Sustainability Archives - McNeil Engineering

Past projects and updates from McNeil Engineering (Part 2)

Welcome back to part 2 in our series about some of our amazing projects and big jobs from over 2022 and beyond. We wanted to share with you what’s been happening on some of our projects as well as give you an idea of everything we can accomplish at McNeil Engineering. Each of the projects below employed different types of skills and services we offer, and we hope you enjoy reading about them and learning more about what we do here.

Bri Village Apartments
One project our team has been particularly excited about is the Bri Village Luxury Apartments!
This adult luxury apartment community was recently completed in partnership with Brighton Ventures and Anderson Construction. This multi million dollar four-story timber-framed complex features 166 units. The apartments are stationed above a 209-stall parking garage that is post-tensioned concrete.

The Bri Village Luxury Apartments are modeled after up scale hotel resorts, and the project included many different amenities and custom design features to keep the design aesthetic in place.

Our team at McNeil Engineering provided the structural design services from ideation through construction for this project. By working together with all stakeholders, we were able to provide a cost-effective design solution. This solution was able to meet both the aesthetic and budgetary constraints of this unique project. This of course, was very important as design aesthetic was paramount for this project, in order to keep the resort stylings in place. The project was completed in August of 2020, and we couldn’t be happier with the results.

Larkin Cemetery
For over 20 years, our team has had a great relationship with the Larkin family and their incredible team at Larkin Mortuary. We have assisted with civil engineering projects in laying foundation for their current headquarters, as well as surveying different properties for them to prepare for future growth.

Our team at McNeil Engineering also helps them to take inventory during ongoing development of properties. It’s been a great relationship, and we were pleased to assist them in a new project at Larkin Cemetery.

This particular project was led by Surveying Department Manager Mike Hoffman. Our team started some of the processes by surveying and mapping both Larkin Cemetery locations using state-of-the-art technology to help the Larkin Cemetery team transition to a new cemetery management software system.

We utilized drones and ultra-high-resolution cameras during our surveying and mapping processes. With this, our team was able to provide Larkin Cemetery with different sophisticated imagery, including a complete point cloud image of both cemetery locations, which we sent to Dan Cable and the team at EDA Land Planning, Larkin Cemetery’s go-to Landscape Architect over cemetery development.

The surveys, maps and imagery of the cemetery locations that we provided will allow their team at Larkin Mortuary to ensure accuracy and precision when taking inventory of exactly what land assets they currently have. In addition, it will also help them plan for the future with confidence.

We look forward to continuing to work with the team at Larkin Mortuary, it’s always a pleasure!

Types of projects we do
Here at McNeil Engineering, we provide expert services in structural engineering, land surveying, landscape architecture, civil engineering consulting and more. Throughout these projects at Bri Village Apartments and Larkin Cemetery, we were able to provide services in structural design, land surveying and mapping, along with consulting and more on these vastly important projects.

Structural Design is used to design structural elements of buildings and different types of structures and buildings. Structural designers, like the ones on our team, use different engineering techniques and principles to create plans and blueprints to ensure buildings we work on are safe and able to support the different types of loads they will be subjected to. We used our structural design services during the Bri Villages Project to help ensure the building would be safe and cost- effective but still maintain its design aesthetic.

When we performed land surveying in the Larkin Cemetery project, we utilized drones and ultra high resolution cameras. Different projects might call for laser scanners or other equipment to help map the earth’s surface, measure and plot the land. Land surveying can identify hazards already present on the land or potential hazards you might be exposed to in the future. In the case of Larkin Cemetery, we conducted the land surveying to help them take inventory of existing land they owned to ensure accuracy in future planning.

We hope this has given you an overview of our comprehensive design services including: civil engineering, structural engineering, land surveying, high-definition scanning (HDS), landscape architecture and consulting services to the private and public sectors.

Thanks for reading about some of our favorite projects from 2022. We hope you enjoyed this two part series, and don’t hesitate to contact us when you have need of any of our services, in 2023 and beyond.

What does a digital transformation in civil engineering really mean?

The technological revolution and digital transformation of entire industries have changed the way we do business in America and around the world. The ongoing digital transformation of society has without a doubt completely changed the working world. With the rise of cloud software, the internet of things, and automation, global businesses can now communicate and solve problems faster, as well as serve a far wider audience. Businesses and individuals are no longer constrained by distance. Collaboration can happen just about anywhere. And the same is true for the civil engineering sector. Civil engineers in Utah and beyond know that technology has massively changed how they do their jobs.

Engineering remains a cornerstone of the global economy and today, civil engineers are more collaborative and have access to a vast amount of data. Digitisation has changed the way engineers operate and make decisions, as there’s a much broader scope of technology to utilize in just about every aspect of our jobs. We can get projects done faster and more accurately than ever before. Here at McNeil Engineering, we proudly embrace the digital and technological revolution to more effectively complete jobs on behalf of our clients.

