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

25 Jul 2026

Saint-Gobain, CEPT partner on sustainable construction

Saint-Gobain and CEPT University have entered into a strategic partnership to establish a Tech Commons Centre aimed at advancing research, innovation and skill development in sustainable and energy-efficient construction.The centre will serve as a platform for building science research, prototyping, industry collaboration and knowledge exchange, bringing together Saint-Gobain's expertise in sustainable construction and CEPT's capabilities in education and research. The collaboration will focus on sustainability, energy efficiency, climate resilience and wellbeing in the built environment.Accor..

Building Material

25 Jul 2026

Aludecor launches Stonic ACP surface series

Aludecor Lamination has launched its Stonic aluminium composite panel (ACP) surface series and the second phase of its 'Test Nahi Toh Trust Nahi' campaign as part of its 24th Foundation Day celebrations.Inspired by the natural craquelure patterns found in aged stone, the Stonic series is available in seven finishes and has been developed using the company's Spray Fusion technology. The ACP range is designed for use in façades, feature walls, entranceways, soffits, balcony fascia, ceilings and other commercial, residential and hospitality applications.The company also introduced 'The Fikar-Fre..

Real Estate

25 Jul 2026

NABARD, MAHAPREIT partner on rural green infrastructure

NABARD has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Mahatma Phule Renewable Energy and Infrastructure Technology (MAHAPREIT) to finance and promote green, climate-resilient infrastructure in rural India, with an initial focus on Maharashtra.The partnership will combine NABARD's expertise in rural development and climate finance with MAHAPREIT's experience in renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure. The collaboration will identify, develop and finance projects aimed at strengthening village infrastructure, Panchayati Raj Institutions and other community assets.Priority areas incl..