Under the Hard Hat

Tag: Industry news

Nvidia will pour $500B into US AI supercomputer construction
Nvidia plans to invest up to $500 billion in U.S.-based production of computer chips and AI supercomputers over the next four years. This move will shift a major portion of Nvidia’s high-performance computing operations back to American soil, with the company working alongside partners like TSMC, Amkor, and Foxconn to build and assemble its next-gen hardware.

The centerpiece of this push is Nvidia’s new Blackwell GPU platform, designed to power cutting-edge AI systems. These supercomputers will be built in the U.S., with components sourced from local or U.S.-based suppliers. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang called them “AI factories”—a nod to the growing importance of AI infrastructure as a national asset.

Jensen Huang, Nvidia’s Founder and CEO, speaks during a news event in Taipei on June 4, 2024. Photo via Shutterstock

What’s included in the $500 billion investment for AI supercomputers?

Nvidia’s commitment touches every part of the AI hardware pipeline:
- Chip fabrication: TSMC will produce Blackwell GPU chips at its new Arizona fab.
- Packaging: Amkor’s facility in Arizona will package Nvidia chips, with operations starting later in 2024.
- System assembly: Nvidia will assemble AI supercomputers in the U.S. for local deployment.
- Construction spending: Massive capital will go toward building new fabs, packaging facilities, and AI data centers.
Much of the spending will depend on access to CHIPS Act incentives, but Nvidia says it will proceed either way.

What this means for U.S. manufacturing

This is one of the largest private manufacturing investments in U.S. history. For general contractors and design-build firms, it opens the door to a new wave of tech construction projects. These manufacturing plants are highly specialized buildings that require:
- Advanced cooling systems for high-density computing
- Secure server rooms with specialized access and fireproofing
- Massive electrical infrastructure to power racks of GPUs
- Precision-controlled environments for chip packaging and testing
- Sustainable design and energy management for 24/7 operations
For contractors working in MEP, industrial architecture, or mission-critical design, this presents a massive opportunity. The scale and technical demands of Nvidia’s U.S. chip manufacturing build-out are exactly the kind of high-performance environments where expertise matters most. This will create thousands of jobs and provide a much-needed boost to a slumping U.S. manufacturing industry.

Several major players are joining Nvidia in this push to ramp up U.S.-based chip production. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) is constructing advanced fabrication plants in Arizona, where it will produce Nvidia’s new Blackwell chips. Right next door, Amkor is setting up a facility to handle advanced chip packaging, making the entire process more streamlined and localized. GlobalFoundries is also on board, partnering with Nvidia to support future chip supply and diversify manufacturing options within the United States. Foxconn, a longtime tech manufacturing giant, is also participating in the effort to expand its presence in Wisconsin to support Nvidia’s AI infrastructure goals.

This shift is happening thanks to the U.S. government backing the effort with subsidies and tax incentives through the CHIPS Act, aiming to boost domestic semiconductor capabilities and reduce the country’s dependence on overseas supply chains. With tensions rising around Taiwan and growing concerns about access to critical components from China, these moves are as much about national security and economic independence as they are about innovation.

These AI supercomputer facilities are expected to be built and expanded through 2029, creating steady demand for contractors for years to come.

To stay ahead of projects like this—where construction meets next-gen tech—subscribe to the Under the Hard Hat newsletter at underthehardhat.org/join-us. You’ll get insider details on where work is booming and what’s coming next.
June 6, 2025
Ontario’s $955M skills development fund aims to protect trades jobs

Ontario is expanding its Skills Development Fund by another $955 million, bringing the total investment to $1 billion. The move comes as rising U.S. tariffs put pressure on key industries, including skilled trades and manufacturing. The fund is designed to give workers and businesses quick access to training support, focusing on upskilling, reskilling, and job placement. It targets sectors feeling the heat from trade disruptions, where layoffs and contract slowdowns have already started.