How the Digital Transformation Impacts Civil Engineering

The digital transformation in the civil engineering sector has massively changed how we proceed on projects. And while engineering has always been an ever-evolving discipline, digital transformation has only amplified this effect. New technologies have sped up product development, transportation, project management, data storage and transfer, and real-time data management. Much like so many other industries, the increasing use of digital technology has made engineering a much more data-driven sector. It’s now more important than ever that businesses equip themselves with the right technologies for sustainable growth in the sector. Otherwise, they will find the competition leaving them in the dust.

One of the main ways digital transformation has impacted civil and structural engineering is through cloud computing. While it’s not a new technology, the cloud is now used by engineers all over the world, and they use it to great effect. For example, cloud computing allows engineers to store their digital designs all in the same place before construction. Long gone are the days when engineers had to rummage through metal filing cabinets to find the engineering diagrams, blueprints, and files they need. The value of cloud computing in engineering relies on data capture, storage and transmission, 3D modeling, and creating the best possible customer experience. These are all factors we closely consider as we lay out our digital transformation strategy here at McNeil Engineering.

Digital transformation and the rise of big data have paved the way for digital twin applications. Engineering firms all over the world now use digital twin applications to greatly improve their effectiveness on engineering projects. But what is a digital twin? Put simply, a digital twin is a virtual model of a physical object used to gather and analyze data to predict how the object will perform in real life. The use of a “digital twin” is just one more example of how digital transformation has paved the way for predictive analysis in engineering and new ways of collaborating and innovating.

The Future Look Bright for Civil Engineering

What does the future of engineering portend in light of this new digital transformation of society? Well, for one, you can expect the engineering discipline to become even more complex and innovative. Civil engineers themselves will need to be more versatile, adaptable, and flexible if they want to overcome challenging issues around the cities and states we live in. And with so many infrastructure jobs starting all over the country, engineering firms will be tested to ensure they have adapted to the digital transformation all around us.

Take climate change as one example. As companies shift to sustainable methodologies and technologies, climate change has been an ongoing issue for many years now and it’s created a need for sustainable practices in our everyday lives. This means engineers will need to focus on building sustainable structures that have a positive effect on the environment.

Digital transformation and the rise of new technologies will increasingly play pivotal roles in a more sustainable future. Furthermore, as a result of digital transformation, augmented reality has the potential to redefine the future of engineering. Augmented reality – which is an interactive version of the real world – can be used for assembly, engineering training, and quality control. However, going forward, businesses must ensure they plan how they will integrate augmented reality and other advanced software, to ensure a smooth and efficient process. Above all, digital transformation means the engineering sector will rely much more on digital data, analytics, and virtual representations of the real world to deliver the best products in the right environments.

At McNeil Engineering, we pay very close attention to emerging technologies and how they impact the field we operate in. Are you ready to partner with a future-forward engineering company that’s fully embraced a digitally transformed future? Contact us today!

Concrete and permeable pavers in commercial applications

Over the past few years, more and more businesses are turning to concrete pavers for commercial entrances, driveways and parking lots, waiting areas, and other retail and industrial applications. And there is a good reason why. Put simply, pavers provide a wide array of benefits, they are a superior choice for commercial applications. Take your outdoor layout as one example. When seeking to create or update a beautiful outdoor space, the installation of concrete pavers can provide a beautiful and inexpensive paving solution. Interlocking concrete pavers add character while functioning as a durable, low-maintenance, easy-to-install paving option.

Even better, concrete pavers for commercial applications come in a plethora of styles, colors, and designs. Even more, they are incredibly durable and long-lasting. They have been used successfully in numerous commercial applications and in all sorts of climates and weather systems. The result? When properly installed, concrete pavers will easily last over 20 years with very little maintenance on your part. Modern high-strength concrete pavers provide resistance to freeze-thaw cycles and heavy friction and high abrasion and skid resistance. Worried about oil and petroleum products? Many concrete pavers are manufactured already resistant to oil-based liquids. They are also very resistant to high temperatures.

Another big advantage of using commercial concrete pagers includes their ease of use. You can remove and replace them quickly and easily. If a paver gets dislodged, it can be re-set very quickly and inexpensively. Pavers are also excellent for reducing stormwater runoff and flooding. Put simply, you cannot find this many compelling reasons to use anything other than concrete commercial pavers!

Concrete Commercial Paver Value Propositions

While concrete pavers may carry a higher sticker price than alternative materials, consider the long-term cost when investing in pavers. After you have taken a closer look at the durability, flexibility, low maintenance, and quick installation of concrete pavers, you will quickly realize that their lower life cycle costs can often prove to be the most cost-effective option for your commercial project.

Pavers withstand shifting earth through the natural use of control joints. While control joints are intentionally added to poured concrete to accommodate the stress of settling and shifting of the earth beneath, the spaces between concrete pavers act as built-in control joints. Unlike full concrete slabs, pavers are less prone to cracking and degradation over time, as a result. Most commercial paving installers improve this durability by using sand-filled joints. These joints act to transfer the load without actually damaging the pavement surface. What’s the result? A longer-lasting, lower-maintenance installation. What’s not to like about that?

