As general manager of Graycor’s Southwest division, Helm will usher in a focus on data centers — his specialty and expertise. Helm has overseen projects totaling over 2 million square feet and more than 200 megawatts’ worth of power.

The cost of building has never been more volatile. Tariffs on key construction materials like steel, aluminum and lumber are driving up project budgets across the country, compounding inflationary pressures already present in a post-pandemic economy.

Graycor and Helmkamp have been chosen as the design-build contractor for a $500-million expansion of Wieland’s existing Alton, Ill., manufacturing facility.

With the increase in capital spending across multiple sectors in manufacturing, the integration of technology innovations becomes essential for successful project delivery. Artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as a valuable tool that can revolutionize the delivery of capital construction projects.

Sustainability has moved from a buzzword to a critical business practice, driven by government regulations and building codes as well as end-user expectations.

The U.S. national average increase in construction costs was approximately 5.41 percent, compared to 5.85 percent year-over-year in the first quarter. Brian Gallagher, Vice President of Corporate Development at Graycor, said that the decrease in the rate of escalation for construction costs—the lowest in the past three years—signals a possible stabilization in the market.

Semiconductor company Amkor Technology has signed a non-binding preliminary memorandum of terms with the U.S. Department of Commerce to receive proposed funding as part of the CHIPS and Science Act.

For owners planning industrial and manufacturing construction projects, the choice of project delivery method can have a significant impact on outcomes, schedule and cost. Among the various options available, contractor-led design-build project delivery becomes the preferred method for many owners and stakeholders.

Graycor’s Michelle Palys and Brian Gallagher explore the increasing importance of ESG scores in the construction industry. With ESG becoming an issue on which firms will be evaluated and selected for projects, now is the time for commercial real estate companies to develop their ESG approach.