The Ontario Skill Development Fund will back sector-specific training programs offered through unions, private training centers, and community colleges. It also supports employer-led projects that provide on-the-job learning, mentorship, and fast-track certifications. To apply, interested applicants should submit their application through Transfer Payment Ontario.

Photo sourced from Shutterstock

The timing is no accident. Ontario’s government flagged the tariffs as a threat to economic stability. The tariffs on steel, aluminum, and lumber drive up costs for builders, threatening the stability of local projects.

The province has said that getting ahead of potential layoffs by giving workers a pathway into high-demand roles is cheaper and more effective than waiting for job losses to mount.

Unlike past workforce programs, this fund is designed to move fast. Applications for the latest funding round opened immediately, with approvals promised in weeks, not months. The goal is to give employers the confidence to hold onto workers and to help displaced workers get into new roles before their skills erode.

For workers, the Ontario Skill Development Fund provides options. Instead of waiting out a market slump, trade workers can tap into training that puts them back on solid footing. Whether that’s welding certifications, safety retraining, or switching to industries seeing growth, the funding is there to help them make the switch.

If you want to stay updated on how government policies like this shape the job site, subscribe to our newsletter at underthehardhat.org/join-us.

June 5, 2025
Project abandonments spike in 2025 with private sector hit hard

A sharp rise in abandoned construction projects is hitting the industry hard this spring. According to ConstructConnect’s latest Project Stress Index (PSI), March 2025 saw a 9.5% increase in project abandonments, the highest jump in over a year. The data suggests that although some projects are moving forward, a troubling number are being shelved altogether, leaving contractors, designers, and suppliers reeling.

Unfinished residential high-rise construction with crane. Photo via Shutterstock.

Private sector project abandonments hit all time high

Not all sectors are being impacted equally. The report shows that for every public project abandoned in March, nearly two private ones were scrapped. That imbalance points to deeper uncertainty among private developers, who may be more sensitive to interest rate pressure, financing limitations, and shifting demand in commercial real estate.

ConstructConnect’s Chief Economist, Michael Guckes, pointed to rising construction loan costs and economic uncertainty as likely culprits. While interest rates have held relatively steady in early 2025, the lingering impact of past hikes continues to echo throughout the market.

Commercial projects are proving especially vulnerable. Office construction continues to decline, and warehouse development is slowing after several years of explosive growth. Retail projects are also on shakier ground, particularly in areas that saw overbuilding during the pandemic recovery.

A mixed picture: fewer delays, more cancellations

March brought a curious contradiction: while project abandonments surged, the number of delayed and paused projects dropped. Delayed projects fell by 0.7%, and on-hold projects dropped by 8%. On the surface, that might sound like good news. However, when coupled with the abandonment spike, it suggests that many projects previously paused or delayed are now being canceled outright rather than revived.

In other words, some developers may be done waiting. Instead of pushing timelines further into 2025 or 2026, they’re pulling the plug. It’s a decision that sends ripples across the trades, affecting everyone from engineers and architects to framing crews and suppliers who rely on steady pipelines of work.

What this means for contractors in 2025

Construction professionals on active job sites might not feel the effects immediately. But planners, estimators, and anyone responsible for business development or preconstruction should take note. When projects vanish from the pipeline, competition for remaining work intensifies. Margins also shrink with resources tied up in preconstruction that may never convert to revenue.

That means contractors need to adjust bidding strategies, watch market signals more closely, and strengthen their client relationships to ensure early involvement in the projects that do go forward.

There’s no clear signal yet that this spike will continue through Q2. But the fact that abandonment rates jumped at the same time delays and pauses declined is worth watching. It could mark a shift in developer behavior. That can help with planning, but also means less time to prepare when projects disappear.

If federal interest rate cuts materialize later in the year, as some predict, it could breathe new life into some dormant plans. But for now, the pressure is on for anyone working in planning, preconstruction, or business development to adapt quickly.