What Are Permeable Pavers?

Permeable pavement is a commercial paving option that has been growing in popularity over the past several years, and there’s a good reason for that. It’s superior to asphalt and concrete in terms of durability, cost, installation time, maintenance requirements, and sustainability. Some companies even make 100% recycled plastic pavers, which are one of the most eco-friendly paving materials you’ll find anywhere. If you want to burnish your project’s sustainability cred, then permeable pavers may be just what your company needs.

Permeable pavers are a great option if property prices are high or water restrictions restrain development options. Permeable paver systems offer a functional, space-saving, and safer alternative to traditional water maintenance solutions such as retention ponds. And in some municipalities retention ponds simply are not allowed. Using permeable pavers opens the door to a project that might not have otherwise been possible.

Almost every commercial business in America uses pavement of some sort. Pavement plays a vital role in building the sidewalks, pathways, driving lanes, and parking lots that accompany most buildings. There are many different types of pavement, all with their own strengths and weaknesses. That’s why it is so important for you to conduct proper due diligence on the type of pavers you’ll need for your project.

Concrete pavers are manufactured and installed to easily withstand high volumes of pedestrian and vehicular use. They have been used successfully in numerous residential, commercial, municipal, port and airport applications. So, no matter what your commercial application, you’ll likely find a use for commercial concrete pavers somewhere in your project.

Are you looking for an engineering firm that has worked on countless commercial paving projects? If so, consider your friends at McNeil Engineering. When it comes to commercial roofing and paving jobs, our experts know just what kind of materials your project needs, whether commercial pavers or otherwise. For more information on some of our commercial paving projects, check out the commercial paving section of our website. And once you’re ready for your free consultation, simply contact us. We’re ready to help you take your next commercial building project to the next level.

The greening of civil engineering

Climate change, pollution-related illnesses, and energy costs have prompted engineers and architects to innovate and evolve. Times have changed. New residential and commercial buildings and renovations are designed to be more environmentally friendly, thereby reducing emissions, illnesses, and energy consumption. This is the trend no matter where you look in the world. Using sustainable practices is a hot trend in renovation and new building development, one that was developed more than 50 years ago when most builders and designers gave the idea little thought. Today, if you aren’t designing and building sustainably, you’re missing out.

We’re proud to support sustainable development here at McNeil Engineering. We understand that environmental solutions that safeguard our planet for future generations have always been at the forefront of new projects. But what other steps can the civil engineering sector take to support sustainable engineering efforts further?

It’s time to go sustainable

Many businesses, specifically those within the construction and civil engineering industries, are under pressure to implement more sustainable practices. Governments worldwide have challenged companies to become net carbon neutral by – at the minimum – 2050. The Environmental Protection Agency wants to reach this target and meet the goal of net zero by 2030. Will states meet it?

Environmental concerns have pushed some companies to identify greener, or environmentally safer, manufacturing, shipping and design options. And we support these efforts. Green engineering is a concept that focuses on minimizing a company’s environmental impact and streamlining its operations. In many cases, these efforts yield productivity benefits in the long run.

Understanding green engineering may help you or your employer decide to use this design method for your needs, no matter what kind of project you’re working on. What is green engineering and what are its core principles? We’ll provide some green engineering benefits and include several examples discussing green engineering in the workplace.

What is green engineering?

Green engineering utilizes engineering processes and methods that minimize pollution, improve a business’ sustainability, and decrease the potential for health issues caused by unsafe manufacturing and design methods. It is incumbent on manufacturers and engineering firms to conduct proper due diligence and operate only to the highest environmental standards. But how can individual engineers do this?

Well, for one, engineers can do this by nothing more than improving existing processes. Successful green engineering examines sustainability issues, such as fossil fuel use, measures a product or service’s life cycle, identifies potential waste concerns, and decreases the likelihood of these problems occurring with innovative concepts. Engineers understand how to evaluate these concepts and make design decisions based on them. There are specific aspects of green engineering to consider:

1. Waste Management and Reduction

Modern commercial manufacturing processes have a problem. They’re dirty. Many commercial processes, such as manufacturing and shipping products, may waste energy through inefficient manufacturing and delivery methods. The question underlying sustainable engineering is how to eliminate this waste. What kind of new production methods can be introduced or innovated to reduce waste?

2. Pollution Management and Reduction

It may seem simplistic to ask why pollution is a problem. We all know that pollution is a problem at every level of society. Pollution prevention focuses on identifying a company’s pollution sources and minimizing the waste it produces. Engineers may identify why pollution occurs, find processing methods that decrease its spread, integrate newer and cleaner techniques, and enhance manufacturing and delivery cleanliness. Civil and structural engineers play an important role in this process.

