As storm season intensifies across the country, the construction industry is being called upon not merely to rebuild—but to build back stronger. In Adapting and Rebuilding: How the Construction Industry Strengthens Communities After Natural Disasters, Angela Skow, Vice President of Large & Complex Construction at CNA, explores the evolving responsibilities and opportunities facing construction leaders and outlines a forward-looking resilience roadmap.
Skow highlights these key challenges facing construction professionals as they navigate the rebuilding process:
- Addressing Long-Term Exposures: Natural disasters often leave behind risks that persist long after the initial impact. From structural vulnerabilities to environmental hazards, construction teams must plan for resilience and sustainability in every phase of recovery.
- Navigating Modern Building Codes: As codes and regulations evolve to reflect new climate realities, construction professionals must stay ahead of compliance requirements while balancing cost, speed, and safety. Skow emphasizes the importance of proactive planning and collaboration with regulatory bodies.
- Planning for Labor Mobility: Disasters can disrupt local labor markets, requiring construction firms to adapt quickly by mobilizing skilled workers from other regions. This dynamic demands strategic workforce planning and strong partnerships across the industry.
Skow addresses these challenges as part of a clear roadmap for restoring community infrastructure and properties that can better withstand the impact of future natural disasters.
Skow’s article serves as a timely reminder of the construction sector’s critical role in disaster response—not just in rebuilding structures, but in restoring hope and stability to affected communities. She encourages industry leaders to embrace innovation, resilience, and collaboration as they prepare for the challenges ahead.
Read the full article here.
MCAA thanks CNA for sharing this article and for their long-standing partnership in safety.