Want more construction updates like this? Sign up for our newsletter at underthehardhat.org/join-us and stay ahead of the trends that are shaping job sites and project pipelines across North America.

June 3, 2025
The Obama Presidential Center is nearing completion in Chicago

In Chicago’s historic Jackson Park, a transformative project is taking shape. The Obama Presidential Center, envisioned by former President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama, aims to be a community hub and educational space for the South Side of Chicago. The Center is designed to inspire civic engagement and leadership.

It will house a museum chronicling the Obama presidency, a branch of the Chicago Public Library (currently known as the Michelle Obama Neighborhood Library), and spaces for community programs and events. The goal is to create a place where people can learn about history, engage in dialogue, and develop solutions for the future.

As a former Illinois senator and longtime Chicago resident, the city holds deep personal meaning for President Obama. When the plans for the Obama Presidential Center were first announced, the Obamas shared, “We are proud that the center will help spur development in an urban area, and we can’t wait to forge new ways to give back to the people of Chicago who have given us so much.” Though other locations were considered—including Hawaii, where Obama was born, and New York, where he went to college—Chicago ultimately won out as the Center’s permanent home.

The architectural design is led by Tod Williams Billie Tsien Architects | Partners, known for their thoughtful and enduring institutional projects. They are collaborating with Chicago-based Interactive Design Architects (IDEA), headed by Dina Griffin, who brings local expertise and a commitment to community engagement.

Construction is managed by Lakeside Alliance, a joint venture comprising Powers & Sons Construction Company, UJAMAA Construction Inc., Brown & Momen, Inc., Safeway Construction Company, and Turner Construction Company.

Construction began in August 2021, with significant milestones already achieved. By June 2024, the Museum Building reached its full height of 225 feet. The Home Court, a 45,000-square-foot athletic and events space, was topped out in December 2024, with its steel framework completed. As of early 2025, exterior work, including the installation of glass and granite panels, is ongoing.

The Center’s design incorporates durable and locally sourced materials. The Museum Building features “Tapestry” granite cladding, providing a unique aesthetic. The structures utilize all-steel construction for strength and flexibility. The Home Court’s design includes basketball hoop-shaped exterior wedge walls, reflecting the community’s spirit and the Obamas’ connection to Chicago.

While the Center was initially slated to open in late 2025, the opening has been rescheduled to spring 2026 to ensure all aspects meet the project’s high standards. “More than a library or museum, it will be a living, working center for citizenship,” said Obama.

Stay informed about the Obama Presidential Center’s progress and other inspiring stories by subscribing to our newsletter.

May 30, 2025
High speed rail coming to Canada: The Alto project

Imagine zipping from Toronto to Montreal in just three hours, comfortably seated aboard a state-of-the-art, high-speed train. Canada’s ambitious Alto project is building the first Canadian high speed rail to transform this vision into reality, reshaping how Canadians travel.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced on February 19, 2025, that the Alto project represents a monumental leap forward in Canadian infrastructure. “A reliable, efficient high-speed rail network will be a game changer for Canadians,” Trudeau said.

The Alto rail network will stretch approximately 1,000 kilometers, linking Toronto and Quebec City via trains reaching up to 300 km/h. Key stops include Peterborough, Ottawa, Montreal, Laval, and Trois-Rivières, improving connectivity across these major cities and regions.

What this means for Canadian travel

Canada’s first high speed rail signals a significant shift away from earlier high-frequency rail plans, embracing proper high-speed standards. A consortium named Cadence, led by industry heavyweights including CDPQ Infra, AtkinsRéalis (formerly SNC-Lavalin), SYSTRA Canada, Keolis Canada, Air Canada, and France’s SNCF Voyageurs, has been chosen to steer the project forward. With combined expertise in global rail and transit infrastructure, Cadence is positioning Alto for success.