3. Product Optimization and Enhancement

Guess what sustainable engineering firms focus on? Sustainable engineering firms try to find ways to improve the products or services they’re engineering while making them safer for the environment. This is generally a multi-pronged effort. This process may include finding alternate energy sources that work better than traditional options or identifying greener and more efficient manufacturing materials and methods. Engineers must operate within this mindset to find the most sustainable or “green” solutions to a particular engineering problem.

4. Materials Efficiency and Management

What does materials efficiency and materials management mean? Essentially, materials management entails finding better and safer materials for diverse engineering purposes. Finding more advanced materials is especially important in the product design and manufacturing phase. Engineers may identify new and safer materials or invent options to integrate into their plans and find better and more efficient production methods. When engineers innovate, we all win.

We support sustainable engineering methods here at McNeil Engineering. Our engineers understand the importance of sustainability in our profession. Contact us today to learn more.

From our roofing and paving team: A closer look at clay pavers

We’ve been doing commercial paving jobs for a long time. In fact, we’ve paved so many apartment complexes, commercial centers, and so on, that we can practically do it in our sleep. We joke! Of course, we are not paving places around Utah and beyond in our sleep. We only mean our roofing and paving team does an incredible job. From both an esthetic and durability perspective, the work we do stands the test of time.

Now, the question is, what pavers do we prefer as we evaluate paving jobs on behalf of our clients? We’re very honest about the fact that clay pavers are recognized by builders, renovators, architects, and building designers for their quality and reliability as well as for their colors and textures. The unique look and feel of clay pavers can only be owed to that kiln-fired construction.

Why we love clay pavers

Seen across many public places and in homes throughout the world, clay pavers are known for their rich earthy tones that add natural character and distinction to any paving project and can be mixed to create interesting design statements. Who doesn’t love a good earth tone? This is our planet, after all. Colors that ground us in nature are both relaxing and still very much on-trend.

Beautiful, strong, striking and versatile, clay pavers provide a timeless element in landscaping architecture and design. Clay pavers add a certain level of artistry to your outdoor setting. Our contractors and engineers suggest kiln-fired clay pavers because they offer an array of vivid colors and textures that help create beautiful landscape designs and evoke a certain sophisticated style and natural beauty. You can look both wealthy and natural at the same time.

Suitable for pathways, patios and domestic driveways, clay pavers are manufactured to last. When you think of “clay”, don’t think of clay pavers as shrunken or fragile. They offer the unique combination of beauty, quality, and durability that only one of Utah’s most experienced commercial paving firms can promise.

What are some advantages to clay pavers?

Clay pavers do have some natural advantages over other types of pavers on the market. They aren’t superior from a purely aesthetic perspective. First, clay pavers provide you with a truly natural feel. Clay pavers are high-quality, natural products made from natural clay and water. They also fade far less than other materials. High temperature firing over 1100°C ensures a clay paver’s color will never fade due to sun exposure. They’ve already been exposed to near-sunlike temperatures, after all.

For those looking for more practical applications, clay pavers are also slip-resistant: The unique textures of clay pavers deliver slip resistance, even on wet driveways or pathways. This slip resistant quality can be designed with aesthetics in mind. It checks all the boxes. Form and functionality meet in clay pavers. Clay pavers are also quite strong. They are great for driveways and other heavy-load areas. For commercial applications, nothing beats clay pavers for strength and durability. Similarly, for pathways, patios and other foot traffic areas, clay pavers are ideal. Guests will also find them pleasing to look at.

You’ll also be happy to know that clay pavers are easy to maintain. That’s good news for highly trafficked areas. Clay pavers are hardwearing and clean easily. Usually, all it takes is a mild detergent and a little scrubbing to clean even heavily soiled clay pavers. In most cases, they can just be hosed down or swept clean. Quick and easy maintenance will ensure they last long and look beautiful for a long time to come.

Better value and environmental cred

For those looking to burnish their environmental credentials, clay pavers offer a number of benefits. They are environment-friendly. How? Well, clay pavers are kiln-fired products made from readily available, naturally occurring clays. No environmentally damaging chemicals are used in their production. They come from the earth and can equally return to the earth.

Clay pavers are recyclable in this way. We find that clay pavers are a time-tested choice for those who want pavers that both look good and will last a long time. They never go out of style, you will never tire of their warm, natural beauty and they can be easily recycled. If you are a commercial business, you can advertise to your customer base that you are environmentally friendly because you use clay pavers.

Finally, clay pavers offer great value for the money. Clay pavers are natural in appearance and maintain their color even after long-term exposure to the sun’s UV radiation. Clay pavers can last over 1000 years. Now that’s impressive. Want to have a look at some of the roofing and paving jobs we’ve completed over the years? We’re waiting to show you!

Why is Utah’s Economy So Resilient?

As a Utah-based civil engineering firm serving the entire state, and beyond, we watch very closely the economic conditions of our home state. And we couldn’t be happier with how Utah is doing. We offer civil and structural engineering services to businesses and organizations in a state ripe for growth. But why is Utah’s economy so resilient? What makes the Beehive State so special? Let’s take a deeper look.

