Alexis Nicols, Author at Under the Hard Hat

Alexis Nicols

Engineer hands holding digital tablet with house construction project planning, House designer and digital technology.

October 30, 2025

Genia Design’s AI assistant creates structural drawings in minutes

Genia Design’s Structural CoPilot uses AI to speed up structural design, delivering smart, code-compliant layouts in minutes.

Professional Stanley Black and Decker tools and equipment for construction and renovation carpentry works for sale in Bauhaus store. Concept of hardware and workshop

Gear reviews

October 29, 2025

7 Stanley Black and Decker tools totally worth the money

Alexis Nicols

Stanley Black+Decker tools are trusted by DIYers and pros alike. Here’s our roundup of the top picks that deliver power, value, and durability.

Featured

October 28, 2025

Building the future of construction finance with Neil Shah, CEO of the CFMA

Alexis Nicols

From talent shortages to data-driven benchmarking, CFMA is transforming how the construction industry manages its financial future. Neil Shah reveals how the change is unfolding.

Career

October 24, 2025

Architect vs engineer: Which career should you choose?

Alexis Nicols

We compare architects vs engineers in term focus, job duties, education and salary, and which role you should choose based on your strengths.

AI & Technology

October 23, 2025

Inside XtreeE’s push for sustainable 3D concrete printing worldwide

Alexis Nicols

Backed by major industry players, XtreeE’s patented 3D concrete printing brings low-carbon, customizable building solutions to projects around the globe.

Outdoor wooden sauna and hot pot chilling zone

Design

October 23, 2025

Cost to build a backyard sauna: All you need to know

Alexis Nicols

Planning a backyard sauna? Before you buy or build, see how costs add up across DIY kits, prefab models, and custom designs.

Major projects office will be led by Dawn Farrel

Construction news

October 23, 2025

The Major Projects Office: Fast tracking national projects in Canada

Alexis Nicols

A new federal office promises to shrink years of approvals into months. But can Canada’s Major Projects Office live up to its big mandate?

Montréal-Trudeau Airport expansion rendering

Construction news

October 22, 2025

Montréal-Trudeau Airport to expand with $1B CIB loan

Alexis Nicols

Backed by the CIB, ADM’s $1B plan will transform Montréal-Trudeau Airport with more space, better transit access, and sustainable infrastructure.

Construction news

October 21, 2025

Top American cities where it’s cheap to build a home

Alexis Nicols

Building a home in 2025? These budget-friendly US cities combine low land costs, competitive labor rates, and supportive policies for affordable construction.