The benefits of Alto are impressive. Travel between Montreal and Toronto will be halved, shrinking to just three hours—an appealing alternative to air travel once airport security and wait times are considered. This efficiency is expected to attract numerous travelers, reducing congestion on roads and airports. Economically, the decade-long construction phase is projected to create around 51,000 jobs, significantly boosting Canada’s economy with a total impact estimated at up to $24.6 billion over 30 years.

Environmentally, Alto’s fully electric trains align perfectly with Canada’s sustainability goals, drastically cutting carbon emissions from traditional car and air travel. The Alto project highlights Canada’s ongoing commitment to combating climate change and building a greener future.

The project is currently in the co-development stage. The Canadian government has committed CAD 3.9 billion (USD 2.75 billion) for planning, design, and preliminary work over the next six years. This phase will finalize station locations and precise route details. Although an exact completion date remains undetermined, momentum for Alto signals the start of a transformative era in Canadian transportation.

Want more updates on Canadian infrastructure? Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed about the latest developments in the Alto project and other groundbreaking initiatives.

May 23, 2025
AECOM joins forces with LA28 for the 2028 Olympics
The Los Angeles 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games are set to showcase a fusion of world-class athleticism and cutting-edge infrastructure, thanks to a strategic partnership with AECOM. As the Official Venue Infrastructure Partner, AECOM will play a major role in bringing the vision of the LA28 Games to life.

AECOM is a global infrastructure consulting firm renowned for its comprehensive services in architecture, engineering, planning, and construction management. Since 1980, its impressive portfolio has included over 90 stadiums and arenas, including 16 NFL and 18 MLB stadium projects. Notable examples are the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, celebrated for its innovative retractable roof and circular “halo” video board, and the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, the new home of the LA Clippers, which opened in August 2024.

For the LA28 Games, AECOM’s responsibilities encompass a broad list of services, including:
- Architecture and engineering: Designing and structuring temporary and permanent venues to meet the diverse needs of over 15,000 Olympic and Paralympic athletes across 50+ sports and 800+ events.
- Program and construction management: Overseeing the planning, scheduling, and execution of construction projects to ensure the timely and efficient delivery of venues.
A standout feature of LA28’s approach is the emphasis on leveraging existing venues and integrating temporary structures. This strategy will enhance the athlete and spectator experience while promoting sustainability, a core value of LA28 and AECOM.

“Powered by our vision of uplifting LA’s state-of-the-art venues, our partnership with AECOM will deliver cutting-edge temporary infrastructure, creating sports experiences unlike the world has ever seen,” said Casey Wasserman, LA28 chairperson and president. “Los Angeles is a thriving center of innovation and culture. We’re excited to team up with AECOM to showcase the best of this dynamic city and drive progress within the Olympic and Paralympic Movement.”

The LA28 Games are scheduled to take place in the summer of 2028. This will mark Los Angeles’s third time hosting the Olympics and its inaugural hosting of the Paralympic Games. With AECOM’s proven track record and commitment to excellence, the city is poised to deliver an unforgettable experience for athletes and fans alike.

Want to stay updated on major industry moves and infrastructure headlines like this? Subscribe to our newsletter and get the latest delivered straight to your inbox.
May 23, 2025
Toro eDingo TX 750: The first electric mini skid steer with tracks
Toro recently revealed its newest stand-on mini skid steer, the TX 750 eDingo, at World of Concrete 2025. This latest addition to the skid steer lineup isn’t just an upgrade—it’s a game-changer. With 250 pounds more lifting capacity than the wheeled TX 500 and redesigned tracks, the TX 750 is built to handle tough terrain.

Toro Product Marketing Manager Kaitlyn Ingli says the model fills a gap in the current equipment lineup, saying, “Interior construction contractors, especially demolition, they needed something to get over the rebar, getting over debris, and so having that track system to navigate those job spaces is really nice. Also the outdoor landscapers, municipalities, they need that for the turf and navigating terrain.”

With a 750-pound lifting capacity, the eDingo TX 750 can replace wheelbarrows, shovels, and jackhammers. Plus, Toro’s HyperCell battery system delivers up to eight hours of runtime with lower emissions and less noise than traditional gas or diesel models.