Job Growth in Utah Remains Strong

Utah’s economy and labor supply continue to perform strongly due to the states growing population. Nationally, many states are suffering from population decline, which leads to anemic growth and a poor environment for businesses to thrive. Conversely, people are moving to Utah in droves. This massive population growth has led to a thriving environment for businesses.

Utah’s nonfarm employment rate for October increased approximately 3.1% across the past 12 months, and the state’s economy added an estimated 50,600 jobs since October 2021, according to the October job report from the Utah Department of Workforce Services. This level of growth sets Utah apart from other states in the Southwest or Intermountain West.

At the time of this publication, there were approximately 1,690,000 jobs in Utah. In total, over 37,300 Utahns are unemployed, and October’s seasonally-adjusted unemployment remains unchanged at 2.1%. Contrast that with the national unemployment rate, which is 3.70% and you can see why Utah is doing so well. A low unemployment rate and healthy business activity point to a state setting the standard for its peers.

When it comes to labor participation, all labor offering itself for work is being absorbed by Utah businesses. If Utah residents want a job, it is not difficult to find one in this current environment. Our economy continues to be one of the nation’s best-performing state economies. Labor markets are tight across the nation, even to the point of restricting growth in many states. But not in Utah. An unemployment rate of 2.1% does signal that the Utah labor market is extremely tight. Yet the economy continues to grow at a vigorous pace.

Growth in the Private Sector Drives Utah’s Economy

This high level of growth speaks to both the resilience and attractiveness of Utah and its economy. Only a strong flow of labor in migration can support a low unemployment rate economy growing at this pace. And that is exactly what Utah is experiencing. And people all over the country know it, otherwise, they would not be coming here. They know that if they want a good-paying job, Utah is a fantastic destination.

Private sector employment in Utah recorded a 46,900 job increase in October, an expansion of 3.4%, according to the Department of Workforce Services. The following sectors all saw big growth in Utah:

Construction
Transportation Services
Utilities
Healthcare, Hospital, and Medical Services
Leisure
Hospitality
Tourism

The only industries that saw appreciable declines were financial services, professional and business services, and service sector jobs. Layoffs have been heavy in the white-collar job sector and you can see it in the data produced in Utah’s unemployment numbers.

Tourism continues to be a bright spot in Utah’s business picture. People are flocking to Park City for amazing snowing and Canyonlands National Park for otherworldly landscapes. Tourism remains a valuable and, in some areas, a vital part of Utah’s economic picture.

Retiring Workers and New Job Seekers Cloud the Job Picture

Overall, U.S. economy expanded to the largest it’s ever been in recorded history. The major reason behind this is the combination of surplus workers from the Baby Boomer generation leaving the workforce just as Millennials and Gen Zers continue adding to it. Most of the Baby Boomers are retiring and exiting the production side of the economy, and they did not birth enough babies to match the number of workers from their generation. What is the result? An overall decline in labor supply puts pressure on the economy to get smaller, not larger. And yet, there is a lot of overlap, resulting in a massive economy.

Because for every Utah Baby Boomer who leaves the economy, there are roughly two young Utah workers available to backfill the void. Even though unemployment is low and the labor market continues to show strength, how long will it be able to keep up with the Federal Reserve raising interest rates to combat inflation?

Utah also benefits from being a net receiver of population from in-migration, which combined with the large internal supply of labor, contributes to Utah’s growing and strong economy. The takeaway here is that in many cases, Utahns are not leaving the state to find careers elsewhere once they are able. No, instead they stay right here in the Beehive State and lend their skills to the growth of their home state.

We’re proud to be a Utah-based civil engineering firm. We’ve worked on projects across the state and continue to leave our mark on buildings, roads, bridges, and projects that future generations can appreciate. Thanks, Utah!

Construction, Architecture, and Engineering Starts in 2023

Construction, Architecture, and Engineering Starts in 2022 and 2023

As one of Utah’s top civil and structural engineering, roofing, paving, and laser scanning companies, the vast majority of our work takes place in concert with the construction sector. As such, we pay close attention to the ups and downs that take place in the construction industry. So, as we close out 2022, a big question on everyone’s mind is, what will 2023 bring? Today, we will take a deep dive into what we expect the future to hold for the construction sector, both here in Utah and beyond.

How Have the U.S. Construction and Civil Engineering Sectors Fared in 2022?

In short, the construction sector is going to go through some rough spots, but it will come out resilient on the other side. The industry will continue to face labor shortages, high materials costs, and other headwinds, but infrastructure will be a bright spot. With the massive infrastructure bill working its way through the economy, construction spending on infrastructure jobs will only rise further. Still, with 2022 being a mixed bag for the construction industry, there are lots of unknowns.

