Alexis Nicols, Author at Under the Hard Hat

Alexis Nicols

December 18, 2025

Microsoft invests in Fortera to scale low-carbon cement production

With Microsoft’s support, Fortera will grow from a pilot plant to a 400,000-ton facility producing low-carbon cement that could reshape how the industry cuts CO₂…

bighatti flare dubai twin towers rendering

Construction news

December 17, 2025

Binghatti Flare: Dubai twin towers to deliver 1,300 luxury homes by 2027

Alexis Nicols

Binghatti Flare adds 1,300 luxury homes and bold design to Dubai’s fast-growing Jumeirah Village Triangle.

Ai tools

December 16, 2025

AI vs. human estimators: Who wins the bid battle?

Alexis Nicols

The speed is real, the risks are too. See how top contractors pair automation with judgment to price faster without flying blind.

AI & Technology

December 16, 2025

U.S. data center spending hits record $40B in 2025

Alexis Nicols

Hyperscalers like Microsoft, Amazon, and Alphabet are driving a 30% rise in data center construction, marking the industry’s fastest growth yet.

Safety reports

December 15, 2025

How cold exposure impacts construction worker safety and performance

Alexis Nicols

New data highlights how freezing weather is putting construction workers at greater risk, prompting calls for stronger safety protocols and cold-weather protection.

Electrical Engineer who works on Computer with CAD Software

Professional Development

December 12, 2025

How to become an electrical engineer in the U.S. (steps, salary, careers)

Alexis Nicols

Electrical engineers design and build the systems that power modern life. This guide covers what an electrical engineer does, the steps to get licensed, average…

Gear reviews

December 11, 2025

Procore vs Buildertrend: Which tool is better for contractors?

Alexis Nicols

Choosing software for your crew is a big call. This head-to-head shows how Procore and Buildertrend stack up so you can match the tool to…

Construction news

December 11, 2025

Trumps White House ballroom renovation: What you should know

Alexis Nicols

Trump’s long-planned ballroom is finally happening, even as budgets tighten and demolition begins. Supporters call it historic. Others say it’s a risky bet. Which is…

Construction news

December 10, 2025

Inside 670 Mesquit: BIG’s bold new L.A. Arts District project

Alexis Nicols

The Los Angeles City Council has approved 670 Mesquit, a multi-tower Arts District development with housing, retail, offices, and new public access to the river.

Design

December 10, 2025

Tiny House Shadow: Finland’s low-carbon prototype home

Alexis Nicols

From capsule sleeping pods to a mobile steel frame, this 365 sq ft Finnish micro-home is testing ideas that could redefine residential design.

Ai tools

December 9, 2025

Turner Construction launches “wall-to-wall” AI program with OpenAI

Alexis Nicols

Turner is betting big on artificial intelligence, and the scale of its partnership with OpenAI reveals just how fast AI is reshaping construction.

Construction news

December 8, 2025

Construction workforce shortage to reach 1 million by 2026

Alexis Nicols

Contractors expect to need almost 1M new workers by 2026. With higher wages and expanded apprenticeships, the industry is racing to fill critical roles.

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