The TX 750 has two track widths: the narrow model is 31.5” wide and fits through a standard doorway, while the wide model is 37.2” wide, spreading its weight over a wider surface.

Toro also offers several 30-inch attachments, such as a concrete breaker, grapple bucket, and floor scraper. Its 6-foot 9-inch lift height makes it easy to load dumpsters and trucks.

Specifications:
- 750 lbs operating capacity
- 4 mph max speed
- 5.8” ground clearance
- 2,142 lbs tip capacity
- 81” hinge pin height
- 31.5” width narrow tracks; 37.2” width wide tracks
- 22.3 kWh battery, with up to 8 hours of runtime
Toro is now taking orders for the new eDingo. Dealerships are expected to receive the eDingo TX 750 skid steers in the summer.

Read more about all the latest construction gear and equipment by signing up for our newsletter or following Under the Hard Hat on Instagram.
May 20, 2025
Nonresidential construction spending hits all-time high

In February 2025, nonresidential construction spending climbed to an unprecedented $1.20 trillion annualized rate, marking a 0.4% increase from January and an impressive 11.7% jump compared to last year. According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau and analysis by Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC), the spike signals continued strength in commercial and public sector building, particularly in manufacturing, infrastructure, and public safety.

What’s behind the construction spending

The biggest contributor was manufacturing. Spending in this category shot up by 1.2% for the month, reflecting ongoing investment in domestic production capacity, especially in high-tech and clean energy sectors. Public safety, transportation, and sewage/waste disposal projects also saw significant gains, aligning with federal infrastructure initiatives.

“Nonresidential spending rebounded in February after declining in January,” said ABC Chief Economist Anirban Basu. “Despite ongoing labor shortages and high borrowing costs, contractors remain upbeat.” ABC’s Construction Confidence Index shows that most contractors expect their profit margins to remain stable or improve over the next six months.

Basu also noted that a sharp rise in highway and street projects partially accounted for the jump, which made up over 40% of the monthly gains. Public sector investment continues to lead the way, with spending up more than 6% compared to last year. On the flip side, private sector growth is lagging, rising just 2.5%—a pace that’s not even keeping up with inflation.

High interest rates, tighter lending rules, and uncertainty surrounding trade policies are likely to continue putting pressure on private sector construction in the months ahead. Even with those challenges—and the potential for rising material costs due to new tariffs—many contractors remain confident about the road ahead, with most expecting stable or even stronger business over the next six months. With federal and state funding flowing into public projects and private developers pushing forward on industrial builds, many experts predict a solid year for nonresidential construction spending.

Want to stay on top of the latest construction trends and insights? Subscribe to our newsletter so you never miss an update on the economic policies impacting builders in North America.

May 20, 2025
More meatballs, more savings: Ikea to open eight new U.S. stores
Good news for Ikea fans—your favorite spot for budget-friendly furniture, Swedish meatballs, and endless home inspiration is getting closer. The Swedish retailer has announced plans to open eight new stores across the U.S. this spring and summer, with locations set to pop up in Pennsylvania, Maryland, and California, among others.

This expansion is part of Ikea’s ongoing investment in the U.S. market, aiming to make its products more accessible to customers who don’t live near a full-size store. Whether you’re in the market for a Billy bookcase or a Frakta bag or just want an excuse to wander through a showroom, there’s a good chance an Ikea will be opening near you soon.

While the company hasn’t released the exact opening dates yet, we know that the upcoming stores will be spread across various states, making it easier for more Americans to shop in person. Three confirmed states are Pennsylvania, Maryland, and California, but more details on specific cities are expected soon.

This expansion isn’t just about increasing store count. Ikea is also rolling out different store formats to fit customers’ needs better. Alongside their traditional warehouse-style stores, they’re introducing smaller-format locations in urban areas, designed to offer a more tailored shopping experience.