Economic shocks of various types and severities have defined 2022. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been one hit after another. This past year brought skyrocketing inflation and interest rates. But as people cope with higher prices, they make cuts elsewhere. Fortunately for construction professionals and civil engineers, there is reason to be optimistic about the state of the economy, despite the rocky economic conditions.

Inflation has been a major concern in 2022, climbing to a 40-year high in June. Economists across the board fretted over the state of the economy and the resiliency of the American consumer. The problem was multi-faceted. It was fueled by ongoing supply chain bottlenecks brought on by pandemic stresses as well as Russia’s unprovoked aggression in Ukraine. Commodities went through the roof and, as a result, prices jumped on key construction materials. Everything from cement to diesel fuel and asphalt – prices rose dramatically. The industry also continued to struggle to attract enough workers in an overall tight labor market.

As the new year approaches, the big question on construction leaders’ minds is what’s in store for 2023. Top construction economists say it’s hard to say. The picture is muddied by a variety of factors. But what are those factors? Let’s dig a little deeper.

What are Architects Up To?

There is a common thread in the construction sector. When architects have work, so do contractors, civil engineers, structural engineers, roofers, and so on. Those who design the structures we build every day represent the foundation of the construction job. When architects are busy, so are contractors and civil and structural engineers. The good news is architecture industry performance remained positive in 2022. The bad news hit in October when it took a sharp downward turn. What does that mean? In short, it could indicate that recession fears and inflation have finally started to appear in the construction and civil engineering sectors. As a result, this may translate to a drop in available construction work at the latter end of next year.

How is the Construction Backlog?

New construction starts are important and act as a bellwether for contractor and engineer confidence. The construction industry’s backlog has remained positive over the past year but dipped in June and July and declined again in October from the previous month. Still, it is higher than it was in the same period one year ago. We aren’t in a horrible position, from a national or local perspective.

Backlog in the commercial construction vertical posted its largest monthly decline in October since July 2020. That’s a big dip. The bright spot? Infrastructure and heavy industrial projects posted growth, despite the decline in commercial construction starts. Even better, the infrastructure and heavy industrial verticals will likely remain bright spots in the coming years as federal funding continues to flow into those sectors.

In general, most economists and industry insiders expect a big pickup in construction starts, civil engineering jobs, and other growth associated with increasing development. As money from the infrastructure bill starts to be awarded and contractors get to work on those projects, we will see a big uptick in the sector. Could this mean inflation drops even as we avoid a recession?

We’re also going to see big pickups in manufacturing construction, especially for semiconductor manufacturing plants. The CHIPS Act has unleashed a wave of investment in giant semiconductor factories. We’ll also see increased electric vehicle, battery, components, and battery charging manufacturing plant production. And finally, expect to see renewable energy projects funded by tax credits and other incentives included in the Inflation Reduction Act to blossom across the country.

Here at McNeil Engineering, we are excited to see this growth and economic activity both here in Utah and across the country. In the end, 2023 may be better than expected. If we can see inflation drop and interest rates drop without a recession, we’ll be in a good place. We’ve got a positive outlook. Here’s to a bright 2023!

Should you become a civil engineer?

We may be biased, but we would answer that question with a resounding yes. But we’ve got to do more than simply tell you to do something. We must tell you why. What makes civil engineering a compelling discipline to study? Well, if you are interested in physical processes in the real world, civil engineering may be right for you. Civil engineering encompasses a wide range of disciplines that contribute to the physical world around us.

Civil engineers are very often involved in the planning and design of large-scale projects. Civil engineering jobs typically involve building and developing big infrastructure jobs, such as tunnels, or airports. And with all this infrastructure money flowing into state coffers for new infrastructure projects, civil engineers are in greater need than ever before. From sewage treatment plants to water distribution networks, civil engineers work on it all.

Still, not all civil engineers are involved in infrastructure planning and design. Many civil engineers work in the building process itself or related construction activities like demolition. There are a lot of different types of civil engineering jobs as well. The fact is civil engineers are in high demand.

Many career paths

Courses in Civil Engineering can be used as a stepping stone to a wide range of careers. Rail, marine, transit, tunnel, sewer, and other subfields of civil engineering exist. No matter what kind of building or construction work you’re interested in, there’s likely a civil engineering specialty that covers it. A civil engineering degree, therefore, provides you with a way to switch careers should you choose.

Leave a mark on the world

As a civil engineer, you could be building bridges and designing monuments. When amazing things get constructed, you could be a direct part of it. Civil engineering allows you to really leave your mark on the world. Put in the time and effort to move your career in the direction of large-scale, high-profile building projects and you could wind up in the upper echelons of civil engineers in modern history. The works of many great engineers will endure for decades, if not centuries, cementing their place in history.

Work wherever you want

One of the great perks of being a civil engineer is your ability to work in a variety of environments. One day you might be in the office pouring over plans and the next you might be on the job site. Many civil engineers work in both indoor and outdoor environments. And in many cases, you can work anywhere you want in the world. Of course, we recommend gainful employment in the great state of Utah, but there are certainly other places where civil engineers find work.

