsite without. From the familiar to the unexpected, here’s what real working professionals say they can’t live without. ? The Mason’s Essentials: Solid Tools for Solid Work Interview with: Peter Tillema, 35+ years in masonry and restoration work G …

When you think of building codes, you probably picture dry manuals, strict safety rules, and pages of requirements no one reads unless they have to. But hidden among the serious stuff are some laws that are…well, a little strange. Across America, certain cities and states have passed construction regulations that seem to defy logic. Whether they’re relics of a different time or responses to one weird incident, these rules remind us that even in construction, truth is often stranger …

We’ve all been there. You gather the crew for a safety meeting, and within 60 seconds, half the eyes are glazed over, someone’s checking their phone, and someone else is wondering if they have time to grab a donut before the real work starts. But safety talks don’t have to be boring. In fact, the best toolbox talks are short, sharp, and memorable — and they could be the reason someone makes it home in one piece. Here’s how to make your safety meetings somet …

Because not everything comes with a manual. Construction sites have their own rhythm, language, and... let’s be honest, code of honor. Sure, there’s safety protocol, OSHA regs, and sign-in sheets, but those aren’t the rules we’re talking about here. We’re talking about the real rules. The unspoken ones. The ones every apprentice learns the hard way, and every foreman lives by without ever saying out loud. Here are just a few of the sacred (and slightly ridiculous) c …