The iconic furniture store is experimenting with a variety of new store formats. Photo source: Ikea.

“Our strategy continues to prioritize our customer’s needs, and in FY24, we continued to make everyday living more accessible, especially during a time when we know economic challenges are leading to a decrease in disposable income for many Americans,” said Javier Quiñones, CEO and Chief Sustainability Officer in an official press release. “As we gear up for the 40th anniversary of Ikea U.S. in 2025, we’re committed to reaching even more customers where they are.”

Ikea’s new locations won’t all follow the same blueprint. Instead, they’re mixing things up with different store types:
- Full-size Ikea stores: Your classic Ikea experience with a full showroom, warehouse, and restaurant.
- Plan & order points: Smaller urban locations focused on kitchen, bedroom, and home organization design help.
- Pick-up points: Shoppers can pick up their online orders without waiting for delivery.
Ikea hopes to make shopping more convenient by offering a mix of formats, especially for those in big cities with limited space.

Ikea’s big investment

This wave of openings is part of a $2 billion investment Ikea announced for its U.S. operations last year, aiming to modernize stores, improve delivery options, and increase accessibility. The company sees plenty of opportunity in the American market, and with growing demand for affordable, stylish home furnishings, the timing couldn’t be better.

So, whether you’re dreaming of a home makeover or craving an extra hex key, get ready—your next Ikea trip might be just around the corner.

Want to stay in the loop on Ikea openings, home design trends, and more? Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates straight to your inbox!
May 16, 2025
Ontario bets big on new nuclear project: The Darlington SMR

Ontario Power Generation’s (OPG) Darlington Small Modular Reactor (SMR) project is moving full steam ahead, marking a milestone in Canada’s push toward cleaner energy. Located in Clarington, Ontario, the Darlington site is the only Canadian location with regulatory approval for new nuclear construction. The project is currently in the early stages of site preparation, with construction expected to begin in 2025 and the first unit operational by 2029. This project is a critical step in meeting Ontario’s future electricity demands while significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Benefits of the Darlington Nuclear Project

The Darlington SMR will be Canada’s first grid-scale small modular reactor, capable of generating 300 megawatts of electricity—enough to power 300,000 homes. Once operational, this reactor will contribute to Ontario’s goal of phasing out natural gas-fired generation and moving toward net-zero emissions.

OPG has partnered with GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy to design and build the BWRX-300 reactor, which is expected to play a key role in ensuring a stable and sustainable energy supply for the province. The SMR design offers enhanced safety features and a smaller footprint compared to traditional nuclear reactors, making it a practical solution for expanding clean energy capacity.

The project will boost Ontario’s economy as well. During construction, Darlington will create approximately 2,000 jobs and provide ongoing employment for around 200 workers once the reactor is operational. These jobs will support skilled trades and boost the local economy by creating demand for services, materials, and expertise. OPG estimates that the project will contribute billions to Ontario’s economy over its lifespan, offering long-term stability to the energy sector and communities in the region.

Clarington residents will also benefit from infrastructure improvements and increased economic activity in the area. Local businesses, contractors, and service providers will experience increased demand, strengthening the community’s economy.

A step toward Ontario’s energy future

The Darlington site has been carefully selected and rigorously assessed to ensure safety and environmental sustainability. The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) has completed an environmental assessment and granted a site preparation license. As part of OPG’s commitment to transparency and safety, ongoing monitoring and community engagement will continue throughout the project.

This project is a crucial piece of Ontario’s energy puzzle, addressing both environmental and economic goals. The Darlington SMR will reduce reliance on fossil fuels while supporting a growing population and increasing energy demands. As the province pushes forward with cleaner energy solutions, this project sets the stage for additional SMR developments across Canada.

Stay up to date with major construction and energy projects like this one by subscribing to Under the Hard Hat. Get the latest updates, expert analysis, and industry news delivered straight to your inbox.

May 16, 2025