You’re a planner

There’s something inherently satisfying about planning things. You consider yourself an avid planner and really shine when it comes to planning a building, a road system, or a whole development. You understand the importance of improvement. As a civil engineer, you will be continuously making improvements for society in all kinds of civil engineering projects.

Get the respect you deserve

Did you know that civil engineering is a highly respected discipline? That’s right, many people regard civil engineers with a high level of respect. They hold them in high regard, and for good reason. Civil engineers are in high demand all over the world. Their work is essential for the advancement of society and requires thorough education and a diverse skill set. Pursuing this career may provide you with a prestigious job that impresses others and provides you with a sense of fulfillment.

Do you like working with others? Civil engineering is an appealing career for people who enjoy working with others. Civil engineers often collaborate with other professionals, both in engineering and other professions. They also work with professionals from outside of their energy, such as clients, government officials and community leaders. This creates opportunities to network with other professionals and creates successful partnerships with a variety of people. Networking is often the key to success, and civil engineers have ample networking opportunities.

For those with strong critical thinking skills and a desire to find efficiencies in their work, civil engineering can be a worthy career choice. If you’re someone who likes puzzles or building things out of materials, you might enjoy some of the practical applications of this branch of engineering. No matter what your reasoning is, civil engineering is a rewarding and potentially lucrative career. It’s one where you can see the visual fruits of your labors and take great pride in your work. We certainly take great pride in ours.

We’re proud of our civil engineering core here at McNeil Engineering. These are professionals who’ve been steeped in the tradition for many years. Learn more about our civil engineering services today and get in touch for all your civil and structural engineering needs!

Why is Utah such a great place for business?

We’re proud to be a Utah-based engineering firm. We’ve called his great state our home for more than 30 years. And although the COVID-19 pandemic was a challenge for everyone, we were fortunate to count on our clients here in Utah and beyond to help carry us through. Now, we are thriving. But we aren’t the only ones. Sure, there’s a lot of construction going on. Developers are more in need of engineering services than ever before. And there’s a good reason for that. Simply put, Utah has a great environment for business. Let’s take a closer look at why.

Why does Utah have such a pro-business climate?

Let’s look at all of the individual reasons why engineering firms, construction companies, retail businesses and other companies thrive in Utah’s climate. First, Utah has a very high rate of upward mobility for workers within its economy when compared to other states. What does that mean in practice? Well, “upward mobility” refers to the chances of a person being raised in the bottom fifth income bracket and reaching the top fifth income bracket. There are a lot of people in Utah who have bootstrapped themselves to success, and it’s because Utah provides them with that opportunity.

Utah has also established itself as a tech hub. Our “Silicon Slopes” is home to some of the biggest tech companies in the world. Northern Utah has facilities where some big names in tech conduct research and create products and services. They include big names like Adobe, EA Sports, and the Intel/Micron joint venture IM Flash Technologies. Many students who have graduated from prestigious Utah universities have found internships or built careers at companies that have a presence in the Silicon Slopes.

Utah also has a favorable regulatory and tax climate. The Beehive State offers a flat five percent personal and corporate tax rate, one of the lowest in the nation. Small businesses benefit from low-tax environments. And while low taxes are important to small businesses, a stable tax rate is equally important. Utah small businesses have benefited from the predictability of the state’s flat tax, which was first introduced two decades ago.

Utah remains a desirable state

Utah has been increasingly recognized as one of the top places in the country for business. As recent research suggests, Utah’s pro-business climate is enhanced by the state’s strong and stable economy. Utah has one of the biggest worker shortages in the Union. Utahns don’t have to go far to see the effects of the labor shortage — from hiring signs in restaurants and gas stations to businesses still running on reduced hours. Many of our favorite businesses are still shuttered or working at half-staff.

Utah sits at the epicenter of growth in the Intermountain West. Businesses flock to Utah and the state’s economy functions as a growth engine in the region. Utah continues to have one of the strongest economies in the country. Currently, Utah is tied for the second lowest unemployment rate in the country, at 2.1%, according to new data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Employers continue to struggle to keep employees on and not only replace those who leave, but grow their workforce.

OThisis a problem that also has benefits. But of course, there are also challenges. All this unbridled growth has created a need for workers that the state hasn’t been able to keep up with. As a result, companies must push up wages to attract workers and raise prices on their products and services. The low unemployment rate could be inflationary. And yet, people from all over the country continue to move to Utah to find opportunities.

Businesses incentives drive growth

One of the biggest factors driving business growth in Utah remains the incentives businesses have to move their operations to the state. Incentivizing business creation and sustainable growth is key to Utah’s thriving small business ecosystem. There are now several state-funded programs across the state that businesses can tap into to expand and retain clients. Rural parts of the state can also access grant programs for small businesses.

