Times are likely to get better for the construction industry

01 Apr 2011 Editorial Team

Dennis J Slater, President, Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM)

Dennis Slater is a happy man as he observes the recent figures of the latest CONEXPO, which project it to be the 2nd biggest show ever. "Next only to the 2008 show, when economies were booming round the world and the visitor count recorded a peak of 144,000," he commented in an exclusive chat with PRATAP VIJAY PADODE, Editor-in-Chief, CONSTRUCTION WORLD at the AEM offices at the Las Vegas Convention Centre. "Historically, the number of visitors have vacillated between 105,000 to 144,000, but what is redeeming this year is the participation of international visitors, which has actually given a great boost to the show. At least 25 per cent of the total visitors are from international destinations. What is also gratifying is that the mood is upbeat and is indicative of the fact that times are likely to get better for the industry," Slater said.

Speaking about the pending bills with the Congress, he bemoaned the government's apathy but was hopeful for quicker action and the passing of the highway bill.

AEM, together with its colleagues at Associated Equipment Distributors, has launched an all-out effort in support of a comprehensive highway bill reauthorisation. "Our country simply cannot afford to wait 18 months for long-term investment that will provide comprehensive solutions for our transportation challenges and create jobs. AEM has been a constant voice for adequate funding for roads, bridges and other surface transportation upgrades. Greater investment is needed for the US to maintain its worldwide economic leadership. Emerging powers are using our Interstate highway system as a model for advancement as we neglect our own infrastructure improvements and risk losing our global competitive advantage," said Slater.

He also talked about the "I Make America" campaign, which has been initiated to promote US manufacturing jobs through infrastructure investment and the passage of export agreements. It is based on the belief that infrastructure investment and export agreements are proven ways to create and sustain jobs for US workers.

Dennis J Slater, President, Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) Dennis Slater is a happy man as he observes the recent figures of the latest CONEXPO, which project it to be the 2nd biggest show ever. Next only to the 2008 show, when economies were booming round the world and the visitor count recorded a peak of 144,000, he commented in an exclusive chat with PRATAP VIJAY PADODE, Editor-in-Chief, CONSTRUCTION WORLD at the AEM offices at the Las Vegas Convention Centre. Historically, the number of visitors have vacillated between 105,000 to 144,000, but what is redeeming this year is the participation of international visitors, which has actually given a great boost to the show. At least 25 per cent of the total visitors are from international destinations. What is also gratifying is that the mood is upbeat and is indicative of the fact that times are likely to get better for the industry, Slater said.Speaking about the pending bills with the Congress, he bemoaned the government's apathy but was hopeful for quicker action and the passing of the highway bill.AEM, together with its colleagues at Associated Equipment Distributors, has launched an all-out effort in support of a comprehensive highway bill reauthorisation. Our country simply cannot afford to wait 18 months for long-term investment that will provide comprehensive solutions for our transportation challenges and create jobs. AEM has been a constant voice for adequate funding for roads, bridges and other surface transportation upgrades. Greater investment is needed for the US to maintain its worldwide economic leadership. Emerging powers are using our Interstate highway system as a model for advancement as we neglect our own infrastructure improvements and risk losing our global competitive advantage, said Slater.He also talked about the I Make America campaign, which has been initiated to promote US manufacturing jobs through infrastructure investment and the passage of export agreements. It is based on the belief that infrastructure investment and export agreements are proven ways to create and sustain jobs for US workers.

Building Material

09 Dec 2025

Cement Makers Set for ~250 bps Margin Boost on Strong Realisations

Cement manufacturers are expected to record a 250–300 basis points (bps) expansion in operating margins this fiscal, supported by improved realisations driven by higher volumes, greater premiumisation and broadly stable input costs. Industry volume is projected to grow 6.5–7.5 per cent this fiscal, up from 5 per cent in the previous year. While the first half saw a moderate 5 per cent on-year rise—recovering from flat demand a year earlier—the second half is likely to strengthen with 8–9 per cent growth backed by pent-up demand and better liquidity.Pan-India cement prices are expecte..

Infrastructure Urban

09 Dec 2025

Zen Technologies Bags Rs 1.20 Bn MoD Contract for Combat Training Node

Zen Technologies has secured a Rs 1.20 billion contract from the Ministry of Defence to establish India’s first Combat Training Node (CTN) at the Infantry School in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh. The institution, regarded as the alma mater of the country’s infantry forces, will host this state-of-the-art training ecosystem designed to enhance operational preparedness through advanced simulation technologies.The CTN will integrate more than 60 training simulators and solutions, aimed at modernising and standardising combat training. The initiative aligns with India’s broader goal of strengthening ..

Building Material

09 Dec 2025

Shree Cement Rolls Out Bangur Marble Cement in Odisha Market

Shree Cement has expanded its premium portfolio in eastern India with the launch of Bangur Marble Cement in Odisha under its master brand, Bangur Cement. The product, a premium PSC cement, is engineered for superior brightness, enhanced strength and strong crack resistance—qualities that make it particularly suitable for exposed concrete structures and large, visually striking designs. Its composition also makes it well suited to the climatic conditions of coastal Odisha, offering durable performance in challenging environments.The company plans to make the cement available through more than..