Episode 24: Industry economists provide short-term outlook

Drilling Deeper: A Pit & Quarry podcast

On this episode of "Drilling Deeper," P&Q managing editor Jack Kopanski discusses the latest economic developments and how they are impacting construction and aggregates.
Jack is joined by Ken Simonson, chief economist at the Associated General Contractors of America; Richard Branch, chief economist at Dodge Construction Network; and Zack Fritz, COO of Sage Policy Group and economist at the Associated Builders & Contractors. The trio of industry economists break down the current state of the construction workforce, what's happening with interest rates and inflation, and how those factors are affecting the industry.
Timestamps:
Workforce discussions: 4:36 – 13:05
Current state of inflation, interest rates: 14:26 – 22:22
How inflation, interest rates are affecting construction: 23:29 – 28:59
You won't want to miss this episode of "Drilling Deeper." Give it a listen now!
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Thank you to our show sponsor, TCI Manufacturing! Celebrating 25 years of excellence in 2025, TCI Manufacturing embodies the promise of "Concepts to Reality" as the industry's leading aggregate resource. TCI specializes in precision-engineered, custom-fabricated steel products, committed to delivering top-quality, strength, and precision in every project. Learn more at www.tcimfg.com.
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Have anything you want to hear on a future episode of "Drilling Deeper?" Is there a question you've ben dying to ask Kevin or Jack? Do you have a suggestion on how we can bring you even better content? Let us know! Email Kevin ([e-mail]) or Jack ([e-mail]) to share your thoughts.
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Thank you to the sponsor of this episode, Syntron Material Handling! With more than 140 years of bulk material handling experience, Syntron Material Handling is a recognized industry leader that provides innovative engineering solutions, high-performance products, and superior customer service. Syntron offers solutions in conveying, feeding, screening, elevating, vibratory flow aids, and mining controls of bulk product. For more information, visit syntronmh.com.
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For 107 years, Pit & Quarry magazine has been the premier monthly aggregate processing information source. Through multiple platforms, we deliver the very latest in equipment and technology news and information that is critical for safely achieving the highest level of efficiency and profitability. Editors Kevin Yanik and Jack Kopanski cover the market in print, online and through e-newsletters. As respected industry insiders, they moderate the annual Pit & Quarry Roundtable & Conference and speak at industry conferences and meetings.
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