Utah offers financial incentives for business relocation and expansion. These incentive programs are built with three factors in mind. State leaders want to ensure they are both effective and sustainable. First, the business expansion must be competitive. Second, the incentives must be post-performance. And thirdly, the incentive must be a tax rebate once the jobs have been created and the corporate taxes are paid. Most importantly, these incentives were previously only available to new companies relocating to Utah. But not anymore. Today, they are available to businesses already in Utah to help them grow right here on home soil.

At McNeil Engineering, we’re proud to be part of the stability underpinning Utah’s business community. We’ve worked with many businesses in the state. We’ve even worked on some projects in the Silicon Slopes. And we’re so happy to be doing business in a state that makes it easy for us to do so.

Taking a closer look at concrete

Engineering firms must be well acquainted with the materials we use on the job. And one of the more ubiquitous materials is concrete. It doesn’t matter where you are in Utah, from Salt Lake City to St. George, just about any and every building project involves concrete in some way, shape, or form. Concrete is a composite material composed of fine and coarse aggregate bonded together with a fluid cement that hardens over time. Concrete is the second-most-used substance in the world after water and is the most widely used building material.

The concrete industry in the United States is so big that its combined value surpassed $116 billion in 2020. Globally, the concrete industry tops more than half-a-trillion dollars and is larger than the wood, steel, and aluminum sectors combined. What’s more, radical changes in modern architectural designs have significantly influenced the demand for precast concrete in columns, slabs, staircases, walls, floors, girders, etc., for industrial and commercial buildings. That’s why we wanted to take a moment in today’s blog to look at some of the advances in using concrete as one of our primary building materials.

What is low-noise concrete pavement?

Modern traffic construction puts a premium on controlling traffic noise. Damping excessive traffic noise has become an important criterion in the design and construction of transportation infrastructure. The noise pollution due to vehicular movements can be minimized through the construction of noise barriers or low-noise concrete pavement. Today, most construction and engineering firms utilize low-cost noise-canceling pavement as their primary method.

Several techniques have been developed to reduce noise pollution, but low-noise diamond grinding is the one that has captured the most attention. Low-noise concrete pavements are roads with a low-noise surface. The low-noise surface is achieved by including readily available diamond grinding technologies within heavy traffic road design. Not only do heavy traffic conditions on major roads need a strong and durable surface, but home and business owners are thankful when construction companies use low-noise pavement in their neighborhoods.

Even better, low-noise concrete can be applied quickly, effectively, and at a much lower cost than other concrete applications. Low-noise diamond grinding textures can be applied efficiently and quickly to concrete road surfaces without impairing other features like guard rails, noise barriers, or curbs. Low-noise concrete laying techniques are incredibly effective. Diamond grinding textures reduce road noises by almost 50% compared to plain concrete pavement. Grinding textures facilitate smoother rides and increase road safety.

How Does Curing Impact the Properties of Concrete?

Civil engineers will be very familiar with concrete internal curing. But what is it exactly and why is it needed? Internal curing is a technique that extends the hydration of cement without increasing the initial water-cementitious material ratio. This is important to ensure the concrete retains its internal strength.

Internal curing involves employing water stored in the saturated lightweight aggregate or superabsorbent polymer to cure concrete and help further with the hydration of cement. The lightweight aggregate is saturated before batching to absorb water in its pores, and the superabsorbent polymer absorbs a high quantity of water and releases it once the polymer contacts ionic materials.

But why is internal curing important? In short, it makes the concrete better. Internal curing improves various aspects of concrete. These aspects include the reduction of chloride penetration, early-age cracking, curling, durability, and material lifespan. Reducing concrete cracking is one of the primary benefits of internal curing. It may be argued that several factors contribute to cracking in concrete, but it is worth mentioning that the major factors are volume changes and restraints. So, controlling volume changes by minimizing autogenous shrinkage leads to a considerable reduction in potential cracking.

How do Admixtures Change Pumpable Concrete?

Any admixture that improves the workability of concrete is advantageous for enhancing the pumpability of concrete. Various chemical admixtures like air-entraining admixture, high-range water-reducing admixture, and finely divided admixture have been utilized to improve concrete pumpability.

The choice of the type of chemical admixture and its utilization in concrete depends on the mixture’s characteristics. Using air-entraining agents improves concrete cohesiveness and reduces segregation and bleeding. Mineral admixtures reduce the rate and amount of bleeding in concrete and improve its pumpability.

It’s essential to ensure a durable material is used when constructing houses and buildings so that they can survive environmental conditions and last the test of time. Concrete is widely considered to be the most popular building material as it provides a variety of benefits, including durability, sustainability, low cost and energy efficiency.

In the end, concrete is one of the most cost-efficient building materials and its price remains steady even when other material costs change. Costs do vary depending on the grade, finish, surface preparation cost and tools required so it’s important to bear this in mind. These are all factors we pay close attention to here at McNeil Engineering. To learn more about the work our civil engineers do day-in and day-out with materials like concrete, click or tap here.

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